Biting into a pecan tassie is like stepping into a sun-drenched Southern kitchen, where warmth, tradition, and irresistible flavors come together in perfect harmony. These bite-sized treasures-delicate, buttery tartlets filled with a gooey, nutty pecan mixture-are more than just desserts; they’re a sweet party of southern heritage. Whether served at holiday gatherings, family reunions, or simply as an everyday indulgence, pecan tassies embody that legendary Southern charm that keeps you coming back for just one more. In this article, we’ll unlock the secrets to crafting these delightful pastries, guiding you step-by-step to create your very own batch of pecan tassies that are guaranteed to become a beloved staple on your dessert table.
Sweet Southern Charm: Irresistible Pecan Tassies Recipe captures the essence of southern baking with its delicate, buttery crust and rich, gooey pecan filling. These tiny tarts carry a tradition that dates back generations, combining the warmth of pecans with a tender, flaky pastry that melts in your mouth. Every bite tells a story of Southern hospitality and sweet indulgence, making pecan tassies a beloved treat at family gatherings and holiday tables alike.
Prep and Cook Time
Readiness: 25 minutes | Cooking: 20 minutes | total Time: 45 minutes
Yield
About 30 pecan tassies (depending on tart size)
Difficulty Level
Medium – requires some pastry skills but perfect for home bakers ready to impress
ingredients
- 1 cup unsalted butter, softened
- 1/2 cup cream cheese, softened
- 2 cups all-purpose flour, sifted
- 2 cups pecans, finely chopped
- 3/4 cup brown sugar, packed
- 2 large eggs
- 2 tablespoons unsalted butter, melted
- 1 teaspoon pure vanilla extract
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
Instructions
- Prepare the crust: In a large bowl, beat the softened butter and cream cheese together until smooth and creamy. Gradually add the sifted flour and salt, mixing just until the dough comes together and no dry flour remains. Do not overmix to keep the crust tender.
- Chill the dough: Wrap the dough in plastic and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes. this step firms up the dough,making it easier to shape and ensuring flakiness during baking.
- Preheat the oven: Set your oven to 350°F (175°C) and lightly grease mini muffin tins or use non-stick baking spray.
- Shape the crusts: Remove dough from fridge. Pinch off small portions (about 1 tablespoon each) and press into the bottom and up the sides of each mini muffin cup. Use your fingers or the back of a small spoon to create uniform shells with even thickness.
- Make the filling: In a medium bowl, whisk together eggs, brown sugar, melted butter, vanilla extract, and chopped pecans until the mixture is glossy and well combined.
- Fill the shells: Spoon the pecan filling evenly into each crust shell-fill nearly to the top but avoid overfilling to prevent spilling.
- Bake to perfection: Place the tins in the oven and bake for 18-20 minutes or until the filling is set and slightly puffed with the crust turning golden brown. Rotate halfway for even baking.
- Cool and release: Let the tassies cool completely in the pan on a wire rack before gently removing. This helps the filling set fully and prevents breakage.
Tips for Success with Sweet Southern charm Pecan Tassies
- Flaky crust trick: Keep your butter and cream cheese cold before mixing and avoid overworking the dough for that signature tender, flaky texture.
- Texture balance: Coarsely chopped pecans add crunch, while finely chopped pecans create a more uniform filling. Mix according to your preference.
- Sweetness scale: Adjust brown sugar slightly for a sweeter or less sweet filling without compromising texture.
- Make ahead: Dough can be refrigerated for up to 2 days or frozen for up to a month. Let thaw in the fridge before shaping.
- Clean edges: Use a small knife to trim any overhanging dough from the edges of the tins for prettier presentation.
Serving Suggestions
Present your pecan tassies on a vintage Southern china platter for a charming touch. Garnish each mini tart with a light dusting of powdered sugar or a small dollop of whipped cream-and of course, a single pecan half for elegance.
They pair beautifully with a cup of strong black coffee or a drizzle of warm caramel sauce to amplify their rich, nutty sweetness. For festive occasions, add a sprig of fresh mint or a light sprinkle of sea salt to cut through the sweetness.
Storing secrets
Store pecan tassies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days. For longer freshness,refrigerate for up to a week,but bring back to room temperature before serving for best texture.
