These Mini Pecan Pies are perfect for any occasion, bringing all the traditional flavors of pecan pie into delightful, bite-sized servings. Easy to make and full of rich, sweet goodness, these mini treats are ideal for holiday gatherings, potlucks, or simply satisfying your sweet tooth. With their individual portions, they not only look adorable but also make sharing a breeze!
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Quick and Easy: This recipe requires minimal preparation time, making it a great choice for busy bakers.
- Perfect Portions: Each pie is a single serving, helping to control portions without sacrificing flavor.
- Versatile Dessert: Great for holidays, parties, or casual gatherings, these pies fit various occasions.
- Rich Flavor: The combination of brown sugar and pecans creates an irresistible taste that everyone will love.
- Kid-Friendly: These mini treats are fun for kids to eat and can be made together as a family activity.
Tools and Preparation
Before diving into the recipe, ensure you have the right tools on hand. Having the proper equipment makes the process smoother and more enjoyable.
Essential Tools and Equipment
- Muffin pan
- Rolling pin
- Cookie cutter or glass
- Mixing bowl
- Whisk
Importance of Each Tool
- Muffin pan: Essential for shaping your mini pies perfectly into individual servings.
- Rolling pin: Helps in rolling out the pie crust evenly for consistent baking results.
- Mixing bowl: A must-have for combining your filling ingredients seamlessly.
Ingredients
These Mini Pecan Pies have all the flavors of traditional pecan pie, but in mini form and individual servings. Super easy and great for holiday entertaining!
For the Crust:
- 2 9-inch homemade pie crusts (or 1 store-bought 14 ounce refrigerated box)
For the Filling:
- 1/4 cup brown sugar
- 2 tablespoons granulated sugar
- 1 tablespoon unsalted butter, melted
- 1 large egg (beaten)
- 1/3 cup light corn syrup
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- pinch of salt
- 1/2 cup finely chopped pecans
How to Make Mini Pecan Pies
Step 1: Preheat the Oven
Preheat your oven to 350 degrees F. Generously coat a standard size 12-cup muffin pan with nonstick cooking spray.
Step 2: Prepare the Pie Crust
Gently roll out the pie crusts. Cut circles using a cookie cutter or glass with a 3.5-inch diameter. You should be able to get 6 circles from each crust if you cut close to the edges.
Step 3: Shape the Crusts
Carefully press the dough rounds into each muffin slot. The dough should come up about halfway in each muffin well. Ensure there aren’t any rips!
Step 4: Make the Filling
In a medium mixing bowl, whisk together:
1. Brown sugar
2. Granulated sugar
3. Melted butter
4. Beaten egg
5. Light corn syrup
6. Vanilla extract
7. A pinch of salt
8. Chopped pecans
Mix until thoroughly combined.
Step 5: Fill Each Crust
Fill each pie crust with 1 & 1/2 tablespoons of filling. It won’t seem like much, but remember that it expands while baking!
Step 6: Bake
Bake for about 25 minutes or until the centers start to solidify and are no longer jiggly.
Step 7: Cool Completely
Allow the mini pies to cool completely in the pan.
Step 8: Remove from Pan
Gently run a dull knife around the outer crusts to loosen any parts that might be stuck, then use the same knife to remove the pies from the pan.
Step 9: Serve and Enjoy!
Your delicious Mini Pecan Pies are ready! Serve them up at your next gathering or enjoy them as a sweet treat at home!
How to Serve Mini Pecan Pies
Serving Mini Pecan Pies is a delightful experience, perfect for gatherings or holiday celebrations. These individual treats are not only delicious but also versatile in their serving options.
With Whipped Cream
- Light and airy whipped cream adds a rich contrast to the sweetness of the pies. Consider using flavored whipped cream, such as vanilla or maple.
A Scoop of Ice Cream
- Vanilla ice cream complements the warm flavors of pecan pie perfectly. The creaminess of the ice cream enhances the overall taste, making each bite memorable.
Drizzled with Chocolate Sauce
- A drizzle of chocolate sauce offers a decadent touch. This combination elevates the dessert, adding a layer of richness that pairs well with pecans.
Fresh Berries on Top
- Topping your Mini Pecan Pies with fresh berries introduces a tartness that balances the sweetness. Raspberries or strawberries work wonderfully for this purpose.
Caramel Sauce
- Adding a drizzle of caramel sauce creates an indulgent experience. The buttery flavor of caramel harmonizes beautifully with the nutty notes of pecans.
How to Perfect Mini Pecan Pies
To achieve the best results with your Mini Pecan Pies, follow these helpful tips for perfecting your recipe.
- Use Fresh Ingredients: Ensure your eggs and pecans are fresh for optimal flavor and texture in your pies.
- Don’t Overfill: Fill each crust just to the rim, allowing space for expansion during baking to prevent overflow.
- Check for Doneness: Bake until the filling is set but still slightly jiggly; overbaking can lead to a dry texture.
- Cool Completely: Allow pies to cool completely in the pan before removing them. This helps maintain their shape and prevents breakage.
- Experiment with Flavors: Try adding spices like cinnamon or nutmeg to enhance the traditional flavor profile of your Mini Pecan Pies.
