If you love the warm, nutty richness of classic pecan pie but want a fun, bite-sized twist to share at gatherings or enjoy anytime, this Pecan Pie Bites Recipe is absolutely perfect. With a buttery crust hugging a gooey, caramel-like filling studded with crunchy pecans, these little gems deliver all the charm of a pecan pie in a convenient, delicious form. They are easy to make, irresistibly flavorful, and just the right size to satisfy your sweet tooth without overindulging.
Ingredients You’ll Need
The ingredients for this Pecan Pie Bites Recipe are wonderfully simple yet incredibly important. Each component plays a vital role in creating the perfect balance of texture and taste, from flaky crust to that luscious, nut-studded filling.
- Refrigerated pie crust: Using ready-made pie dough saves time and ensures a buttery, flaky base for your bites.
- Chopped pecans: These add that signature crunch and deep, nutty flavor.
- Brown sugar: Provides a rich caramel sweetness that complements the nuts beautifully.
- Corn syrup: Helps create the glossy, sticky filling that holds everything together.
- Egg (beaten): Acts as a binder for the filling, giving it structure once baked.
- Melted butter: Enriches the filling and contributes to its silky texture.
- Vanilla extract: Adds a warm, aromatic note that enhances the overall flavor.
- Pinch of salt: Balances the sweetness and highlights the complexity of the filling.
How to Make Pecan Pie Bites Recipe
Step 1: Prepare Your Oven and Pan
Start by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). This ensures a perfectly even bake and golden crusts. Grease your mini muffin pan to prevent sticking and make removal a breeze.
Step 2: Shape the Crust
Roll out the refrigerated pie crust to smoothness, then use a cookie cutter to cut small circles just the right size for your mini muffin cups. Press each circle carefully into the pan, creating a little pie shell that will hold all that delicious filling.
Step 3: Mix the Filling
In a medium bowl, combine the chopped pecans, brown sugar, corn syrup, beaten egg, melted butter, vanilla extract, and a pinch of salt. Stir gently until everything is well incorporated, taking care not to overmix so that the texture stays light yet cohesive.
Step 4: Fill the Crusts
Using a spoon, evenly distribute the pecan mixture into each crust-lined muffin cup. Fill them generously but avoid overfilling to prevent spillover during baking.
Step 5: Bake to Perfection
Slide the muffin pan into the oven and bake for 20 to 25 minutes, or until the filling is golden and set. The smell in your kitchen will be irresistible, signaling that your Pecan Pie Bites Recipe is nearly ready to enjoy.
Step 6: Cool and Serve
Allow the bites to cool in the pan for a bit before carefully removing them. This rest time helps the filling set fully, making them easier to handle and taste even better.
How to Serve Pecan Pie Bites Recipe
Garnishes
Elevate the presentation by dusting the Pecan Pie Bites Recipe with a touch of powdered sugar or a drizzle of warm caramel sauce. A dollop of whipped cream or a few fresh berries can add a lovely contrast in both flavor and color.
Side Dishes
These bites pair wonderfully with a scoop of vanilla ice cream or a cup of rich coffee. For a festive touch, serve alongside spiced cider or creamy eggnog, especially during holiday gatherings.
Creative Ways to Present
Place your pecan pie bites on a rustic wooden board, lined with parchment paper for a charming, casual look. For parties, serve them in decorative mini cupcake liners or on a tiered dessert stand to make them the star of your dessert table.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
If you have any leftover Pecan Pie Bites Recipe treats, store them in an airtight container at room temperature for up to two days. This keeps their crust crisp and filling perfectly moist without drying out.
Freezing
You can freeze unbaked pecan pie bites assembled in the muffin tin by tightly wrapping them, then baking when ready. Alternatively, bake fully, cool completely, and freeze in a single layer on a tray before transferring to a container for up to one month.
Reheating
To enjoy your Pecan Pie Bites Recipe warm, reheat them in a 325°F (160°C) oven for about 5 to 10 minutes until heated through. This brief time refreshes the crispness of the crust and revives the gooey filling.
FAQs
Can I use homemade pie crust instead of refrigerated?
Absolutely! Homemade pie crust works wonderfully and can add an extra layer of buttery flavor and flakiness. Just make sure it’s rolled thin enough to fit mini muffin cups without overwhelming the filling.
Is corn syrup necessary for the filling?
Corn syrup helps create that classic glossy, chewy texture. You can substitute it with maple syrup or honey, but keep in mind the flavor and consistency may vary slightly.
Can I make these pecan pie bites gluten-free?
Yes! Use a gluten-free pie crust or substitute with phyllo dough to accommodate gluten sensitivities without sacrificing taste or texture.
How long do pecan pie bites stay fresh?
When stored properly in an airtight container at room temperature, these bites stay fresh for up to two days. Beyond that, they may begin to lose crunch and moisture.
What’s the best way to remove the bites from the muffin pan?
Allow them to cool completely so the filling firms up. Then use a small spatula or butter knife to gently loosen around the edges before lifting them out carefully to keep the crust intact.
Final Thoughts
This Pecan Pie Bites Recipe is truly a showstopper and a joy to make. It brings the beloved flavors of pecan pie into a delightful, easy-to-share form that everyone will savor. Whether for holiday celebrations, casual get-togethers, or simply a sweet treat, these bites are sure to become a treasured favorite. Give them a try and watch how quickly they disappear!
Print
Pecan Pie Bites Recipe
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 25 minutes
- Total Time: 40 minutes
- Yield: 12 servings
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Description
Delightful bite-sized treats combining a buttery pie crust with a rich, sweet pecan filling. These Pecan Pie Bites are perfect for parties, dessert trays, or anytime you crave a classic southern dessert in a convenient mini form.
Ingredients
Pie Crust
- 1 refrigerated pie crust (or homemade)
Filling
- 1 cup chopped pecans
- 1/2 cup brown sugar
- 1/3 cup corn syrup
- 1 egg, beaten
- 1 tbsp melted butter
- 1 tsp vanilla extract
- Pinch of salt
Instructions
- Preheat and Prepare Pan: Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease a mini muffin pan thoroughly to prevent sticking.
- Form the Crusts: Roll out the pie crust on a flat surface. Use a cookie cutter to cut the dough into small circles sized to fit inside the mini muffin cups. Press each circle gently into the muffin pan to create mini pie shells with edges.
- Make the Filling: In a medium bowl, combine the chopped pecans, brown sugar, corn syrup, beaten egg, melted butter, vanilla extract, and a pinch of salt. Stir until all ingredients are well incorporated.
- Fill the Crusts: Spoon the pecan mixture evenly into each prepared crust, filling almost to the top but allowing space for expansion as they bake.
- Bake: Place the muffin pan in the preheated oven and bake for 20-25 minutes, or until the filling is golden brown and set. Keep an eye on them to avoid overbaking.
- Cool and Serve: Allow the pecan pie bites to cool completely in the pan to firm up before carefully removing them. Serve at room temperature or slightly warm.
Notes
- Use a cookie cutter slightly smaller than the muffin cup opening for easy pressing into the pan.
- Allow bites to cool completely to avoid filling spillage when removing from pan.
- Can be stored in an airtight container for up to 3 days at room temperature.
- For added flavor, sprinkle a small pinch of sea salt on each bite before baking for salted pecan pie bites.
