As I sit down with a warm cup of coffee, I can’t help but think of the special moments shared around dessert—especially when that dessert is Old Fashioned Pecan Tassies. These delightful little treats have a way of turning any gathering into a celebration. I fondly remember my grandmother making them during the holidays, her hands skillfully working the dough as the sweet, buttery aroma filled the kitchen, drawing us all closer. Pecan tassies aren’t just a dessert; they’re memories wrapped in flaky pastry crusts filled with a gooey, nutty filling. Today, I’m excited to share this beloved recipe with you, inviting you to create your own moments with family and friends.
Recipe Timing
- Prep Duration: 15 minutes
- Active Cooking: 25 minutes
- Total Duration: 40 minutes
- Portion Size: 24 mini tassies
- Complexity: Simple
Nutritional Recipe
- Calories per portion: 160 calories
- Protein: 2 grams
- Carbs: 18 grams
- Fats: 10 grams
- Fiber: 1 gram
- Sugars: 6 grams
- Sodium: 80 mg
Why You’ll Love This Old Fashioned Pecan Tassies
Pecan tassies are the perfect bite-sized treats that combine buttery crust with the rich, nutty sweetness of pecans. They bring a nostalgic feel to any dessert table and are incredibly easy to make! Whether you’re hosting a holiday party, a casual gathering, or just treating yourself, these tassies pack a punch of flavor in every little bite. Plus, who can resist that delightful crunch from the pecans?
The Complete Cooking Journey
Get ready to embark on a cozy kitchen journey, where you’ll mix, bake, and ultimately indulge in these scrumptious little wonders. As you prepare the buttery crust and blend in the sweet nut filling, the savory scents will teleport you back to cherished moments spent with loved ones. Let’s dive into the cooking process step by step!
Ingredients:
- 1 cup all-purpose flour
- 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened
- 2 tablespoons granulated sugar
- 1 egg yolk
- 1 cup pecans, chopped
- 1/2 cup brown sugar
- 1 tablespoon vanilla extract
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
Method:
Step 1: Preheat the Oven
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Greasing a mini muffin tin will ensure that your tassies come out effortlessly after baking.
Step 2: Mix the Crust Ingredients
In a mixing bowl, beat together the flour, softened butter, granulated sugar, and egg yolk until smooth. The mixture will have a lovely creamy texture that signals a delicious finish!
Step 3: Form the Crusts
Press the flour mixture into the bottom and up the sides of each muffin cup to create a delicate crust. This is where your tassies will hold their sweet filling, so make sure it’s sturdy!
Step 4: Prepare the Filling
In another bowl, mix together the chopped pecans, brown sugar, vanilla extract, and salt. The combination of flavors will make your mouth water!
Step 5: Spoon in the Filling
Spoon the pecan mixture generously into each crust. Don’t skimp on filling—this is the star of the show!
Step 6: Bake to Perfection
Bake for 20-25 minutes or until the filling is set and golden. Your kitchen will be filled with irresistible aromas that will have everyone asking, “What’s cooking?”
Step 7: Cool and Remove
Let your pecan tassies cool before gently removing them from the tin. Patience is key here—allowing them to cool will make them easier to handle!
Serving Suggestions & Pairings
These Old Fashioned Pecan Tassies are delightful on their own, but they truly shine when paired with a scoop of vanilla ice cream or a dollop of whipped cream. A drizzle of chocolate sauce can elevate them even more! Serve them at your next gathering, and watch them disappear in a hurry. They are also perfect for gifting during the holidays—just place them in a charming tin!
Storage & Leftovers Guide
Store any leftover tassies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to three days. If you want to keep them longer, refrigerate them for up to a week. Trust me, they won’t last that long—but it’s good to know, right?
Kitchen Wisdom & Success Tips
- Soften the Butter: Ensure your butter is softened for easy blending; room temperature butter works best.
- Don’t Overfill: Be cautious not to overfill the crust; the filling will expand during baking.
- Careful Cooling: Allow them to cool completely in the tin before removing to avoid breakage.
Flavor Variations & Adaptations
Feeling adventurous? Try adding a splash of bourbon to the pecan mixture for an adult twist. You can also replace pecans with walnuts or even chocolate chips for different flavor profiles!
Reader Questions & Solutions
-
Can I use whole wheat flour instead of all-purpose?
Yes! Just remember that it may alter the texture slightly. -
What if I don’t have a mini muffin tin?
You could use a standard muffin tin; just adjust the baking time accordingly. -
How can I make these dairy-free?
Substitute the butter with a dairy-free spread or coconut oil. -
Can I freeze pecan tassies?
Absolutely! Freeze them in an airtight container for up to three months, and thaw before serving. -
How do I know when they are done?
They should be golden brown and set in the center; a toothpick inserted should come out clean.
Wrapping Up
As you navigate through the world of baking, let these Old Fashioned Pecan Tassies remind you that the kitchen is a canvas for creativity and connection. I hope this recipe inspires you to try your hand at creating these delightful treats, bringing joy and warmth to your table. Cook with love, share with warmth, and savor every bite. Happy baking!
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Old Fashioned Pecan Tassies
- Total Time: 40 minutes
- Yield: 24 mini tassies 1x
- Diet: Vegetarian
Description
Delightful bite-sized treats with a flaky crust and gooey pecan filling, perfect for gatherings.
Ingredients
- 1 cup all-purpose flour
- 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened
- 2 tablespoons granulated sugar
- 1 egg yolk
- 1 cup pecans, chopped
- 1/2 cup brown sugar
- 1 tablespoon vanilla extract
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
Instructions
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and grease a mini muffin tin.
- In a mixing bowl, beat together the flour, softened butter, granulated sugar, and egg yolk until smooth.
- Press the flour mixture into the bottom and up the sides of each muffin cup to create a delicate crust.
- In another bowl, mix together the chopped pecans, brown sugar, vanilla extract, and salt.
- Spoon the pecan mixture generously into each crust.
- Bake for 20-25 minutes or until the filling is set and golden.
- Let the pecan tassies cool before gently removing them from the tin.
Notes
Pairs well with vanilla ice cream or whipped cream. Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to three days.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 25 minutes
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 tassie
- Calories: 160
- Sugar: 6g
- Sodium: 80mg
- Fat: 10g
- Saturated Fat: 4g
- Unsaturated Fat: 6g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 18g
- Fiber: 1g
- Protein: 2g
- Cholesterol: 0mg