
Yields:
24 serving(s)
Prep Time:
45 mins
Total Time:
1 hr 10 mins
Imagine the rich, nutty flavor of a classic pecan pie combined with a buttery shortbread cookie—that's exactly what you get with these adorable pecan tassies! Each one features a tender crust that holds a sweet and sticky pecan filling. You can even kick up the filling with a splash of bourbon if you like! These mini treats are perfect for a holiday crowd: The recipe makes 24 and they travel exceptionally well. Plus, these tassies look so darn cute on a Christmas cookie plate!
What is a tassie?
"Tassie" is the Scottish term for a small cup. In baking, a tassie is essentially a mini pastry cup with a filling—in this case, pecan filling!
Is it difficult to shape the crust for pecan tassies?
Not at all! The dough in this recipe is very soft and moldable so even beginner bakers can tackle these tassies. You simply scoop out the batter with a tablespoon, shape it into a ball, and press it into a muffin cup. To prevent the dough from sticking to your hands, lightly wet your fingers with water as you shape it. For a cup with an even thickness, flatten the dough in the bottom of the muffin cup before pressing it up the sides.
Can I use a regular muffin pan instead of a mini muffin pan?
Pecan tassies are traditionally baked in a mini muffin pan, but you can use a regular muffin pan if that's all you have. Keep in mind that you'll get fewer tassies, and you'll need to increase the bake time by about five minutes. Once the tassies have a golden brown crust and are set in the center, they're done!
Why do I need to chill the crust dough?
Chilling the dough allows the gluten to relax and the butter to firm up again, ensuring that the crusts hold their shape during baking. After making the dough, press it into the muffin pan, and pop the whole pan in the freezer for 15 minutes. Then you're ready to fill the cups!
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Ingredients
For the Crust:
Nonstick cooking spray, for the pan
- 1/2 cup
(1 stick) salted butter, at room temperature
- 3 oz.
cream cheese, at room temperature
- 1 Tbsp.
granulated sugar
- 1 cup
all-purpose flour
For the Filling:
- 1/2 cup
packed light brown sugar
- 2 Tbsp.
salted butter, melted
- 2 Tbsp.
light corn syrup
- 1/2 tsp.
vanilla extract
- 1 tsp.
bourbon (optional)
Pinch of kosher salt
- 1
large egg
- 1/2 cup
pecans, finely chopped, plus 24 pecan halves
Directions
- Step 1Preheat the oven to 325℉. Spray a 24-cup mini muffin pan with nonstick cooking spray.
- Step 2For the crust: In the bowl of a stand mixer fitted with the paddle attachment, combine the butter, cream cheese, and granulated sugar. Beat on medium-high speed until light and fluffy, 4 to 5 minutes. Add the flour and mix on low until the dough just comes together.
- Step 3Using a 1-tablespoon scoop, form 24 balls of dough. Place each ball into a muffin cup, then use wet fingers to press the dough into the bottom and up the sides, forming a cup. (It’s helpful to keep a cup of water nearby to moisten your fingers while shaping the shells.) Freeze for 15 minutes.
- Step 4For the filling: In a medium bowl, whisk together the brown sugar, melted butter, corn syrup, vanilla, bourbon (if using), salt, and egg. Once smooth and combined, fold in the chopped pecans. Remove the crusts from the freezer and fill each cup with 1 heaping teaspoon of filling (you may have a spoonful leftover). Top each with a pecan half.
- Step 5Bake until the crusts are golden brown and the filling is set, 20 to 25 minutes. Let cool 5 minutes before removing the tassies from the pan with an offset spatula. Let cool completely on a wire rack.
Tip: Pecan tassies will keep in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 5 days. They can be made up to 2 months in advance and stored in an airtight container in the freezer. Bring to room temperature before serving.
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