Old Fashioned Pecan Tassies – The Little Cookie Cups That Taste Like the Holidays

Some recipes don’t need a season, but they always feel like one. Old Fashioned Pecan Tassies are those tiny, perfect treats that show up on cookie trays, at church bake sales, and on grandma’s best plate when company comes over.

They’re like miniature pecan pies — buttery cream cheese pastry on the outside, sweet nutty filling inside — baked into bite-sized cups that disappear faster than you expect. People take one “just to try,” then quietly come back for two more.

These tassies are old-school, dependable, and exactly the kind of dessert that makes a kitchen smell like memories.

---

Old Fashioned Pecan Tassies

Ingredients

For the Dough

• 1 cup (2 sticks) butter, softened

• 6 oz cream cheese, softened

• 2 cups all-purpose flour

For the Filling

• 1 cup packed brown sugar

• 1 tbsp melted butter

• 1 large egg

• 1 tsp vanilla extract

• Pinch of salt

• ¾ cup chopped pecans

---

Instructions

1) Make the Dough

1. Beat butter and cream cheese until smooth.

2. Add flour and mix until a soft dough forms.

3. Cover and chill for 30–60 minutes for easier shaping.

2) Preheat & Prep

Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease a mini muffin pan.

3) Shape the Cups

1. Roll dough into 1-inch balls.

2. Place each ball in a muffin cup and press the dough up the sides to form a small cup.

4) Make the Filling

1. In a bowl, mix brown sugar, melted butter, egg, vanilla, and salt until smooth.

2. Stir in chopped pecans.

5) Fill & Bake

1. Spoon filling into each dough cup (don’t overfill).

2. Bake for 18–22 minutes until the edges are lightly golden.

6) Cool

Let tassies cool in the pan for 5–10 minutes, then gently remove to cool completely.

---

Why These Tassies Work

• Cream cheese dough bakes tender and buttery

• Brown sugar filling tastes like pecan pie

• Mini size makes them perfect for trays and parties

• They store well and taste even better the next day

---

Tips for Perfect Pecan Tassies

• Chill dough so it’s easier to press into cups

• Don’t overfill — the filling puffs slightly

• Use a teaspoon or small cookie scoop for even portions

• Let them cool before removing to prevent breaking

• Toast pecans for deeper flavor (optional but amazing)

---

Serving Suggestions

• Dust lightly with powdered sugar

• Add a drizzle of caramel for extra indulgence

• Serve on holiday cookie trays

• Pair with coffee or tea

---

FAQ – Old Fashioned Pecan Tassies

Are pecan tassies the same as mini pecan pies?

Very similar, but tassies have a cream-cheese pastry-style crust that’s softer and richer.

Can I make them ahead of time?

Yes. They’re great made 1–2 days ahead and stored airtight.

How do I store pecan tassies?

Store in an airtight container at room temperature for 3–4 days, or refrigerate for up to a week.

Can I freeze them?

Yes. Freeze in a sealed container up to 2 months. Thaw at room temperature.