Looking for a delightful and easy-to-enjoy dessert for your next gathering or holiday celebration? Dive into the world of these delicious Mini Pecan Pies. Hailing from a region abundant with pecans, these mini pies have been a family favorite, passed down through generations. The buttery crust and rich yet crunchy filling make them an irresistible treat that disappears quickly whenever they grace the dessert table.
Why You’ll Love These Mini Pecan Pies
– Convenient Size: Ideal for quick indulgence or sharing, these mini pies are perfect for grab-and-go enjoyment.
– Classic Flavor: The flaky crust and brown sugar-pecan filling deliver the traditional pecan pie taste in a smaller package.
– Holiday Favorite: A timeless holiday treat that captures the essence of the season in every bite.
– Great Gift Idea: Consider these mini pies as a thoughtful hostess gift or a delectable treat for friends and family.
Ingredient Notes
– Cream Cheese: Make sure it’s at room temperature for easy mixing.
– Brown Sugar: Opt for firmly packed brown sugar for a rich and sweet flavor.
– Pecans: Use pecan pieces to add a delightful crunch to the filling.
– Vanilla Extract: Enhances the overall flavor profile of the pies.
How to Make Mini Pecan Pies
– Step 1: Preheat Oven and Prepare Dough: Mix cream cheese and butter, then stir in flour and chill the dough.
– Step 2: Shape Dough Into Balls: Form the dough into balls and press them into muffin tins.
– Step 3: Add Pecans and Filling: Sprinkle pecans in the muffin cups and pour the smooth filling over them.
– Step 4: Bake and Cool: Bake the pies until set, cool them, and remove from the tins.
Storage Options
To keep your Tiny Pecan Pies fresh, store them in an airtight container at room temperature for up to three days. For longer storage, refrigerate in a sealed container for up to a week or freeze for up to three months. Reheat in the oven or microwave before serving for best results.
Variations and Substitutions
– Chocolate Swirl: Drizzle melted chocolate over the baked pies for a decadent twist.
– Maple Glaze: Top the pies with a sweet maple glaze for a different flavor profile.
– Almond Crust: Substitute almond flour for a nuttier crust option.
– Spiced Filling: Add cinnamon or nutmeg to the filling for a warm and cozy touch.
What to Serve With Mini Pecan Pies
Pair these delightful mini pecan pies with these complementary dishes:
– Classic Vanilla Ice Cream
– Warm Cinnamon Spiced Apple Cider
– Whipped Cream and Fresh Berries
– Hot Coffee or Decaf Herbal Tea
Frequently Asked Questions
– Can I use store-bought pie crust?: You can substitute store-bought pie crust for a quicker preparation.
– Can I make these pies ahead of time?: Yes, these pies can be made a day in advance and stored in the fridge until ready to serve.
– Can I freeze the unbaked pies?: Yes, you can assemble the pies and freeze them before baking for future use.
– Can I add a splash of bourbon to the filling?: Absolutely, a dash of bourbon can add a rich flavor to the filling.
Indulge in the buttery, crunchy goodness of these Mini Pecan Pies and treat yourself to a bite-sized delight that captures the essence of homemade goodness. These mini pies offer a perfect balance of sweetness and nuttiness, making them a memorable addition to any occasion. Get ready to savor the rich flavors and irresistible textures of these delectable bites!
Mini Pecan Pies
Ingredients
Crust Ingredients
- 1 cup cream cheese (room temperature)
- 1 cup butter (room temperature)
- 2 cups all-purpose flour
Filling Ingredients
- 2/3 cup brown sugar (firmly packed)
- 1 tsp vanilla extract
- 1 cup chopped pecans
Instructions
- Mix cream cheese and butter until creamy. Stir in flour and form a dough. Chill for 30 minutes.
- Shape the dough into balls and press them into muffin tins to form mini pie crusts.
- Sprinkle chopped pecans into the muffin cups.
- Mix brown sugar, vanilla extract, and beaten eggs. Pour the filling over the pecans.
- Bake the mini pecan pies in a preheated oven until set. Cool, remove from tins, and serve.