There’s something about the combination of buttery crust and gooey butterscotch that feels like a warm embrace on a crisp autumn evening. This Irresistible Butterscotch Pecan Tart has become a staple in my kitchen, especially during Friendsgiving gatherings when friends and family gather to celebrate the season of gratitude. The moment you slice into this tart, the rich aroma of caramelized sugar mingling with toasted pecans fills the room, teasing taste buds and sparking anticipation.

What I love most about this dessert is its effortless elegance—all the indulgence of a decadent treat without the fuss. Each bite offers that perfect crunch from the pecans, complemented by the smooth, sweet filling that dances on your palate. It’s a delightful centerpiece that guarantees sweet smiles around the table and creates memories that linger long after the last crumb is gone. Let’s dive in and discover how easy it is to craft this holiday treasure, ensuring your Friendsgiving shines just a little brighter!

Why is this Irresistible Butterscotch Pecan Tart so special?

Ease of Preparation: The recipe is simple and straightforward, making it accessible for both novice and experienced bakers alike.
Flavor Explosion: The combination of gooey butterscotch and crunchy pecans creates a balance that’s sure to impress.
Festive Appeal: Perfect for Friendsgiving, this tart quickly becomes the star of any holiday table, drawing guests in with its inviting aroma.
Make-Ahead Friendly: Prep it a day in advance, allowing flavors to meld, freeing you up to enjoy the festivities.
Versatile Serving Options: Pair it with whipped cream or ice cream for a touch of extra indulgence—each bite will be a heavenly experience! For another delightful dessert idea, don’t miss out on this Butterscotch Pecan Tart.

Irresistible Butterscotch Pecan Tart Ingredients

For the Crust
• All-purpose flour – Provides structure for the crust; gluten-free flour blend can be used if needed.
• Unsalted butter (cold) – Adds richness and tenderness; ensure it’s cold for optimal flakiness.
• Granulated sugar – Sweetens the crust; coconut sugar makes a lovely substitute for a deeper flavor.

For the Filling
• Brown sugar (packed) – Offers depth and sweetness to the filling; light brown sugar is a suitable alternative.
• Heavy cream – Contributes to the gooey texture; half-and-half can lighten it up if desired.
• Chopped pecans (toasted) – Adds crunch and a nutty flavor; walnuts can work in a pinch.
• Large eggs – Binds the filling together; for vegan adaptations, egg substitutes can be utilized.
• Pinch of salt – Enhances overall flavor; using sea salt elevates the dessert’s gourmet appeal.

This Irresistible Butterscotch Pecan Tart is not just a dessert, but a special treat meant to bring joy and warmth to your Friendsgiving gathering!

How to Make Irresistible Butterscotch Pecan Tart

Preheat the Oven: Start by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). This step is crucial for ensuring your tart crust becomes delightfully golden-brown.
Prepare the Crust: In a mixing bowl, combine all-purpose flour and granulated sugar. Cut in the cold unsalted butter until the mixture resembles coarse crumbs, then press this mixture evenly into your tart pan, creating a nice foundation.
Blind Bake: Cover the crust with parchment paper, filling it with pie weights or dried beans. Bake for about 15 minutes, or until it’s lightly golden and just set.
Make the Filling: In a saucepan over medium heat, stir together packed brown sugar and heavy cream. Continue to heat until the sugar melts completely, which will take roughly 5 minutes.
Combine Ingredients: Allow the mixture to cool slightly. Whisk in the eggs until blended and fold in the toasted chopped pecans until they are well distributed.
Fill & Bake: Pour the filling into your pre-baked tart crust. Bake for another 20-25 minutes, or until the filling is set but still gently jiggly in the center, signaling that delicious gooeyness.
Cool Down: Let your tart cool completely on a wire rack before slicing. For an extra indulgent treat, drizzle with caramel before serving!

Optional: Serve with a dollop of whipped cream for added richness.

Exact quantities are listed in the recipe card below.

What to Serve with Irresistible Butterscotch Pecan Tart?

The perfect Friendsgiving calls for delightful pairings that enhance this rich dessert experience.

Whipped Cream: A dollop adds an airy sweetness that balances the gooey, buttery tart, inviting each guest to dive back for more.
Vanilla Ice Cream: The cold creaminess melts slightly onto the warm tart, creating an indulgent contrast that guests won’t forget.
Caramel Sauce: Drizzle over the top for an extra layer of sweetness; it complements the butterscotch and enhances presentation beautifully.
Coffee or Espresso: A warm cup of coffee elevates the flavors, while a shot of espresso adds an intense depth that plays off the sweetness.
Chocolate Ganache: Pouring a bit of this luscious chocolate topping over the tart can add an unexpected twist that pleases chocolate lovers.
Nutty Salad: A fresh, mixed green salad with toasted nuts and a light vinaigrette provides a refreshing contrast to the rich dessert, balancing the meal perfectly.
Sparkling Wine: A glass of bubbly offers a refreshing palate cleanser that pairs beautifully with sweets, making each bite that much more enjoyable.
Pumpkin Spice Latte: This seasonal favorite adds warmth and cozy flavors, making it a fitting drink choice for your festive gathering.

Every choice here creates a harmonious experience, showcasing the Irresistible Butterscotch Pecan Tart as the star of your Friendsgiving celebration.

Butterscotch Pecan Tart Variations

Feel free to get creative and customize this tart to your liking with these delightful twists!

