If you’re dreaming of that classic southern flavor in a perfectly poppable package, Pecan Pie Bites are about to steal your heart (and taste buds). Imagine all the gooey, nutty, caramel-like magic of pecan pie, tucked into irresistibly crisp mini crusts, just the right size for sharing—or for eating one after another without a care. Whether you’re planning a holiday feast or just want a little sweet pick-me-up, Pecan Pie Bites are your ticket to bite-sized dessert joy. Get ready for warm nostalgia, fun baking, and satisfaction in every morsel.
Ingredients You’ll Need
Ingredients You’ll Need
One of the joys of baking Pecan Pie Bites is how the simplest pantry staples create a treat bursting with rich flavor, delicate crunch, and golden color. Each ingredient comes together, doing its part to make your bites irresistible.
- Refrigerated pie crusts (14 oz package, 2 crusts): Store-bought crusts save time but deliver that homemade flaky texture everyone loves.
- Chopped pecans (1 cup): The star of the show—go for fresh and, if you like extra depth, toast them lightly before using.
- Packed brown sugar (1/2 cup): Adds a caramel undertone and a soft texture to the filling.
- Light corn syrup (1/4 cup): Ensures that sticky-sweet, glossy bind that makes pecan pies sing—maple syrup is a fun swap for a twist.
- Unsalted butter, melted (1/4 cup): Lends richness and helps set the filling perfectly.
- Large egg (1): Just one is all you need to hold the filling together and create that custardy bite.
- Vanilla extract (1 teaspoon): This simple addition rounds out the flavors with a warm, tempting aroma.
- Pinch of salt: Don’t skip it! Even just a pinch draws out the sweetness and makes those pecans pop.
How to Make Pecan Pie Bites
Step 1: Prep Your Pan and Oven
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) for that perfect golden crust, and give a 24-cup mini muffin tin a quick spritz of nonstick spray or a light brush of butter. This helps the Pecan Pie Bites release easily, so you get those adorable pie edges every time.
Step 2: Cut and Shape the Pie Crusts
On a lightly floured surface, roll out your pie crusts until smooth. Use a 3-inch round biscuit cutter, cookie cutter, or even the rim of a glass to punch out circles. Gently press each round into a mini muffin cup, forming little pie shells. You want to nudge the dough down and up the sides so it forms a perfect nest for the filling—no holes, no rips!
Step 3: Make the Sweet Pecan Filling
In a medium mixing bowl, combine the chopped pecans, brown sugar, corn syrup, melted butter, egg, vanilla extract, and a pinch of salt. Whisk everything together until you have a glossy, nutty mixture. The pieces of pecan will float in the luscious syrup, each promising a caramelized surprise in every bite.
Step 4: Fill the Mini Pie Shells
Spoon about one tablespoon of the filling into each prepared crust. Be careful not to overfill—your Pecan Pie Bites should have a gentle dome, not a volcano! Don’t worry if you see bits of pecan peeking above the rim; that means you’ll get wonderful crunch on top.
Step 5: Bake to Perfection
Slide your muffin tin into the oven and bake for 20 to 22 minutes, or until the crust is lightly golden and the filling is set but still a little jiggly in the center. The aroma filling your kitchen? Pure, sweet anticipation.
Step 6: Cool and Enjoy
Let your Pecan Pie Bites cool in the muffin pan for about 5 minutes—this helps them firm up, so they’re easy to remove. Transfer each bite to a wire rack to cool completely (if you can wait!). Once they’re cool: crisp crust, gooey center, toasty pecan goodness in every bite.
How to Serve Pecan Pie Bites
Garnishes
Dress up your Pecan Pie Bites by topping each with a single toasted pecan half, a dusting of powdered sugar, or a drizzle of warm chocolate or caramel sauce. A tiny dollop of whipped cream can turn them into instantly elegant dessert bites for your next party or family celebration.
Side Dishes
While these bites are wonderful solo, they’re also delightful alongside a scoop of vanilla ice cream or a bowl of fresh berries for some color and brightness. They pair beautifully with warm drinks like coffee, tea, or cider—perfection for a cozy afternoon treat!