If you plan to freeze, place the cooled tassies on a parchment-lined baking sheet until firm, then transfer to a freezer-safe container with parchment between layers.They freeze well for up to 2 months. Thaw overnight in the fridge and enjoy.
| Nutritional Info (per tassie) | amount |
|---|---|
| Calories | 150 kcal |
| Protein | 2 g |
| Carbohydrates | 18 g |
| Fat | 8 g |
For a deeper dive into the history and baking techniques behind iconic Southern desserts, visit Southern Living’s Food section. You’ll find inspiration and insights to elevate your sweet Southern charm even further.
Discover more tempting Southern baking recipes in our Classic Southern Desserts collection and bring true home-style comfort to your kitchen.
Q&A
Q&A: Sweet Southern Charm – Irresistible Pecan Tassies Recipe
Q1: What exactly is a pecan tassie?
A1: Imagine a bite-sized tartlet bursting with the rich, buttery flavors of pecans and caramelized sweetness-this is a pecan tassie. Originating from Southern baking traditions, tassies are miniature pies with a tender, flaky crust holding a luscious pecan filling that’s both nutty and gooey. Perfect for snacks, dessert trays, or anytime a little Southern comfort is needed.
Q2: How do pecan tassies differ from customary pecan pie?
A2: While pecan pie is typically served as a large, sliceable dessert, pecan tassies are individual mini-tarts. Their petite size means they bake faster and are wonderfully portable. Plus, the crust-to-filling ratio is more balanced, giving you more buttery crust in each bite alongside the sweet pecan goodness.
Q3: What makes the crust in pecan tassies so special?
A3: The crust is the heart of any good tassie. It’s often a tender, buttery, and flaky pastry dough-sometimes enriched with cream cheese for extra richness and a delightful crumble.this delicate shell contrasts beautifully with the sticky pecan filling, creating a perfect texture harmony.
Q4: Are pecan tassies tough to make?
A4: Surprisingly, no! While they might look fancy, pecan tassies are quite straightforward. With a simple dough recipe and a quick filling of pecans, brown sugar, butter, and eggs, even novice bakers can whip them up. The key is to press the dough evenly into mini muffin tins and not to overfill them.
Q5: Can I customize the pecan tassie filling?
A5: Absolutely! Traditional pecan tassies usually contain a mix of brown sugar, corn syrup or maple syrup, butter, eggs, and pecans. But feel free to add a splash of bourbon,a pinch of cinnamon or nutmeg,or swap in walnuts or chocolate chips to make the recipe your own Southern-inspired creation.
Q6: What occasions are perfect for serving pecan tassies?
A6: from holiday feasts to afternoon tea, family gatherings, or Southern-style potlucks, pecan tassies are crowd-pleasers. Their dainty size makes them ideal finger foods for parties, while their nostalgic flavors can warm any cozy occasion or celebration.
Q7: How should I store pecan tassies to keep them fresh?
A7: These gems can be stored in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days, or refrigerated for about a week.To enjoy them warm and melty, just pop them in the oven or microwave briefly before serving-they taste like they’ve just come out of the oven every time!
Q8: Can I make pecan tassies ahead of time?
A8: Yes! You can prepare the dough and filling a day ahead, or even freeze the fully assembled tassies before baking. When ready, just bake them from frozen with a few extra minutes, making them perfect for stress-free entertaining.
Q9: What’s the secret to getting the perfect gooey filling every time?
A9: Balancing the sugar and eggs is essential. Too much sugar can make it overly runny,too little and it won’t set properly. Using corn syrup or a natural substitute like pure maple syrup helps create that classic sticky texture. Baking at the right temperature ensures the filling sets with a slight jiggle – that’s the sweet spot!
Q10: Can these pecan tassies be made vegan or gluten-free?
A10: With a little creativity, yes! Use dairy-free butter and egg substitutes like flax eggs for a vegan twist, and swap the flour for a gluten-free blend to accommodate dietary needs. The flavors may vary slightly, but the Southern charm remains irresistibly intact.
Ready to bake a batch and bring a little sweet Southern charm to your kitchen? These pecan tassies promise a delightful journey bite by bite!
In Conclusion
As the rich aroma of buttery pecans and sweet vanilla lingers in the air, these pecan tassies remind us that sometimes, the simplest pleasures carry the deepest charm. Whether shared at a family gathering or enjoyed as a quiet treat with afternoon tea, this beloved Southern delicacy captures the heart of hospitality in every bite. So next time you crave a touch of sweetness with a hint of tradition, let these irresistible pecan tassies bring a little Southern warmth to your kitchen-and perhaps inspire new memories steeped in comfort and delight.