- Store Properly: Keep any leftover pies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to two days or refrigerate for longer freshness.
Best Side Dishes for Mini Pecan Pies
Pairing side dishes with Mini Pecan Pies can enhance your dessert experience. Here are some great options:
- Vanilla Ice Cream – A classic choice that adds creamy richness.
- Fruit Salad – A refreshing mix of seasonal fruits provides a light contrast.
- Cheese Platter – Offer sharp cheeses like aged cheddar which balance sweetness beautifully.
- Coffee or Hot Chocolate – Warm beverages complement the dessert’s flavors and provide a cozy feel.
- Spiced Nuts – A bowl of spiced nuts adds crunch and enhances the nutty notes from the pies.
- Chocolate Fondue – Invite guests to dip fresh fruits or marshmallows alongside their pies for extra fun!
- Caramelized Apples – Sweet, warm apples can add another layer of texture and flavor alongside your treats.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
Making Mini Pecan Pies can be simple, but there are common errors that can impact the final result. Here are some mistakes to watch out for:
- Ignoring the crust preparation – Failing to roll out the dough evenly can lead to uneven baking. Make sure your crust is uniformly thin for the best results.
- Overfilling the pies – Adding too much filling may cause it to overflow while baking. Stick to the recommended 1 & 1/2 tablespoons per pie.
- Not cooling before removal – Trying to remove the pies from the pan too soon can lead to breakage. Let them cool completely in the pan first.
- Skipping the nonstick spray – Not greasing your muffin pan properly may result in stuck pies. Always coat it generously with nonstick cooking spray.
- Rushing the baking time – Underbaking will leave your pies jiggly and unset. Keep an eye on them and bake until they are firm in the center.
Storage & Reheating Instructions
Refrigerator Storage
- Store Mini Pecan Pies in an airtight container.
- They will keep well for up to 5 days in the fridge.
Freezing Mini Pecan Pies
- Place cooled Mini Pecan Pies in a freezer-safe container or bag.
- They can be frozen for up to 3 months; just ensure they are well wrapped.
Reheating Mini Pecan Pies
- Oven – Preheat your oven to 350°F and warm the pies for about 10-15 minutes until heated through.
- Microwave – Heat individual pies on a microwave-safe plate for about 20-30 seconds, checking frequently.
- Stovetop – For a quick reheat, place them in a skillet over low heat until warmed.
Frequently Asked Questions
Here are some common questions regarding Mini Pecan Pies:
Can I use a different type of nut?
You can certainly substitute pecans with other nuts like walnuts or almonds if you prefer. Just make sure they are finely chopped.
How do I know when my Mini Pecan Pies are done?
The pies are done when they no longer jiggle in the center and have a slightly firm texture.
Can I make Mini Pecan Pies ahead of time?
Yes, these mini treats can be made ahead and stored in the refrigerator or freezer, making them perfect for holiday gatherings.
What is the best way to serve Mini Pecan Pies?
Serve them warm with a scoop of vanilla ice cream or whipped cream for an extra delightful treat!
Final Thoughts
These Mini Pecan Pies offer all the delightful flavors of traditional pecan pie but in a fun, bite-sized form. They’re perfect for parties or cozy family gatherings and can be easily customized with different nuts or toppings. Give this recipe a try and enjoy these charming desserts!
Mini Pecan Pies
Mini Pecan Pies are the perfect bite-sized dessert that captures all the rich flavors of traditional pecan pie in a delightful, individual serving. These charming little treats are not only easy to make but also ideal for any occasion, whether it’s a festive holiday gathering or a simple family dinner. Their sweet, nutty filling combined with a flaky crust creates a melt-in-your-mouth experience that everyone will love. Plus, with their adorable presentation and manageable portions, they are perfect for sharing! Elevate your dessert game and enjoy these mini delights that promise to satisfy your sweet tooth.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 25 minutes
- Total Time: 40 minutes
- Yield: Approximately 12 servings 1x
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Ingredients
- 2 9-inch pie crusts (homemade or store-bought)
- 1/4 cup brown sugar
- 2 tablespoons granulated sugar
- 1 tablespoon unsalted butter (melted)
- 1 large egg (beaten)
- 1/3 cup light corn syrup
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- Pinch of salt
- 1/2 cup finely chopped pecans
Instructions
- Preheat your oven to 350°F and grease a standard muffin pan.
- Roll out the pie crusts and cut out circles using a cookie cutter or glass (3.5 inches in diameter).
- Press each round into the muffin pan slots, ensuring they come up halfway.
- In a mixing bowl, whisk together brown sugar, granulated sugar, melted butter, beaten egg, corn syrup, vanilla extract, salt, and chopped pecans until well combined.
- Fill each crust with approximately 1 & 1/2 tablespoons of filling.
- Bake for about 25 minutes until centers are firm.
- Allow to cool completely before removing from the pan.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 pie (30g)
- Calories: 145
- Sugar: 12g
- Sodium: 45mg
- Fat: 8g
- Saturated Fat: 3g
- Unsaturated Fat: 4g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 16g
- Fiber: 0g
- Protein: 2g
- Cholesterol: 20mg
