Maple Walnut Tassies

Maple Walnut Tassies are delightful mini pastries that combine the rich flavors of maple syrup and toasted walnuts, all nestled in a buttery cream cheese crust. These little treats are perfect for gatherings, coffee breaks, or a sweet indulgence at any time of the day. Their lovely size makes them great for sharing, and their unique taste profile makes them a standout dessert. Whether you’re baking for family or bringing a dish to a potluck, Maple Walnut Tassies will surely be a hit.

The combination of cream cheese and butter in the dough results in a tender, melt-in-your-mouth crust. Meanwhile, the filling showcases a wonderful sweetness from the brown sugar and maple syrup, wonderfully complemented by the crunchy walnuts. Topped off with a light dusting of confectioners’ sugar, these tassies are not only delicious but also pleasing to the eye.

Let’s dive into how to make these delightful mini desserts!

Ingredients for Maple Walnut Tassies

To create Maple Walnut Tassies, you will need several key ingredients. Below is a detailed list that will guide you through the process.

List of Ingredients with Measurements

• 3 cups all-purpose flour
• 1/4 cup granulated sugar
• 1/2 teaspoon salt
• 8 ounces full-fat cream cheese, softened
• 1 cup unsalted butter, softened
• 2 large eggs
• 1 cup packed light or dark brown sugar
• 1/4 cup pure maple syrup
• 2 tablespoons unsalted butter, melted
• 1 teaspoon pure vanilla extract
• 1/4 teaspoon ground cinnamon
• 1/4 teaspoon salt
• 1 and 1/4 cups finely chopped walnuts
• 1/2 teaspoon maple extract (optional)
• Confectioners’ sugar (optional, for dusting before serving)

Optional Ingredient Substitutions

If you don’t have certain ingredients on hand or prefer alternatives, here are some substitutions you can consider:

• All-Purpose Flour: You can use a gluten-free flour blend if you need a gluten-free option.
• Brown Sugar: Honey or agave syrup can replace brown sugar for a different sweetness.
• Cream Cheese: A vegan cream cheese can be used to make these tassies dairy-free.
• Walnuts: Other nuts like pecans or almonds can also work well in this recipe if you want to switch it up.
• Maple Extract: If you don’t have it, you can skip this ingredient. The maple syrup will still provide a nice maple flavor.

How to Make Maple Walnut Tassies

Making Maple Walnut Tassies is an enjoyable process and not too complicated. Follow these steps to create your delicious tassies:

Step 1: Making the Dough

Start by preparing the dough. In a food processor, combine the all-purpose flour, granulated sugar, and salt. Pulse these dry ingredients together. Then, add the softened butter and softened cream cheese to the processor. Pulse the mixture until the dough begins to come together. If you prefer using an electric mixer, mix the dry ingredients first, and then gradually add in the butter and cream cheese until well combined. Your dough should be soft and slightly sticky.

Step 2: Chilling the Dough

Once your dough is mixed, divide it into two halves. Flatten each half into a disk shape, wrap them in plastic wrap, and place them in the refrigerator. It’s important to chill the dough for at least 2 hours. This step helps the dough firm up and makes it easier to roll later on.

Step 3: Prepare the Muffin Pans

When you are ready to bake, preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). While the oven is heating, grease two 24-count mini muffin pans to prevent sticking. Having both pans ready will allow you to bake all your tassies at the same time.

Step 4: Shape the Dough

After the dough has chilled, take it out of the fridge. Grab about 1 tablespoon of the dough and roll it into a ball. Place each ball into the muffin cup and press down in the center to create a deep indent. This is where the delicious filling will go later.

Step 5: Making the Filling

Now it’s time to prepare the tasty filling! In a medium bowl, whisk together the eggs, brown sugar, maple syrup, melted butter, vanilla extract, ground cinnamon, and salt. Make sure the mixture is smooth and well combined. Finally, fold in the finely chopped walnuts. If you are using maple extract for an extra boost of flavor, add it in at this stage.

Step 6: Filling the Dough Shells

Using a spoon, carefully fill each dough shell with the mixture. Be sure not to overfill, as the filling will puff slightly while baking. Make sure each shell is filled evenly.

