The moment you take a bite of a mini pecan pie, your taste buds will dance in delight. The sweet, gooey filling paired with that perfectly buttery crust creates a flavor explosion that’s nothing short of magical. butter pecan praline poke cake Oh, and don’t even get me started on the irresistible aroma wafting through your kitchen as they bake it’s like a warm hug on a chilly day. caramel toffee crunch cake.
Now, let me take you back to a family gathering where these mini pecan pies made their grand debut. Picture this: my aunt’s table piled high with all sorts of desserts, but it was the mini pecan pies that stole the show. honey peach cream cheese cupcakes Everyone was raving about them, and I was just standing there, proudly declaring they were mine. Boston cream pie cookies The laughter and joy shared over those tiny treats still warms my heart today. For more inspiration, check out this Easter chocolate blossom cookies recipe.
Why You'll Love This Recipe
- These mini pecan pies are surprisingly easy to make, perfect for both beginners and seasoned bakers
- Each bite is a delightful blend of sweetness and nuttiness, making them an instant crowd-pleaser
- Their charming size also makes them visually appealing at any gathering, ensuring they’ll be the star of the dessert table
- Plus, they’re versatile enough for holidays or casual get-togethers!
I remember how my family couldn’t stop smiling after tasting these delightful mini pecan pies at our last holiday dinner.
Essential Ingredients
Here’s what you’ll need to make this delicious dish:
- Pecan Halves: Look for fresh, unsalted pecans to enhance the nutty flavor in each pie.
- Granulated Sugar: This will add sweetness; make sure it’s fine for smooth mixing. For more inspiration, check out this easy sugar cookie frosting recipe.
- Brown Sugar: Use light brown sugar for that rich caramel flavor we all love.
- Eggs: Fresh eggs bind everything together; room temperature works best for mixing.
- Vanilla Extract: Opt for pure vanilla extract to boost the overall flavor profile.
- Pie Crusts: You can use store-bought or homemade; just ensure it’s flaky and buttery!
The full ingredients list, including measurements, is provided in the recipe card directly below.
Let’s Make it Together
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). This is crucial as it ensures your pies bake evenly while you prepare the filling.
Prepare your pie crusts by cutting them into small circles and pressing them into a muffin tin. Make sure they fit snugly; no one wants a clumsy crust!
In a mixing bowl, combine granulated sugar and brown sugar until well blended. The mixture should resemble soft sand sweet and inviting!
Add eggs one at a time into the sugar mixture while whisking vigorously. You want it light and airy; think fluffy clouds rather than dense bricks.
Stir in vanilla extract followed by the pecan halves until they’re fully coated in sugary goodness. Don’t be shy; give it a good mix!
Spoon the filling into each prepared crust until they’re about three-quarters full. Be careful not to overfill; we want these little gems to rise beautifully without spilling over.
Bake in your preheated oven for 20-25 minutes or until the filling is set with a slight jiggle in the center. The smell will be heavenly try not to eat them straight out of the oven!
Let them cool slightly before removing from the muffin tin; patience is key here! Enjoying warm mini pecan pies is an excellent option too.
Serve these delightful treats at gatherings or keep some hidden away just for you they’re that good!
You Must Know
- Mini pecan pies are perfect for gatherings, offering a delightful bite-sized treat
- Their rich, sweet filling and crunchy topping create a symphony of flavors that everyone will love
- The aroma of pecans baking fills the kitchen, making it hard to resist a second helping
Perfecting the Cooking Process
Start by preheating your oven to 350°F while you prepare the crust and filling. This ensures even baking and perfectly golden mini pecan pies.
Add Your Touch
Feel free to swap out some pecans for walnuts or add chocolate chips for a twist. This customization can elevate your mini pecan pies to a whole new level of deliciousness.
Storing & Reheating
Store your mini pecan pies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to three days. Reheat them briefly in the oven for that fresh-baked taste again.
Chef's Helpful Tips
- To achieve the perfect mini pecan pies, ensure your crust is chilled before baking
- Prevent overfilling by leaving space for the filling to rise during baking
- Don’t rush cooling; this helps set the filling beautifully without cracking
Making these mini pecan pies always brings back fond memories of family gatherings where laughter filled the air and every bite sparked joy.
FAQ
What is the best way to prevent soggy crusts?
Ensure you pre-bake the crust for about 10 minutes before adding the filling.
Can I make mini pecan pies ahead of time?
Absolutely! You can prepare them a day ahead and store them covered in the fridge.
How do I know when my mini pecan pies are done?
They are ready when the filling is set but still slightly jiggly in the center.
Mini Pecan Pies
- Total Time: 40 minutes
- Yield: Approximately 12 mini pecan pies 1x
Description
Mini pecan pies are the perfect bite-sized treats that combine a rich, sweet filling with a buttery crust, capturing the essence of classic pecan pie in a charming mini form. These delightful pastries are not only easy to make but also sure to impress at any gathering. With each bite, you’ll experience a symphony of flavors that will have your guests asking for seconds. Whether enjoyed warm or at room temperature, mini pecan pies are the ultimate dessert for holidays, parties, or just because.
Ingredients
- 1 cup pecan halves
- 1/2 cup granulated sugar
- 1/2 cup light brown sugar
- 2 large eggs (room temperature)
- 1 tsp pure vanilla extract
- 1 package (14 oz) pie crusts
Instructions
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
- Cut pie crusts into small circles and press them into a muffin tin.
- In a bowl, mix granulated sugar and brown sugar until well combined.
- Whisk in eggs one at a time until airy.
- Stir in vanilla extract and add pecans; mix thoroughly.
- Spoon filling into each crust until three-quarters full.
- Bake for 20-25 minutes until set with a slight jiggle. Let cool before serving.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 25 minutes
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 mini pie (40g)
- Calories: 180
- Sugar: 14g
- Sodium: 80mg
- Fat: 8g
- Saturated Fat: 2g
- Unsaturated Fat: 6g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 23g
- Fiber: 1g
- Protein: 2g
- Cholesterol: 30mg
