Freeze‑Ready Mini Pecan Pie Bites 🍰 – Sweet, Nutty, and Perfect for Thanksgiving Dessert Stations
Get ready to impress your guests with these adorable, bite-sized freeze-ready mini pecan pie bites, perfect for your Thanksgiving dessert station. These individually portioned treats are a spin on the classic pecan pie, packing all the sweet, nutty flavor into a convenient, easy-to-make package. The best part? You can prepare them ahead of time and freeze them for up to a month, making them the ultimate make-ahead dessert for your holiday gathering.
Ingredients
- 1 package of mini tart shells (about 24-30 shells)
- 1/2 cup light corn syrup
- 1/2 cup granulated sugar
- 1/4 cup melted unsalted butter
- 2 large eggs
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1 and 1/2 cups pecan halves
- Salt to taste
Instructions
- Step 1: Preheat your oven to 350°F (180°C). Place the mini tart shells on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
- Step 2: In a medium bowl, whisk together the corn syrup, granulated sugar, melted butter, eggs, vanilla extract, and a pinch of salt until well combined.
- Step 3: Stir in the pecan halves until they are evenly coated with the sugar mixture.
- Step 4: Divide the pecan mixture among the mini tart shells, filling each shell about 3/4 of the way full.
- Step 5: Bake the mini pecan pie bites for 12-15 minutes, or until the filling is set and the crust is lightly golden.
- Step 6: Allow the bites to cool completely on a wire rack before freezing.
Make-Ahead Instructions
To freeze the mini pecan pie bites, place them in a single layer in an airtight container or freezer bag. Store in the freezer for up to 1 month. To reheat, preheat your oven to 350°F (180°C) and bake the frozen bites for an additional 5-7 minutes, or until warm and crispy.
Tips and Variations
For an extra crunchy topping, sprinkle a pinch of sea salt or chopped pecans on top of each bite before baking. You can also customize the filling with different types of nuts, such as walnuts or hazelnuts, for a unique twist on the classic pecan pie flavor.
Serving Suggestions
These freeze-ready mini pecan pie bites are perfect for your Thanksgiving dessert station, but they're also great for any holiday gathering or party. Serve them alongside other bite-sized treats, such as mini cheesecakes or chocolate truffles, for a variety of flavors and textures.
Nutrition Information (per serving)
Calories: 120, Fat: 7g, Saturated Fat: 1.5g, Cholesterol: 10mg, Sodium: 50mg, Carbohydrates: 15g, Fiber: 1g, Sugar: 10g, Protein: 2g
Troubleshooting and FAQ
Q: Can I make these bites ahead of time and refrigerate them instead of freezing? A: Yes, you can refrigerate the bites for up to 24 hours before serving. However, freezing is recommended for longer storage and better texture.
Final Thoughts
These freeze-ready mini pecan pie bites are the perfect addition to your Thanksgiving dessert station. With their sweet, nutty flavor and convenient, bite-sized format, they're sure to be a hit with your guests. So why not give them a try? Pin this recipe now and get ready to impress your friends and family with these adorable, delicious treats!
