When the holiday season rolls around, there’s nothing quite like the warm scents of cinnamon, maple, and toasted pecans wafting through the house. The first time I made these Merry Maple Pecan Tarts, I was in my grandmother’s cozy kitchen, surrounded by family, laughter, and a delightful sense of nostalgia. I still vividly recall how excited I felt as we rolled out the dough, filled the tarts with that luscious, gooey maple filling, and topped it off with crunchy pecans.
This recipe is close to my heart, serving as a delightful blend of memories and flavors that truly encapsulate the spirit of togetherness. These Merry Maple Pecan Tarts are not only delicious but also easy to make, making them a perfect treat for gatherings, special occasions, or simply for satisfying your sweet tooth at home. Trust me, once you try these tarts, they’ll become a staple in your own holiday traditions!
Why You’ll Love Merry Maple Pecan Tarts
This recipe is a beautiful combination of textures and flavors. You’ll savor the flaky crust, the sweet maple filling, and the toasty pecans that add that perfect crunch. Plus, the health benefits of pecans are impressive; they’re packed with healthy fats, fiber, and protein! They also have antioxidants, making these tarts a somewhat guilt-free indulgence.
Perfect for impressing your guests at dinner parties or simply enjoying a quiet evening in, these tarts are easy to prepare, budget-friendly, and filled with love. So dust off that apron, and let’s bake some holiday magic!
Merry Maple Pecan Tarts Recipe Details
Prep Time: 30 minutes
Cook Time: 25 minutes
Chill Time: 30 minutes
Total Time: 1 hour 25 minutes
Servings: 12 tarts
Ingredients
For the crust:
- 1 ½ cups all-purpose flour
- ½ teaspoon salt
- ½ cup unsalted butter, cold and cubed
- ¼ cup powdered sugar
- 1 large egg yolk
- 2 tablespoons iced water
For the filling:
- 1 cup pure maple syrup
- ½ cup packed brown sugar
- 3 large eggs
- 2 tablespoons unsalted butter, melted
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1 ½ cups chopped pecans
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Instructions
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Prepare the Crust: In a medium bowl, whisk together the flour and salt. Add the cold cubed butter and mix with a pastry cutter or your fingers until it resembles coarse crumbs.
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Mix the Dough: Stir in the powdered sugar, egg yolk, and iced water until the mixture forms a dough. If it’s too dry, add a tablespoon of water at a time until it holds together.
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Chill the Dough: Shape the dough into a disc, wrap it in plastic wrap, and refrigerate for about 30 minutes.
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Preheat the Oven: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) while you roll out the dough.
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Roll Out the Crust: On a floured surface, roll out the chilled dough to about ¼ inch thick. Cut out rounds that fit into your tartlet pans.
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Line the Tart Pans: Gently press the dough into the tartlet pans and prick the bottoms with a fork. This prevents bubbling.
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Make the Filling: In a mixing bowl, combine the maple syrup, brown sugar, eggs, melted butter, and vanilla extract. Whisk until smooth.
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Add Pecans: Stir in the chopped pecans until evenly distributed.
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Fill the Tarts: Pour the maple filling into each tart shell until filled about ¾ full.
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Bake: Bake in the preheated oven for 20-25 minutes or until the filling is set and the crust is golden brown.
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Cool and Serve: Allow the tarts to cool slightly before removing them from the pans. Enjoy warm or at room temperature!
Pro Tips for Perfect Merry Maple Pecan Tarts
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Don’t Overmix the Dough: When combining the ingredients for the crust, handle the dough as little as possible to keep it flaky. Overworking can result in tough crusts!
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Pecan Toasting: For an added depth of flavor, toast your pecans beforehand until they are golden and fragrant. It makes a significant difference!
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Chill Your Dough: Remember to chill the dough; this helps to maintain its structure during baking.
Variations
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Nutty Options: Swap out pecans with walnuts or almonds for a different flavor profile.
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Spiced Up Filling: Add a pinch of cinnamon or nutmeg to the filling for a warm, spiced touch.
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Chocolate Lovers: Drizzle dark chocolate over the tarts after baking for an indulgent twist!
Occasions to Enjoy Merry Maple Pecan Tarts
These tarts shine at holiday parties, family gatherings, or cozy dinners. They also make for a charming dessert for birthdays and anniversaries. I often prepare these when hosting friends for a casual gathering; they never disappoint!
Conclusion
There you have it! These Merry Maple Pecan Tarts are bound to become your latest obsession. With their delightful blend of textures and flavors, you’re guaranteed to impress anyone who takes a bite. Not only are they delicious, but they’re also straightforward to make, allowing you to enjoy slightly more quality time with your loved ones.
So why wait? Grab the ingredients, gather your family or friends, and create your own delightful memories in the kitchen! These Merry Maple Pecan Tarts deserve a spot on your dessert table.
Frequently Asked Questions: Merry Maple Pecan Tarts FAQs
What should I do if my tart crust is too crumbly?
If your crust dough is overly crumbly, you might need to add a little more iced water, one tablespoon at a time, until it comes together. Just be careful not to overwork the dough!
Can I prepare the Merry Maple Pecan Tarts ahead of time?
Absolutely! You can prepare the tart crust in advance and store it in the fridge for a few days or even freeze it. You can also make the filling a day ahead—just give it a good stir before pouring it into the crust.
How do I store leftover tarts?
Store your Merry Maple Pecan Tarts in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to a week. They can also be served straight out of the fridge for a different texture!
Can I freeze these tarts?
Yes, you can freeze the baked tarts! Just ensure they are completely cool before placing them in an airtight freezer-safe container. They can last in the freezer for up to three months.
What can I use instead of maple syrup?
While pure maple syrup is ideal, you can substitute it with honey or agave nectar if necessary. Just be aware that the flavor will vary!
Can I make these gluten-free?
Yes, you can replace the all-purpose flour with a gluten-free flour blend. Just make sure your other ingredients are also gluten-free to ensure a proper outcome.
What’s the best way to reheat the tarts?
Reheat your tarts in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 10 minutes or until warmed through. Avoid microwaving, as that can make the crust a bit soggy.
Give these Merry Maple Pecan Tarts a try, and let the sweet synergy of flavors captivate your taste buds and heart. Happy baking!