Name: Mini Caramel Pecan Tarts
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 25 min
Total time: 40 min
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: 1 package refrigerated pie crusts (or homemade); 1 cup pumpkin purée; 1/2 cup sweetened condensed milk or evaporated milk; 1 large egg; 1/4 cup brown sugar; 1 teaspoon pumpkin pie spice; 1/2 teaspoon vanilla extract; 1/8 teaspoon salt; Whipped cream (optional, for topping); Non-stick spray

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

These tarts pack all the flavor of a classic pecan pie into a smaller, more manageable size. They’re easy to serve, make ahead, and even freeze. The combination of buttery crust, smooth caramel, and toasted pecans is irresistible, and they look elegant enough for any special occasion.

Ingredients

(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

All-purpose flour
Unsalted butter (cold and cubed)
Granulated sugar
Salt
Ice water
Brown sugar
Heavy cream
Corn syrup (light or dark)
Vanilla extract
Chopped pecans
Whole pecans (optional, for garnish)

Directions

Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
To make the crust, combine flour, sugar, and salt in a bowl. Cut in the cold butter until the mixture resembles coarse crumbs.
Add ice water, one tablespoon at a time, until the dough comes together.
Roll out the dough and cut into rounds to fit mini tart pans or a mini muffin tin. Press the dough into each cavity and prick the bottoms with a fork.
Bake the crusts for 10 minutes, then set aside to cool slightly.
In a saucepan over medium heat, combine brown sugar, heavy cream, and corn syrup. Stir constantly until the mixture begins to boil.
Remove from heat and stir in vanilla extract and chopped pecans.
Spoon the caramel pecan filling into each pre-baked tart shell.
Bake for an additional 12–15 minutes, or until the filling is set and bubbling.
Let cool completely before removing from the tins. Garnish with whole pecans if desired.

Servings and timing

This recipe yields approximately 12 mini tarts.
Prep time: 25 minutes
Cook time: 25 minutes
Cool time: 30 minutes
Total time: 1 hour 20 minutes

Variations

Chocolate Drizzle: Add a drizzle of melted dark or milk chocolate on top after baking for extra richness.
Maple Flavor: Replace corn syrup with pure maple syrup for a deeper, more complex sweetness.
Nut Mix: Use a combination of pecans, walnuts, and almonds for a mixed nut tart.
Shortbread Crust: Substitute the pastry crust with a simple shortbread base for a crumblier texture.
Mini Pie Version: Use a mini pie pan to create slightly larger individual tarts.

Storage/Reheating

Store mini caramel pecan tarts in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 2 days, or in the refrigerator for up to 5 days.
To reheat, warm in a 300°F (150°C) oven for 5–7 minutes until just heated through.
These tarts freeze well—wrap individually in plastic wrap and freeze for up to 2 months. Thaw at room temperature before serving.

FAQs

Can I make the tart dough ahead of time?

Yes, you can prepare the dough up to 3 days in advance and store it in the refrigerator. Let it soften slightly before rolling.

Can I use store-bought pie crust?

Absolutely. Store-bought pie dough or tart shells will save time and work just fine.

What kind of pecans should I use?

Use fresh, unsalted pecans. Toasting them before adding to the filling enhances their flavor.

Is corn syrup necessary?

Corn syrup helps create a smooth, gooey caramel. You can substitute with maple syrup or golden syrup for a different flavor.

How do I keep the tart crusts from getting soggy?

Pre-baking the crust (blind baking) ensures a crisp base that holds up to the filling.

Can I make these in a mini muffin tin?

Yes, a mini muffin tin works great and creates the perfect bite-sized tart.

Can I make these tarts without nuts?

Pecans are essential for traditional flavor, but you could try using oats or seeds for a nut-free variation.

How do I prevent the caramel from hardening too much?

Avoid overcooking the caramel mixture. Remove it from the heat as soon as it starts bubbling and stir in the pecans right away.

Can I top these with whipped cream?

Yes, a small dollop of whipped cream or a scoop of vanilla ice cream is a delicious finishing touch.

Are these tarts good for gifting?

Definitely. Once cooled, package them in decorative boxes or tins—they make beautiful edible gifts for the holidays.

Conclusion

Mini caramel pecan tarts are rich, elegant, and full of fall flavor. Whether you’re making them for a holiday table, a dessert buffet, or just because, these small treats offer big satisfaction. With their buttery crust and sweet nutty filling, they’re sure to become a favorite you’ll want to make again and again.