Pecan Tosses
Pecan Tosses are delightful bite-sized treats featuring a buttery, nutty crust topped with toasted pecans and a rich brown sugar filling. Perfect for parties or sweet snacking, they combine crunchy textures with caramel notes, appealing to those who love sweet, nutty desserts with a hint of vanilla.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Combine margarine, cream cheese, and flour and mix until the mixture resembles pie dough.
- Divide the dough into 36 small balls.
- Press each ball into the bottom and sides of bite-size cupcake pans to form crusts.
- Sprinkle half of the chopped pecans over the crusts.
- In a separate bowl, mix brown sugar, eggs, melted butter, vanilla, and a dash of salt to make the filling.
- Pour the filling over the pecan-topped crusts.
- Bake at 350°F (175°C) until the filling is set and golden, approximately 20-25 minutes.
Tips & Substitutions
For a richer flavor, consider using unsalted butter instead of margarine. You can also replace the pecans with walnuts or hazelnuts if desired. Make sure to chill the dough for 30 minutes before pressing it into the pans for easier handling. If you prefer a sweeter filling, increase the brown sugar by a couple of tablespoons.
Serving Suggestions
These Pecan Tosses make a delightful dessert on their own but can be served with a scoop of vanilla ice cream or a dollop of whipped cream for an extra treat. They pair beautifully with a warm cup of coffee or tea, making them perfect for an afternoon snack or dessert. For a complete meal, serve alongside Grandma Henrietta'S Scalloped Potatoes.
Storage & Reheating
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 5 days. To reheat, place the Pecan Tosses in a preheated oven at 300°F (150°C) for about 10 minutes, or until warmed through. This will help maintain their texture and flavor.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Pecan Tosses contains roughly 197 calories, with 1g protein, 12g carbohydrates, and 16g fat.
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 a day in advance. Wrap it tightly in plastic wrap and refrigerate. This allows the flavors to meld and makes it easier to handle when you're ready to bake.
What can I use instead of cream cheese?
If you want a lighter option, consider using Greek yogurt or mascarpone cheese as a substitute for cream cheese. Both will give a creamy texture, though the flavor will be slightly different.
Can I freeze Pecan Tosses?
Absolutely! To freeze, let the Pecan Tosses cool completely, then place them in a single layer in a freezer-safe container. They can be stored for up to 3 months. Thaw in the refrigerator before reheating.
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).