Pecan Tasses
Pecan Tasses are delightful mini tart shells filled with a rich, sweet pecan filling, perfect for elegant desserts or special occasions appealing to nut lovers.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Blend the cream cheese, butter, flour, egg, brown sugar, vanilla, and salt until well combined.
- Chill the mixture for 1 hour.
- Divide the chilled dough into small balls.
- Place each ball into a small cupcake pan and shape into a crust using your knuckles and fingers.
- Bake as desired or fill with additional ingredients for a complete tart.
Tips & Substitutions
For a richer flavor, consider using a mix of toasted pecans and walnuts. If you run out of cream cheese, ricotta or mascarpone can serve as effective substitutes. Make sure to chill the dough thoroughly; this ensures easy handling and a flaky texture. If desired, you can add a pinch of cinnamon or nutmeg for warmth and depth.
Serving Suggestions
Serve Pecan Tasses warm or at room temperature, ideally with a scoop of vanilla ice cream or a dollop of whipped cream for added indulgence. They pair wonderfully with coffee or tea. For a light meal, consider serving alongside a fresh salad like Strawberry - Cottage Cheese Fruit Salad(Easy) for a delightful contrast.
Storage & Reheating
Store leftover Pecan Tasses in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 5 days. If you want to freeze them, place them in a single layer on a baking sheet, freeze until firm, then transfer to a freezer-safe container. To reheat, warm in a 350°F oven for about 10-15 minutes until heated through.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Pecan Tasses contains roughly 637 calories, with 6g protein, 85g carbohydrates, and 25g fat. It is a good source of vitamin A (17% of the Daily Value), protein (12% of the Daily Value), and calcium (11% of the Daily Value). Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 2020mg per serving (88% 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 dough ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare the dough up to 24 hours in advance. After blending the ingredients, chill the dough and store it in the refrigerator. Just remember to let it sit at room temperature for a few minutes before shaping, as it will be firmer after chilling.
What can I use instead of pecans?
If you prefer a different nut or have nut allergies, you can substitute the pecans with finely chopped almonds, walnuts, or even seeds like sunflower or pumpkin seeds. This will still give a nice crunch and flavor to the tasses.
How do I know when they are done baking?
Pecan Tasses are done baking when the edges are lightly golden and the crust appears set. You can insert a toothpick into the center; if it comes out clean or with a few crumbs, they are ready. Keep an eye on them to avoid over-baking.
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).