Name: Mini Pecan Pie Tarts with Cream Cheese Crust Recipe
Prep time: 1 h 15 min
Cook time: 25 min
Total time: 1 h 40 min
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: 3 ounces cream cheese (softened); 8 tablespoons butter (softened); 1 cup flour; ½ teaspoon salt; ¾ cup brown sugar; 1 egg; 1 tablespoon butter (melted); ½ teaspoon vanilla extract; ⅔ cup pecans (chopped)

Jump to Recipe· 3.8 from 38 reviews

If you’re looking for a delightful dessert that combines the buttery richness of a cream cheese crust with the classic sweetness of pecan pie, you absolutely must try this Mini Pecan Pie Tarts with Cream Cheese Crust Recipe. These irresistible bite-sized tarts are perfectly nutty, satisfyingly gooey, and come together with a crust that’s tender yet sturdy thanks to the cream cheese. Whether it’s for holiday parties, family gatherings, or just a sweet treat to share, these mini tarts steal the show every single time.

Ingredients You’ll Need

A metal muffin tray filled with twelve small tart shells lined with smooth, pale dough forming the base and edges of each tart; inside each shell is a golden brown filling with small chunks scattered throughout, giving a slightly rough texture on top. The tray sits on a white marbled surface with a silver ice cream scoop beside it, which contains some of the same brown filling. The overall look shows an unbaked preparation stage of mini tarts. Photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

Gathering the right ingredients is the first step toward making these miniature delights. Each ingredient here plays a crucial role—from creating that luscious cream cheese crust to crafting the sweet, nut-packed filling that makes every bite memorable.

Cream cheese (3 ounces, softened): Adds tang and tenderness to the crust, giving it a velvety texture.
Butter (8 tablespoons softened plus 1 tablespoon melted): Provides richness; the softened butter helps form the dough, while melted butter blends seamlessly into the filling.
Flour (1 cup): The foundation of the crust, ensuring structure and a tender crumb.
Salt (½ teaspoon): Enhances all the flavors, balancing the sweetness of the filling.
Brown sugar (¾ cup): Brings that deep, caramel-like sweetness essential to pecan pie.
Egg (1): Binds the filling ingredients together, creating a smooth, rich texture.
Vanilla extract (½ teaspoon): Adds warmth and depth to the filling’s flavor profile.
Pecans (⅔ cup, chopped): The star of the show; their crunch and nuttiness elevate each mini tart.

How to Make Mini Pecan Pie Tarts with Cream Cheese Crust Recipe

Step 1: Prepare the Cream Cheese Crust

Start by tossing the softened cream cheese, softened butter, flour, and salt into a food processor. Pulse everything until the mixture forms a smooth, cohesive ball of dough. This dough is special because the cream cheese creates a wonderfully tender and flavorful crust that’s a lovely change from traditional pie pastry.

Step 2: Chill the Dough Balls

Divide the dough into 24 small balls and place them on a baking tray. Refrigerate for about one hour or pop them in the freezer for 20 minutes to firm up. Chilling helps the dough hold its shape and makes it easier to press into the muffin cups later.

Step 3: Shape the Crusts

Spray a mini muffin pan lightly with cooking spray. Press each chilled dough ball firmly into the cup, pushing it up along the sides to form a little crust cup. Make sure to reach all the way to the top edge so the filling has a sturdy home.

Step 4: Mix the Pecan Pie Filling

In a medium bowl, whisk together the brown sugar, egg, melted butter, and vanilla until smooth and cohesive. Fold in the chopped pecans gently, ensuring each nut is coated with that sweet mixture.

Step 5: Fill and Bake the Tarts

Fill each crust-lined cup to the top with the pecan filling, being careful not to overfill so the tarts bake evenly without spilling. Place the tray in a preheated 350°F oven and bake for 20 to 25 minutes. You’ll know they’re ready when the crust edges start to turn a beautiful golden brown.

Step 6: Cool and Remove

Allow the tarts to cool in the pan for about 10 minutes. Then, very gently slide a butter knife or offset spatula around the edges to loosen the tarts and prevent the filling from sticking. Let them cool completely before serving to let the filling set perfectly.

How to Serve Mini Pecan Pie Tarts with Cream Cheese Crust Recipe

Two metal muffin trays filled with twelve round baked muffins each are placed on black wire cooling racks. Each muffin has two layers: the bottom layer is a smooth, light beige dough forming a cup shape, and the top layer is a textured, slightly cracked brown cake that rises slightly above the edges. Some muffins have darker brown spots and uneven tops, showing a homemade look. The trays and racks rest on a white marbled surface. photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

Garnishes

These tarts shine on their own, but a dollop of freshly whipped cream or a drizzle of smooth caramel sauce adds an extra touch of indulgence and elegance. A sprinkle of finely chopped pecans on top can provide a delightful crunch and visual appeal.

Side Dishes

Pair your mini pecan tarts with a scoop of vanilla bean ice cream or alongside fresh seasonal fruit for a balanced dessert plate. A cup of freshly brewed coffee or spiced tea complements the nutty, sweet flavors beautifully for a comforting treat.

Creative Ways to Present

Arrange these charming tarts on a rustic wooden board or a delicate tiered dessert stand to impress your guests. For gatherings, consider wrapping individual tarts in translucent parchment paper tied with a festive ribbon for a sweet party favor everyone will love.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

If you find yourself with leftovers, store the Mini Pecan Pie Tarts with Cream Cheese Crust Recipe in an airtight container at room temperature for up to two days. Beyond that, refrigeration will keep them fresh for several more days, though chilling may firm up the filling.

Freezing

To freeze, wrap each tart individually in plastic wrap and place them in a freezer-safe container or bag. They’ll hold well for up to one month. When ready to enjoy, thaw them overnight in the refrigerator for the best texture and flavor.

Reheating

Warm your mini tarts gently in a 300°F oven for 5-7 minutes to revive that fresh-baked feeling and soften the filling slightly. Avoid microwaving if possible, as it can overly soften the crust and change the texture.

FAQs

Can I make the crust without a food processor?

Absolutely! You can mix the softened cream cheese, butter, flour, and salt using a sturdy fork or by hand until the dough comes together. It just might take a bit more elbow grease, but the crust will be just as delicious.

What if I don’t have mini muffin pans?

If mini muffin pans aren’t available, consider using a mini tart pan or even small ramekins. Just remember you may need to adjust baking times slightly depending on the size and depth of your baking vessels.

Can I substitute pecans with other nuts?

Definitely! Walnuts or almonds can be great alternatives if you prefer. Keep the same quantity and roughly chop the nuts to maintain the perfect texture in your tarts.

How do I make sure the tarts don’t stick to the pan?

Using a good-quality nonstick cooking spray helps tremendously. Also, letting the tarts cool properly before removing them and gently running a butter knife around the edges ensures they lift out without breaking.

Is there a vegan or dairy-free alternative for this recipe?

While this recipe relies on cream cheese and butter for its signature crust, you can experiment with vegan cream cheese and plant-based butter. The texture will differ somewhat, but with a bit of tweaking, you can still achieve a tasty mini pecan tart.

Final Thoughts

These Mini Pecan Pie Tarts with Cream Cheese Crust Recipe are a charming twist on a classic dessert, bringing together a creamy, rich crust and a sweet, nutty filling in perfect miniature form. They’re sure to be a favorite at your table and a recipe you return to again and again. Don’t hesitate—grab your ingredients and start baking now to share this joyful treat with the people you love.