Maple Pecan Tartlets
Rich maple pecan tartlets feature a sweet, nutty filling with caramel notes, perfect for festive occasions or a delightful dessert for pecan lovers. They are easy to customize and serve individually.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Combine eggs, brown sugar, maple syrup, melted butter, salt, and lemon juice in a bowl.
- Sprinkle chopped pecans on the bottom of each pastry cup.
- Pour the prepared filling into each pastry cup over the nuts.
- Bake at 375°F (190°C) for 20 to 25 minutes until set and golden.
- Allow to cool before serving. Tartlets can be frozen for later use.
Tips & Substitutions
For a richer flavor, consider using dark brown sugar instead of light, as it enhances the caramel notes in the filling. You can substitute the pecans with walnuts or almonds if preferred. Ensure the butter is fully melted but not hot when mixing to prevent cooking the eggs. For a twist, add a splash of vanilla extract or a pinch of cinnamon to the filling.
Serving Suggestions
Serve these maple pecan tartlets warm or at room temperature, perhaps with a dollop of whipped cream or a scoop of vanilla ice cream for added indulgence. They pair beautifully with a hot cup of coffee or tea. For an even more delightful dessert experience, consider serving alongside Yummy Chocolate Chip Cookies.
Storage & Reheating
Store any leftover tartlets in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, place them in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 10 minutes until warmed through. These tartlets can also be frozen for up to 2 months; thaw in the refrigerator before reheating.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Maple Pecan Tartlets contains roughly 161 calories, with 2g protein, 18g carbohydrates, and 10g fat. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 598mg per serving (26% 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 make the tartlet filling in advance?
Yes, you can prepare the filling a day ahead and store it covered in the refrigerator. Just give it a good stir before pouring it into the pastry cups. This can save you time on the day you plan to serve them.
What can I use instead of maple syrup?
If you don't have maple syrup, you can substitute with honey or agave syrup, though the flavor will differ slightly. Adjust the sweetness to taste, as these alternatives can be sweeter than maple syrup.
Can I use store-bought pastry cups?
Absolutely! Store-bought pastry cups can save time and effort. Just fill them with the pecan filling and bake as directed. This is a great shortcut if you're short on time but still want to enjoy a delicious homemade dessert.
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).