Tiny Pecan Pies
Delightful tiny pecan pies with rich filling and crunchy pecans, perfect for festive occasions or as sweet bites for gatherings that appreciate classic flavors.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Beat together the egg, brown sugar, vanilla, and salt until smooth.
- Divide half of the broken pecans among pastry-lined cups and add the filling.
- Top each with the remaining pecans.
- Bake at 325°F (160°C) for 25 minutes or until set.
- Cool and remove from pans.
Tips & Substitutions
For a richer flavor, you can substitute half of the brown sugar with maple syrup. If you want to enhance the nuttiness, toast the pecans lightly before adding them to the filling. Ensure your pastry is well-chilled before filling to prevent sogginess. If you're short on time, pre-made pastry shells work well and can be found in the freezer section. These tiny pies are perfect for gatherings, like a Cereal Party Mix event.
Serving Suggestions
These tiny pecan pies are delightful on their own, but you can serve them with a dollop of whipped cream or a scoop of vanilla ice cream for an extra indulgence. Pair them with a warm drink like coffee or chai tea for a cozy treat. They also make a great addition to dessert tables alongside desserts like Carrot-Coconut Cake (Makes 12 Servings) or Nutmeg Sugar Cookies.
Storage & Reheating
Store any leftover tiny pecan pies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days. For longer storage, refrigerate them for up to a week. To reheat, place them in a preheated oven at 300°F (150°C) for about 10 minutes to maintain their crispiness. Avoid microwaving, as this can make the crust soggy.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Tiny Pecan Pies contains roughly 68 calories, with 0g protein, 7g carbohydrates, and 1g fat. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 595mg per serving (26% 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 different nuts instead of pecans?
Absolutely! You can substitute pecans with walnuts or almonds for a different flavor profile. Ensure the nuts are chopped similarly to maintain the texture of the pies. Each nut will lend a unique taste, so feel free to experiment based on your preference.
Can I make these pies ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare the filling and pastry shells a day in advance. Store the filling in the refrigerator and the pastry shells at room temperature. Assemble and bake just before serving for the best texture and flavor. This makes them an excellent choice for parties.
What should I do if the filling overflows?
If the filling overflows during baking, it can create a sticky mess. To prevent this, fill the pastry cups to about ¾ full. If it does happen, allow the pies to cool, then carefully remove any overflow with a knife or spoon once set. This will keep the presentation clean.
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).