Easy Mini Pecan Tarts

Looking for a simple yet delicious dessert? These Easy Mini Pecan Tarts are the perfect treat! With a buttery, flaky crust made from cream cheese and all-purpose flour, and a rich, sweet pecan filling with light brown sugar and vanilla, these bite-sized tarts are sure to satisfy any sweet tooth. Mini pecan tarts are perfect for holidays, parties, or as an everyday snack. The combination of crunchy pecans and a smooth filling makes them a crowd favorite, and their individual size makes them easy to serve at gatherings or as a homemade gift.

This easy-to-follow pecan tart recipe is great for beginners and seasoned bakers alike. Whether you’re looking for mini tarts, pecan desserts, or bite-sized treats, these mini pecan tarts offer a delightful balance of texture and flavor. Bake a batch today and enjoy this simple, indulgent treat that’s perfect for any occasion!

Ingredients

For the Crust:

• 1 cup (2 sticks) unsalted butter, at room temperature
• 6 oz cream cheese, at room temperature
• 2 cups all-purpose flour

For the Pecan Filling:

• 3 eggs, at room temperature
• 2 ¼ cups packed light brown sugar
• 3 tbsp unsalted butter, melted
• 1 tsp vanilla extract
• Pinch of salt
• 1 ½ cups pecans, chopped

Instructions

1. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
2. In a mixing bowl, whisk together the unsalted butter and cream cheese until smooth and creamy. Gradually add the flour, mixing after each addition until the dough forms. Refrigerate the dough while preparing the pecan filling.
3. In a large mixing bowl, whisk together the light brown sugar and eggs. Add the melted butter, vanilla extract, and a pinch of salt, and mix until combined. Stir in the chopped pecans. Set the filling aside.
4. Grease a muffin pan with non-stick cooking spray. Remove the dough from the refrigerator. Roll the dough into 1-tablespoon-sized balls and place them in the muffin pan. Press the dough down to form the tart crusts.
5. Spoon the pecan filling into each crust.
6. Bake for 25-30 minutes, or until the tarts are golden brown.
7. Let the mini tarts cool before serving. Enjoy!

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Tips

• Dough Consistency: If the dough feels too soft or sticky, refrigerate it for an additional 15-20 minutes before rolling it into balls.
• Even Filling: Make sure the pecan filling is evenly distributed to ensure each mini tart is filled to the top.
• Pecan Toasting: For extra flavor, lightly toast the chopped pecans before adding them to the filling.

Variations and Substitutions

• Crust Variations: Substitute the cream cheese with mascarpone cheese for a richer taste, or use gluten-free flour for a gluten-free version.
• Nut Options: Instead of pecans, try using walnuts or almonds for a different nutty flavor.
• Sweetener: Swap the brown sugar with maple syrup or honey for a natural sweetener option.
• Flavoring: Add a pinch of cinnamon or nutmeg to the filling for an added spice note.

FAQs

Can I make these mini tarts ahead of time?
Yes, these mini pecan tarts can be made a day in advance. Store them in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 2 days, or refrigerate them for longer storage.

Can I freeze these mini tarts?
Yes, you can freeze these tarts before baking. Place them on a baking sheet and freeze until firm, then transfer to a zip-lock bag for storage. Bake from frozen, adding an extra 5 minutes to the baking time.

How do I know when the mini pecan tarts are done?
The tarts should be golden brown on the top and edges, and a toothpick inserted into the center should come out clean.

Serving Suggestions

• Dessert: Serve these mini pecan tarts as a sweet treat after dinner, with a dollop of whipped cream or a scoop of vanilla ice cream.
• Party Snack: These bite-sized treats are perfect for holiday gatherings, parties, or as a gift in a decorative box.
• Tea Time: Pair with a hot cup of tea or coffee for a delightful afternoon snack.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

These Easy Mini Pecan Tarts are the perfect combination of buttery, flaky crust and sweet, nutty filling. Whether you’re looking for a festive dessert or a delicious treat for any occasion, these mini tarts are sure to impress. With a simple, quick preparation, these tarts are as delightful to make as they are to eat. Their bite-sized nature makes them perfect for sharing, while the rich flavor of toasted pecans adds a warm, indulgent touch to any dessert table.