The Best Buttery Pecan Tarts

Imagine biting into a dessert that perfectly balances a flaky, buttery crust with a sweet, rich, nutty filling. That’s precisely the delight you’ll find in these irresistible buttery pecan tarts, also affectionately known as pecan tassies. Perfect for special occasions or simply as a treat to satisfy your sweet tooth, these tarts are as stunning as they are delicious.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

These pecan tarts are a must-try because they’re easy to make, yet they look impressively sophisticated. Plus, their buttery flavor and crunchy pecan topping create a delightful texture combination that will have everyone reaching for seconds. With the ability to freeze them for later enjoyment, you can always have a batch ready for unexpected guests or a quick snack.

Kitchen Equipment You’ll Need

• Muffin tin
• Mixing bowls
• Cookie scoop
• Wire rack

Ingredients

Pecan Tarts

• 1 3 oz. package cream cheese, softened
• 1 stick of margarine or butter, softened
• 1 cup flour
• Dash of salt

Filling

• 2 eggs, beaten
• 1 cup brown sugar
• 2 tablespoons margarine or butter, melted
• 1 teaspoon vanilla
• Dash of salt
• 1 cup pecans, chopped

Instructions

1. Prepare the Crust: Mix together the cream cheese, margarine, flour, and salt. Use a cookie scoop to portion out the dough into 12 muffin tins. Press the dough evenly on the bottom and up the sides with your fingers, using extra dough to fill any gaps.
2. Make the Filling: In a separate bowl, combine the beaten eggs, brown sugar, melted margarine, vanilla, and salt. Stir well, but avoid beating too vigorously to prevent a crusty top.
3. Assemble the Tarts: Divide the chopped pecans evenly among the pastry shells. Pour the filling into each shell, filling them about two-thirds full.
4. Bake: Place the tarts in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) and bake for 20-25 minutes. Allow them to cool slightly before removing them from the pans, then transfer them to a wire rack to cool completely.

Tips for Success

• Ensure the cream cheese and butter are fully softened for a smooth crust.
• Press the crust evenly to avoid thin spots where the filling could leak.
• Be gentle when mixing the filling to maintain the desired texture.

Additional Tips and Variations

For a twist, try adding a splash of bourbon or a sprinkle of cinnamon to the filling for an extra layer of flavor. You can also experiment with different nuts, such as walnuts or almonds, if you prefer.

Nutritional Highlights (Per Serving)

Calories: 250

Fat: 18g

Carbohydrates: 20g

Protein: 3g

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

Can You Freeze Pecan Tarts?

Yes, you can freeze pecan tassies. Once cooled, wrap them well in plastic wrap to keep them fresh in the freezer for up to 3 months.

How Do I Store Leftover Pecan Tarts?

Store leftover tarts in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 5 days.

Conclusion

These buttery pecan tarts are a delightful treat that will impress anyone lucky enough to try them. I invite you to give this simple yet elegant recipe a try and share your creations with friends and family. Don’t forget to leave a comment below sharing your experience or any tweaks you made to the recipe. Happy baking!