Mississippi Pecan Tarts
Sweet and nutty Mississippi Pecan Tarts feature flaky pastry filled with rich pecans and a caramel-like syrup, perfect for a Southern-style dessert or special occasion treat.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Prepare pastry for one-crust pie as directed on package, except divide dough into 6 equal parts.
- Shape each into ball and roll into 4-inch circles.
- Ease into muffin cups, making pleats so pastry will fit closely.
- In a mixing bowl, beat the egg.
- Add sugar, salt, melted butter or margarine, and dark corn syrup; mix well.
- Place a pecan half into the center of each pastry-lined muffin cup.
- Spoon the syrup mixture over the pecans in each tart.
- Bake at 350°F (175°C) for about 15 minutes or until the filling is set and golden.
Tips & Substitutions
For a flakier crust, consider chilling the dough before rolling it out. You can substitute the dark corn syrup with maple syrup for a different flavor profile. If you prefer a sweeter tart, increase the sugar slightly. Adjust the baking time if using mini muffin tins, as they may bake faster. Check for doneness by ensuring the filling is set and golden.
Serving Suggestions
Mississippi Pecan Tarts are delightful served warm, perhaps with a scoop of vanilla ice cream or a dollop of whipped cream on top. They pair beautifully with a cup of coffee or tea for a cozy dessert experience. For a complete meal, serve alongside a fresh salad or complement with a slice of Best Ever French Toast for brunch.
Storage & Reheating
Store leftover tarts in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 2 days. For longer storage, refrigerate for up to a week. To reheat, place tarts in a preheated 350°F (175°C) oven for about 5-7 minutes, just until warmed through. This will help retain their crispness.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Mississippi Pecan Tarts contains roughly 160 calories, with 0g protein, 10g carbohydrates, and 13g fat. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 1169mg per serving (51% 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 pastry from scratch instead of using pie crust mix?
Absolutely! You can make a homemade pie crust using flour, butter, and water. Just ensure it's rolled out thinly enough to fit your muffin cups. The flavor and texture will be even more delightful with a homemade crust.
What can I substitute for pecans if I have a nut allergy?
You can use sunflower seeds or pumpkin seeds as a nut-free alternative. These options will provide a similar crunch without the allergens. Be sure to adjust the baking time slightly to accommodate any differences in size or cooking properties.
How can I tell when the tarts are done baking?
The tarts are done when the filling is set and has a golden color. Gently shake the muffin pan; if the filling jiggles slightly but is not liquid, they are ready. Allow them to cool for a few minutes before serving to help the filling firm up.
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).