Mini Pecan Pies
If you’re looking for a delightful treat that embodies the cozy flavors of fall, these Mini Pecan Pies are just the ticket! This recipe is one of my all-time favorites, combining a buttery shortbread crust with a rich and nutty filling. They are perfect for any occasion, whether it’s a busy weeknight dessert or a show-stopper at your next family gathering. Trust me, once you take that first bite, you’ll understand why they have a special place in my heart.
These mini treats are not only delicious but also surprisingly easy to whip up. You can make them ahead of time and share them with friends during the holidays or simply enjoy them on a quiet evening at home. Let’s dive into why this recipe will become your new go-to!
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Quick to Make: With just 20 minutes of prep time, you’ll have these mini pecan pies baking away in no time!
- Family-Friendly: Everyone loves a sweet treat, and these mini pies are the perfect size for kids and adults alike.
- Make-Ahead: You can prepare these pies in advance, making them ideal for holiday gatherings or potlucks.
- Versatile Flavor: The classic combination of pecans and sweetness will impress your guests and satisfy your cravings.
- Comforting Dessert: There’s nothing like the warm, nutty aroma wafting through your kitchen as these pies bake!
Ingredients You’ll Need
Let’s gather some simple, wholesome ingredients to create these delightful Mini Pecan Pies. You probably have many of these items in your pantry already!
For the Crust:
- 2 cups all purpose flour
- 1 cup packed brown sugar
- 1 cup cold butter
For the Filling:
- 5 large eggs
- 1 cup dark corn syrup
- ⅔ cup granulated sugar
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- ⅛ teaspoon salt
- 2 cups chopped pecan
Variations
One of the best parts about this recipe is its flexibility! Feel free to get creative with some fun variations that will keep things interesting.
- Add Chocolate Chips: Stir in some semi-sweet chocolate chips for an extra layer of flavor that pairs beautifully with pecans.
- Try Different Nuts: Experiment by swapping pecans for walnuts or almonds to mix up the texture and taste.
- Make it Maple: Replace half of the corn syrup with maple syrup for a unique twist on flavor.
- Spice it Up: Add a pinch of cinnamon or nutmeg to the filling for added warmth and depth.
How to Make Mini Pecan Pies
Step 1: Prepare Your Oven and Muffin Tins
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). This step is crucial as it ensures even baking right from the start. Lightly spray two 12-cup muffin tins with non-stick cooking spray so that your mini pies can slide out easily once they’re baked.
Step 2: Make the Shortbread Crust
In a mixing bowl, combine flour and brown sugar. Cut in cold butter until the mixture resembles coarse crumbs. Press this mixture into each muffin cup evenly. A solid crust holds everything together and provides that buttery goodness we love.
Step 3: Mix Up the Filling
In another bowl, whisk together eggs, dark corn syrup, granulated sugar, vanilla extract, and salt until well combined. Stir in chopped pecans gently. This filling is what makes each mini pie so rich and flavorful—don’t skip this step!
Step 4: Fill the Crusts
Pour the filling into each prepped muffin cup until nearly full. It’s important not to overfill; you want just enough room for those lovely little pies to rise without spilling over.
Step 5: Bake to Perfection
Place your muffin tins into the preheated oven and bake for about 40 minutes or until set. The tops should be golden and slightly puffed. Keep an eye on them towards the end—every oven is different!
Step 6: Cool & Serve
Once baked, allow the mini pecan pies to cool in their tins for about 10 minutes before transferring them to a wire rack. Enjoy warm or at room temperature—either way, they’re bound to be a hit!
Pro Tips for Making Mini Pecan Pies
These mini pecan pies are not only adorable but are also a delightful treat that everyone will love. Here are some tips to ensure your pies turn out perfectly every time!
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Chill the Dough: Allowing your shortbread crust to chill for at least 30 minutes will help it firm up, making it easier to work with and preventing shrinkage during baking.
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Use Fresh Pecans: Always opt for fresh pecans to enhance the flavor. Stale nuts can compromise the taste of your filling, while fresh ones add that delightful crunch and rich nutty flavor.
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Don’t Overfill: When filling your mini pie crusts, leave a little space at the top. The filling will puff up slightly as it bakes, so avoid overfilling to prevent spills and messy pies.
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Watch the Baking Time: Ovens can vary in temperature, so keep an eye on your pies as they bake. They’re done when the filling is set and slightly jiggly in the center; don’t worry if it looks soft—it will firm up as they cool!
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Cool Completely Before Serving: Letting your mini pecan pies cool completely allows the filling to set properly, ensuring every bite is perfect when you serve them.
How to Serve Mini Pecan Pies
Presenting these mini pecan pies can be just as fun as baking them! Here are some creative ideas on how to serve them for any occasion.
