Mini Pecan Pies

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Looking for a dessert that brings the rich, nutty flavor of traditional pecan pie into a perfectly portioned bite? Mini Pecan Pies are your go-to treat! These dainty pies combine the classic flavors of buttery pecans and smooth caramel-like filling, all nestled in a crisp, golden crust. Perfect for holidays, parties, or any day you’re craving a sweet indulgence, these pies are easy to make yet impressively elegant.

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Ingredients

For 18 Mini Pies:

• 1 ½ cups pecan halves (coarsely chopped)
• 1 cup white sugar
• 3 large eggs, beaten
• ½ cup light corn syrup
• ½ cup dark corn syrup
• 2 tablespoons butter, melted
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
• ¼ teaspoon salt
• 18 (3-inch) ready-to-bake pie shells

Step-by-Step Instructions

1. Preheat Your Oven

• Set your oven to 350°F (175°C).

2. Prepare the Pecans

• Place the pecan halves in a food processor and pulse until they are coarsely chopped. Set aside.

3. Mix the Filling

• In a large mixing bowl, combine the following:
  • White sugar
  • Beaten eggs
  • Light corn syrup
  • Dark corn syrup
  • Melted butter
  • Vanilla extract
  • Salt
• Stir until the mixture is smooth and well-blended.
• Fold in the chopped pecans to evenly distribute them throughout the filling.

4. Assemble the Mini Pies

• Place the ready-to-bake pie shells onto a large baking sheet for easier handling.
• Spoon ¼ cup of the pecan mixture into each pie shell, filling them just below the edges.

5. Bake

• Transfer the baking sheet to the preheated oven.
• Bake for 25 to 30 minutes, or until the tops of the pies are set and slightly browned.

6. Cool and Serve

• Remove the pies from the oven and let them cool on the baking sheet for 5 minutes.
• Serve warm for a gooey, indulgent experience, or let them cool completely for a firmer texture.

Flavors, Textures, and Aromas

Each mini pecan pie is a delightful harmony of flavors: the sweetness of the filling balanced by the nuttiness of the pecans, with just a hint of vanilla. The texture is a medley of contrasts – a crisp, buttery crust, gooey caramelized center, and crunchy pecan pieces. As they bake, your kitchen will be filled with the warm, inviting aroma of toasted nuts and caramelized sugar – a sensory preview of the deliciousness to come!

Tips for the Perfect Mini Pecan Pies

• Toast the Pecans: For a deeper, richer flavor, toast the pecans in a dry skillet over medium heat for 5 minutes before chopping.
• Prevent Overflow: Avoid overfilling the pie shells, as the mixture will expand slightly while baking.
• Uniform Baking: Rotate the baking sheet halfway through baking to ensure even browning.

Variations and Serving Suggestions

Flavor Variations:

• Add chocolate chips to the filling for a chocolate-pecan twist.
• Replace half of the pecans with chopped walnuts for a mixed-nut pie.

Serving Suggestions:

• Serve warm with a scoop of vanilla ice cream or a dollop of freshly whipped cream.
• Drizzle with caramel sauce for an extra touch of decadence.
• Pair with a hot cup of coffee or spiced cider for a cozy treat.

Storage and Make-Ahead Tips

• Storage: Store cooled mini pies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days or in the refrigerator for up to 1 week.
• Reheating: Warm pies in the oven at 300°F for 5-7 minutes to restore their freshly baked appeal.
• Freezing: Wrap individual pies in plastic wrap and store in a freezer-safe container for up to 3 months. Thaw at room temperature before serving.

Why These Mini Pecan Pies Are a Must-Try

Mini Pecan Pies are the perfect blend of indulgence and convenience. Their small size makes them ideal for portion control, while their rich, decadent flavor ensures they satisfy even the most intense dessert cravings. Whether you’re hosting a holiday feast or simply treating yourself, these bite-sized beauties are sure to impress.