Pecan Tassies: Southern Mini Pecan Pies Made Easy

When the holiday season rolls around, there’s always that one dessert that takes center stage in my home: Pecan Tassies. They’re like bite-sized pecan pies, bursting with sweet, nutty goodness, but way easier to make. Whether you’re hosting a festive gathering, planning a cookie swap, or just indulging in your own sweet tooth, these delightful little treats never fail to impress.

My first attempt at making tassies was a bit of a disaster. I overfilled the cups, the filling bubbled over, and I ended up chiseling burnt sugar out of my muffin tin. Over the years, I’ve learned how to master this recipe, and now I’m here to share everything you need to know to make perfect pecan tassies. If you’re looking for additional tips on perfecting mini desserts, check out this Creative Mini Pie Ideas guide.

What Are Pecan Tassies?

Let’s start with the basics: what exactly are pecan tassies? Think of them as mini pecan pies, but instead of a traditional pie crust, they’re made with a buttery cream cheese dough. The filling is rich and caramel-like, loaded with brown sugar, butter, eggs, and, of course, pecans.

These treats are a staple in Southern kitchens, often making appearances at holiday parties, family dinners, and cookie exchanges. They’re a perfect balance of richness, sweetness, and texture, and their bite-sized format makes them irresistible.

Did you know? The word “tassie” comes from the Scottish word for a small cup or goblet, which makes sense given their cup-like shape. These little desserts have come a long way, evolving into the beloved treat we know today.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

There’s a reason pecan tassies are such a crowd favorite: they’re versatile, easy to make, and packed with flavor. Here’s why this recipe stands out:

• Beginner-friendly: Even if you’re not a seasoned baker, you can whip up these tassies with ease. The dough is forgiving, and the filling is foolproof.
• Perfect for any occasion: From casual gatherings to elegant parties, tassies fit right in.
• Make-ahead magic: These freeze beautifully, so you can prepare them well in advance and save time during the holidays.
• Customizable: Want to add chocolate, coconut, or a splash of bourbon? Go for it! Tassies are endlessly adaptable.

If you’re new to holiday baking or need inspiration for your dessert table, this Southern Dessert Tips article is a great resource.

Ingredients Needed for Pecan Tassies

The beauty of this recipe lies in its simplicity. With just a handful of ingredients, you can create something truly special.

• All-purpose flour: Provides structure and stability to the crust.
• Butter: Unsalted butter works best for controlling the saltiness. Its rich flavor makes the crust buttery and flaky.
• Cream cheese: The secret ingredient for a tender, melt-in-your-mouth crust.

Pro Tip: Always use softened butter and cream cheese. Cold ingredients can make the dough harder to mix and shape.

• Brown sugar: Adds a deep, caramel-like sweetness.
• Pecans: Choose high-quality pecans for the best flavor. Chop them finely for a more uniform filling or leave them slightly larger for extra crunch.
• Butter, eggs, vanilla extract, and salt: These round out the flavor profile and give the filling its luscious, gooey texture.

I once tried using white sugar instead of brown sugar—big mistake. The flavor was flat, and the filling lacked that rich depth you expect from pecan desserts. Stick with brown sugar; it’s worth it.

Step-by-Step Guide to Making Pecan Tassies

Start by beating the butter and cream cheese together until smooth. Slowly add in the flour and mix until a dough forms. It should be soft but not sticky. Wrap the dough in plastic wrap and chill it for at least an hour. This step is crucial for easy handling later.

Set your oven to 350°F (180°C). Grease a mini muffin tin thoroughly with non-stick spray or butter. Trust me, you don’t want to skip this step. The first time I made tassies, I underestimated the importance of greasing the pan, and let’s just say it was a cleaning nightmare.

In a mixing bowl, whisk together the brown sugar, melted butter, eggs, and vanilla extract until smooth. Stir in the chopped pecans. The mixture should be thick but pourable.

Divide the dough into small balls (about 1 inch in diameter) and press them into the muffin tin to form cups. Fill each cup with the pecan mixture, being careful not to overfill. Overfilling can cause the filling to bubble over and stick to the pan.

Bake the tassies for 20-25 minutes, or until the crust is golden and the filling is set. Allow them to cool in the pan for about 5 minutes before transferring them to a wire rack.

Variations on Pecan Tassies

If you’re feeling adventurous, try these delicious twists on the classic recipe:

Add mini chocolate chips to the filling or drizzle melted chocolate over the finished tassies for a decadent treat.

Add a splash of bourbon to the filling for a smoky, caramel-like depth of flavor. These are a hit at adult gatherings.

Mix shredded coconut into the filling for added texture and tropical flair.

Replace the pecans with chocolate chips or dried cranberries for a nut-free alternative.

Substitute the pecan filling with a dollop of cherry or apple pie filling. These are especially festive for the holidays.

FAQs About Pecan Tassies

Can I Freeze Pecan Tassies?

Yes! Place them in an airtight container, separating layers with parchment paper. They’ll keep in the freezer for up to 3 months. Thaw at room temperature or warm them in the oven before serving.

How Do I Prevent Tassies from Sticking?

Grease your pan generously or use paper liners. Non-stick muffin tins also work wonders.

Can I Make Tassies Vegan?

Absolutely! Substitute dairy-free butter and cream cheese for the dough and use a vegan egg replacer for the filling.

How Long Do Tassies Last?

Stored in an airtight container, tassies will stay fresh for up to 4 days at room temperature or up to a week in the fridge.

Can I Use Store-Bought Dough?

Yes, but homemade cream cheese dough offers a superior flavor and texture.

What’s the Difference Between Tassies and Mini Pies?

Tassies typically use a cream cheese crust, while mini pies are made with traditional pie dough.

Storage, Freezing, and Reheating

Final Thoughts

Pecan Tassies are proof that great things come in small packages. These bite-sized treats are easy to make, incredibly versatile, and guaranteed to impress. Whether you stick to the classic recipe or experiment with fun variations, tassies are a must-have addition to your dessert lineup.

So, what are you waiting for? Gather your ingredients, preheat that oven, and get ready to bake up some Southern magic. Trust me, your friends and family will be begging for more!