Description
Dive into the rich flavors of Pecan Delight Shortbread Bites, an exquisite dessert that masterfully combines the crisp texture of shortbread with a luscious pecan caramel topping. Ideal for serving at gatherings or enjoying as a personal treat, these bites offer a delightful contrast of flavors and textures that are sure to satisfy any sweet tooth.
Ingredients
Shortbread:
- 1 cup flour
- 1/4 tsp salt
- 1/3 cup powdered sugar
- 1/2 cup margarine
Pecan Topping:
- 1.5 cups chopped pecans
- 1/2 cup brown sugar
- 1/3 cup full fat coconut milk
- 2 tbsp maple syrup
- 4 tbsp margarine
- 1/4 tsp salt
- 1 tsp vanilla extract
Step-by-Step Directions
1. Preparing the Shortbread Base
Preheat your oven to 350 degrees Fahrenheit. In a medium bowl, combine the flour, salt, and powdered sugar. Cut the margarine into small chunks and use your fingers to blend it with the dry ingredients until the mixture forms a dough. Divide this dough into 12 equal pieces, press each piece into muffin tins lined with liners, covering the bottom and sides. Poke several holes in the dough using a fork. Place the tins in the freezer for 30 minutes, then bake for 5 minutes, rotate the tins, and continue to bake for an additional 7-9 minutes until lightly golden.
2. Preparing the Pecan Topping
While the shortbread is baking, distribute the chopped pecans on a baking sheet and toast them in the oven at 350 degrees Fahrenheit for about 4 minutes until they emit a fragrant aroma. In a separate saucepan, combine brown sugar, coconut milk, maple syrup, margarine, and salt. Cook over medium heat, then reduce to medium-low and let it simmer for 10 minutes. Remove from heat and add vanilla extract. Allow this caramel mixture to cool for 30 minutes.
3. Assembling the Bites
Fold the toasted pecans into the cooled caramel mixture. Evenly distribute this mixture among the baked shortbread crusts in the muffin tins. Allow the bites to set at room temperature for 2-4 hours until the caramel is firm.
Servings & Preparation Time
These instructions yield 12 Pecan Delight Shortbread Bites. Preparation takes approximately 20 minutes, with an additional 5-15 minutes baking time and several hours for cooling and setting.
Tips for Storage & Reheating
- Store in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 5 days.
- If refrigerated, allow the bites to return to room temperature before serving to ensure the caramel softens.
- These bites are not suitable for freezing due to the caramel topping’s texture changes.
Conclusion
Pecan Delight Shortbread Bites are an alluring treat that perfectly balances the buttery texture of shortbread with the rich, sticky sweetness of pecan caramel. Whether for a special occasion or a regular day, these dessert bites offer a dose of homemade goodness sure to bring a smile to anyone’s face. Enjoy crafting this treat and indulge in the delightful contrast in every bite.
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Pecan Delight Shortbread Bites
- Total Time: 35 minutes
- Yield: 12 Pecan Delight Shortbread Bites 1x
Description
Dive into the rich flavors of Pecan Delight Shortbread Bites, an exquisite dessert that masterfully combines the crisp texture of shortbread with a luscious pecan caramel topping. Ideal for serving at gatherings or enjoying as a personal treat, these bites offer a delightful contrast of flavors and textures that are sure to satisfy any sweet tooth.
Ingredients
- 1 cup flour
- 1/4 tsp salt
- 1/3 cup powdered sugar
- 1/2 cup margarine
- 1.5 cups chopped pecans
- 1/2 cup brown sugar
- 1/3 cup full fat coconut milk
- 2 tbsp maple syrup
- 4 tbsp margarine
- 1/4 tsp salt
- 1 tsp vanilla extract
Instructions
- Preparing the Shortbread Base: Preheat your oven to 350 degrees Fahrenheit. In a medium bowl, combine the flour, salt, and powdered sugar. Cut the margarine into small chunks and blend it with the dry ingredients until the mixture forms a dough. Divide the dough into 12 equal pieces, press each piece into muffin tins lined with liners, covering the bottom and sides. Poke holes in the dough using a fork. Place the tins in the freezer for 30 minutes, then bake for 5 minutes, rotate the tins, and continue to bake for an additional 7-9 minutes until lightly golden.
- Preparing the Pecan Topping: While the shortbread is baking, distribute the chopped pecans on a baking sheet and toast them in the oven at 350 degrees Fahrenheit for about 4 minutes until fragrant. In a saucepan, combine brown sugar, coconut milk, maple syrup, margarine, and salt. Cook over medium heat, then simmer for 10 minutes. Remove from heat and add vanilla extract. Let the caramel mixture cool for 30 minutes.
- Assembling the Bites: Fold the toasted pecans into the cooled caramel mixture. Distribute this mixture among the baked shortbread crusts in the muffin tins. Allow the bites to set at room temperature for 2-4 hours until the caramel is firm.
- Prep Time: 20 minutes
- Cook Time: 15 minutes