Crunchy Pecan Pie Bites

Package Crunchy Pecan Pie Bites in pretty airtight containers to add holiday jazz to your kitchen countertops. They can also be frozen in large zip-top plastic freezer bags for up to one month; just bring to room temperature before serving.

Ingredients:

• 3 cups chopped pecans
• 3/4 cup sugar 
• 3/4 cup dark corn syrup
• 3 large eggs, lightly beaten 
• 2 tablespoons melted butter
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
• 1/8 teaspoon salt
• 5 (2.1-oz.) packages frozen mini-phyllo pastry shells

Directions:

1. 1. Preheat oven to 350º. Bake pecans in a single layer in a shallow pan 8 to 10 minutes or until toasted and fragrant.
2. 2. Stir together sugar and corn syrup in a medium bowl. Stir in pecans, eggs, and next 3 ingredients.
3. 3. Spoon about 1 heaping teaspoonful pecan mixture into each pastry shell, and place on 2 large baking sheets.
4. 4. Bake at 350º for 20 to 22 minutes or until set. Remove to wire racks, and let cool completely (about 30 minutes). Store in an airtight container for up to 3 days.
5. Mini Pecan Pies: Substitute 1 1/2 (8-oz.) packages frozen tart shells for frozen mini-phyllo pastry shells. Prepare recipe as directed through Step 2. Spoon about 1/4 cup pecan mixture into each tart shell. Place tart shells on a large baking sheet. Proceed with recipe as directed in Step 4, increasing bake time to 25 to 30 minutes or until set. Garnish with currants, if desired. Makes 1 dozen. Prep: 15 min., Bake: 30 min.

Note: 

 

Baking time is 22 minutes per batch.

Rose M. Clinton, Alexandria, Louisiana, Southern Living
NOVEMBER 2008