If you’re on the hunt for a dessert that delivers maximum cozy, nostalgic flavor in a bite-sized package, you simply have to try these irresistible Pecan Pie Bites. With a golden, flaky crust and gooey, nut-studded filling, every tiny morsel tastes just like the classic pie but with all the magic of finger food. Whether you’re prepping for a holiday party or whipping up a treat for someone special, these bites pack all the satisfaction of pecan pie with none of the fuss—and you’ll find yourself sneaking seconds (and thirds) before you know it!
Ingredients You’ll Need
The ingredients list for Pecan Pie Bites may be short and sweet, but every item pulls its weight, bringing richness, crunch, and that irresistible caramelized flavor. Don’t overlook the importance of top-quality pecans and real butter—these small touches make all the difference!
- Pecans (1 cup, chopped): Freshly chopped pecans give these bites their signature crunch and a nutty, buttery depth.
- Brown sugar (½ cup, packed): Adds rich, molasses sweetness and a deep caramel undertone to the filling.
- Corn syrup or maple syrup (¼ cup): Provides chewiness and shine—maple syrup adds a lovely earthy sweetness if you want a twist.
- Vanilla extract (1 teaspoon): Enhances the overall flavor and ties together the sugary, nutty notes.
- Salt (¼ teaspoon): Balances the sweetness and helps every flavor pop.
- Large egg (1): Binds the filling so each bite holds together beautifully.
- Unsalted butter (2 tablespoons, melted): Lends richness and that classic pie taste.
- Refrigerated or homemade pie crust (1 sheet): The flaky base that cradles all that sticky, nutty goodness—store-bought crust is easy, but homemade is fantastic if you feel ambitious.
- Powdered sugar (optional): For a pretty, bakery-style dusting just before serving.
How to Make Pecan Pie Bites
Step 1: Prepare Your Pan and Crust
Heat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and give a mini muffin pan a quick spritz of nonstick spray or a light coating of butter. On a lightly floured surface, unroll your pie crust. Using a round cutter (around 2.5 inches is perfect), cut 24 circles. Nestle each one into the muffin cups, pressing gently so the crust comes up the sides and forms a little well—these will hold the magical filling!
Step 2: Make the Gooey Pecan Filling
In a mixing bowl, whisk together the brown sugar, corn syrup (or maple syrup), vanilla extract, salt, egg, and melted butter until everything is fully blended and smooth. Stir in the chopped pecans, making sure they’re evenly coated with that sweet, glossy mixture. You’ll notice the filling thickening just a bit—that’s the egg doing its job.
Step 3: Fill and Bake the Bites
Spoon about 1 tablespoon of the pecan filling into each prepared pie crust cup in the mini muffin tray. Don’t overfill; the filling will puff slightly as it bakes and you want those cute pie bites to come out tidy! Slide the pan into your preheated oven and bake for 20–25 minutes, until the filling looks set and the crust edges are golden brown. The aroma filling your kitchen will let you know you’re on the right track!
Step 4: Cool and Remove
Let your golden beauties cool in the pan for about 10 minutes—this helps the filling firm up and makes them easier to remove. Then gently lift each pecan pie bite out (using a tiny offset spatula or butter knife works wonders). Set them on a wire rack to cool completely; patience is rewarded here, as they get even more delicious as they set.
How to Serve Pecan Pie Bites
Garnishes
The finishing touch can make these already-adorable treats even more charming. A gentle dusting of powdered sugar right before serving gives them a pretty, snow-dusted look. For a fancier presentation, top each bite with a pecan half, a drizzle of melted chocolate, or a dollop of whipped cream.
Side Dishes
Pecan Pie Bites love to be the star of a dessert tray, but they’re also wonderful with creamy vanilla ice cream, a simple bowl of fresh berries, or alongside a steaming mug of coffee or spiced chai. For a truly decadent dessert board, combine them with chocolate truffles and mini cheesecakes for a little taste of everything.
