Pecan Tea Tarts
Delightful pecan tea tarts with rich cream cheese and buttery crust, perfect for tea parties or as a sweet snack for nut lovers and those seeking a simple, elegant treat.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Mix margarine and cream cheese until smooth.
- Add flour and combine to form a dough.
- Divide the dough into small portions and roll into balls.
- Press each ball into the cups of a small muffin tin to form tart shells.
Tips & Substitutions
For a flakier tart shell, ensure your margarine and cream cheese are cold before mixing. If you want to substitute, butter can replace margarine for a richer flavor. You can also experiment with whole wheat flour for added nutrition, though it may alter the texture slightly. If you're short on time, consider using pre-made pastry dough.
Serving Suggestions
These pecan tea tarts are perfect for afternoon tea and pair beautifully with a cup of Earl Grey. You can also serve them alongside fresh fruit or a light salad to balance the sweetness. For a delightful contrast, consider serving with a scoop of vanilla ice cream. They make a charming addition to dessert tables for celebrations.
Storage & Reheating
Store any leftover pecan tea tarts in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days. If you want to keep them longer, refrigerate them for up to a week. To reheat, place them in a preheated oven at 350°F for about 10 minutes to restore their crispiness.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Pecan Tea Tarts contains roughly 1055 calories, with 17g protein, 49g carbohydrates, and 89g fat. It is an excellent source of vitamin A (50% of the Daily Value), protein (33% of the Daily Value), and iron (24% of the Daily Value). Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 1026mg per serving (45% 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 nut in the filling?
Absolutely! While pecans are traditional, you can substitute with walnuts or almonds for a different flavor profile. Just ensure that the nuts are chopped finely so they mix well in the filling, and adjust the sweetness if you're using sweeter nuts.
Is it possible to make the dough ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare the dough a day in advance. Wrap it tightly in plastic wrap and refrigerate. When you're ready to bake, let it sit at room temperature for about 10-15 minutes to soften slightly before rolling and pressing into the muffin tin.
Can I freeze the tarts after baking?
Yes, you can freeze the baked tarts! Allow them to cool completely, then store them in a single layer in an airtight container or freezer bag. They can be frozen for up to 3 months. To enjoy, simply thaw at room temperature or reheat in the oven.
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).