As I stood by the kitchen counter, the sweet scent of baking filled the air, reminding me of cozy holiday gatherings. Today, I’m excited to share my Orange Zest Pecan Pie Tarts (Pecan Tassies), a charming twist on a classic dessert that is perfect for any festive table. These bite-sized treats are not only an instant crowd-pleaser, but they also come together in no time—ideal for anyone looking to impress without the hassle. With a buttery, flaky crust and a gooey, rich filling bursting with flavor, the addition of zesty orange elevates them to another level. Plus, these mini desserts are corn syrup-free, making them a guilt-free indulgence. Ready to dive into the merry world of these delightful tarts? Let’s get baking!
Why Are Pecan Pie Tarts Irresistible?
Bite-sized Delight: These mini tarts are the perfect portion, making them an ideal choice for holiday gatherings or when you just want a sweet treat without overindulging.
Unique Flavor Twist: The addition of orange zest brightens the traditional pecan pie flavor, creating a refreshing contrast that you won’t find in ordinary recipes.
Easy to Make: With a simple process, even beginner bakers can whip up these tarts quickly and impress their family and friends—just like with my Chicken Pot Pie recipe!
No Corn Syrup: Enjoy the sweetness without the guilt; these tarts are crafted without corn syrup, catering to those who prefer a more wholesome dessert.
Holiday Favorite: Whether at a cookie exchange or a festive party, these tarts are guaranteed to be a crowd-pleaser, reminiscent of classic holiday favorites like Apple Pie Unique and Black Folks Pie.
Pecan Pie Tarts Ingredients
• Craving the classic Pecan Pie Tarts? Here’s what you’ll need!
For the Crust
- Homemade Pie Crust – This flaky base is essential for the perfect texture; store-bought is fine if you’re in a pinch.
- Unsalted Butter – Adds richness and flavor; be sure to melt and cool it before mixing into your filling.
For the Filling
- Brown Sugar – Sweetens the filling, adding a deep flavor that’s essential for those gooey Pecan Pie Tarts.
- Egg – Binds all the ingredients together, providing that rich, satisfying texture.
- Vanilla Extract – Enhances the flavor profile with a warm undertone, elevating your tarts.
- Ground Cinnamon – Complements the pecans with a warm spice note that seasonal desserts love.
- Orange Zest – Introduces a bright, citrusy kick to balance the sweetness; don’t skip this essential ingredient!
- Salt – A pinch enhances all the flavors and nicely balances sweetness.
- Ground Nutmeg – Adds a subtle depth, enriching the filling with a hint of warmth.
- Chopped Pecans – The star ingredient that gives these tarts a delightful crunch and nutty flavor.
These Pecan Pie Tarts (Pecan Tassies) are bound to become a cherished addition to your holiday spread!
Step‑by‑Step Instructions for Pecan Pie Tarts (Pecan Tassies)
Step 1: Prepare Pie Crust
Begin by making a homemade pie crust or using thawed store-bought dough for convenience. Roll the dough out on a floured surface until it’s about 1/8 inch thick, then use a 3-inch round cutter to cut out circles. Gather the scraps, re-roll, and continue until you have enough circles for your mini muffin pan.
Step 2: Chill Crusts
Once your dough circles are ready, place each one into the cups of a greased mini muffin pan, pressing down gently to form a small cup. After shaping, cover the pan with plastic wrap and chill in the refrigerator for at least 20 minutes. This ensures a flaky crust when you bake your Pecan Pie Tarts.
Step 3: Pre-Bake Crust
Preheat your oven to 350°F (177°C). Remove the muffin pan from the fridge, and place it in the oven to pre-bake for 6 minutes. This initial baking step helps prevent the crusts from becoming soggy and gives them a slight golden color, setting the stage for the delightful, gooey filling to come.
Step 4: Make Filling
While the crusts are baking, prepare the filling for your pecan pie tarts. In a mixing bowl, whisk together 1 cup of brown sugar, 1 beaten egg, 1 teaspoon of vanilla extract, and the zest of one orange. Add 1/2 teaspoon of ground cinnamon, a pinch of salt, 1/4 teaspoon of ground nutmeg, and 1/2 cup of melted butter. Finally, gently fold in 1 cup of chopped pecans until well combined.
