Sharing is caring!

Mini Maple Bacon Pecan Tarts: A Sweet & Savory Delight!

Picture this: it’s a crisp fall afternoon, you’re enjoying a cozy moment with your loved ones, and suddenly someone says the magical words: dessert! What if I told you that a mini indulgence filled with the rich flavors of maple, the crunch of pecans, and a hint of crispy bacon could take your treat game to a whole new level? Yes, you guessed it! Today, we’re whipping up Mini Maple Bacon Pecan Tarts, a recipe that’s not only delicious but also incredibly simple—perfect for busy moms and professionals alike.

Why You’ll Love Mini Maple Bacon Pecan Tarts

These adorable tarts are here to be the life of your gathering, even if it’s just a Tuesday night at home with the family. They bring that beautiful balance of sweet and savory, which means they’re not just a dessert; they’re a conversation starter. Who wouldn’t enjoy a little homemade charm featuring maple and crispy bacon tucked into a buttery pecan crust? It’s the kind of dish that will make your kitchen smell like heaven on a rainy day!

Ingredients You’ll Need

Before your apron goes on, let’s gather the stars of our show. Here’s what you need for these tiny powerhouses of flavor:

For the Tart Crust:

• 1 cup all-purpose flour
• ½ cup finely chopped pecans
• ¼ cup unsalted butter, melted
• 2 tablespoons granulated sugar
• ¼ teaspoon salt

For the Filling:

• ½ cup maple syrup (the good stuff, trust me!)
• 1 large egg
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
• ½ cup cooked bacon, chopped into bite-sized pieces
• ½ cup finely chopped pecans (extra for the topping)

And voilà! You’re just a few simple steps away from dessert glory!

Making Mini Maple Bacon Pecan Tarts

Alright, let’s roll up those sleeves and get to the fun part! Here’s how you will create these delightful treats:

Step 1: Preheat and Prepare

Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). While that’s warming up, grab a mini muffin tin and generously grease it. You don’t want your tarts to play hide-and-seek once baked!

Step 2: Make the Crust

In a mixing bowl, combine the flour, finely chopped pecans, melted butter, sugar, and salt. Stir until you have a crumbly mix. Now, here’s the fun part: press a small amount of the mixture into each cup of the muffin tin to form your crusts. Aim for about ¼ inch thickness. You can taste test along the way—quality control, right?

Step 3: Prepare the Filling

In another bowl, whisk together the maple syrup, egg, and vanilla extract until smooth. Stir in the chopped bacon and pecans. This filling is so good, I could nearly drink it! (Don’t worry, I’ll stop myself.)

Step 4: Assemble and Bake

Spoon the filling evenly into your crusts, being careful not to overfill—nobody likes a lava tart! Bake for about 15-20 minutes or until the edges start to brown slightly and the filling sets. The aroma wafting through your house will have everyone hooked!

Step 5: Cool and Serve

Let the tarts cool in the pan for a few minutes before gently removing them. Place on a wire rack to cool completely. At this point, you can let your imagination run wild—serve them warm, or refrigerate them for a chilled treat later!

Cooking Tips for Perfect Tarts

• Mad for Maple? If you love that maple flavor, feel free to drizzle a little extra on top before serving. It’s all about indulgence, darling!
• Nuts About Nuts: Don’t shy away from mixing different nuts based on your preference. Walnuts or hazelnuts could add a delightful twist.
• Bacon Lovers Unite: If you can’t find bacon, you can substitute with crispy pancetta or even use a plant-based bacon if you’re feeling adventurous.

And there you have it—delicious mini tarts with a little crunch and a lot of flavor.

FAQs About Mini Maple Bacon Pecan Tarts

Can I substitute the bacon?
Absolutely! If you want this to be vegetarian, you can use crispy fried shallots or even sunflower seeds for that delightful crunch.

How can I store leftovers?
These tarts are best enjoyed fresh, but if you have leftovers, store them in an airtight container in the fridge for up to three days. Just pop them into the oven for a few minutes to warm up before devouring.

A Final Thought

Whether you’re making these tarts for a special gathering, filling up your treat jar, or simply for a cozy night at home, Mini Maple Bacon Pecan Tarts will not only satisfy your sweet cravings but also bring a smile to everyone’s face. Don’t forget to grab a cup of coffee or tea while you’re at it—everything’s better with a warm drink in hand!

So, what are you waiting for? Gather those ingredients and get ready to create some culinary magic! Your taste buds and your loved ones will thank you.

Ready to try other delicious treats? Check out my chocolate chip cookie recipe for another sure-fire crowd-pleaser, or learn how to whip up a fresh batch of apple pie that’ll have everyone asking for seconds!

Meta Description: Mini Maple Bacon Pecan Tarts are the perfect recipe for those craving sweet and savory bites. Quick, easy, and utterly delicious—give them a try today!