Introduction to Old Fashioned Pecan Tassies
There’s something undeniably charming about old fashioned pecan tassies, those delightful little treats that whisk you away to simpler times filled with warmth and nostalgia. Imagine the sweet aroma wafting through the kitchen as you bake them, a reminder of family gatherings and cozy celebrations. These bite-sized delights hold a treasure trove of flavor within their tender pastry crust, making them an irresistible addition to any dessert table.
What makes pecan tassies a timeless treat?
The beauty of old fashioned pecan tassies lies in their perfect blend of sweet and nutty flavors, encapsulated in a delightful morsel that’s as pleasing to the eye as it is to the palate. They combine traditional pecan pie characteristics with a unique twist, presenting a miniaturized version that’s easy to share—or hide away for a late-night snack!
Here are a few reasons why they remain a beloved favorite:
Versatility: Pecan tassies aren’t just for the holidays. They make a charming addition to brunches, dessert trays at gatherings, or even as a thoughtful homemade gift.
Effortless Elegance: Despite their sophisticated flavor, the tassies are surprisingly easy to make. You can whip up a batch with just a handful of ingredients, making them a go-to choice when time is short but the craving for something sweet hits.
Personal Touch: Each tassie can be slightly unique, depending on how you fill them. Whether you prefer a more pronounced pecan flavor, a hint of chocolate, or perhaps a splash of maple syrup, you have the freedom to experiment while keeping the classic essence intact.
Heartwarming Memories: Baking old fashioned pecan tassies often comes with stories passed down through generations. Sharing these recipes creates bonds as friends and family come together to enjoy the fruits of your labor—after all, food has a magical way of connecting us.
As you embark on your own journey to create these delightful tidbits, remember to savor the process just as much as the delicious results. There’s a distinct joy in sharing them, whether over coffee with a friend or during a cozy night in.
Key Ingredients for Old Fashioned Pecan Tassies
Creating old fashioned pecan tassies is a delightful journey into the world of sweet treats. Each ingredient contributes to the lovely balance of flavors and textures that make these mini pies such a hit.
Pastry Dough
The foundation of your tassies is a buttery pastry dough. I use a combination of cream cheese and butter to achieve a rich, tender base that melts in your mouth. The cream cheese not only adds richness but also makes the dough easier to work with.
Pecans
Of course, you can’t have old fashioned pecan tassies without pecans! I prefer using chopped pecans for their delightful crunch and nutty flavor. Toasting them lightly can enhance their taste and aroma, making your tassies even more irresistible.
Brown Sugar
For that warm, caramel flavor, I opt for light brown sugar in the filling. It gives a lovely depth and complements the pecans perfectly. The sugar helps create that gooey, sweet filling that makes each bite heavenly.
Eggs
The binding agent in this recipe is the egg. Beating the egg with the sugar helps emulsify the mixture, ensuring a smooth consistency for the filling. One egg is all you need to hold everything together while providing that classic richness.
Vanilla Extract
Finally, a splash of vanilla extract rounds out the flavors beautifully. It adds a hint of sweetness and warmth, elevating the overall taste of your old fashioned pecan tassies.
With these key ingredients, you’ll craft delightful pecan tassies that will be the highlight of any gathering!
Why You’ll Love These Old Fashioned Pecan Tassies
Old fashioned pecan tassies are not just a delightful treat; they’re a comforting reminder of home and tradition. Each bite transports you to a warm kitchen filled with the aroma of baked goods, alongside memories of family gatherings and holiday celebrations.
Imagine biting into a perfectly baked tassie with a rich buttery crust that crumbles in your mouth, followed by a sweet, nutty filling made luscious by the earthy pecans. The unique combination of textures—crisp crust and chewy filling—creates a mini masterpiece you can savor anytime.
These old fashioned pecan tassies are also incredibly versatile. Whether you are hosting friends for coffee, looking for a sweet finish to a family dinner, or crafting little gifts for neighbors during the holidays, they are perfect for any occasion. Plus, they are easy to make ahead of time. You can whip up a batch, store them, and then watch them disappear as guests delight in their home-baked goodness.
So, why not bring a touch of nostalgia into your kitchen? These tassies are a simple yet elegant treat that will have everyone asking for your secret recipe. Enjoy the process of baking, and let the rich flavors of these old fashioned pecan tassies warm the hearts of those you love.
Variations on Old Fashioned Pecan Tassies
Everyone loves old fashioned pecan tassies, but why stop at the classic version? The beauty of this delightful treat is its versatility. You can easily tweak the recipe to suit your palate or to surprise your guests. Here are a few fun variations worth trying:
Chocolate Chip Pecan Tassies
Add a touch of decadence by mixing in some semi-sweet chocolate chips. Just fold about half a cup of chocolate chips into the filling before baking. The rich chocolate pairs perfectly with the nutty flavor of the pecans, creating an indulgent dessert that’s sure to impress.
