Pecan Tassies

A cross between a shortbread cookie and a bite of pecan pie, a pecan tassie is the kind of bite-size dessert that offers just the right amount of decadence in an adorable package. The dough that surrounds the filling is made out of a simple blend of butter, cream cheese, flour, and ground pecans. Because there's no sugar in the dough, it's entirely savory—buttery, nutty, and slightly tangy from the cream cheese—making a rich base that complements the sweet pecan filling. Cream cheese in the dough also makes the pastry itself very soft. Just like a pecan pie, the pastry supporting the sweet filling of these cookies is made to be a savory contrast so the dessert isn't overwhelming. As for the components that comprise the filling, it's a scrumptious mix of brown sugar, maple syrup, vanilla, and bourbon. These robust ingredients mingle into a cocktail of flavors perfect for the unmistakable richness of toasted pecans. The maple syrup lends a unique edge that isn't common in pecan pie, but it's this addition that gives the pecan tassie it's unique taste, distinguishing it from other pecan-based desserts. Perfect to keep around the house or to serve at a party, bake these pecan tassies for a treat that's as simple as a cookie and as decadent as a pie.