There’s nothing quite like the sweet, nutty aroma of freshly baked pecan pies wafting through your kitchen, especially when they’re mini versions that are simply too cute to resist. The focus keyword for today is “mini pecan pies recipe,” and if you’re eager to impress your friends and family with this delightful dessert, you’re in luck. We’ll guide you step-by-step through a fantastic recipe that’s easy to follow and yields perfect results every time. These mini pecan pies are a hit at parties, especially during the holiday season.
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Growing up, baking has always been a cherished family tradition. One of my fondest memories involves baking mini pecan pies with my grandmother every Thanksgiving. We’d spend hours in the kitchen laughing, chatting, and, of course, enjoying our delectable creations. These mini pies were her specialty, and she had an innate ability to make each one taste like a little piece of heaven. Now, I continue this tradition with my family, making sure that each pie is made with love, just as she did.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
These mini pecan pies offer a delightful twist on a classic dessert. Not only are they perfect for portion control, but they also provide a unique presentation that will garner admiration at any gathering. Crafted with a buttery, flaky crust and filled with a rich, gooey filling that perfectly balances sweetness and nuttiness, these pies are hard to resist. Their small size makes them ideal for parties and events, ensuring there’s no need for cumbersome slicing—just grab and go! Plus, the recipe is customizable, so you can easily adjust it to your taste preferences or dietary restrictions.
Ingredients Notes
Before diving into the recipe, let’s talk about the ingredients you’ll need to create these mini pecan pies. The quality of ingredients is crucial for achieving the best taste.
- Pecans: Choose fresh, high-quality pecans for the best flavor. You can toast them lightly to enhance their natural nuttiness.
- Corn Syrup: This is key for that gooey filling. You can also use maple syrup or honey as a substitution for a different flavor profile.
- Butter: Opt for unsalted butter to control the salt level in your pies.
- Sugar: Brown sugar adds depth with its molasses flavor, but you can use granulated sugar if that’s what you have on hand.
Recipe Steps
Step 1
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Roll out the pie crust and use a cutter to form circles that will fit into your muffin tin. Gently press each circle into the compartments, ensuring there’s an even amount of dough all around. You can crimp the edges for that classic look, or leave them smooth for a modern twist.
Step 2
In a medium saucepan, melt the butter over low heat. Add the brown sugar and stir until the mixture is smooth and the sugar is fully dissolved. Remove from heat and let it cool slightly before adding in the eggs, one at a time, beating well after each addition.
Step 3
Stir in the corn syrup, Vanilla Extract, and a pinch of salt until everything is well incorporated. Add the chopped pecans to the mixture and ensure they are evenly distributed. This mixture will act as your delicious pie filling.
Step 4
Carefully spoon the filling into the prepared pie crusts, filling each one to about two-thirds full. Be sure not to overfill, as the filling will expand slightly as it bakes. For a more even bake, make sure the pecans are well-distributed across all pies.
Step 5
Bake in the preheated oven for 20-25 minutes, or until the filling is set and the crust is golden brown. Allow the pies to cool in the tin for 10 minutes before transferring them to a wire rack to cool completely. Once cooled, they’re ready to enjoy!
Storage Options
These mini pecan pies can be stored at room temperature for up to 2 days. Simply place them in an airtight container to maintain their freshness. If you wish to keep them longer, store them in the refrigerator for up to a week. For best results when freezing, wrap each pie individually in plastic wrap, then place them in a freezer-safe bag. To enjoy, thaw them overnight in the fridge and warm them in the oven before serving.
Variations & Substitutions
Feel free to experiment with different flavor combinations to suit your dietary needs or preferences. For a boozy twist, add a splash of bourbon to your pecan filling. If you’re looking to make these pies gluten-free, use a gluten-free pie crust. For those with nut allergies, substitute the pecans with oatmeal for a chewy texture, or try chocolate chips for a sweet surprise.
Serving Suggestions
These mini pecan pies can be served warm or at room temperature, making them perfect for any occasion. Pair them with a scoop of vanilla Ice Cream or a dollop of whipped cream for an extra treat. They make a delightful addition to dessert tables at weddings, thanksgivings, or any festive gathering. On regular family nights, these mini pies bring comfort and joy, easy to serve as everyone grabs their own, reaching for seconds without hesitation.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I make the dough in advance?
Absolutely! You can prepare the dough up to two days in advance. Store it in the refrigerator wrapped tightly in plastic wrap. When you’re ready to bake, let it sit at room temperature for about 10 minutes before rolling it out.
What can I use if I don’t have a muffin tin?
If you don’t have a muffin tin, you can use small ramekins or a mini tart pan to achieve a similar effect. Just ensure the baking times are adjusted as different materials and sizes might bake differently.
Can I make these mini pecan pies vegan?
Yes, they can be made vegan by substituting the butter with a plant-based alternative, using maple syrup in place of corn syrup, and replacing the eggs with flaxseed or a commercial egg replacer. Ensure your crust is also vegan-friendly.
Mini Pecan Pies
Ingredients
Main Ingredients
- 1.5 cups all-purpose flour for the crust
- 0.5 cup butter cold and cubed
- 2 tablespoons sugar for flavor
- 2 tablespoons water ice-cold
- 1 cup pecans chopped
- 0.75 cup brown sugar packed
- 0.5 cup corn syrup light
- 3 eggs lightly beaten
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
Instructions
Preparation Steps
- Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C).
- In a medium bowl, mix flour, sugar, and salt.
- Add cubed butter and mix until the dough resembles coarse crumbs.
- Add ice-cold water one tablespoon at a time until a dough forms.
- Roll out dough and cut into circles to fit mini muffin tins.
- Press dough circles into the muffin tins and refrigerate.
- In another bowl, mix eggs, brown sugar, corn syrup, vanilla, and chopped pecans.
- Pour pecan mixture into the chilled dough crusts.
- Bake for 25 minutes until filling is set.
