There’s something irresistibly delightful about a bite-sized treat that hits every note of flavor and texture you crave—this is exactly what you get with these Easy Pecan Tassies. Imagine a tender, buttery cream cheese pastry shell filled with gooey, brown-sugary pecan filling. Each one is like a tiny, magical pecan pie, but even easier and quicker to make! These tassies are designed for speed and simplicity (just the way busy weeknights demand), and they’re every bit as perfect for spontaneous gatherings as for satisfying that sweet tooth at the end of a long day.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Effortlessly Quick: With a hands-on time of just 10 minutes and easy assembly, you’re never more than a few simple steps away from fresh, homemade treats.
No-Fuss Ingredients: Everything you need is likely already in your fridge and pantry, and the technique is simple enough for bakers of any level.
Rich, Irresistible Flavor: Think creamy, buttery crust paired with sweet, nutty filling—it’s classic comfort in every bite, and the mini size means you can indulge without guilt.
Perfect for Sharing: Their adorable size and sturdy shape make them easy to serve and transport to any event, from after-dinner dessert plates to lunchbox surprises.

Ingredients You’ll Need

Here’s a closer look at the key players that make these tassies so unforgettable:

Cream Cheese: Adds moisture and tenderness to the crust, making it extra flavorful and melt-in-your-mouth delicious.
Unsalted Butter: Gives the crust and filling that rich, buttery taste; make sure it’s softened for easier blending.
All Purpose Flour: The base of the pastry, providing structure and a flaky bite.
Egg: Binds the filling together and ensures a custard-like texture.
Brown Sugar: Lends sweetness and a hint of caramel depth—don’t skip the brown sugar here!
Vanilla: Brings warmth and rounds out those nutty and creamy notes.
Salt: Just a touch enhances all the flavors and keeps sweetness in check.
Pecans: The star ingredient; coarsely chopped for a satisfying crunch in every mouthful.

Tip: Toast your pecans before adding them for an extra layer of flavor!

Variations

Let your creativity shine with these fun swaps and add-ons:

Nutty Twist: Try walnuts or almonds instead of pecans for a different kind of crunch.
Chocolate Drizzle: Once cooled, drizzle tassies with melted chocolate for a decadent finish.
Dried Fruit Flair: Mix in a few finely chopped dried cranberries or cherries with the pecans for extra tang.
Spiced Up: Add a pinch of cinnamon or nutmeg to the filling for cozy, autumn-inspired tassies.

How to Make Easy Pecan Tassies

Step 1: Make the Dough

Start by creaming together the softened cream cheese, unsalted butter, and flour. This mixture will quickly come together into a soft dough—no electric mixer required, just a sturdy spoon or spatula will do! Once your dough is smooth, wrap it up and pop it in the fridge for an hour. Chilling at this stage is key for an easy-to-handle, flaky crust.

Step 2: Form the Pastry Shells

When the dough is chilled, roll it into small 1-inch balls. Press each ball into a greased mini muffin pan, using your fingers to evenly coat the bottom and sides, creating a little well for the filling.

Step 3: Prepare the Filling

Whisk together the egg, packed brown sugar, softened butter, vanilla, and salt. The result should be glossy and smooth.

Step 4: Fill and Assemble

Divide the chopped pecans evenly into the dough-lined muffin cups. Then, spoon the egg-sugar mixture over the top, about one teaspoon in each cup, just enough to cover the pecans.

Step 5: Chill and Bake

Chill the filled muffin tray for a few minutes while your oven preheats to 325°F (163°C). Bake for 25 minutes, or until the filling is set and the crust looks golden. The aroma at this stage is unbeatable!

Step 6: Cool and Enjoy

Let the tassies cool in the pan for at least 15 minutes before attempting to remove them. This helps everything set perfectly and makes removal a breeze.

Pro Tips for Making the Recipe

Soften Ingredients: Make sure both your cream cheese and butter are truly soft—this ensures a tender dough.
Don’t Overfill: When adding the egg mixture, stick to about a teaspoon per tassie to avoid overflow as they bake.
Non-Stick Help: If your muffin pan is prone to sticking, use mini paper liners or lightly dust your fingers with flour while pressing the dough.
Cool Completely: Resist the urge to eat them straight from the oven; a few minutes of cooling sets the filling and delivers the best texture.

How to Serve

Easy Pecan Tassies are perfect on their own, simply dusted with a bit of powdered sugar for a festive touch—or nestle them on a dessert tray with fruit and cheese for contrast. They also make a lovely pairing with coffee, tea, or even a scoop of vanilla ice cream for an extra-special treat.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Keep cooled pecan tassies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to three days. For longer freshness, store them in the fridge.

Freezing

Need to get ahead? Freeze tassies in a single layer on a baking sheet, then transfer them to a freezer bag or airtight container. They’ll keep beautifully for up to two months. Thaw at room temperature before serving.

Reheating

If desired, bring chilled or thawed tassies back to “just baked” glory by warming them for a few minutes in a 300°F (150°C) oven. This revives the texture and intensifies the flavor.

FAQs

Can I make the dough in advance?
Yes! Prepare the dough up to two days ahead and store it wrapped in plastic in the refrigerator. Let it sit at room temperature for 10 minutes before shaping.

Can I use store-bought pie crust instead of homemade?
While you technically could, you’ll miss the tender, tangy flavor the cream cheese dough adds. The homemade crust is so simple and truly makes a difference.

How do I prevent sticking in the pan?
A good greasing of the muffin pan works wonders, but for extra insurance, use mini muffin liners or a quick spritz of nonstick spray.

Can I double the recipe for a larger crowd?
Absolutely! This recipe doubles (or even triples) easily—just give yourself a little extra time for forming and filling the shells.

Final Thoughts

There’s something downright joyful about these Easy Pecan Tassies—the way the crust shatters into buttery crumbs and the nutty, sweet filling clings to every bite. Whether you’re a seasoned baker or just starting out, this recipe is approachable, flexible, and sure to become a favorite in your kitchen. Don’t hesitate—gather your ingredients and treat yourself to a batch today. You’ll be wondering why you haven’t made them sooner!

Easy Pecan Tassies Recipe