Pecan Tassies Recipe Maple Caramel Gloss

Oh, how I adore those moments when a simple, sweet treat can transform an ordinary evening into something truly special.

Our pecan tassies recipe Maple Caramel Gloss is just that—a miniature pecan pie with an extra touch of decadence, boasting a rich, nutty aroma as it bakes. This easy recipe promises a wholesome, family-friendly delight, perfect for those busy weeknights or a cozy weekend dessert. You’ll learn everything from crafting the buttery crust to perfecting the nutty filling and that dreamy maple caramel gloss.

What You’ll Need (Ingredients and Key Roles)

Crafting the perfect pecan tassies recipe Maple Caramel Gloss starts with quality ingredients.

• Unsalted Butter (1/2 cup / 113g): Softened, provides richness and tenderness for the crust and gloss. Choose organic butter for best flavor and quality.
• Cream Cheese (4 oz / 113g): Softened, adds a delightful tang and helps create a flaky, tender crust (or use another 1/4 cup butter if cream cheese is unavailable).
• All-Purpose Flour (1 cup / 125g): Gives structure to the delicate tassie crust (use a 1:1 gluten-free flour blend for a gluten-friendly option).
• Light Brown Sugar (1/2 cup / 100g): Adds deep, molasses-rich sweetness to the filling.
• Large Eggs (2): Binds the filling and contributes to a rich, custardy texture. Opt for free-range eggs for vibrant yolks and flavor.
• Pure Vanilla Extract (1 tsp): Enhances all the sweet flavors in the filling.
• Pecan Halves (1 cup / 110g): Roughly chopped, for the signature nutty flavor and satisfying crunch. Fresh, plump pecans are key; avoid old or rancid nuts. You can swap pecans for walnuts if desired.
• Pure Maple Syrup (1/4 cup / 60ml): High-quality, pure maple syrup is essential for the irresistible Maple Caramel Gloss.
• Butter (1 Tbsp / 14g): For the gloss, adds richness and helps create that beautiful shine.

Step-by-Step Cooking Method

1. Prepare the Cream Cheese Crust: In a medium bowl, beat softened butter and cream cheese together with an electric mixer until light and creamy, about 2 minutes. Gradually mix in the all-purpose flour until a soft, uniform dough forms and pulls away from the sides. Shape into a disk, wrap, and chill for at least 30 minutes, or up to 2 days, until firm to the touch.
2. Form the Pecan Tassie Shells: Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C). On a lightly floured surface, take small, walnut-sized balls of chilled dough. Press each ball into the bottom and up the sides of mini muffin tins, creating an even shell. I find chilling the dough for at least an hour makes it much easier to press neatly into the tins, preventing sticking.
3. Make the Rich Pecan Filling: In a separate bowl, whisk together the eggs, 2 tablespoons of melted butter, brown sugar, and vanilla extract until the mixture is smooth and fully combined, about 1 minute. Stir in the chopped pecans until evenly coated.
4. Fill and Bake: Spoon the pecan filling into each crust-lined muffin cup, filling about two-thirds full to prevent overflow. Bake for 20-25 minutes, until the crust edges are golden brown and the filling is set and no longer jiggly in the center. If the filling looks too dark before the crust is done, gently tent with foil for the last 5-7 minutes.
5. Prepare the Maple Caramel Gloss: While the pecan tassies cool slightly, combine the pure maple syrup and 1 tablespoon butter in a small saucepan. Gently heat over medium-low heat, stirring occasionally, until the mixture thickens slightly and becomes a glossy syrup, about 3-5 minutes, indicating it’s ready.
6. Gloss and Serve: Let the baked pecan tassies cool in the tins for 5-10 minutes until they can be easily removed. Transfer them to a wire rack. Drizzle generously with the warm Maple Caramel Gloss before serving, allowing it to set slightly for a beautiful finish. This step truly elevates our pecan tassies recipe Maple Caramel Gloss into something extraordinary, perfect for any family dinner.

