Pecan Pie Bites Recipe

Easy Pecan Pie Bites Recipe: Sweet Little Treats to Adore

Crisp autumn afternoons sparkle with delightful pecan pie bites that blend sweet nostalgia and crunchy textures.

Southern kitchens have long cherished these miniature desserts as crowd-pleasing morsels.

Compact yet packed with rich caramel notes, they invite playful indulgence.

Buttery pastry shells cradle a smooth filling that melts softly on your tongue.

Nutty pecans provide a satisfying crunch against silky caramel undertones.

Each bite promises a perfect balance of sweetness and depth.

You’ll want to savor these irresistible little treats that capture comfort in a single, delectable moment.

Pecan Pie Bites: Small Treats, Big Impact

  • Whip Up Quick Treats: These mini pecan pie bites are perfect for busy bakers who want delicious desserts without spending hours in the kitchen.
  • Crowd-Pleasing Portions: Bite-sized treats make sharing easier, perfect for parties, potlucks, and family gatherings where everyone wants a taste.
  • Customize with Ease: Simple ingredients and straightforward steps mean even novice bakers can create impressive desserts that look and taste professional.
  • Versatile Dessert Solution: Serve as appetizers, sweet snacks, or elegant dessert bites that work for casual get-togethers and fancy celebrations alike.

Everything to Gather for Pecan Pie Bites Bliss

Crust:
  • Pie Crust: A pre-made or homemade pastry that serves as the base for these delightful mini bites.
Filling Base:
  • Brown Sugar: Provides a rich, deep sweetness to the pie filling.
  • Corn Syrup: Helps create a smooth, glossy texture and adds sweetness.
  • Butter: Adds richness and helps bind the filling together.
  • Vanilla Extract: Enhances the overall flavor with its warm, sweet aroma.
  • Egg: Acts as a binding agent and helps set the filling.
Nuts:
  • Pecans: Adds a crunchy texture and nutty flavor to the pie bites.

Directions for Making the Best Pecan Pie Bites

Step 1: Warm Up the Oven

Crank up your oven to a toasty 350F and give your mini muffin tin a light spray of cooking oil to prevent any sticky situations.

Step 2: Create Cute Crusts

Take your pie dough and roll it out on a clean surface.

Use a circular cookie cutter or glass to create perfect little rounds that will snugly fit into each muffin cup.

Step 3: Whip Up the Gooey Goodness

Grab a mixing bowl and combine these delightful ingredients:
  • Brown sugar
  • Corn syrup
  • Melted butter
  • Vanilla extract
  • Egg

Whisk everything together until the mixture is smooth and looks like liquid caramel magic.

Step 4: Sprinkle in the Nutty Crunch

Fold in the chopped pecans, letting them get cozy with the sweet mixture.

Step 5: Fill Those Adorable Crusts

Carefully spoon the pecan mixture into each pie crust, filling them about three-quarters full.

Leave a little room for the bites to breathe.

Step 6: Bake to Golden Perfection

Slide the muffin tin into the oven and bake for 18-22 minutes.

You’re looking for a gorgeous golden color and a set filling that jiggles just a tiny bit.

Step 7: Cool and Devour

Let the pecan pie bites cool down for a few minutes.

They’ll be molten hot right out of the oven, so patience is key.

Once they’ve settled, pop them out and enjoy these bite-sized pieces of heaven!

Helpful Hints for Perfect Pecan Pie Bites Every Time

  • Select high-quality, crisp pecans for maximum flavor and crunch in your bite-sized treats.
  • Fill pie crusts only 3/4 full to avoid messy spillage during baking and ensure clean, neat bites.
  • Watch closely after 18 minutes to avoid over-browning; golden edges indicate perfectly baked pecan bites.
  • Use non-stick cooking spray or butter to ensure easy removal of delicate mini pecan pies from the muffin tin.
  • Prepare these bites in advance and store in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days for convenient entertaining.

Twists on Pecan Pie Bites You’ll Want to Try

  • Gluten-Free Pecan Pie Bites: Replace traditional pie crust with almond flour or gluten-free pastry dough for a celiac-friendly version.
  • Vegan Caramel Pecan Bites: Swap eggs and butter with coconut oil, use maple syrup instead of corn syrup, and add cashew cream for binding.
  • Chocolate Drizzled Pecan Bites: After cooling, add a dark chocolate drizzle on top for extra richness and decadent flavor.
  • Bourbon Pecan Mini Tarts: Incorporate a splash of bourbon into the filling for an adult-friendly sophisticated spin on the classic recipe.

Serving Pecan Pie Bites with Festive Flair

  • Sweet Party Platter: Arrange these bite-sized pecan treats on a decorative wooden board with fresh mint leaves for elegant presentation.
  • Dessert Companion: Serve alongside vanilla bean ice cream or whipped cream to enhance the rich, nutty flavor profile of the bites.
  • Coffee Pairing: Complement these mini pecan pies with a warm espresso or smooth caramel latte for a delightful afternoon indulgence.
  • Seasonal Styling: Garnish with a light dusting of powdered sugar during holiday gatherings to make these bites look festive and inviting.

