Description
Pecan Pie Bites
These Pecan Pie Bites are a little piece of dessert heaven! Simple, sweet, and irresistibly delicious.
Ingredients:
1 pie crust
1 cup pecans (chopped)
1/2 cup brown sugar
1/3 cup corn syrup
1 tsp vanilla
Instructions:
Preheat oven to 350°F.
Cut pie crust into mini circles and press into muffin tins.
Mix pecans, sugar, syrup, and vanilla.
Spoon into crusts and bake for 18 minutes.
#DessertBliss
Step-by-Step Guide
1. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease a 24-cup mini muffin tin thoroughly.
2. Roll out your pie crust on a lightly floured surface to about 1/8-inch thickness. Using a 2-inch round cookie cutter or the rim of a small glass, cut out as many circles as possible. Re-roll the scraps to get 24 total.
3. Gently press each dough circle into a cup of the prepared muffin tin, forming a small cup. Use your fingers to ensure it’s pressed against the bottom and sides.
4. In a medium bowl, combine the chopped pecans, brown sugar, corn syrup, and vanilla extract. Stir until the pecans are fully coated and the mixture is uniform.
5. Spoon the pecan filling evenly into each pie crust cup, filling them nearly to the top but not overflowing.
6. Bake for 16-20 minutes, or until the crust is golden brown and the filling is bubbly. Let cool in the tin for 10 minutes before carefully transferring to a wire rack to cool completely.
Serving Suggestions
Serve these bites at room temperature or slightly warm. For an elegant touch, dust them with powdered sugar or add a tiny dollop of freshly whipped cream. They pair perfectly with a scoop of vanilla ice cream or a drizzle of salted caramel sauce. Arrange them on a decorative platter for parties or package them in small boxes as a sweet homemade gift.
How-to Summary
Create mini pie crust cups in a muffin tin. Fill them with a simple mixture of pecans, brown sugar, corn syrup, and vanilla. Bake at 350°F until golden and bubbly for a perfect, bite-sized version of classic pecan pie.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I use pre-made phyllo cups instead of pie crust? Yes, phyllo cups are a great shortcut. Fill and bake according to package instructions, reducing the time as they bake faster.
How do I store these, and how long do they last? Store in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days. For longer storage, freeze them for up to 2 months.
Can I substitute the corn syrup? Yes, you can use pure maple syrup or honey for a different flavor profile, though the texture may be slightly less gooey.
My filling overflowed. What happened? This usually means the cups were overfilled. Ensure you leave a small gap at the top, as the filling bubbles and expands while baking.
Can I make these gluten-free? Absolutely. Use a certified gluten-free pie crust or a simple almond flour-based crust pressed into the tin.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
- Not greasing the tin: This can cause the bites to stick and break during removal.
- Overfilling the crust cups: Leads to messy overflow and sticking.
- Using whole pecans: Chopped pecans ensure even distribution and easier eating.
- Removing bites too soon: Let them cool in the tin to set; removing them hot will cause collapse.
- Overbaking: Watch closely after 16 minutes to prevent burnt crust or filling.
Conclusion
These Pecan Pie Bites capture the rich, sweet essence of the classic dessert in a perfectly portable form. They are deceptively simple to make yet deliver maximum flavor and satisfaction. Ideal for holiday gatherings, potlucks, or a treat any day of the week, this recipe is sure to become a cherished favorite. Enjoy your #DessertBliss!