Nut-Free: Replace pecans with sunflower seeds for a crunchy, nut-free alternative that still offers great texture.
A sprinkle of sunflower seeds adds a unique twist while keeping it accessible for those with nut allergies.
Chocolate Lover’s Delight: Stir in chocolate chips alongside the pecans to bring some rich, velvety chocolate flavor to the tart.
This addition elevates the dessert, creating a harmonious balance of sweet butterscotch and decadent chocolate.
Spiced Up: Add a teaspoon of cinnamon or a dash of nutmeg to the filling for a warm spice kick that’s perfect for fall gatherings.
These spices will envelop your kitchen in an inviting aroma that complements the sweetness beautifully.
Vegan Option: Substitute eggs with flaxseed meal or chia seeds mixed with water to create an egg replacement, keeping this tart plant-based.
This swap will maintain the tart’s delightful texture, allowing everyone to enjoy it during festive occasions.
Caramel Drizzle: Top with homemade or store-bought caramel sauce before serving for an extra layer of indulgence and sweetness.
Drizzling caramel adds a delicious, gooey touch that makes this dessert even more irresistible for guests.
Coconut Twist: Incorporate shredded coconut into the filling for added texture and a hint of tropical flavor.
Coconut will give your tart a cheerful twist, making it a refreshing option for those who love a little variation.
Salted Chocolate Ganache: Pour a layer of salted chocolate ganache over the cooled tart to transform it into a stunning gourmet dessert.
This decadent layer will impress your guests with its rich flavor contrast and elegant appearance.
Fruit Surprise: Fold in diced apples or pears with the pecans to introduce a fresh fruit element that complements the sweetness.
This variation will add bursts of juicy flavor, enhancing the tart’s depth and making it even more enjoyable!

Make Ahead Options

These Irresistible Butterscotch Pecan Tart are perfect for busy home cooks looking to save time during the holiday rush! You can prepare the crust and filling up to 24 hours in advance. Simply make the crust, blind bake it, then store it in an airtight container at room temperature. For the filling, mix the butterscotch and pecan ingredients and refrigerate until you’re ready to bake. When you’re ready to serve, pour the filling into the crust and bake as directed. Allow the tart to cool completely before slicing, ensuring you enjoy a beautiful presentation. This prep-ahead approach gives you the freedom to relax and cherish festive moments with loved ones!

Expert Tips for Irresistible Butterscotch Pecan Tart

Chill the Butter: Use cold butter for the crust to achieve a flaky texture. Room temperature butter can lead to a tough crust.
Sift the Sugar: Sifting the brown sugar before combining it with the cream ensures a smooth filling without any lumps.
Egg Temperature: Let the filling cool before adding eggs to prevent them from scrambling. This keeps the filling velvety smooth.
Check for Doneness: Bake until the filling is set but still slightly jiggly in the center. Overbaking will result in a dry tart.
Cut with Care: Allow the tart to cool completely before slicing. For cleaner cuts, use a sharp knife dipped in warm water.
Store Properly: Wrap leftovers tightly with plastic wrap and refrigerate to maintain freshness for up to five days. Enjoy your irresistible Butterscotch Pecan Tart!

Storage Tips for Irresistible Butterscotch Pecan Tart

Room Temperature: The tart can be kept at room temperature for up to 2 hours if serving, allowing its flavors to shine.
Fridge: Store leftovers covered in the refrigerator for up to 5 days. This will keep the filling fresh and the crust intact.
Freezer: For longer storage, wrap the tart tightly in plastic wrap and aluminum foil, keeping it in the freezer for up to 3 months.
Reheating: To enjoy the tart warm, allow it to thaw in the fridge overnight, then reheat in a 350°F (175°C) oven for about 10 minutes, ensuring the gooey filling remains irresistible.

Irresistible Butterscotch Pecan Tart Recipe FAQs

What should I look for when selecting pecans for the tart?
Absolutely! When selecting pecans, choose ones that are firm and crunchy. Avoid any with dark spots or a rancid smell, as these indicators suggest they may not be fresh. Toasting them slightly before using emphasizes their rich flavor, making your tart even more scrumptious!

How long can I store the Irresistible Butterscotch Pecan Tart?
Very! You can store the tart covered in the refrigerator for up to 5 days. Ensure it’s tightly wrapped with plastic wrap to maintain freshness. If you’re planning to serve it later, let it come to room temperature before enjoying, as this will bring out the full flavor of the butterscotch filling.

Can I freeze leftover Butterscotch Pecan Tart?
Absolutely! To freeze, wrap the tart tightly in plastic wrap and foil, making sure it’s airtight. You can freeze it for up to 3 months. When you’re ready to enjoy, thaw it in the refrigerator overnight and reheat gently in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 10 minutes for that freshly baked taste!

What if my filling didn’t set properly?
The more the merrier! If your filling didn’t set as expected, it could be due to underbaking. Make sure to bake it until it’s set but still slightly jiggly in the center, as it continues to firm up while cooling. If you want to salvage it, allow the tart to cool, pop it back in the oven for a bit longer, and check for a good jiggle!

Can I make this tart vegan?
Certainly! To make this Irresistible Butterscotch Pecan Tart vegan, substitute the large eggs with a flaxseed or chia seed egg (1 tablespoon ground flaxseed or chia seeds mixed with 3 tablespoons water per egg, let it sit until gel-like) and use plant-based butter and cream. This will maintain the deliciously gooey texture while accommodating a vegan diet!