Storing Pecan Pie Bites for Longer Enjoyment

  • Store pecan pie bites in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 5 days, keeping them fresh and preventing spoilage.
  • Wrap individual bites in plastic wrap, place in a freezer-safe container, and freeze for up to 3 months for long-term storage.
  • Remove frozen bites from the freezer and let them sit at room temperature for 30-45 minutes before serving.
  • Warm gently in a preheated oven at 300F for 5-7 minutes to restore their crispy texture and bring back the delicious flavor.

FAQs

  • Can I use a different type of nut instead of pecans?

Yes, you can substitute pecans with walnuts or almonds for a similar texture and flavor profile.

  • How do I prevent the pie bites from sticking to the pan?

Generously grease the mini muffin tin with butter or cooking spray before adding the pie crust to ensure easy removal.

  • Is it possible to make these pie bites ahead of time?

Absolutely! You can prepare the pie bites a day in advance and store them in an airtight container at room temperature.

  • Can I use a homemade pie crust instead of store-bought?

Definitely! A homemade pie crust can add a more personal touch and potentially enhance the overall flavor of the pie bites.

Print
clock clock iconcutlery cutlery iconflag flag iconfolder folder iconinstagram instagram iconpinterest pinterest iconfacebook facebook iconprint print iconsquares squares iconheart heart iconheart solid heart solid icon
Pecan Pie Bites Recipe

Pecan Pie Bites Recipe


5 Stars 4 Stars 3 Stars 2 Stars 1 Star

4.8 from 26 reviews

  • Total Time: 37 minutes
  • Yield: 12 1x

Description

Miniature pecan pie bites deliver southern comfort in one delightful morsel, offering a perfect balance of sweet caramel and nutty crunch. Guests will savor these elegant, bite-sized treats that bring classic dessert magic to any gathering.


Ingredients

Scale

Main Ingredients:

  • 1 large egg
  • 1/2 cup chopped pecans
  • 1 sheet refrigerated pie crust

Sweeteners and Liquids:

  • 1/4 cup packed brown sugar
  • 1/4 cup corn syrup
  • 1/4 cup unsalted butter, melted

Flavor Enhancers:

  • 1 teaspoon vanilla extract

Instructions

  1. Preheat the oven to 350°F and thoroughly coat a mini muffin tin with non-stick cooking spray.
  2. Carefully unroll the pie crust and use a circular cookie cutter to create precisely sized rounds that fit perfectly into each muffin cavity.
  3. Create a smooth, rich filling by vigorously whisking brown sugar, corn syrup, melted butter, vanilla extract, and egg until completely combined and glossy.
  4. Gently fold chopped pecans into the filling, ensuring even distribution throughout the mixture.
  5. Delicately spoon the pecan mixture into each prepared crust, filling each cup approximately three-quarters full to prevent overflow during baking.
  6. Place the muffin tin in the preheated oven and bake for 20-22 minutes, watching for a golden-brown color and set texture that indicates proper doneness.
  7. Remove from oven and allow the pecan bites to cool completely in the tin, which helps them maintain their shape and develop a perfect texture.
  8. Carefully remove the bites from the tin using a small offset spatula and transfer to a serving platter for an elegant presentation.

Notes

  • Customize Crust Options swap traditional pie crust with gluten-free or graham cracker versions for dietary needs.
  • Control Sweetness reduce corn syrup amount and replace with maple syrup or honey for a more natural sugar profile.
  • Perfect Texture toast pecans beforehand to enhance nutty flavor and create a crunchier bite.
  • Mini Presentation ensure even sizing of crust circles for uniform, professional-looking mini pecan pie bites.
  • Prep Time: 15 minutes
  • Cook Time: 22 minutes
  • Category: Desserts, Snacks
  • Method: Baking
  • Cuisine: American

Nutrition

  • Serving Size: 12
  • Calories: 207 kcal
  • Sugar: 14 g
  • Sodium: 95 mg
  • Fat: 15 g
  • Saturated Fat: 4 g
  • Unsaturated Fat: 10 g
  • Trans Fat: 0.1 g
  • Carbohydrates: 19 g
  • Fiber: 1 g
  • Protein: 2 g
  • Cholesterol: 27 mg
Nathaniel Brooks

Nathaniel Brooks

Founder & Recipe Developer

Expertise

Farm-to-table cuisine, Seasonal recipe development, Culinary storytelling

Education

Ivy Tech Community College – Indianapolis, IN
Culinary Arts / Hospitality Administration & Events
Focused on hands-on training in classical and modern culinary techniques. ​


Nathaniel’s story starts in the foothills of the Appalachian Mountains, where farm stands, backyard gardens, and old family recipes shaped his love for real food. After graduating from Ivy Tech Community College in Indianapolis, he spent years working in farm-to-table kitchens, learning how to turn local, seasonal ingredients into something memorable.
Today, Nathaniel pours that same spirit into every single recipe on Aspiring Culinarian – recipes that feel real, comforting, and connected to the land. When he’s not in the kitchen, you’ll find him foraging wild herbs, chasing sunsets with his camera, or writing about the flavors that shaped his roots.

Leave a Reply

Your email address will not be published. Required fields are marked *

Recipe rating 5 Stars 4 Stars 3 Stars 2 Stars 1 Star