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For the Crust:
- 1 1/2 cups all-purpose flour
- 1/4 cup granulated sugar
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 cup unsalted butter, cold and cut into cubes
- 1 large egg yolk
- 1-2 tablespoons cold water (as needed to bring the dough together)
For the Filling:
- 1/2 cup brown sugar, packed
- 1/4 cup granulated sugar
- 1/2 cup light corn syrup
- 1/4 cup unsalted butter, melted
- 2 large eggs
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1 1/2 cups pecan halves (or roughly chopped, depending on your preference)
How to Make Pecan Tarts
Making pecan tarts involves two main components: the buttery crust and the caramelized filling. While the crust requires a bit of time to chill, the entire recipe comes together in about an hour—perfect for when you need a quick yet indulgent dessert!
Step 1: Make the Tart Crust
- Prepare the Dough: In a food processor, combine the flour, sugar, and salt. Add the cold, cubed butter and pulse until the mixture resembles coarse crumbs. You can also do this by hand with a pastry cutter or two forks.
- Form the Dough: Add the egg yolk and pulse again. Gradually add the cold water, one tablespoon at a time, pulsing until the dough just comes together. Be careful not to overwork it.
- Chill the Dough: Gather the dough into a ball, wrap it in plastic wrap, and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes to firm up.
Step 2: Prepare the Tart Filling
- Make the Syrup: In a medium bowl, whisk together the brown sugar, granulated sugar, corn syrup, melted butter, and eggs until smooth. Stir in the vanilla extract and salt until everything is well combined. Set aside.
- Chop the Pecans: If you’re using whole pecan halves, chop them roughly into smaller pieces. This step is optional, as some prefer whole pecans for a more rustic presentation, but chopped pecans can ensure a more even distribution in each tart.
Step 3: Assemble and Bake the Tarts
- Preheat the Oven: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and grease a mini tart pan (or individual tartlet pans) with butter or cooking spray. If you don’t have mini tart pans, you can use a standard muffin tin.
- Roll Out the Dough: On a lightly floured surface, roll out the chilled dough to about 1/8-inch thick. Using a round cutter or a glass, cut out circles that will fit into the tart pans. Gently press the dough into the pans, making sure the edges are even.
- Fill the Tarts: Spoon the pecan filling into each tart shell, filling it about 3/4 of the way full. Make sure the pecans are evenly distributed in each tart.
- Bake the Tarts: Bake the tarts in the preheated oven for about 20-25 minutes, or until the filling is set and the crust is golden brown. You may need to rotate the pan halfway through to ensure even baking.
- Cool and Serve: Allow the tarts to cool in the pans for about 10 minutes, then remove them and let them cool completely on a wire rack. The filling will continue to set as they cool.
Tips for Perfect Pecan Tarts
- Chill the Dough: Don’t skip the chilling step for the dough. It helps the crust maintain its shape and prevents it from shrinking while baking.
- Use Fresh Pecans: The flavor of the pecans is the star of this recipe, so make sure they’re fresh. Toast them lightly in a dry skillet for a few minutes before using them to bring out their rich, nutty flavor.
- Don’t Overfill: When adding the filling to the tart shells, be careful not to overfill them, as the filling can bubble up while baking. Leaving a little space at the top will allow for the filling to set without overflowing.
- Optional Chocolate Twist: For a twist on the classic, you can drizzle a bit of melted chocolate over the top of each tart before serving or mix some chocolate chips into the filling for a gooey, indulgent touch.
- Make Ahead: These tarts can be made ahead of time and stored in an airtight container for up to 3 days at room temperature. They also freeze well—simply place them in a single layer in a freezer-safe container and freeze for up to 2 months.
Why Pecan Tarts Are Perfect for Any Occasion
Pecan tarts are the perfect dessert for all occasions—whether you’re preparing for a holiday feast, hosting a gathering, or just looking to treat yourself. Their rich, nutty filling and flaky crust make them a standout dessert that’s sure to impress guests and satisfy sweet cravings. They’re also versatile enough to be enjoyed year-round, from Thanksgiving to summer picnics.
Pecan tarts are the ideal mix of indulgence and elegance, with just the right balance of sweetness and crunch. Whether served warm from the oven or at room temperature, they make a wonderful addition to any dessert table. The combination of buttery pastry, sweet, caramelized filling, and toasty pecans will leave everyone reaching for seconds.
So, next time you’re in the mood for something rich and decadent, grab your tart pans and make these irresistible pecan tarts. Trust us, you won’t regret it!
Conclusion
If you’re looking for a delicious and elegant dessert that combines richness, sweetness, and crunch, then look no further than pecan tarts. These individual treats are perfect for any occasion, whether you’re celebrating a holiday, hosting a party, or simply treating yourself to something indulgent. With a buttery, flaky crust and a sweet, nutty filling, they’re a dessert that will have everyone coming back for more.
So, grab your ingredients and get ready to bake the ultimate in decadent bites. These pecan tarts are sure to become a family favorite in no time!
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