Deliciously Sweet Pecan Tassies You’ll Love to Make

There’s a certain magic in the kitchen when the scent of toasted pecans and warm butter fills the air a scent that instantly transports me back to my grandmother’s cozy kitchen during the holidays. She never measured anything precisely, yet her pecan tassies always came out perfect: golden, buttery, and just sweet enough.

I remember standing on a step stool, carefully pressing dough into tiny muffin cups while she whispered, “These little pies hold more love than sugar.” Today, I honor that memory with a refined but faithful version of her old-fashioned pecan tassie recipe one that’s easy enough for weeknights yet elegant enough for Thanksgiving tables.

Why Will You Like This Recipe?

These pecan tassies recipes deliver all the nostalgic richness of classic pecan pie in a convenient, bite-sized form. With a tender cream cheese crust and a gooey, nutty filling minus the alcohol for family-friendly baking they’re simple to prepare, store beautifully, and never fail to impress.

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ANNONCE

Servings and Timing

• Prep Time: 20 minutes
• Cook Time: 25 minutes
• Total Time: 45 minutes
• Servings: 24 tassies
• Calories: ~150 per serving

Classic Pecan Tassies

These pecan tassies capture all the nostalgic richness of pecan pie in bite-sized form. With a tender cream cheese crust and gooey, nutty filling, they are simple enough for weeknights yet elegant enough for holiday tables.

Print Recipe Pin Recipe

Prep Time 20 minutes mins

Cook Time 25 minutes mins

Total Time 45 minutes mins

Course Dessert

Cuisine American

Servings 24 tassies

Calories 150 kcal

Equipment

• Mini Muffin Pan
• Hand Mixer or Stand Mixer
• Mixing Bowls
• Wire Rack

Ingredients

  

Cream Cheese Crust

• 1/2 cup unsalted butter softened (113g)
• 3 oz full-fat cream cheese softened (85g)
• 1 tbsp granulated sugar
• 1 cup all-purpose flour 120g

Pecan Filling

• 1/2 cup light brown sugar packed (100g)
• 2 tbsp unsalted butter melted (28g)
• 2 tbsp light corn syrup or substitute maple syrup
• 1/2 tsp vanilla extract
• 1 pinch kosher salt
• 1 large egg room temperature
• 1/2 cup pecans finely chopped, toasted optional (60g)
• 24 pecan halves for topping

Instructions

 

• Preheat oven to 325°F (163°C). Grease a 24-cup mini muffin pan.
• Beat softened butter, cream cheese, and sugar with a mixer until light and fluffy (4–5 minutes).
• Reduce speed to low, add flour, and mix until a soft dough forms. Do not overmix.
• Divide dough into 24 balls, press into muffin cups to form shells, and chill for 15 minutes.
• In a bowl, whisk brown sugar, melted butter, corn syrup, vanilla, salt, and egg until smooth. Fold in chopped pecans.
• Spoon 1 tsp filling into each crust. Top with a pecan half.
• Bake 20–25 minutes until golden and set. Cool 5 minutes in pan, then transfer to a wire rack.

Notes

Make-ahead friendly! Store at room temperature for 3 days, refrigerate for 1 week, or freeze up to 2 months. Reheat in microwave for 8 seconds or oven at 300°F for 5 minutes.

Keyword Holiday, Pecan Pie, Southern

Ingredients need for Sweet Pecan Tassies

(Alcohol-free version of the classic)

For the Cream Cheese Crust:

• ½ cup (1 stick / 113g) unsalted butter, softened : use high-quality butter for best flavor and flakiness
• 3 oz (85g) full-fat cream cheese, softened : essential for a tender, crumbly texture
• 1 tablespoon granulated sugar : balances richness without overpowering
• 1 cup (120g) all-purpose flour : for gluten-free option, substitute with 1:1 gluten-free flour blend

For the Pecan Filling:

• ½ cup (100g) packed light brown sugar : adds deep molasses-like sweetness
• 2 tablespoons (28g) unsalted butter, melted
• 2 tablespoons light corn syrup : ensures smooth, glossy filling (substitute with pure maple syrup if preferred)
• ½ teaspoon pure vanilla extract : enhances warmth and depth
• Pinch of kosher salt : balances sweetness and highlights nutty notes
• 1 large egg, room temperature : binds the filling and adds structure
• ½ cup (60g) pecans, finely chopped : toasted for extra aroma (optional but recommended)
• 24 pecan halves : for elegant topping

💡 Note: This recipe omits bourbon to keep it suitable for all ages, aligning with traditional family-friendly versions like those found in “Pecan Tassies Joy of Baking” collections.

Preparation Method of Pecan Tassies Recipe

Step One: Prepare the Crust

1. Preheat oven to 325°F (163°C). Generously grease a 24-cup mini muffin pan with nonstick spray or butter.
2. In a stand mixer (or using a hand mixer), beat softened butter, cream cheese, and granulated sugar on medium-high speed for 4–5 minutes until light and fluffy.
3. Reduce speed to low and gradually add flour. Mix just until a soft dough forms do not overmix.
4. Scoop dough into 24 equal portions (about 1 tablespoon each). Roll into balls and press gently into muffin cups, forming thin, even cups with slightly raised edges.
5. Chill crusts in the freezer for 15 minutes to prevent shrinking during baking.