Step 5: Fill and Bake
After pre-baking the crusts, remove the pan from the oven and carefully spoon about 1 teaspoon of the pecan filling into each crust. Make sure not to overfill, as the filling will puff during baking. Return the muffin pan to the oven and bake the tarts for an additional 14-16 minutes, or until the filling is set and the crust edges are golden brown.
Step 6: Cool and Serve
Once baked, remove the tarts from the oven and allow them to cool in the pan for at least 10 minutes. This cooling period helps the filling firm up a little more. Once cooled, gently transfer the pecan pie tarts to a wire rack to cool completely before serving. Enjoy these charming treats at your next gathering!
Storage Tips for Pecan Pie Tarts
- Room Temperature: Keep the pecan pie tarts in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days; they’ll remain deliciously gooey and sweet.
- Fridge: If you prefer, store them in the fridge for up to a week. Just let them come to room temperature before serving for the best flavor and texture.
- Freezer: For longer storage, freeze the tarts in a single layer in an airtight container for up to 3 months. Thaw in the refrigerator overnight before enjoying.
- Reheating: If desired, gently warm them in the microwave for 10-15 seconds before serving to restore their gooey goodness without melting the filling too much.
Expert Tips for Pecan Pie Tarts
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Chill Your Dough: Ensuring the pie crust is properly chilled is crucial; this helps achieve that flaky texture you desire and prevents shrinkage during baking.
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Precise Filling: Use a #110 cookie scoop for filling each tart—this keeps the portions consistent and prevents overflowing filling, which can spoil your Pecan Pie Tarts.
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Watch the Oven: Keep a close eye on your tarts as they bake; overbaking can lead to a hard filling instead of the soft, gooey texture that makes them irresistible.
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Complete Cooling: Let the tarts cool completely in the pan before transferring them to a wire rack. This helps them firm up, preventing crumbling when serving.
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Consider Flavor Variations: Experiment with adding different nuts or flavored extracts to the filling for a unique twist on your Pecan Pie Tarts each time you bake.
Make Ahead Options
These Orange Zest Pecan Pie Tarts (Pecan Tassies) are perfect for meal prep! You can prepare the pie crusts up to 24 hours in advance; simply shape them and refrigerate them in the muffin pan, covered with plastic wrap, to maintain their freshness and prevent drying out. Additionally, the filling can be made up to 3 days ahead and stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator. When you’re ready to bake, just fill the pre-baked crusts with the chilled filling and bake as instructed. This way, you save time and still enjoy delicious tarts that are just as gooey and flavorful!
Pecan Pie Tarts (Pecan Tassies) Variations
Get ready to make these delightful tarts even more your own with these fun twists!
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Nut Alternatives: Swap pecans for walnuts or almonds to introduce a different nutty depth to your tarts. Each nut brings its unique flavor and texture, so try a mix for exciting results!
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Chocolate Delight: Add chocolate chips or even a splash of bourbon to the filling for an adult indulgence. These additions transform the sweetness into a rich, decadent experience that will have everyone asking for more.
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Flavorful Extracts: Experiment with flavored extracts like almond or maple instead of vanilla for a unique spin. Imagine the warm, aromatic notes of almond merging with the gooey filling—a delicious twist on a classic!
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Spiced Up: Increase the warmth by adding a pinch of ground ginger or cloves to complement the cinnamon. The spiciness brings a festive vibe, perfect for cozy winter gatherings.
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Citrus Zing: Try adding lemon or lime zest along with the orange zest for a bright burst of flavor. The zesty combination will enhance the filling and add a refreshing twist that’s wonderfully uplifting!
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Seasonal Spice: Incorporate pumpkin spice into the filling for a seasonal upgrade. This harmonious blend will evoke the flavors of autumn, making it perfect for holiday gatherings!
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Savory Surprise: For a unique twist, mix in a touch of bacon bits or a sprinkle of sea salt to the filling. The contrast of sweetness and savory will create an intriguing flavor profile that’s bound to surprise your guests.