Perfect Occasions and Pairings

These delightful pecan tassies with Maple Caramel Gloss are perfect for many special moments. They shine at holiday gatherings, potlucks, and make wonderful weekend treats. They even work as a thoughtful surprise dessert in a school lunchbox.

• Serve with a dollop of fresh whipped cream for extra richness.
• A scoop of vanilla bean ice cream complements their warm flavors beautifully.
• They pair wonderfully alongside a warm cup of coffee or tea for a cozy treat.

For convenience and healthy meal prep ideas, baked pecan tassies store well. Keep them in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days or refrigerated for up to 7 days. Freeze unglazed tassies for up to 3 months; thaw and add the maple caramel gloss just before serving.

Wellness and Everyday Benefits of Pecan Tassies

Enjoying these delightful pecan tassies can be a satisfying treat when eaten in moderation. This particular pecan tassies recipe with Maple Caramel Gloss offers a pleasant energy boost from wholesome ingredients like pecans and real maple syrup, fitting into a balanced lifestyle.

• A perfect addition to any holiday dessert table, bringing festive cheer.
• They provide a comforting and sweet finish to family meals, making dinner special.
• These tassies can be a delicious, nourishing snack when enjoyed thoughtfully as part of healthy eating.

They are great for rounding out best easy dinners, offering a sweet ending without too much fuss, and can be considered for family-friendly gatherings.

Customizing the Recipe for Your Needs

Tailor this pecan tassies recipe to your preferences with these simple tweaks and adjustments.

• Toast pecans before adding them to the filling for a deeper, nuttier flavor that truly stands out.
• For an extra rich filling, I sometimes brown the butter slightly before mixing it with other ingredients; it adds a wonderful depth.

For gluten-free pecan tassies, use a 1:1 gluten-free flour blend for the crust. Consider sugar substitutes for a lower-sugar option. This pecan tassies recipe contains nuts (pecans) and dairy; please note for allergy concerns.

Common Questions Answered

Is pecan tassies a healthy option?

While a delicious treat, pecan tassies are best enjoyed in moderation as part of a balanced diet. They offer some beneficial nutrients from pecans, such as healthy fats and antioxidants, but remain a dessert item. Mindful portioning is key for healthy eating.

Can I freeze pecan tassies for later?

Yes, absolutely! Bake your pecan tassies as directed, let them cool completely, and freeze them without the Maple Caramel Gloss. Store them in an airtight container for up to 3 months. When ready to serve, thaw them at room temperature and then add the warm gloss just before enjoying. This is a great meal prep recipe tip!

What’s the best substitute if I don’t have cream cheese?

For the crust, you can certainly use all butter, for example, 1 cup (226g) butter to 2 cups (240g) flour. The texture will be a bit more like a tender shortbread crust rather than the traditional, slightly chewy tassie crust. It still makes a delightful treat.

How long do pecan tassies last?

When stored properly in an airtight container, your pecan tassies will last about 3-5 days at room temperature. If you prefer, they can be kept in the refrigerator for up to a week. Keeping them sealed helps maintain their freshness and tender texture.

Can I use different nuts in tassies?

Absolutely! Walnuts are a fantastic substitute, or you could even use a mix of pecans and walnuts for a delicious variation on your pecan tassies. I’ve found that a blend of nuts adds a wonderful complexity to the flavor profile, making them truly unique.

What makes the Maple Caramel Gloss special?

The Maple Caramel Gloss adds a unique, rich depth of flavor that beautifully complements the nutty tassies. The natural sweetness of pure maple syrup, combined with a hint of caramelization, elevates the classic pecan tassie to something truly special, making this pecan tassies recipe with Maple Caramel Gloss stand out.

Conclusion

These delightful Maple Caramel Pecan Tassies offer comfort and joy to your family and friends. Don’t wait – pin this easy pecan tassies recipe now to share a family-friendly treat!

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