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How do you make dessert even better? Make it into an adorable hand-held mini size! Maple Pecan Tarts are a darling little spinoff of your family’s favorite classic Pecan Pie. Pecan Pie is a holiday staple at our Thanksgiving table (along with squash and apple too!). So I knew my family would love this pint sized recipe that just tastes like the holidays. The melt in your mouth maple pecan filling is rich and dreamy and just oozing with nostalgia. Pair that with an easy to assemble, delectable tart crust, and Maple Pecan Tarts are sure to bring everyone home for the holidays. You’ll be making memories with every bite!

Here’s all you’ll need: butter, cream cheese, flour, eggs, brown sugar, maple syrup, vanilla extract, salt, and pecan halves.

First let’s make that absolutely wonderful tart crust. In a large bowl, cream 1 cup of butter and cream cheese until nice and smooth. It’s easier to work with if they’re both softened a bit. Toss them in the microwave for 30 seconds or so if you need to. I’m just here to make your life easier! You’re welcome!

Next gradually beat in the flour, half a cup at a time, to form a soft dough. Shape it into a ball and then flatten into a disc. Wrap the dough in plastic wrap and chill in the refrigerator for one hour or until firm. Trust me, it’s SO worth the wait!!

Remove the dough from the fridge and divide it into 12 equal as can be portions. Shape each portion into a ball and roll it out on a lightly floured surface, to form a 5-inch circle. If you find the dough to be too firm, just warm it up with your hands a little bit. The heat from your hands will naturally make it more pliable.

Transfer each portion to a 4-inch tart pan (with removable bottom). Press the dough into the tart pan and trim any excess dough that hangs over the edges. Place the tarts on a baking sheet (it makes them much easier to handle) and refrigerate for 20 minutes. You can line the baking sheets with parchment paper if you like for an even easier cleanup.

Meanwhile let’s mix up that amazing Maple Pecan Tart filling. In a large bowl, whisk together the eggs, brown sugar, maple syrup, 2/3 cup melted butter, vanilla extract and a dash of salt. I grew up in Niagara Falls, NY, right on the border of Canada, so maple syrup is a must in the flavor department!

Pour about 1/4 of a cup of filling into each tart shell. Be careful not to overfill or you’ll have maple pecan filling oozing over the sides.

Finally arrange the pecans on top of the filling. Bake in a 375 degree preheated oven for 25-30 minutes or until the centers are just about set. This is one of the only times in your life when you can be happy about a little jiggle! Remove from the oven and transfer Maple Pecan Tarts to wire racks to cool.

Serve with vanilla ice cream, whipped cream, you can have whatever you like! I’d love to hear some of your variations!! Make your Thanksgiving dessert table one to remember this year and try our Ginger Streusel Pumpkin Pie, Over The Top Apple Pie Cheesecake or Apple Hand Pies!

We’d love to hear from you! Leave us your comments and love down below!

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