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Mini-Quiche Style: Transform the tarts into mini-quiches by adding a bit of cooked spinach or cheese. This delightful twist will create a creamy filling that’s both indulgent and festive!
Don’t forget, the versatility of these Pecan Pie Tarts (Pecan Tassies) allows for countless creativity—just like my beloved Chicken Pot Pie and Black Folks Pie! Embrace your inner chef and enjoy!
What to Serve with Orange Zest Pecan Pie Tarts
These delightful mini treats are perfect for creating a festive and well-rounded meal that brings comfort and cheer to any gathering.
- Whipped Cream: A light dollop enhances the gooeyness of the tarts while adding a silky texture that makes each bite irresistible.
- Vanilla Ice Cream: Serve alongside warm tarts to create a delightful contrast in temperature, elevating the sweet flavor of the pecan filling.
- Cranberry Sauce: The tartness cuts through the sweetness, providing a refreshing balance that complements the richness of the tarts beautifully.
- Coffee or Espresso: A robust brew pairs perfectly with the sweet nature of the tarts, making for a cozy afternoon or after-dinner treat.
- Champagne or Sparkling Wine: Bubbles add a festive touch, making these tarts even more special for holiday toasts and celebrations.
- Fruit Salad: Fresh strawberries, blueberries, or citrus segments offer a bright, refreshing element that contrasts the densest part of the dessert.
- Cheese Plate: A selection of creamy brie or aged cheddar can add a savory note that harmonizes well with the sweetness of the tarts.
- Chocolate Drizzle: A light drizzle of melted chocolate adds an indulgent touch, enhancing the dessert’s flavor while making the presentation pop.
Pecan Pie Tarts (Pecan Tassies) Recipe FAQs
What kind of pie crust should I use for Pecan Pie Tarts?
For Pecan Pie Tarts, you can either make a homemade pie crust or use a store-bought one for convenience. If making your own, ensure the dough is chilled before rolling it out, which will help achieve that flaky texture. Store-bought dough is a great option if you’re short on time, but I recommend selecting one that’s high quality for the best results.
How should I store my Pecan Pie Tarts?
Store your Pecan Pie Tarts in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days. If you’d like to keep them fresh longer, they can also be stored in the refrigerator for up to a week. Just make sure to let them come to room temperature before serving for the best taste and texture.
Can I freeze Pecan Pie Tarts?
Absolutely! To freeze your Pecan Pie Tarts, let them cool completely, then place them in a single layer in an airtight container or a freezer-safe Ziploc bag. They can be frozen for up to 3 months. When you’re ready to enjoy them, simply thaw the tarts overnight in the refrigerator and bring them to room temperature before serving. If you prefer, you can warm them gently in the microwave for about 10-15 seconds to restore their gooey filling.
What can I do if my tarts overflowed during baking?
If your Pecan Pie Tarts overflowed during baking, don’t worry! Let them cool, and then carefully scoop out any excess filling with a small spoon. Next time, try using a #110 cookie scoop to measure the filling accurately, which helps prevent overfilling and ensures that each tart bakes beautifully without spilling over.
Are these tarts suitable for people with nut allergies?
Unfortunately, these Pecan Pie Tarts contain chopped pecans as a main ingredient, so they are not suitable for individuals with nut allergies. However, if you’re looking for a nut-free alternative, consider using sunflower seeds ground into a meal as a substitute in the filling. The texture will differ, but you’ll still achieve a tasty dessert!
Irresistibly Gooey Pecan Pie Tarts (Pecan Tassies) Recipe
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- Prepare the pie crust by rolling out dough, cutting circles, and placing them in the mini muffin pan.
- Chill the crusts in the refrigerator for at least 20 minutes.
- Preheat the oven to 350°F (177°C) and pre-bake the crusts for 6 minutes.
- Make the filling by whisking brown sugar, egg, vanilla, orange zest, spices, and melted butter in a bowl.
- Fill each pre-baked crust with about 1 teaspoon of filling and bake for an additional 14-16 minutes.
- Cool the tarts in the pan for at least 10 minutes before transferring to a wire rack.
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