Mini Pecan Pies are the perfect bite-sized version of the classic holiday dessert, delivering all the rich, buttery flavors in a portable, individual portion. With a crisp, flaky crust and a sweet, gooey filling loaded with crunchy pecans, these mini pies are ideal for serving at gatherings or holiday parties. They’re easy to make and look absolutely adorable on the dessert table, while still capturing the essence of traditional pecan pie. Whether you’re indulging solo or sharing with loved ones, these mini treats are sure to be a hit.
Ingredients:
For the crust:
- 1 1/4 cups all-purpose flour
- 1 tbsp sugar
- 1/4 tsp salt
- 1/2 cup unsalted butter, cold and cubed
- 2-3 tbsp cold water
For the filling:
- 1/2 cup brown sugar, packed
- 1/4 cup corn syrup (or maple syrup for a natural option)
- 1/4 cup unsalted butter, melted
- 1 egg, lightly beaten
- 1 tsp vanilla extract
- 1/4 tsp salt
- 3/4 cup chopped pecans
Instructions:
- Prepare the crust: In a large bowl, mix together the flour, sugar, and salt. Using a pastry cutter or your fingers, cut the cold butter into the flour mixture until it resembles coarse crumbs. Gradually add the cold water, one tablespoon at a time, until the dough starts to come together. Form the dough into a disk, wrap it in plastic wrap, and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes.
- Preheat the oven: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and grease a 12-cup muffin tin.
- Roll out the dough: On a floured surface, roll out the chilled dough to about 1/8-inch thickness. Use a round cookie cutter or glass to cut out circles large enough to fit into the muffin cups, pressing them gently into the tin to form mini pie crusts.
- Make the filling: In a medium bowl, whisk together the brown sugar, corn syrup, melted butter, egg, vanilla extract, and salt until smooth. Stir in the chopped pecans.
- Fill the pies: Spoon the pecan mixture into each mini pie crust, filling about 2/3 of the way.
- Bake: Bake the mini pecan pies in the preheated oven for 20-25 minutes, or until the filling is set and the crust is golden brown.
- Cool and serve: Let the pies cool in the muffin tin for 10 minutes before carefully removing them. Serve warm or at room temperature.
These Mini Pecan Pies are a delightful treat that packs all the flavors of a traditional pecan pie into a cute, convenient package. Perfect for dessert tables or gifting!