Step 7: Baking the Tassies

Place the mini muffin pans in the preheated oven and bake for 18-22 minutes. Watch closely for the edges of the tassies to turn lightly golden brown and for the filling to be set. An important tip is to check that the filling is no longer wobbly in the center.

Step 8: Cooling and Serving

Once baked, let the tassies cool in the pan for about 10-20 minutes. Afterward, carefully transfer them to a wire rack to cool completely. If desired, you can dust them with confectioners’ sugar before serving to add a touch of sweetness and a beautiful presentation.

How to Serve Maple Walnut Tassies

Maple Walnut Tassies can be enjoyed in various ways, making them a versatile treat for any occasion.

Best Ways to Serve Maple Walnut Tassies

Serving these delightful little treats is simple. You can serve them straight from the wire rack after they’ve cooled, or arrange them on a decorative platter for a beautiful presentation. The dusting of confectioners’ sugar adds visual appeal, making them perfect for parties, holidays, or family gatherings.

Serving Suggestions or Pairings

These tassies pair wonderfully with coffee or tea, making them a great afternoon snack. You can also serve them alongside vanilla ice cream or whipped cream for an indulgent dessert option. For a touch of elegance, consider pairing them with a dessert wine or sparkling cider.

How to Store Maple Walnut Tassies

Proper storage is essential in keeping your Maple Walnut Tassies fresh and delicious.

Proper Storage Methods

To store your tassies, place them in an airtight container once they are completely cooled. They can be kept at room temperature for a day or two. However, if you wish to keep them longer, it’s best to refrigerate them. If properly sealed, they can last up to a week in the refrigerator.

Tips for Reheating or Freezing

If you have leftover tassies, and you want to enjoy them later, they can be frozen. Freeze them in a single layer on a baking sheet, then transfer them to an airtight container or freezer bag once solid. They can be stored in the freezer for up to three months. To reheat, let them thaw in the fridge overnight, then warm them in the oven at 350°F for about 10-12 minutes until heated through.

Tips to Make Maple Walnut Tassies

Every baker wants to make perfect treats, and there are a few tips to help you achieve that with your Maple Walnut Tassies.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

• Avoid overmixing the dough as this can create a tough texture. Just mix until combined, and no longer.
• Make sure not to skip the chilling step. Chilling the dough is crucial for easy handling and a tender texture.
• Keep an eye on your tassies while baking. They can go from perfectly baked to overdone quickly.

Helpful Tips for Better Results

• When measuring flour, spoon it into the measuring cup and level it off with a knife for accuracy; this helps prevent a dense dough.
• If you prefer a crispier shell, bake your tassies a minute or two longer but keep watching them closely.
• For an extra flavor boost, toast your walnuts lightly in the oven before chopping them. This enhances their nutty flavor.

Variations of Maple Walnut Tassies

Feel free to get creative with Maple Walnut Tassies and make them your own with some easy variations.

Suggested Variations or Twists on the Recipe

• Chocolate Version: Fold in a handful of mini chocolate chips along with the walnuts for a sweet twist.
• Fruit Addition: Consider adding dried cranberries or raisins to the filling for a beautiful contrast in flavor.
• Spiced Version: Add a pinch of nutmeg or clove to the filling for a spiced, warm flavor.

Adjustments for Dietary Preferences

• Vegan Option: Substitute the eggs with flax eggs (1 tbsp ground flaxseed mixed with 2.5 tbsp water per egg), and use a vegan butter and cream cheese.
• Nut-Free Option: Simply omit the walnuts and consider using seeds like sunflower seeds for crunch.

FAQs

What can I do if the dish isn’t turning out right?

If your tassies are not setting properly, it might mean they need a few more minutes in the oven. Keep a close watch to avoid burning. If the dough cracks too much, it may be overly dry, so consider using slightly less flour next time or check how much you’re measuring.

Can I make this ahead of time?

Yes! You can make the dough several days in advance and keep it in the refrigerator until you’re ready to bake. Alternatively, once baked, the tassies can be stored in the fridge or freezer as mentioned.

What can I substitute for ingredients?

Substitutes for ingredients include using gluten-free flour, different types of nuts, or sweeteners like honey or agave syrup. The filling can also be made without maple extract if you don’t have it on hand.

Maple Walnut Tassies are a delicious treat that can bring joy to any occasion. With a few simple steps, you can create these delightful desserts that everyone will love. Happy baking!

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