These Pecan Pie Bites are a delicious, bite-sized version of the classic pecan pie. With their flaky crust, gooey caramel filling, and crunchy pecans, they’re perfect for holiday gatherings, parties, or when you want a quick and easy dessert that everyone will love.
Ingredients
For the Crust:
- All-purpose flour: 1 ¼ cups
- Unsalted butter (cold, cubed): ½ cup
- Granulated sugar: 1 tablespoon
- Salt: ¼ teaspoon
- Ice water: 3-4 tablespoons
For the Filling:
- Brown sugar (packed): ¾ cup
- Light corn syrup: ½ cup
- Unsalted butter (melted): 3 tablespoons
- Egg: 1 large
- Vanilla extract: 1 teaspoon
- Chopped pecans: ¾ cup
- Whole pecans (for garnish): ½ cup
Instructions
Step 1: Make the Crust
In a food processor, combine the flour, sugar, and salt. Add the cold butter cubes and pulse until the mixture resembles coarse crumbs.
Add ice water, one tablespoon at a time, and pulse until the dough comes together.
Turn the dough out onto a lightly floured surface, shape it into a disc, wrap it in plastic wrap, and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes.
Step 2: Prepare the Filling
In a medium bowl, whisk together the brown sugar, corn syrup, melted butter, egg, and vanilla extract until smooth.
Stir in the chopped pecans and set aside.
Step 3: Assemble the Pecan Pie Bites
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and grease a mini muffin tin.
Roll out the chilled dough on a floured surface to about ⅛-inch thickness.
Use a round cookie cutter or the rim of a glass to cut circles of dough large enough to fit into the mini muffin cups. Gently press each circle into the cups, forming small tart shells.
Spoon about 1 tablespoon of the pecan filling into each tart shell. Top each with a whole pecan for garnish.
Step 4: Bake
Bake the pecan pie bites for 20-25 minutes, or until the filling is set and the crust is golden brown.
- Allow the bites to cool in the pan for 10 minutes before transferring them to a wire rack to cool completely.
Preparation Time
- Prep Time: 30 minutes
- Chill Time: 30 minutes
- Bake Time: 20-25 minutes
- Total Time: ~1 hour 30 minutes
Tips for Perfect Pecan Pie Bites
Keep the Dough Cold: Cold butter and chilled dough are key to a flaky crust.
Don’t Overfill: Avoid overfilling the tart shells to prevent spilling during baking.
Use Fresh Pecans: Fresh pecans enhance the flavor and crunch of the bites.
Experiment with Flavors: Add a pinch of cinnamon or a splash of bourbon to the filling for extra flavor.
Make Ahead: These bites can be made a day in advance and stored in an airtight container.
Calories Per Serving
For one pecan pie bite (makes ~24):
- Crust: ~70 calories
- Filling: ~80 calories
Total per bite: ~150 calories
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
Portion-Controlled: Perfect for individual servings without the mess of slicing a whole pie.
Holiday Favorite: Ideal for Thanksgiving, Christmas, or any festive occasion.
Quick and Easy: Easier to make than a full pecan pie, but just as delicious.
Customizable: Add chocolate chips or dried cranberries for a unique twist.
Delicious Variations
Chocolate Pecan Bites: Add a few mini chocolate chips to the filling for a chocolatey treat.
Maple Pecan Bites: Substitute maple syrup for corn syrup for a rich, natural sweetness.
Bourbon Pecan Bites: Add 1 tablespoon of bourbon to the filling for a boozy kick.
Nut Mix: Combine pecans with walnuts or almonds for a mixed nut version.
Conclusion
These Pecan Pie Bites are a delightful twist on the classic pecan pie, offering the same rich flavor in a convenient, bite-sized package. Perfect for any occasion, these little treats are guaranteed to be a hit with family and friends. Try this recipe today and enjoy the sweet, nutty goodness of pecan pie in every bite!