Creative Ways to Present
Arrange Pecan Pie Bites on a pretty cake stand for a casual-chic dessert table, or stack them in a decorative tin for the ultimate homemade gift. You can even thread them gently onto skewers for a fun party platter or package them in cupcake wrappers for an easy-to-serve buffet treat.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Keep any extra Pecan Pie Bites in an airtight container at room temperature for up to three days—they stay surprisingly fresh and buttery! If your kitchen is warm, stash them in the fridge to extend their shelf life and keep the crust crisp.
Freezing
After your bites are completely cool, arrange them in a single layer in a freezer-safe container, separating layers with parchment paper. They’ll keep for up to two months. When you need a quick dessert, just thaw and serve—the texture and flavor hold up wonderfully.
Reheating
If you love a warm dessert, pop a few Pecan Pie Bites on a baking sheet and reheat in a 300°F oven for about 5–7 minutes. This brings the filling back to ooey-gooey goodness and refreshes the crust. Or, give them a quick zap in the microwave for 10–15 seconds (just be mindful not to overheat).
FAQs
Can I make Pecan Pie Bites gluten-free?
Absolutely! Just use your favorite gluten-free pie crusts, whether homemade or store-bought, and follow the recipe as written. Every other ingredient is naturally gluten-free, so you won’t miss a thing.
What’s the best way to toast pecans for extra crunch?
Spread chopped pecans on a baking sheet and bake at 350°F for about 5 minutes, stirring halfway through, until fragrant and lightly golden. Let them cool before mixing into your filling for a deeper, nuttier flavor in your Pecan Pie Bites.
Can I use dark corn syrup or maple syrup instead of light corn syrup?
Yes! Dark corn syrup offers a slightly deeper flavor, while maple syrup brings its signature earthiness and warmth. Either swap will work beautifully and add a fun twist to your bites.
How do I keep the crusts from getting soggy?
Be sure not to overfill the pie shells, as too much liquid can seep into the crust. Letting the bites cool in the pan for a few minutes before moving to a rack also helps set the crust and keep it crisp.
Can I double the recipe for a crowd?
Of course! Just double all the ingredients and bake in batches if needed. These little pies go fast at parties, so having extras ready is always a good idea—and they freeze so well for future snacking.
Final Thoughts
If you’re ready for a dessert that’s as easy to make as it is to love, give these Pecan Pie Bites a try. Each one is a delicious miniature masterpiece that brings the classic pie experience to your fingertips—literally! Share them with friends, family, or just savor them yourself. Happy baking!
Print
Pecan Pie Bites Recipe
- Total Time: 42 minutes
- Yield: 24 bites
- Diet: Vegetarian
Description
These Pecan Pie Bites are the perfect bite-sized treat for any occasion. With a buttery crust and a sweet, nutty filling, these mini pecan pies are sure to impress your guests.
Ingredients
Refrigerated Pie Crusts:
1 package (14 oz) (2 crusts)
Chopped Pecans:
1 cup
Packed Brown Sugar:
1/2 cup
Light Corn Syrup:
1/4 cup
Unsalted Butter, melted:
1/4 cup
Large Egg:
1
Vanilla Extract:
1 teaspoon
Salt:
pinch
Instructions
- Preheat oven: Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C) and grease a 24-cup mini muffin tin.
- Prepare crusts: Roll out pie crusts, cut into circles, and press into muffin cups.
- Mix filling: Whisk pecans, sugar, corn syrup, butter, egg, vanilla, and salt.
- Fill crusts: Spoon filling into cups.
- Bake: Bake for 20-22 minutes until set.
- Cool: Cool in pan, then transfer to a wire rack.
Notes
- Freeze well for up to 2 months.
- Substitute maple syrup for corn syrup for a different flavor.
- Toast pecans for extra crunch.
- Prep Time: 20 minutes
- Cook Time: 22 minutes
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 bite
- Calories: 140
- Sugar: 9 g
- Sodium: 70 mg
- Fat: 9 g
- Saturated Fat: 3 g
- Unsaturated Fat: 5 g
- Trans Fat: 0 g
- Carbohydrates: 15 g
- Fiber: 1 g
- Protein: 2 g
- Cholesterol: 15 mg