Maple Pecan Tassies
If you want a hint of autumn in every bite, substitute maple syrup for half of the sugar in the filling. This simple swap accentuates the pecans’ natural sweetness and gives your tassies a warm, inviting flavor that nods to classic maple treats.
Spiced Pumpkin Tassies
For a festive twist, incorporate pumpkin puree into the filling. Reduce the sugar slightly and add a teaspoon of pumpkin pie spice for a seasonal dessert that captures fall’s essence. Imagine serving these at Thanksgiving!
Fruit-Infused Tassies
Mix in dried fruits like cranberries, raisins, or chopped apricots with the pecans. Adding dried fruit introduces a tangy contrast while keeping the texture interesting.
With these variations on old fashioned pecan tassies, you’re set to impress anyone with a sweet tooth, whether for cozy gatherings or festive celebrations!
Cooking Tips and Notes for Old Fashioned Pecan Tassies
Creating the perfect old fashioned pecan tassies can feel like an art form, and a few simple tips can take your baking from good to spectacular. Here’s how to elevate your dessert game.
Chilling the Dough is Key
Taking a few moments to chill your dough can make a big difference. After mixing the crust ingredients, refrigerate for about 30 minutes. This helps solidify the butter, leading to a flakier texture when baked.
Use Fresh Pecans
For those old fashioned pecan tassies, the quality of your pecans matters. Try to use fresh, raw pecans for a delightful crunch and rich flavor. If you’re feeling adventurous, toast them lightly before adding them to the filling to amplify their nuttiness.
Don’t Overfill
While it’s tempting to load your tassies with the delicious filling, be cautious. Fill each shell just to the top; they will puff slightly as they bake. If you overfill, you may end up with a sticky mess in your muffin tin.
Keep an Eye on Baking Time
Ovens vary, and so does your pan’s material. Start checking your tassies a few minutes before the recommended baking time. The perfect tassies should have a golden brown crust, and the filling should be set but still slightly jiggly in the center.
Cool Before Serving
Let your old fashioned pecan tassies cool in the pan for about 10 minutes before transferring them to a wire rack. This helps them firm up and makes them easier to remove without breaking.
Happy baking! Enjoy the rich, sweet results of your hard work!
Serving Suggestions for Old Fashioned Pecan Tassies
The bliss of old fashioned pecan tassies doesn’t have to stop once they come out of the oven. These delightful bite-sized treats deserve some love during serving too! Here are some tips to elevate your tassies from fabulous to unforgettable.
Perfect Pairings
Beverages: For a cozy vibe, serve your old fashioned pecan tassies with a cup of freshly brewed coffee or a rich hot chocolate. If you’re in the mood for something refreshing, unsweetened iced tea complements the caramel notes beautifully.
Whipped Cream: A dollop of lightly sweetened whipped cream enhances the creamy texture of the filling and adds a nice contrast to the nutty flavor.
Ice Cream: Serve warm pecan tassies with a scoop of vanilla ice cream for a deliciously decadent dessert. The heat of the tassies paired with cold ice cream creates a delightful contrast.
Festive Touches
Garnishing: Sprinkle a pinch of sea salt or finely chopped pecans on top just before serving for added texture and elegance.
Plate Presentation: Arrange the tassies on a beautiful serving platter, perhaps with a sprinkle of powdered sugar or a drizzle of chocolate sauce for an extra touch of sweetness.
Don’t hesitate to get creative! The beauty of old fashioned pecan tassies lies not just in their flavor but also in how you choose to serve them, making each gathering a bit more special.
Time Breakdown for Old Fashioned Pecan Tassies
Creating the perfect batch of old fashioned pecan tassies is a delightful process that’s well worth your time. Let’s break down how to allocate your time effectively for this delicious treat.
Preparation Time
Getting started takes about 20 minutes. This includes gathering your ingredients, mixing the dough, and preparing your baking pans for those lovely tassies.
Baking Time
The baking phase is where the magic happens. You’ll want to spend about 25 minutes baking your old fashioned pecan tassies. This allows them to achieve that perfect golden brown color and rich flavor.
Total Time
In total, you’re looking at around 45 minutes from the moment you step into your kitchen to the time those aromatic tassies are ready to enjoy. Trust me; each minute spent is a step closer to a delightful treat that will charm everyone!
Nutritional Facts for Old Fashioned Pecan Tassies
Indulging in old fashioned pecan tassies not only satisfies your sweet tooth but also provides some interesting nutritional insights to consider. These delightful mini desserts can be enjoyed guilt-free when enjoyed in moderation.
