Heavenly Pecan Cups Recipe: Sweet Treats in a Snap
Dessert lovers swoon over these delectable pecan delight cups that combine rich, buttery textures with irresistible sweetness.
Nutty pecans dance through a creamy filling, creating a mouthwatering treat that melts on your tongue.
Each bite delivers a perfect balance of crisp and smooth flavors that’ll make your taste buds sing.
The simple yet elegant recipe brings together classic Southern comfort with a touch of gourmet charm.
Decadent layers of velvety goodness promise to impress even the most discerning dessert enthusiasts.
These pecan delight cups are the ultimate indulgence for any occasion, from casual gatherings to special celebrations.
One taste, and you’ll understand why this dessert has become a cherished favorite among sweet-toothed food lovers.
How to Fill and Bake Pecan Cups Just Right
Sweet Pecan Hideaways
Oven Warmup Get the kitchen ready by heating the oven to a toasty 350 degrees. Grab those cute little tart pans waiting on the sidelines.
Nutty Magic Whisk together a dreamy blend of melted butter, rich brown sugar, eggs, and a splash of vanilla. Sprinkle in some finely chopped pecans, creating a mouth-watering filling that'll make taste buds dance.
Dough Creation In a separate bowl, transform softened butter and cream cheese into a silky smooth mixture. Gradually fold in flour until a tender dough emerges.
Cup Crafting Roll tiny dough balls and nestle them into each tart pan section. Gently press down to shape delicate cups that'll cradle the pecan goodness.
Filling Moment Carefully spoon the pecan mixture into each dough cup, leaving just enough room for that perfect bite.
Golden Transformation Slide the pans into the waiting oven. Let the magic happen for 25-30 minutes until the edges turn a gorgeous golden brown.
Cooling Comfort Rescue your beautiful pecan hideaways from the oven and transfer to a cooling rack. Patience is key – let them rest and settle into their delicious final form.
Dough Handling Magic: Chill the dough for 15-20 minutes before forming cups to prevent sticking and make shaping easier.
Nutty Flavor Boost: Toast pecans briefly in a dry skillet before chopping to intensify their rich, warm flavor and add depth to the filling.
Texture Transformation: Swap half the pecans with crispy bacon bits for a sweet-savory surprise that'll wow your taste buds.
Decorative Finish: Drizzle melted dark chocolate over cooled cups or sprinkle powdered sugar for an elegant bakery-style presentation.
Make-Ahead Magic: Prepare dough and filling up to two days in advance, storing separately in the refrigerator for stress-free entertaining.
Serve Pecan Cups as Bites or on Dessert Trays
Party Platter Perfection: Arrange these delicate pecan cups on a beautiful tiered dessert stand, creating an elegant display that will wow your guests at any celebration.
Brunch Beverage Companion: Serve these sweet treats alongside a warm cup of coffee or a refreshing mimosa for a delightful morning indulgence that complements your favorite brunch beverages.
Gift-Worthy Delicacy: Package these pecan cups in a charming gift box with ribbon, making them a thoughtful homemade present for friends, family, or holiday gatherings that shows you care.
Dessert Table Star: Garnish each cup with a light dusting of powdered sugar or a small mint leaf to elevate their visual appeal and add a touch of sophistication to your dessert spread.
Store Pecan Cups in Tins or Airtight Containers
Fridge Fresh Strategy: Store Pecan Delight Cups in an airtight container, layered between parchment paper, keeping them fresh for up to 5 days in the refrigerator.
Freezer Friendly Approach: Wrap individual cups in plastic wrap, then place in a freezer-safe container. Frozen treats will maintain quality for 3 months, perfect for make-ahead dessert lovers.
Quick Thaw Technique: Remove frozen cups from the freezer 2-3 hours before serving, allowing them to gradually reach room temperature for optimal taste and texture.
Serving Temperature Hack: Enjoy these delightful cups slightly chilled from the refrigerator or at room temperature, depending on personal preference and occasion.
Quick Recipe Overview
Prep Time: 20 minutes
Cook Time: 30 minutes
Total Time: 50 minutes
Calories: 410 kcal
Servings: 13
What Goes Into Pecan Cups
For Dough Base:
Butter: Provides rich, creamy texture and helps create a tender pastry crust.
Cream Cheese: Adds tangy flavor and ensures a soft, smooth dough consistency.
