There’s something about Bourbon Chocolate Pecan Tarts that brings out my inner baker. Maybe it’s the delightful combination of salty, crunchy pecans and smooth chocolate, all wrapped up in a buttery crust. These little tarts speak to my sweet tooth and my love for all things nutty! They’ve been a staple in my kitchen, especially during the holidays.
I remember the first time I made these tarts—it was a chilly December afternoon, and I had a table full of family and friends over for a holiday gathering. I wanted something special for dessert, and after rifling through my recipe book, I stumbled upon this gem. As soon as I pulled them out of the oven, the entire house was filled with an enticing aroma, and everyone gathered around to take a peek. The first bite was pure bliss, and I can still recall the delighted smiles on everyone’s faces. Since then, they’ve become a go-to treat!
What’s in Bourbon Chocolate Pecan Tarts?
Let’s break down the ingredients that make these tarts so irresistible:
Pecan Nuts: The star of the show! I love using giant, crunchy pecans for their rich flavor. If you’ve got local ones, even better!
Chocolate Chips: Dark chocolate chips provide a deep, fudgy flavor that complements the sweetness of the tarts. Go for a brand that you really love—my personal favorite is Ghirardelli.
Bourbon: A splash of bourbon not only heightens the flavor but gives the tarts a warm, comforting essence. Use a good-quality bourbon that you like to sip on as well!
Butter: Because everything is better with butter! It makes the crust flaky and delicious.
Granulated Sugar: To add that touch of sweetness to balance the nuttiness and bitterness of chocolate.
Brown Sugar: A little brown sugar adds depth and richness to the filling.
Eggs: Eggs help to bind everything together and give the tarts their lovely custardy texture.
Vanilla Extract: A splash adds a wonderful warmth that rounds out all the flavors.
Is Bourbon Chocolate Pecan Tarts Good for You?
Well, let’s be real: these tarts are definitely a treat! They may not win any health awards, but they do have some redeeming qualities.
Pecan Nuts: They’re a great source of healthy fats, protein, and antioxidants. Plus, they contain fiber which is always a plus in any dessert!
Dark Chocolate: It’s loaded with antioxidants and, in moderation, can be heart-healthy!
On the flip side, the sugar and butter content does ramp up the calorie count, so it’s best to enjoy these tarts in moderation. Maybe save them for special occasions or as a delightful treat after a hearty meal!
Ingredients List
This recipe makes about 12 tarts.
– 1 cup of pecans, roughly chopped
– 1 cup of dark chocolate chips (I love Ghirardelli)
– 1/2 cup of bourbon
– 1/2 cup of unsalted butter, melted
– 1/2 cup of granulated sugar
– 1/2 cup of brown sugar, packed
– 3 large eggs
– 1 teaspoon of vanilla extract
– 1 pre-made pie crust (store-bought or homemade)
How to Make Bourbon Chocolate Pecan Tarts?
1. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Seriously, nothing feels better than that first whiff of warmth in the kitchen!
2. If you’re making a pie crust from scratch, roll it out and cut into circles to fit your tart pans. If you’re using a store-bought one, you’re already a step ahead!
3. Place the crust in your tart pans. I love using mini tart pans for these! Press down and trim any excess.
4. In a mixing bowl, whisk together the melted butter, granulated sugar, and brown sugar until well combined.
5. Add the eggs one at a time, mixing well after each addition. Then stir in the vanilla extract.
6. Gradually mix in the bourbon—don’t forget to take a little sip to taste-test while you’re at it!
7. Fold in the chocolate chips and chopped pecans.
8. Pour the filling evenly into each tart shell, filling to about 2/3 full.
9. Bake for 20-25 minutes, or until the edges are set but the center is still slightly jiggly.
10. Let cool in the pans for about 10 minutes before transferring to a wire rack to cool completely.
Now, take a moment to enjoy that delicious aroma filling your home!
Sweet Tips for Your Tarts
– For an extra special touch, serve these tarts with a dollop of whipped cream or a scoop of vanilla ice cream on the side.
– You can also top them with extra chopped pecans or a sprinkle of sea salt for a gourmet touch.
– These tarts keep well in the fridge, so you can make them ahead of time—just let them come to room temperature before serving.
I really hope you give these Bourbon Chocolate Pecan Tarts a try! They’re not just a delightful dessert; they bring a little bit of warmth and love to any gathering. If you make them, let me know how they turn out! I can’t wait to hear about your experience. Enjoy!