Calories
Each tantalizing bite of your old fashioned pecan tassies contains approximately 120 calories. This makes them a perfect treat when you want something sweet without going overboard.
Protein
Surprisingly, these little delights pack a protein punch, with around 2 grams per tassie. The pecans contribute to this, bringing a nutty flavor and nutritional benefits.
Sodium
On the sodium front, each old fashioned pecan tassie contains about 70 milligrams. This is relatively low, allowing you to enjoy these treats without worrying too much about your sodium intake.
By enjoying old fashioned pecan tassies in moderation, you can savor their sweet, nutty goodness while still keeping an eye on your overall nutritional goals!
FAQs About Old Fashioned Pecan Tassies
When making old fashioned pecan tassies, you may find yourself with a few questions. With their delightful buttery crust and rich, nutty filling, these tiny treats are often a crowd favorite during gatherings. Let’s tackle some common queries that can help you perfect your tassies.
Can I use other nuts instead of pecans?
Absolutely! While pecans are traditional for this recipe, feel free to get creative. Walnuts or hazelnuts can serve as fantastic substitutes, lending their own unique flavors to the old fashioned pecan tassies. Just chop them finely to ensure they mix well with the filling.
How do I store the pecan tassies for freshness?
To keep your pecan tassies fresh, store them in an airtight container at room temperature for up to three days. If you want to keep them longer, consider freezing them. Just make sure to layer them with parchment paper to prevent sticking, and they can last for up to three months in the freezer. When ready to enjoy, simply thaw them at room temperature.
Can I make the dough in advance?
Yes! You can prepare the dough ahead of time. Wrap it tightly in plastic wrap and place it in the refrigerator for up to three days. If you’re planning for a longer period, it’s safe to freeze the dough as well. Just allow it to thaw in the fridge before rolling it out when you’re ready to bake those delicious old fashioned pecan tassies.
These tips are sure to help you enjoy your baking experience while making these delightful treats!
Conclusion on Old Fashioned Pecan Tassies
Embracing the charm of old fashioned pecan tassies means indulging in a delightful blend of buttery crust and rich, nutty filling. These little bites of heaven are more than just desserts; they evoke memories of cozy family gatherings and the warmth of Southern hospitality. Each fluffy morsel is a reminder that simple ingredients can create extraordinary flavors.
Whether you’re hosting a gathering or simply treating yourself, remember that making these tassies is an experience worth savoring. So, roll up your sleeves and let your kitchen transform into a haven of sweet aromas. Trust me; you’ll find it hard to resist making them a staple in your dessert repertoire!
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Pecan Tarts
- Total Time: 48 minutes
- Yield: 36 tarts 1x
- Diet: Vegetarian
Description
Delicious mini pecan tarts with a creamy filling and a buttery crust.
Ingredients
- 3/4 cup salted butter (room temperature)
- 5 ounces cream cheese (room temperature)
- 1 1/2 cups all-purpose flour
- 1 1/2 cups dark brown sugar
- 2 tablespoons salted butter (melted)
- 2 large eggs
- 1/2 teaspoon maple extract
- 1/2 cup finely chopped pecans
- 36 pecan halves
Instructions
- In a small bowl, use hand mixer to cream together the butter and cream cheese until well combined. Add the flour and mix until smooth.
- Spray three mini muffin pans (36 tarts total) with cooking spray. Using a mini cookie scoop, scoop dough balls into the muffin pans, dividing the dough between the 36 cups evenly. Refrigerate the dough while making the filling.
- In a medium bowl, mix together the brown sugar, melted butter, eggs, maple extract and finely chopped pecans.
- Preheat the oven to 350ºF. After the tarts have refrigerated about 15 minutes, remove one pan from the fridge. Press the dough on the bottom and up the sides of each muffin cavity to create a “cup” with the dough. After the first pan is done, remove the other pan and do the same.
- Fill the dough shells ⅔ full with the filling. Place a pecan half on top of each cup.
- Bake for 18 minutes or until the tarts are golden brown on top. Allow the tarts to cool, then loosen them with a small knife and remove to a cooling rack.
Notes
- Be careful not to overfill the tarts as they may overflow while baking.
- Using a wooden kitchen tool can make pressing the dough into the muffin pans easier.
- Prep Time: 30 minutes
- Cook Time: 18 minutes
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 tart
- Calories: 150
- Sugar: 10g
- Sodium: 150mg
- Fat: 8g
- Saturated Fat: 5g
- Unsaturated Fat: 2g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 20g
- Fiber: 1g
- Protein: 2g
- Cholesterol: 40mg