Step Two: Make and Bake the Filling

1. In a medium bowl, whisk together brown sugar, melted butter, corn syrup, vanilla, salt, and egg until smooth and glossy.
2. Fold in finely chopped pecans.
3. Spoon 1 heaping teaspoon of filling into each chilled crust. Top each with one pecan half, pressing lightly.
4. Bake for 20–25 minutes, or until crusts are golden and filling is set (no jiggle in the center).
5. Cool in the pan for 5 minutes, then transfer to a wire rack to cool completely.

Tip: For extra shine and sweetness, dust cooled Pecan Tassies with powdered sugar or drizzle with melted white chocolate.

Variations and Customizations

• Nut Swap: Replace pecans with walnuts or a pecan-walnut blend for a different flavor profile ideal for those with mild nut sensitivities (though not for true allergies).
• Sweetener Twist: Use pure maple syrup instead of corn syrup for a deeper, earthier note.
• Spiced Version: Add ¼ teaspoon cinnamon or a pinch of nutmeg to the filling for a warm, autumnal touch.
• Mini Vegan Option: Use plant-based butter and flax egg (1 tbsp ground flax + 2.5 tbsp water) for a dairy-free adaptation (note: texture may vary slightly).

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Why Pecan Tassies May Support Weight Loss (In Moderation)

While indulgent, pecan tassies can fit into a balanced diet when enjoyed mindfully. Pecans are rich in healthy unsaturated fats and fiber, which promote satiety and help regulate blood sugar. The small portion size (one tassie = ~150 calories) also supports portion control key for sustainable weight management.

Top Benefits of Pecan Tassies Sweet

1. Rich in Antioxidants: Pecans contain polyphenols that combat oxidative stress.
2. Heart-Healthy Fats: Monounsaturated fats support cardiovascular health.
3. Convenient & Shareable: Perfect for portion-controlled dessert cravings.
4. Make-Ahead Friendly: Ideal for stress-free holiday prep.

Storage and Reheating

• Room Temperature: Store in an airtight container for up to 3 days.
• Refrigerator: Keeps well for up to 1 week ideal for preserving freshness.
• Freezer: Freeze cooled tassies in a single layer, then transfer to a freezer bag for up to 2 months. Thaw at room temperature or reheat from frozen.
• Reheating: Microwave for 8–10 seconds for a warm, gooey center or warm in a 300°F oven for 5 minutes for crisp crust revival.

Tips and Additional Ideas

• Toast Your Pecans: Spread chopped pecans on a baking sheet and toast at 350°F for 5–7 minutes to deepen flavor.
• Use Cold Ingredients? No! Ensure butter and cream cheese are truly room temperature for a smooth, lump-free dough.
• Uniform Size: A cookie scoop ensures evenly sized tassies that bake consistently.
• Historical Touch: These treats echo the pecan tassies origin in mid-20th century American baking inspired by miniature tea cakes and Southern pecan pie traditions, popularized in community cookbooks and later by brands like Pillsbury.

Nutrition Facts (Per Tassie)

• Calories: 150
• Total Fat: 9g
  • Saturated Fat: 4g
  • Unsaturated Fat: 3g
  • Trans Fat: 0g
• Cholesterol: 30mg
• Sodium: 120mg
• Carbohydrates: 18g
  • Dietary Fiber: 1g
  • Sugar: 10g
• Protein: 2g

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs):

What are pecan tassies?

Pecan tassies are miniature tartlets that mimic the flavor of pecan pie, featuring a rich, crumbly crust (often cream cheese-based) and a sweet, nutty filling. They’re a staple in Southern and holiday baking.

Can I make this recipe without a mixer?

Yes! Use a wooden spoon or spatula to cream the butter and cream cheese by hand it takes a bit more effort but works perfectly.

Are pecan tassies the same as mini pecan pies?

Very similar! However, traditional pecan tassies recipes typically use a cookie-like or cream cheese crust rather than pie dough, giving them a more delicate, melt-in-your-mouth texture.

Where does the name “tassie” come from?

The term “tassie” is Scottish for a small cup or goblet reflecting the shape of these dainty desserts. This nods to the pecan tassies origin in early American adaptations of British and Scottish tea cakes.

Can I use dark corn syrup?

Yes, but it will yield a deeper color and slightly more robust molasses flavor light corn syrup keeps the filling golden and mild, as in classic Pecan Tassies Joy of Baking versions.

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This old-fashioned pecan tassie recipe is intended for informational and culinary purposes only. It is not a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Always consult your physician or a qualified healthcare provider regarding any dietary changes, especially if you have allergies, diabetes, or other health conditions. Consumption of sugary or high-fat foods should be moderated as part of a balanced diet. This prescription does not replace a medical prescription.

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