Easy Mini Pecan Pie Bites for Your Thanksgiving Table

Is there anything more iconic than a pecan pie at the Thanksgiving feast? But let’s be honest, slicing a whole pie can get messy, and sometimes you just want a little taste of that sweet, nutty goodness without the commitment. That’s where these impossibly cute Mini Pecan Pie Bites come in. They give you all the flavor of the classic dessert in a fun, single-serving package that’s perfect for passing around. Plus, they free up your precious pie plate for another creation!

Why You’ll Love This

You’re going to adore these little bites for so many reasons. First, they are incredibly easy to make. Using pre-made mini phyllo shells is a total game-changer that saves you so much time and stress during the busy holiday rush. Second, they’re the perfect portion-controlled treat. No more wondering if your slice is too big or too small. And finally, they are just so, so delightful. The crunchy phyllo pastry, the gooey, sweet filling, and the toasted pecans on top create a perfect textural symphony in every single bite. Trust me, these will disappear fast from any dessert platter.

Ingredients You’ll Need

• 2 packages (30 count) pre-made mini phyllo shells (thawed if frozen) – They’re the perfect little edible cups for our filling.
• 1 cup pecans, finely chopped – This forms the base of our filling and gives that classic nutty texture.
• 1/2 cup dark brown sugar, packed – For that deep, molasses-like sweetness we all love.
• 1/3 cup light corn syrup – This is the key to that signature gooey, sticky pie filling.
• 1 large egg, lightly beaten – It acts as our binder, holding everything together as it bakes.
• 2 tablespoons unsalted butter, melted – Adds a rich, buttery flavor to the filling.
• 1 teaspoon pure vanilla extract – A flavor booster that makes everything taste more homemade.
• 1/4 teaspoon salt – Just a pinch to balance all that sweetness perfectly.
• Additional pecan halves (about 30) for garnish – They make each bite look beautiful and professional.

Let’s Get Cooking Step by Step

1. First, preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Arrange all 30 mini phyllo shells on a large baking sheet. I like to keep them in their little aluminum trays for stability, but you can pop them out if you prefer.
2. In a medium bowl, whisk together the dark brown sugar, light corn syrup, beaten egg, melted butter, vanilla extract, and salt. Keep whisking until the mixture is completely smooth and well-combined.
3. Now, stir in the cup of finely chopped pecans. Give it a good mix until all the nuts are evenly coated in that deliciously sweet, syrupy mixture.
4. Carefully spoon the pecan filling into each phyllo shell. Fill them almost to the top, but be careful not to overfill and cause a syrupy spillover in your oven.
5. Gently press one beautiful pecan half on top of the filling in each shell. This is your chance to make them look extra pretty.
6. Bake for 15-18 minutes. You’ll know they’re done when the filling is set and puffed up slightly. The phyllo shells should be a gorgeous golden brown.
7. This is the hardest part: let them cool on the baking sheet for at least 10-15 minutes before serving. The filling will be molten lava right out of the oven, and this resting time allows it to set up into that perfect gooey texture.

Perfect for Holiday Gatherings

These mini pecan pie bites are an absolute star when it comes to holiday entertaining. They are the ideal finger-food dessert for your Thanksgiving buffet or a Christmas open house. Guests love being able to grab one (or three!) without needing a plate and fork. They also fit beautifully on a dessert charcuterie board alongside some cookies and chocolate truffles. And because they’re individually portioned, they make it easy to send guests home with a little sweet treat wrapped in a piece of parchment paper. Honestly, I think they might just be one of the most fun Thanksgiving desserts you can make.

Variations & Substitutions

This recipe is wonderfully adaptable! If you’re out of something or want to mix it up, here are some easy twists.

• No Corn Syrup? You can use pure maple syrup or even honey for a different flavor profile. The texture might be slightly less gooey but just as delicious.
• Add a Kick: Stir a 1/4 teaspoon of cinnamon or a pinch of nutmeg into the filling for a warm, spiced flavor that screams fall.
• Chocolate Lover’s Delight: Place a few mini chocolate chips at the bottom of each shell before adding the pecan filling. They’ll melt into a surprise layer of goodness.
• Gluten-Free Option: Simply use your favorite gluten-free mini tart shells instead of the phyllo cups. An easy swap that lets everyone enjoy them.
• Less Sweet: You can reduce the brown sugar by a tablespoon or two if you prefer a less intensely sweet bite.

Serving Ideas & Pairings

While these bites are fantastic all on their own, a little pairing can make them even more special. A dollop of whipped cream or a small scoop of vanilla bean ice cream on the side is never a bad idea. For a truly decadent touch, drizzle them with a little caramel sauce right before serving. They also pair wonderfully with a cup of coffee after the big meal or with a glass of cold milk for the kids. If you’re building a full spread of Thanksgiving treats, place them next to some pumpkin bars and apple slices for a gorgeous dessert table.

Storage & Reheating

Got leftovers? Lucky you! These Mini Pecan Pie Bites store beautifully. Once completely cooled, transfer them to an airtight container. They’ll keep at room temperature for up to 2 days. For longer storage, pop them in the refrigerator for up to 5 days. You can also freeze them! Just freeze them in a single layer on a baking sheet first, then transfer to a freezer bag. They’ll keep for about 2 months. To reheat, a quick 5-7 minutes in a 300°F (150°C) oven will warm them through and make the shells crispy again. The microwave will work in a pinch, but it will make the shells soft.

Frequently Asked Questions

• Can I make these Mini Pecan Pie Bites ahead of time? Absolutely! They are one of the best make-ahead Thanksgiving dessert ideas. You can assemble them completely a day in advance, cover the baking sheet with plastic wrap, and keep them in the fridge overnight. Just pop them in the oven about 20 minutes before you want to serve them.
• My filling overflowed! What did I do wrong? Oh, I’ve been there! This usually means the shells were filled a tad too high. Remember, the filling will puff up a little as it bakes. Just fill them to just below the rim next time. It’s an easy fix, and they’ll still taste amazing.
• Where can I find mini phyllo shells?You’ll most often find them in the freezer section of your grocery store, near the frozen pies and desserts. The brand I see most often is Athens. Let them thaw on the counter for about 10 minutes before you fill them.
• Are there other easy Thanksgiving desserts like this? For sure! If you love this concept, you might also enjoy making mini pumpkin pies using the same phyllo shells and a canned pumpkin pie filling. It’s another super simple way to create festive holiday treats.