Small Pecan Tarts
Delicious small pecan tarts with a rich, caramel-like filling and crunchy pecan topping, perfect for parties, holidays, or a sweet treat for pecan lovers.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Combine light brown sugar, margarine, egg, vanilla, and salt in a small saucepan.
- Cook over low heat, stirring frequently until the mixture is melted and well blended.
- Fill each pastry shell half full with the prepared filling.
- Bake at 350°F for 30 to 35 minutes.
Tips & Substitutions
For a richer flavor, consider substituting the margarine with butter. If you're looking for a healthier option, you could use coconut oil instead. Ensure you chop the pecans finely for better distribution in the tarts. When melting the mixture, keep the heat low to prevent it from burning. This recipe can also be adapted using other nuts like walnuts or almonds for a different twist.
Serving Suggestions
These small pecan tarts make a delightful dessert perfect for holidays or gatherings. Serve them warm with a scoop of vanilla ice cream or a dollop of whipped cream for an indulgent treat. They pair beautifully with a cup of coffee or tea. For a festive touch, consider serving them alongside Orange Pudding Cake to offer guests a variety of flavors.
Storage & Reheating
Store any leftover pecan 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 texture and warmth.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Small Pecan Tarts contains roughly 68 calories, with 1g protein, 13g carbohydrates, and 1g fat. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 502mg per serving (22% 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 filling in advance?
Yes, you can prepare the filling a day ahead. Store it in the refrigerator and let it come to room temperature before filling the pastry shells. This can save time when you're ready to bake the tarts.
What can I use instead of pecans?
If you're allergic to nuts or prefer a different flavor, you can use chopped walnuts or almonds in place of the pecans. Just be aware that this may slightly alter the texture and taste of the tarts.
Can I freeze these tarts?
Yes, you can freeze the tarts before baking. Assemble them in the pastry shells, cover tightly, and freeze for up to 3 months. When ready to bake, bake them from frozen, adding a few extra minutes to the cooking time.
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).