Today, I’m excited to share with you a recipe that’s sure to become a staple in your kitchen: a deliciously decadent pecan tart. If you’re a fan of rich, buttery crusts and gooey caramelized pecans, then you’re in for a treat with this Southern-inspired dessert. So, grab your apron and let’s get baking!
Before we dive into the recipe, let’s chat about why pecan tart deserves a spot on your dessert menu. Picture this: a flaky, golden crust filled with a luscious caramelized pecan filling, each bite bursting with sweet, nutty goodness. Whether you’re serving it up for a holiday feast, a cozy family dinner, or simply as a weekend indulgence, pecan tart is the ultimate comfort dessert that never fails to impress. Plus, it’s surprisingly simple to make, requiring just a handful of ingredients and a bit of baking know-how.
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Crust:
- 1 1/4 cups all-purpose flour
- 1/4 cup granulated sugar
- 1/2 cup cold unsalted butter, cubed
- Pinch of salt
- 1 egg yolk
- 2 tablespoons ice water
For the Filling:
- 1 cup light corn syrup
- 3/4 cup packed brown sugar
- 3 large eggs
- 2 tablespoons unsalted butter, melted
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 2 cups pecan halves
Crafting Your Pecan Tart:
Step 1: Make the Crust: Start by preparing the crust. In a mixing bowl, combine the flour, sugar, and salt. Add the cold butter cubes and use a pastry cutter or your fingers to work the butter into the flour mixture until it resembles coarse crumbs. Mix in the egg yolk and ice water until the dough comes together. Press the dough into a tart pan, covering the bottom and sides evenly. Pop it in the fridge to chill while you prepare the filling.
Step 2: Prepare the Filling: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). In a separate bowl, whisk together the corn syrup, brown sugar, eggs, melted butter, and vanilla extract until smooth and well combined. Stir in the pecan halves until they’re evenly coated in the mixture.
Step 3: Assemble and Bake: Remove the chilled tart crust from the fridge and pour the pecan filling into it, spreading it out evenly. Place the tart on a baking sheet (just in case of any drips) and bake in the preheated oven for 40-45 minutes, or until the filling is set and the crust is golden brown.
Step 4: Cool and Serve: Once baked, remove the pecan tart from the oven and let it cool completely before slicing. Trust me, I know it’s tempting to dive right in, but giving it time to cool ensures that the filling sets properly and the flavors have a chance to meld together. Once cooled, slice into wedges and serve with a dollop of whipped cream or a scoop of vanilla ice cream for the ultimate indulgence.
Tips and Tricks:
- Don’t stress about making the crust perfect! A rustic, homemade look adds to the charm of this dessert.
- Feel free to customize the filling by adding a splash of bourbon or a sprinkle of cinnamon for an extra flavor boost.
- Store any leftover pecan tart in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 2 days, or in the fridge for up to a week. Just be sure to warm it slightly before serving for that fresh-out-of-the-oven taste.
And there you have it, folks—a mouthwatering pecan tart that’s guaranteed to steal the show at any gathering. With its buttery crust, gooey caramelized filling, and crunchy pecan topping, this dessert is a true Southern classic that’s sure to please even the pickiest of palates. So, next time you’re craving a little taste of comfort, whip up a batch of this pecan tart and let its sweet, nutty flavors transport you to dessert heaven. Happy baking!