01 -
Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Lightly grease a 4-inch tart pan with a removable bottom or a small ramekin. This initial step sets the stage for your delicious Mini Pecan Pie: A Perfect American Dessert for One.
02 -
In a small bowl, combine 1/4 cup all-purpose flour, 1 tsp granulated sugar, and a pinch of salt. Cut in 2 tbsp cold, cubed unsalted butter using your fingertips or a pastry blender until pea-sized crumbs form. Add 1 tbsp ice water, mixing until just combined.
03 -
On a lightly floured surface, roll the dough into a 5-inch circle. Carefully transfer it to your prepared 4-inch tart pan. Trim any excess dough, crimp the edges as desired, then chill the crust for 10 minutes. This helps prevent shrinkage for your Mini Pecan Pie: A Perfect American Dessert for One.
04 -
In another small bowl, whisk together 2 tbsp light corn syrup, 1 tbsp packed light brown sugar, 1 tbsp melted unsalted butter, 1 large egg yolk, 1/2 tsp vanilla extract, and a pinch of salt until smooth. Stir in 1/4 cup chopped pecans.
05 -
Pour the pecan filling into the chilled pie crust. Arrange 2 whole pecan halves decoratively on top. Bake for 30 minutes, or until the crust is golden and the filling is set but still slightly jiggly in the center.
06 -
Let your Mini Pecan Pie: A Perfect American Dessert for One cool completely on a wire rack, about 1-2 hours. Once cooled, gently brush the pecan halves with 1/4 tsp melted unsalted butter for a beautiful, glossy shine.