Pecan Pie Bites

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.

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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.

  1. 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.

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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!

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