How to Make Pecan Butter Tarts: A Step-by-Step Recipe
Pecan Butter Tarts are a delectable dessert featuring flaky pastry shells filled with a rich, gooey pecan filling. Originating from Canada and adored worldwide, these tarts combine the buttery crunch of pecans with the sweetness of a caramel-like filling. Whether for a holiday table or a cozy dessert, this recipe is sure to please!
Ingredients
For the Pastry Shells:
- 1 1/4 cups all-purpose flour
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 cup cold unsalted butter, cubed
- 3–4 tablespoons ice water
For the Filling:
- 1/2 cup packed brown sugar
- 1/2 cup light corn syrup or maple syrup
- 1/4 cup unsalted butter, melted
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1 large egg
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
- 1 cup chopped pecans
Step-by-Step Instructions
Step 1: Prepare the Pastry Dough
- In a medium bowl, whisk together the flour and salt.
- Add the cold butter cubes and cut them into the flour using a pastry cutter or your fingertips until the mixture resembles coarse crumbs.
- Gradually add ice water, one tablespoon at a time, mixing until the dough comes together.
- Shape the dough into a disk, wrap it in plastic wrap, and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes.
Step 2: Preheat the Oven
- Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
- Grease a 12-cup muffin tin or tart pan lightly with butter or non-stick spray.
Step 3: Roll Out the Dough
- On a floured surface, roll out the chilled dough to about 1/8-inch thickness.
- Use a round cookie cutter or glass (approximately 4 inches in diameter) to cut out circles.
- Gently press each circle into the prepared muffin tin to form the tart shells.
- Place the pan in the refrigerator while preparing the filling.
Step 4: Make the Filling
- In a medium bowl, whisk together the brown sugar, corn syrup, melted butter, vanilla extract, egg, and salt until smooth.
- Stir in the chopped pecans until evenly distributed.
Step 5: Fill the Tarts
- Remove the muffin tin from the refrigerator.
- Spoon about 2 tablespoons of the filling into each tart shell, filling them about three-quarters full.
Step 6: Bake the Tarts
- Bake in the preheated oven for 18–22 minutes, or until the filling is bubbling and the crust is golden brown.
- Allow the tarts to cool in the pan for 10 minutes before transferring them to a wire rack to cool completely.
Tips for Success
- Keep the Dough Cold: Cold butter is key to a flaky pastry. If the dough warms up while rolling, return it to the fridge to chill.
- Avoid Overfilling: Leave a small gap at the top of the tart shells to prevent overflow during baking.
- Experiment with Syrups: Substitute maple syrup for corn syrup for a deeper, caramel-like flavor.
Storage Tips
- Room Temperature: Store the tarts in an airtight container for up to 3 days.
- Refrigeration: Refrigerate for up to a week, allowing the tarts to come to room temperature before serving.
- Freezing: Freeze cooled tarts in a sealed container for up to 3 months. Thaw at room temperature before enjoying.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
Pecan Butter Tarts are a perfect blend of crisp, flaky pastry and rich, nutty filling. They’re versatile, easy to make, and ideal for both special occasions and casual indulgence.
Variations
- Raisin Pecan Tarts: Add a handful of raisins to the filling for extra sweetness.
- Bourbon Pecan Tarts: Stir in a tablespoon of bourbon for a smoky, caramel-like flavor.
- Chocolate Pecan Tarts: Sprinkle mini chocolate chips over the filling before baking.
The Perfect Dessert for Any Occasion
Whether you’re serving these tarts at a holiday gathering, gifting them to loved ones, or enjoying them as a treat for yourself, Pecan Butter Tarts are sure to impress. With their buttery crust and luscious filling, they’ll quickly become a go-to recipe in your collection.
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