Little Pecan Pies
Little Pecan Pies are delightful miniature desserts featuring a rich, buttery crust made with cream cheese and margarine, which perfectly complements the sweet, nutty filling. These treats are perfect for gatherings, holidays, or any occasion that calls for a bite-sized indulgence.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Mix together margarine and cream cheese.
- Add flour to the mixture.
- Chill the dough for 2 hours.
- Press the chilled dough into a miniature cupcake pan.
- Fill the crusts with your chosen filling.
Tips & Substitutions
For a flakier crust, ensure your margarine and cream cheese are cold before mixing. You can substitute butter for margarine if preferred, and for a nutty flavor, consider adding chopped pecans to your filling. Chilling the dough is crucial, as it prevents shrinkage during baking. If you're short on time, try using pre-made pie crusts instead.
Serving Suggestions
These little pecan pies are perfect for dessert tables or holiday gatherings. They pair beautifully with whipped cream or vanilla ice cream for added richness. Consider serving alongside coffee or tea for a delightful afternoon treat. For a twist, try them with a scoop of ice cream, which complements their sweetness.
Storage & Reheating
Store any leftover little pecan pies in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days. To reheat, place them in a preheated oven at 350°F for about 10 minutes until warmed through. This helps maintain the crust's texture and ensures they remain delicious.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Little Pecan Pies contains roughly 877 calories, with 15g protein, 50g carbohydrates, and 69g fat. It is an excellent source of vitamin A (40% of the Daily Value), protein (30% of the Daily Value), and iron (23% of the Daily Value). Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 803mg per serving (35% of the Daily Value).
Estimated from ingredients & per-serving nutrition — verify against package labels for allergies or strict diets.
* % Daily Values based on a 2,000 calorie diet (FDA 2020).
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I use a different type of cheese instead of cream cheese?
While cream cheese gives a rich flavor, you could use mascarpone for a similar texture or ricotta for a lighter option. Just be aware that this may alter the taste slightly, so adjust your filling accordingly.
What can I use as a filling for the pies?
You can fill these little pecan pies with a variety of fillings such as a traditional pecan pie filling, chocolate ganache, or even fruit preserves. Experimenting with fillings like caramel or butterscotch can create delightful flavor combinations.
Can I make the dough in advance?
Yes, you can prepare the dough ahead of time. After mixing, wrap it tightly in plastic wrap and store it in the refrigerator for up to two days, or freeze it for a longer period. Just make sure to thaw it in the refrigerator before using.
Nutrition is estimated from USDA FoodData Central ingredient data and may vary with brand, portion and preparation — see our methodology. This information is for general educational purposes only and is not medical or dietary advice (disclaimer).