mini pecan pies recipe

Mini Pecan Pies Recipe

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You won’t be able to resist the delectable combination of buttery crust and gooey pecan filling in this Mini Pecan Pies Recipe. Perfect for any occasion or dessert table, these bite-sized treats pack a flavorful punch that will leave you craving for more. With a handful of simple ingredients and a few easy steps, you’ll have a batch of these irresistible mini pecan pies ready to impress your guests or satisfy your own sweet tooth. Get ready to indulge in the deliciousness of these bite-sized delights!

Mini Pecan Pies Recipe

Ingredients

To make delicious mini pecan pies, you will need the following ingredients:

  • 1 cup pecan halves
  • 1 cup all-purpose flour
  • 1/2 cup unsalted butter, cold and cubed
  • 1/4 cup granulated sugar
  • 1/4 teaspoon salt
  • 2 large eggs
  • 1/2 cup light corn syrup
  • 1/2 teaspoon vanilla extract

Crust Preparation

  1. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) to ensure it’s ready when you need it.
  2. In a food processor, pulse the pecan halves until they are finely ground. You want them to be a coarse consistency.
  3. In a mixing bowl, combine the ground pecans, all-purpose flour, granulated sugar, and salt. Mix these dry ingredients together until they are well combined.
  4. Next, add the cold cubed butter to the mixture. It’s important that the butter is cold so that you achieve a flaky texture in the crust. Mix the butter into the dry ingredients until the mixture resembles coarse crumbs. It should be crumbly yet hold together when pressed.
  5. Press the crust mixture into the bottom and sides of mini pie molds, making sure to create an even layer throughout. This will be the foundation for your mini pecan pies.

Filling Preparation

  1. In a separate bowl, whisk together the eggs, light corn syrup, and vanilla extract. This will create the sweet and flavorful filling for your mini pecan pies.
  2. Pour the filling mixture evenly into each pie crust, ensuring that all the pies are filled to the same level. You want each mini pie to have an equal amount of delicious filling.
  3. To ensure a smooth and air bubble-free filling, gently tap the molds on the counter. This will help any trapped air bubbles rise to the surface.
  4. As a final touch, top each mini pie with a pecan half for decoration. This gives your pies an extra pop of pecan flavor and adds a nice finishing touch.
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Baking

  1. Place the mini pie molds on a baking sheet. This will make it easier to handle and transport them in and out of the oven.
  2. Bake the mini pecan pies in the preheated oven for about 20-25 minutes, or until the filling is set and the crust is golden brown. Keep an eye on them as they bake to ensure they don’t become overcooked.
  3. Once baked, remove the mini pecan pies from the oven and let them cool completely before serving. This allows the filling to set and the flavors to develop fully.

Mini Pecan Pies Recipe

Serving and Storage

  1. Mini pecan pies are best served at room temperature. You can either enjoy them freshly baked or let them cool down after baking and serve later.
  2. For an extra touch of sweetness, you can drizzle caramel sauce or whipped cream over the mini pecan pies. This adds a decadent element to the already delicious treats.
  3. If you have any leftovers, store them in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days. This allows you to savor the mini pecan pies for a few more days. Just be sure to keep them in a sealed container to maintain their freshness.

Variations

If you want to switch things up and add a twist to your mini pecan pies, here are some variations you can try:

  • Add a sprinkle of cinnamon or nutmeg to the filling for a warm and spiced flavor. This will give your pies a cozy and aromatic touch.
  • Replace pecans with other nuts like walnuts or almonds. This variation allows you to experiment with different nut flavors and textures.
  • For a boozy twist, add a tablespoon of bourbon or rum to the filling mixture. This adds a hint of indulgence and complexity to your mini pecan pies.
  • Experiment with different pie crust recipes, such as using graham cracker crusts. This variation can add a unique twist to the overall taste and texture of your mini pecan pies.
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Tips

Here are some helpful tips to ensure your mini pecan pies turn out perfectly:

  • Make sure the butter for the crust is cold. This is crucial to achieve a flaky texture in the crust.
  • If you don’t have mini pie molds, you can use a regular muffin tin as an alternative. Just adjust the baking time accordingly to ensure they are cooked thoroughly.
  • To easily remove the mini pecan pies from the molds, gently run a knife around the edges before lifting them out. This will ensure they come out neatly and intact.
  • For a decorative touch, sprinkle a little powdered sugar on top of the cooled pies. This adds an elegant finish and a touch of sweetness.
  • These mini pecan pies are perfect for parties or gatherings. If you’re expecting a larger crowd, don’t hesitate to double or triple the recipe. This ensures everyone gets a taste of these delightful treats.

Healthier Alternatives

If you’re looking for healthier alternatives for your mini pecan pies, here are some options:

  • Replace all-purpose flour with a gluten-free flour blend for a gluten-free version. This allows those with dietary restrictions to enjoy these delicious mini pies.
  • Use coconut sugar or alternative sweeteners instead of granulated sugar. This lowers the glycemic index and provides a more natural and less processed sweetness.
  • Opt for a lighter option by using maple syrup or honey instead of corn syrup. This adds a unique flavor profile and reduces the overall sugar content.
  • Consider using a plant-based butter substitute to make the recipe vegan-friendly. This allows those following a vegan diet to also enjoy these tasty treats.

Special Occasions

If you’re celebrating a special occasion or looking to add some extra flair to your mini pecan pies, here are some ideas:

  • Decorate the mini pecan pies with edible gold or silver flakes for a festive touch during holidays or special celebrations. This adds a touch of elegance and makes them truly eye-catching.
  • Serve the pies with a scoop of vanilla ice cream or whipped cream for an indulgent dessert experience. This combination of warm pies and cool, creamy toppings is a match made in heaven.
  • Personalize each mini pie by adding a dollop of flavored whipped cream on top. You can use flavors such as chocolate, caramel, or pumpkin spice to elevate the overall taste and presentation.
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Accompaniments

To further enhance the enjoyment of your mini pecan pies, here are some accompaniments to consider:

  • Pair the mini pecan pies with a hot cup of coffee or tea for a delightful afternoon treat. The warm pies and aromatic beverages complement each other perfectly.
  • Enjoy them alongside a scoop of homemade cinnamon ice cream. The combination of the warm pies and the cold, spiced ice cream creates a delightful contrast of flavors and textures.
  • Serve the mini pies with a side of fresh berries or a fruit compote. The tartness of the berries balances out the sweetness of the pies, creating a well-rounded dessert experience.

With these detailed instructions, tips, and variations, you are well-equipped to make scrumptious mini pecan pies. Enjoy the process of baking these delightful treats and savor every bite of their buttery crust and sweet pecan filling. Happy baking!