One-Bite Pecan Pies

Makes 24

Preheat oven to 350°F.

Crust

1/2 cup (1 stick) butter, room temperature
1 cup all-purpose flour
3 ounces cream cheese, room temperature

Cut butter and cheese into small pieces and place in a bowl. Pour on flour. Mix together with your fingers until all ingredients are incorporated together and resemble pie crust.

Form dough into 24 balls, about 3/4-inch in diameter.  Divide balls between two non-stick mini-muffin tins. With fingers, flatten the dough around each muffin cup to form a crust.

Filling

1 egg, lightly beaten
1 tablespoon melted butter
Pinch of salt
1/2 cup chopped pecans
3/4 cup light brown sugar, firmly packed
1/2 teaspoon vanilla extract

Mix filling ingredients together in a medium bowl until thoroughly combined. Divide filling among muffin tins, using a teaspoon. Bake for 15 to 17 minutes, then reduce heat to 250°F and bake for 10 minutes longer.

Cool in tins on a rack. When cool, remove carefully from tins, using a sharp knife if necessary. Sprinkle with powdered sugar before serving.