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Pecan Tarte

A classic pecan tart that combines a flaky crust with sweet, syrupy pecans for a delightful dessert perfect for holiday gatherings.

Difficulty
Difficulty
Medium
Prep Time
Prep Time
90 min
Cost
Cost
Medium
Calories
450
Protein
4g
Sugar
22g
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Pecan Tart

The pecan tart is a cherished dessert, renowned for its rich, nutty flavor and gooey texture. It traces its origins back to the American South, where pecans naturally thrive. This recipe brings the essence of those warm, southern traditions to your kitchen. Whether for a holiday celebration, a special occasion, or just a treat for your sweet tooth, the pecan tart is a timeless classic.

Ingredients

History of the Pecan Tart

Pecan tarts have a storied history in the United States, especially in the Southern states like Georgia and Texas, which are some of the largest producers of pecans. The tart as we know it today evolved from traditional pie-making practices that immigrants brought to America, blending with local ingredients. The use of corn syrup became popular in the early 20th century, which revolutionized the stickiness and sweetness of the filling, thus defining the modern pecan tart.

Preparation

Making the Crust

To start your pecan tart, first, focus on the crust. Classic tart crusts are buttery and serve as a neutral base to complement the sweet, nutty filling. Here’s what you’ll need to do:

  1. In a bowl, combine 1 1/4 cups of all-purpose flour with 1/4 teaspoon of salt. Stir together to ensure even distribution.
  2. Add 1/2 cup of chilled, diced butter.
  3. Using a pastry cutter or your hands, blend until the mixture resembles coarse crumbs.
  4. Slowly add a few tablespoons of water, one tablespoon at a time, mixing gently until the dough comes together.
  5. Roll the dough into a ball, wrap it in plastic wrap, and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes.

Preparing the Filling

With the dough chilling, turn your attention to the filling, where the characteristic flavours of the pecan tart come to life:

  1. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
  2. In a large bowl, beat 3 eggs.
  3. Add 1 cup of sugar, 1 cup of corn syrup, 1/2 cup of melted butter, and 1 teaspoon of vanilla extract to the eggs. Mix these ingredients well.
  4. Stir in 1 1/2 cups of whole or chopped pecans. Stir until the coating is even and glossy.

Assemble and Bake

The assembly is straightforward but requires a bit of precision to ensure the perfect texture:

  1. Remove the dough from the refrigerator and roll it out on a lightly floured surface until it’s about 1/8-inch thick.
  2. Carefully fold it into the tart pan, pressing it gently to fit without stretching it.
  3. Pour the pecan filling into the crust, spreading it evenly.
  4. Bake in your preheated oven for 45-50 minutes, or until the filling is set and slightly puffed.
  5. Allow it to cool before serving.
  6. For precise timing, set a cooking timer to keep track of the bake time, ensuring the edges of your crust do not overcook.

Enjoying Your Pecan Tart

Enjoying a pecan tart is a delightful experience. Here are some serving suggestions to enhance your experience:

  • For a classic presentation, serve the tart warm or at room temperature, cutting neat slices with a sharp serrated knife.
  • Add a dollop of whipped cream or a scoop of vanilla ice cream on top to balance the tart’s sweetness.
  • Pair with a cup of coffee or a glass of bourbon to highlight the dessert’s flavors.
  • This tart can be stored in the refrigerator for up to three days and makes for great leftovers.

The pecan tart is not just a dessert; it’s a slice of tradition and culinary history that brings friends and family together. Enjoy!

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