Mini Southern Pecan Pies: A Sweet Southern Treat

Indulge in the rich and nutty flavors of the South with these Mini Southern Pecan Pies. This classic dessert is made with a buttery and flaky pie crust, a sweet and gooey filling made from pecans and brown sugar, and a touch of vanilla. These bite-sized pies are perfect for parties, holidays, or just when you're craving a little taste of the South. Get ready to enjoy a Southern favorite in a miniature form!

Ingredients

• 1 1/2 cups all-purpose flour
• 1/4 teaspoon salt
• 1/2 cup unsalted butter, cold and cut into small cubes
• 3-4 tablespoons ice water
• 1 cup pecans, chopped
• 1 cup brown sugar
• 1/2 cup corn syrup
• 1/4 cup unsalted butter, melted
• 2 large eggs
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract

Directions

1. In a large mixing bowl, whisk together the flour and salt. Add the cold cubed butter and use a pastry cutter or your fingers to cut the butter into the flour until it resembles coarse crumbs.
2. Add the ice water, 1 tablespoon at a time, and mix until the dough comes together. Form the dough into a disk, wrap it in plastic wrap, and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes.
3. Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C).
4. In another bowl, combine the chopped pecans, brown sugar, corn syrup, melted butter, eggs, and vanilla extract. Stir until well combined.
5. On a lightly floured surface, roll out the chilled dough to about 1/8 inch thickness. Use a round cookie cutter or the rim of a drinking glass to cut out circles that are slightly larger than the openings of a mini muffin tin.
6. Press each circle of dough into a greased mini muffin tin, gently pressing it against the sides to form a crust.
7. Fill each mini pie crust with about 1 tablespoon of the pecan filling.
8. Bake in the preheated oven for 15-18 minutes, or until the crust is golden brown and the filling is set.
9. Allow the mini pecan pies to cool in the muffin tin for 10 minutes, then carefully remove them and place them on a wire rack to cool completely.
10. Serve the Mini Southern Pecan Pies as is or with a dollop of whipped cream on top. Enjoy!

Interesting Facts