Pecan Tassies, also known as pecan pie cookies, are a delightful bite-sized treat that combines the buttery, flaky crust of a classic pecan pie with a sweet and nutty filling. Perfect for sharing during the holidays or enjoying as a dessert, these cookies are easy to make and irresistibly delicious.

Full Recipe:

Ingredients

For the Dough

1 1/4 cups (168g) all-purpose flour
1 1/2 teaspoons granulated sugar
1/2 teaspoon kosher salt
10 tablespoons (141g) unsalted butter, cold and cubed
5 ounces (141g) cream cheese, cold and cubed

For the Filling

1/3 cup maple syrup
1/4 cup (52g) packed light brown sugar
2 tablespoons unsalted butter, melted
2 tablespoons granulated sugar
1 large egg yolk
1 1/2 teaspoons vanilla extract
1/4 teaspoon kosher salt
1/4 teaspoon ground cinnamon (optional)
3/4 cup (88g) pecan halves, finely chopped

Optional

Powdered sugar for dusting

Directions

Prepare the Oven: Preheat the oven to 350°F. Lightly grease a 24-cavity mini muffin pan with nonstick cooking spray.
Make the Dough:
- In a food processor, pulse the flour, sugar, and salt to combine.
- Add the cold butter and cream cheese, pulsing until the dough comes together in a mass (about 30–50 pulses).
Portion and Shape:
- Divide the dough into 24 portions (about 1 tablespoon each) and roll into balls.
- Press each ball into the mini muffin pan, creating a deep well in the center using a tassie press, a small spoon, or your fingers.
- Freeze the pan for 5 minutes.
Prepare the Filling:
- In a medium bowl, whisk together the maple syrup, brown sugar, melted butter, granulated sugar, egg yolk, vanilla, salt, and cinnamon (if using).
- Stir in the chopped pecans.
Fill and Bake:
- Divide the filling evenly among the dough wells (about ½ tablespoon per well).
- Bake for 25–30 minutes until the dough is golden brown and the filling is set.
Cool and Serve:
- Allow the tassies to cool in the pan for about 2 minutes, then transfer them to a wire rack to cool completely.
- Optionally, dust with powdered sugar before serving.

Nutritional Information (per cookie)

Calories: 153 kcal
Fat: 11 g
- Saturated Fat: 5 g
Carbohydrates: 13 g
- Sugars: 7 g
Protein: 2 g
Fiber: 1 g
Sodium: 63 mg
Iron: 1 mg

These pecan tassies offer all the flavors of a traditional pecan pie in a compact, sharable form, perfect for holiday gatherings or as a homemade gift!

The Charm of Bite-Sized Desserts

Bite-sized desserts like pecan tassies have a unique appeal. They are perfectly portioned, easy to share, and eliminate the need for slicing or serving utensils. These mini treats are ideal for holiday dessert spreads, where variety and convenience are key. Their small size also makes them a guilt-free indulgence, allowing you to enjoy a sweet treat without overindulging.

Pecan tassies, with their rich filling and tender crust, provide a satisfying contrast of textures and flavors in every bite. This makes them a popular choice for those who love the decadence of pecan pie but prefer a lighter, more portable option.

A Buttery, Flaky Crust

The crust of a pecan tassie is an essential component that sets it apart from other cookies or mini pies. Made with a combination of cream cheese and butter, the dough is rich, tender, and melts in your mouth.

Cream Cheese: Adds a tangy richness to the dough, enhancing its flavor and making it easy to work with.
Cold Butter: Ensures a flaky texture by creating layers as the dough bakes.

This crust not only complements the sweet filling but also provides a sturdy base that holds its shape, making the tassies easy to handle and serve.

A Sweet and Nutty Filling

The filling of a pecan tassie is what gives it its signature flavor. It’s a harmonious blend of sweetness, nuttiness, and warm spices, reminiscent of traditional pecan pie:

Maple Syrup: Adds a natural sweetness and subtle caramel notes.
Brown Sugar and Granulated Sugar: Combine to create a balanced sweetness and slightly chewy texture.
Chopped Pecans: Provide a crunchy, nutty contrast to the creamy filling.
Vanilla and Cinnamon: Infuse the filling with warm, comforting flavors that enhance the pecans.

This filling is rich without being overly heavy, making it the perfect complement to the flaky crust.

The Versatility of Pecan Tassies

Pecan tassies are incredibly versatile and can be enjoyed in a variety of settings. Here are some ideas for incorporating them into your celebrations:

Holiday Dessert Spreads: Add them to your lineup of Christmas cookies and pies for a festive touch.
Homemade Gifts: Package them in decorative tins or boxes for a thoughtful and delicious gift.
Party Appetizers: Serve them on a dessert platter alongside other bite-sized treats for a crowd-pleasing display.
Everyday Indulgence: Enjoy them as an afternoon snack or a sweet ending to a weekday meal.

Their portability and shelf stability make them an excellent choice for gifting and traveling.

Tips for Perfect Pecan Tassies

Keep the Dough Cold: Chilling the dough ensures it remains easy to work with and results in a flaky crust.
Use a Mini Muffin Pan: The size and shape of a mini muffin pan are ideal for creating uniform tassies.
Don’t Overfill: Fill each dough well just below the top to prevent the filling from overflowing during baking.
Cool Before Removing: Let the tassies cool slightly in the pan to firm up, making them easier to transfer to a cooling rack.
Dust with Powdered Sugar: A light dusting of powdered sugar adds a touch of elegance and a hint of sweetness.

Customizing the Recipe

Pecan tassies are highly adaptable, allowing you to tweak the recipe to suit your preferences or dietary needs:

Add Chocolate: Stir in mini chocolate chips for a rich, indulgent twist.
Spice It Up: Add a pinch of nutmeg or cloves for extra warmth.
Alternative Sweeteners: Use honey or agave syrup in place of maple syrup for a different flavor profile.
Different Nuts: Substitute pecans with walnuts, almonds, or a mix of your favorite nuts.
Gluten-Free Option: Use a gluten-free flour blend to make the crust suitable for those with dietary restrictions.

These variations make it easy to create a unique version of pecan tassies tailored to your taste.

Why They’re Perfect for the Holidays

Pecan tassies are a quintessential holiday treat. Their rich, nutty flavors and bite-sized format make them ideal for festive gatherings, where variety and convenience are often appreciated. They’re easy to transport, quick to prepare, and always a hit with guests. The warm spices and buttery crust evoke the cozy feeling of the holiday season, making them a delightful addition to any dessert table.

Whether you’re hosting a party, attending a cookie exchange, or looking for a homemade gift idea, pecan tassies offer a combination of elegance and nostalgia that’s hard to beat.

Conclusion

Pecan Tassies are a delightful combination of buttery crust and sweet, nutty filling that capture the essence of a classic pecan pie in a convenient, bite-sized treat. Their versatility, ease of preparation, and rich flavor profile make them a must-have addition to your holiday baking repertoire.

Perfect for gifting, sharing, or savoring on your own, pecan tassies are a timeless dessert that brings joy to any occasion. Whether dusted with powdered sugar or served as-is, these mini pecan pies are sure to become a favorite in your household. Try them this holiday season and enjoy the comforting, indulgent flavors of this classic treat.