Creative Ways to Present
For parties, arrange the bites on a rustic wooden platter or a tiered cake stand for a whimsical, celebratory vibe. Wrap a few in cellophane with a ribbon for a beautiful homemade gift, or pile them high in a vintage tin for a holiday open house spread. However you display them, Pecan Pie Bites never fail to impress.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Pop any leftover Pecan Pie Bites into an airtight container once they’re completely cool. They’ll keep perfectly at room temperature for up to three days, maintaining their nutty crunch and luscious center. For a longer stretch, stash them in the fridge for up to a week—they’re just as good straight from the fridge or brought to room temp before serving.
Freezing
These little pies freeze beautifully. Lay them in a single layer on a baking sheet until solid, then transfer to a freezer-safe bag or container. They’ll stay fresh for up to two months, ready to save the day when guests drop in or a sweet craving hits. Thaw them in the fridge or on the counter before serving.
Reheating
If you like your Pecan Pie Bites warm, just pop them in a 300°F oven for about 5 minutes, or until heated through. They’ll taste and smell freshly baked, reviving all that irresistible gooey-ness. Short on time? A few seconds in the microwave works wonders, too.
FAQs
Can I use maple syrup instead of corn syrup?
Yes! Maple syrup brings a lovely, earthy flavor that pairs beautifully with the pecans. The texture of the filling will be slightly less sticky than corn syrup, but still absolutely delicious.
Do I have to use store-bought pie crust?
Not at all! If you have a favorite homemade pie crust recipe, it’ll work wonderfully here. Just roll it out thin enough to cut and press into the muffin tins—it adds an extra layer of homemade flair.
Can I make Pecan Pie Bites ahead of time for a party?
Definitely! In fact, they taste even better after a day or two as the flavors meld. Make them a day before your party, store in an airtight container, and you’re good to go for stress-free entertaining.
Are Pecan Pie Bites gluten-free?
As written, this recipe uses wheat-based pie crust, making them not gluten-free. However, swap in a gluten-free pie crust and you’ve got a perfect gluten-free treat—just keep an eye on your filling ingredients as well.
How do I keep the filling from overflowing out of the crust?
Be sure to use about a tablespoon of filling per crust, filling just below the rim. This gives the filling room to puff up without bubbling over, resulting in beautifully neat and easy-to-hold bites.
Final Thoughts
These Pecan Pie Bites pack all the flavor and joy of classic pecan pie in one cute, two-bite treat you’ll want to make again and again. Whether you serve them for the holidays, bring them to a potluck, or sneak one with your afternoon coffee, they’re sure to steal the show and win you rave reviews. Happy baking!
Print
Pecan Pie Bites Recipe
- Total Time: 40 minutes
- Yield: 24 bites 1x
- Diet: Vegetarian
Description
These bite-sized Pecan Pie Bites are a delightful treat perfect for any occasion. With a buttery crust and sweet pecan filling, they are sure to be a hit at your next gathering.
Ingredients
Crust:
- 1 sheet refrigerated pie crust (or homemade)
Filling:
- 1 cup chopped pecans
- ½ cup brown sugar (packed)
- ¼ cup corn syrup or maple syrup
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- ¼ teaspoon salt
- 1 large egg
- 2 tablespoons unsalted butter (melted)
Optional:
- powdered sugar for dusting
Instructions
- Preheat Oven: Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C) and grease a mini muffin pan.
- Prepare Crusts: Roll out the pie crust, cut out circles, and press into muffin cups.
- Mix Filling: Whisk together brown sugar, syrup, vanilla, salt, egg, and butter. Stir in pecans.
- Fill Crusts: Spoon pecan filling into each crust.
- Bake: Bake for 20–25 minutes until set. Cool before serving.
Notes
- Store in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days or refrigerate for up to a week.
- Perfect for holiday trays or make-ahead desserts; freeze well for up to 2 months.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 25 minutes
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 bite
- Calories: 110
- Sugar: 8g
- Sodium: 45mg
- Fat: 7g
- Saturated Fat: 2g
- Unsaturated Fat: 5g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 11g
- Fiber: 1g
- Protein: 1g
- Cholesterol: 15mg