Flour: Creates structure and helps bind the dough ingredients together.
For Filling:
Brown Sugar: Delivers deep, caramel-like sweetness and helps create a gooey filling.
Eggs: Bind the filling ingredients and contribute to the smooth, rich texture.
Pecans: Add nutty crunch and authentic southern flavor to the dessert.
Vanilla Extract: Enhances overall flavor profile with warm, comforting aroma.
Melted Butter: Adds richness and helps create a silky, cohesive filling.
For Finishing:
No additional ingredients needed for finishing the recipe.
Tools for Mini Pecan Cup Success
Mixing bowl: Essential for combining filling ingredients smoothly.
Tart pans: Small, ungreased pans create perfect cup shapes for delicate pastries.
Measuring cups: Precise measurements ensure consistent dough and filling.
Spoon: Great for scooping dough and filling pecan cups carefully.
Homemade pecan delight cups blend Southern comfort with sweet indulgence. Nutty layers and caramel notes create a mouthwatering dessert experience you’ll savor with pure culinary joy.
Ingredients
Scale
12 oz (340 g) cream cheese, softened
2 cups unsalted butter, softened
4 cups all-purpose flour
2 cups finely chopped pecans
1 ½ cups brown sugar
2 large eggs
1 tsp pure vanilla extract
4 tbsps unsalted butter, melted
Instructions
Preparation: Heat oven to 350°F and arrange tart pans without greasing.
Filling Creation: Whisk melted butter with brown sugar, eggs, and vanilla extract until smooth. Incorporate finely chopped pecans and let flavors meld while preparing the dough.
Dough Development: Cream softened butter and cream cheese until silky. Gradually blend in flour, mixing consistently to form a uniform dough.
Cup Formation: Shape dough into small spheres and gently press into tart pan sections, creating delicate cup-like indentations.
Filling and Baking: Carefully spoon pecan mixture into dough cups, ensuring even distribution. Bake for 25-30 minutes until golden brown and set.
Cooling and Finishing: Transfer baked pecan delights to a cooling rack, allowing them to completely cool and firm up before serving or storing.
Notes
Butter Temperature Matters: Ensure butter is softened at room temperature for seamless blending and optimal dough consistency.
Precise Pecan Chopping: Finely chop pecans to distribute flavor evenly and create a uniform texture throughout the filling.
Dough Handling Technique: Roll dough gently and use light pressure when shaping cups to prevent dense, tough pastry.
Cooling is Crucial: Allow pecan cups to cool completely on the rack to set the filling and maintain structural integrity.
Recipe Development, Food Styling and Photography, Seasonal and Local Ingredients, Vegetarian and Vegan Cuisine, Culinary Education
Education
Portland Community College
Degree: Associate of Applied Science in Culinary Arts
Focus: Comprehensive training in culinary techniques, kitchen management, and food safety. Gained hands-on experience in preparing diverse cuisines and understanding flavor profiles
Oregon Culinary Institute
Program: Baking and Pastry Certificate
Focus: Specialized education in baking fundamentals, pastry arts, and dessert presentation. Emphasized creativity and precision in crafting baked goods.
Jessica Martin is a talented food writer and recipe creator who specializes in seasonal cooking and approachable home baking.
Educated at Portland Community College with additional pastry training from Oregon Culinary Institute, Jessica’s culinary journey spans nearly a decade of creating and sharing flavorful recipes.
Her deep appreciation for local ingredients shapes each of her recipes, making them both accessible and inspiring. At Beard and Bonnet, Jessica uses her cheerful, down-to-earth writing to help readers effortlessly bring new tastes and creative dishes into their daily routines.
Jessica Martin
Recipe Developer & Food Writer
Expertise
Recipe Development, Food Styling and Photography, Seasonal and Local Ingredients, Vegetarian and Vegan Cuisine, Culinary Education
Education
Portland Community College
Oregon Culinary Institute
Jessica Martin is a talented food writer and recipe creator who specializes in seasonal cooking and approachable home baking.
Educated at Portland Community College with additional pastry training from Oregon Culinary Institute, Jessica’s culinary journey spans nearly a decade of creating and sharing flavorful recipes.
Her deep appreciation for local ingredients shapes each of her recipes, making them both accessible and inspiring. At Beard and Bonnet, Jessica uses her cheerful, down-to-earth writing to help readers effortlessly bring new tastes and creative dishes into their daily routines.