Envision a holiday dessert tray without the iconic pecan tassies—nearly unthinkable for those who appreciate the warm embrace of classic confections. These miniature treats deliver all the richness of a traditional pecan pie, wrapped into elegant, bite-sized morsels. A tender, cream cheese-infused crust cradles a gooey, pecan-filled center with just the right level of sweetness. Perfect for gatherings or gifting, they’re as visually appealing as they are addictive. Prepare to watch them disappear from your dessert spread faster than any other cookie, and don’t be surprised if they become an annual baking tradition.
This timeless pecan tassie recipe ensures a perfectly balanced ratio of crust to filling in every bite. The dough, enriched with butter and cream cheese, bakes into a delicately crisp shell that yields to a sugary, nut-studded center. Even better, they’re easier to create than you might imagine—especially if you use a cookie scoop for portioning and a tart tamper for shaping. Whether shared at holiday celebrations, offered as a hostess gift, or enjoyed quietly with a cup of coffee, these pecan tassies are sure to earn a permanent spot in your recipe box.
Ingredients For pecan tassies
FILLING
- 4 Tbsp unsalted butter, melted (about 60 ml)
- 1 1/2 c brown sugar (about 300 g)
- 2 lg eggs (about 100 g total)
- 1 tsp pure vanilla extract (about 5 ml)
- 2 c finely chopped pecans (about 220 g)
DOUGH
- 2 c unsalted butter, softened (about 450 g)
- 12 oz cream cheese, softened (about 340 g)
- 4 c all-purpose flour (about 480 g)
How To Make pecan tassies
- Preheat the oven to 350°F (about 177°C). In a mixing bowl, prepare the filling by combining melted butter, brown sugar, eggs, and vanilla.
- Stir in the finely chopped pecans and set the filling aside.
- For the dough, blend the softened butter and cream cheese until smooth.
- Gradually add the flour, one cup (about 120 g) at a time, mixing until the dough is well combined.
- Scoop the dough into small portions using a cookie scoop.
- Form each portion into a small ball and drop it into the cavity of an ungreased small tart pan.
- Press gently in the center of each dough ball to form a cup shape. A tart tamper can make this step easier.
- Using a small teaspoon, add a portion of the pecan filling to each cup, taking care not to overfill.
- Bake the tassies for 25 to 30 minutes, or until lightly browned.
- Remove from the oven and transfer them to a cookie rack to cool completely before serving.
As you lift one of these tender, golden pecan tassies to your lips, enjoy the merging of buttery crust, fragrant nuts, and gooey sweetness. They capture the essence of a pecan pie in a perfectly portioned package—an irresistible combination that will have family and friends reaching for seconds. Ideal for festive gatherings or anytime you crave a comforting treat, these tassies will undoubtedly become part of your holiday baking traditions. Give yourself a moment to savor their flavor and texture, knowing you’ve created something truly memorable. Enjoy!