Garnishes
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Whipped Coconut Cream: A dollop of whipped coconut cream on top adds a light and creamy texture that complements the richness of the pies beautifully.
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Chocolate Drizzle: A simple drizzle of melted dairy-free chocolate over the top brings a touch of elegance and a hint of indulgence that everyone will love.
Side Dishes
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Fresh Fruit Salad: A refreshing mixture of seasonal fruits provides a bright contrast to the sweet and rich mini pecan pies, making for a balanced dessert spread.
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Vanilla Vegan Ice Cream: Pairing these mini treats with a scoop of vanilla vegan ice cream creates a delightful temperature contrast that’s sure to please anyone’s palate.
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Maple Glazed Carrots: These sweet and savory carrots bring an earthy flavor profile that harmonizes well with the nutty richness of the pies—perfect for holiday gatherings!
With these serving suggestions and pro tips, you’re all set to impress your family and friends with these delicious mini pecan pies! Enjoy every bite!
Make Ahead and Storage
These mini pecan pies are not only delightful to eat but also fantastic for meal prep! You can whip up a batch in advance, making them a perfect addition to your holiday gatherings or cozy evenings at home.
Storing Leftovers
- Store any uneaten mini pecan pies in an airtight container.
- Keep them at room temperature for up to 3 days.
- For longer storage, refrigerate them where they can last for about a week.
Freezing
- To freeze, allow the mini pecan pies to cool completely after baking.
- Place them in a single layer in an airtight container or wrap individually in plastic wrap and then foil.
- They can be frozen for up to 3 months.
Reheating
- Thaw frozen mini pecan pies overnight in the refrigerator before reheating.
- Reheat in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 10-15 minutes, until warmed through.
- Enjoy warm for the best flavor and texture!
FAQs
If you have questions about making these delicious mini pecan pies, you’re not alone! Here are some common inquiries:
Can I make Mini Pecan Pies ahead of time?
Absolutely! You can prepare the filling and crust separately and assemble the pies just before baking. This makes it easy to enjoy fresh-baked treats at any time.
What is the best way to store Mini Pecan Pies?
Store leftovers in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days or refrigerate them for a week. For longer storage, you can freeze them!
Can I substitute ingredients in Mini Pecan Pies?
Yes! You can use light corn syrup instead of dark if you prefer a lighter flavor. Additionally, maple syrup can be a lovely alternative for a unique twist.
How do I know when my Mini Pecan Pies are done baking?
The filling should be set and slightly puffed when baked. A toothpick inserted into the center should come out clean or with just a few moist crumbs.
Final Thoughts
I hope you find joy in making these mini pecan pies as much as I do! They add such warmth and sweetness to any gathering, especially during the fall and holiday seasons. Whether you’re sharing them with family or keeping them all to yourself (no judgment here!), I encourage you to try this recipe and savor each bite. Happy baking!
Mini Pecan Pies
- Prep Time: 20 minutes
- Cook Time: 40 minutes
- Total Time: 1 hour
- Yield: Approximately 24 servings 1x
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Description
Indulge in the cozy essence of fall with these Mini Pecan Pies, perfect for any gathering or quiet night in. These delightful treats feature a buttery shortbread crust that cradles a rich, nutty filling made with fresh pecans, creating a bite-sized dessert that’s both satisfying and easy to make. With just 20 minutes of prep time, you can whip up these sweet gems that are sure to impress family and friends alike. Whether enjoyed warm or at room temperature, each mini pie is a comforting reminder of the season’s flavors. Add your own twist with variations like chocolate chips or spices, making this recipe a versatile favorite for every occasion.
Ingredients
- 2 cups all-purpose flour
- 1 cup packed brown sugar
- 1 cup cold butter
- 5 large eggs
- 1 cup dark corn syrup
- ⅔ cup granulated sugar
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- ⅛ teaspoon salt
- 2 cups chopped pecans
Instructions
- Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C). Lightly spray two muffin tins with non-stick cooking spray.
- In a bowl, mix flour and brown sugar; cut in cold butter until crumbly. Press into muffin cups.
- Whisk eggs, corn syrup, granulated sugar, vanilla extract, and salt in another bowl; stir in pecans.
- Pour filling into each crust until nearly full; do not overfill.
- Bake for about 40 minutes until golden and set. Let cool before transferring to a wire rack.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 mini pie (45g)
- Calories: 225
- Sugar: 15g
- Sodium: 75mg
- Fat: 12g
- Saturated Fat: 7g
- Unsaturated Fat: 4g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 27g
- Fiber: 1g
- Protein: 3g
- Cholesterol: 70mg
