Mini Pecan Cups with Frosting – A Bite-Sized Southern Delight

Introduction

If you’re looking for the perfect miniature dessert that combines the rich, buttery flavor of pecans with a creamy frosting swirl, these Mini Pecan Cups with Frosting are a must-bake. Each little cup delivers a satisfying crunch with a melt-in-your-mouth finish. Perfect for holiday trays, afternoon teas, or party desserts, this recipe takes a Southern classic and turns it into a handheld masterpiece. And best of all? They’re easy, impressive, and totally irresistible.

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Ingredients

For the Pecan Cup Shells:

• 1 cup unsalted butter (softened)
• 6 oz cream cheese (softened)
• 2 cups all-purpose flour
• Pinch of salt

For the Pecan Filling:

• 1½ cups packed brown sugar
• 2 large eggs
• 2 tablespoons unsalted butter (melted)
• 1 teaspoon pure vanilla extract
• 1 cup chopped pecans

For the Frosting:

• ½ cup unsalted butter (softened)
• 4 oz cream cheese (softened)
• 1½ cups powdered sugar
• ½ teaspoon vanilla extract
• Optional: pinch of cinnamon for extra flavor

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Instructions

Step 1: Prepare the Pecan Cup Shells

1. In a large mixing bowl, beat together the softened butter and cream cheese until fluffy.
2. Gradually add in flour and a pinch of salt, mixing just until combined. Do not overmix.
3. Chill the dough for 30 minutes.
4. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
5. Divide dough into small balls (about 1-inch each) and press into greased mini muffin tins, forming small cup shapes. You can use a tart tamper or your fingers.

Step 2: Make the Pecan Filling

1. In a separate bowl, whisk brown sugar, eggs, melted butter, and vanilla extract until smooth.
2. Stir in chopped pecans.
3. Spoon about 1 tablespoon of the pecan mixture into each prepared dough cup—fill nearly to the top.

Step 3: Bake the Cups

1. Bake for 20–22 minutes, or until the filling is set and the shells are lightly golden.
2. Let them cool in the pan for 10 minutes before transferring to a wire rack to cool completely.

Step 4: Prepare the Frosting

1. Beat together softened butter and cream cheese until creamy.
2. Add powdered sugar and vanilla extract. Beat until fluffy.
3. Transfer frosting to a piping bag fitted with a small star tip.

Step 5: Decorate and Serve

1. Once pecan cups are fully cooled, pipe a small swirl of frosting on top of each.
2. Garnish with a mini pecan half or sprinkle of cinnamon if desired.

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Storage and Make-Ahead Tips

• Store these mini pecan cups in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days.
• For longer storage, freeze the unfrosted pecan cups and frost before serving.
• You can also make the frosting 1 day in advance and refrigerate it, then bring it to room temperature before piping.

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Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Bite-Sized: Perfect for portion control and easy to serve at events.
• Classic Flavor: Tastes like pecan pie, but without the fuss of rolling crust.
• Frosting Upgrade: The added cream cheese frosting gives a creamy, tangy contrast to the sweet filling.

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Variations to Try

• Add a splash of bourbon to the pecan filling for a Southern twist.
• Use maple extract instead of vanilla for a deeper fall flavor.
• Try a chocolate drizzle on top instead of frosting for a different take.

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Pairing Ideas

These mini pecan cups pair beautifully with:

• A hot cup of espresso or cappuccino
• A glass of chilled milk
• A fall-themed cocktail like spiced apple cider

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Expert Tips

• Use a tart tamper to get even dough cups quickly.
• Don’t overfill with pecan mixture — it can bubble over.
• Let them cool completely before frosting, or your swirl will melt.

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Nutrition (per piece)

• Calories: 185
• Fat: 12g
• Carbs: 16g
• Sugar: 9g
• Protein: 2g

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Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

Can I make these gluten-free?

Yes! Substitute the all-purpose flour with a 1:1 gluten-free baking blend.

Can I skip the frosting?

Absolutely. These are still delicious without it, more like mini pecan pies.

Can I double the batch?

Yes, this recipe easily doubles. Use two mini muffin tins or bake in batches.

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Printable Recipe Card Summary

Mini Pecan Cups with Frosting

• Prep Time: 20 min
• Cook Time: 22 min
• Total Time: 45 min
• Yield: 24 mini cups
• Category: Dessert
• Method: Baking
• Cuisine: American (Southern-inspired)

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