Are you dreaming of a decadent dessert that's both impressive and surprisingly simple to make? Look no further than this Pecan Pie Tart! This recipe offers all the rich, nutty goodness of a classic pecan pie but in a more manageable, elegant tart form. Perfect for holidays, potlucks, or a cozy night in, this recipe is a guaranteed crowd-pleaser. Forget those complicated, time-consuming desserts; this one is your shortcut to homemade deliciousness! Let's get baking!
Ingredients:
For the Crust:
- 1 1/4 cups all-purpose flour
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 cup (1 stick) unsalted butter, chilled and cubed
- 1/4 cup ice water
For the Filling:
- 1 cup granulated sugar
- 1/2 cup packed light brown sugar
- 1/4 cup unsalted butter, melted
- 1/4 cup light corn syrup
- 2 large eggs
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
- 2 cups pecan halves
Instructions:
Make the Crust:
- Combine dry ingredients: In a large bowl, whisk together the flour and salt.
- Cut in the butter: Add the chilled butter cubes and use a pastry blender or your fingertips to cut the butter into the flour until the mixture resembles coarse crumbs.
- Add water: Gradually add the ice water, mixing until the dough just comes together. Don't overmix.
- Chill the dough: Form the dough into a disk, wrap it in plastic wrap, and chill in the refrigerator for at least 30 minutes.
- Roll and bake: On a lightly floured surface, roll out the dough into a 12-inch circle. Carefully transfer it to a 9-inch tart pan with a removable bottom. Trim and crimp the edges. Prick the bottom of the crust with a fork. Blind bake for 15 minutes at 375°F (190°C).
Make the Filling and Assemble:
- Combine wet ingredients: In a large bowl, whisk together the granulated sugar, brown sugar, melted butter, corn syrup, eggs, vanilla extract, and salt until well combined.
- Add pecans: Stir in the pecan halves.
- Pour filling into crust: Pour the pecan filling into the pre-baked tart shell.
- Bake: Bake for 35-40 minutes, or until the filling is set and golden brown. A toothpick inserted near the center should come out with moist crumbs attached.
- Cool: Let the tart cool completely on a wire rack before removing it from the pan and serving.
Tips for Pecan Pie Tart Success:
- Use good quality pecans: The flavor of your pecans will significantly impact the final taste of your tart.
- Don't overbake: Overbaking can lead to a dry filling. Start checking for doneness around 35 minutes.
- Let it cool completely: This allows the filling to set properly and prevents a messy, runny tart.
- Blind baking is key: This prevents a soggy bottom crust.
Variations:
- Spiced Pecan Tart: Add 1/2 teaspoon of cinnamon, 1/4 teaspoon of nutmeg, and a pinch of cloves to the filling for a warm, spiced flavor.
- Chocolate Pecan Tart: Melt 1/4 cup of dark chocolate and stir it into the filling for a rich chocolate pecan treat.
- Bourbon Pecan Tart: Add 1 tablespoon of bourbon to the filling for an adult twist on this classic dessert.
Nutritional Information (per serving, approximate):
Calories: Approximately 350-400 Fat: Approximately 20-25g Carbohydrates: Approximately 40-45g Protein: Approximately 4-5g
This nutritional information is an estimate and may vary depending on the specific ingredients used. Enjoy your delicious homemade Pecan Pie Tart! It's the perfect easy recipe for a healthy-ish indulgence, perfect for quick dinner ideas or any occasion that calls for a truly delicious dish. This is undoubtedly one of the best recipes you'll find for a homemade treat!