Ozark Mountain Magic: The Holiday Nut Cup Recipe

From the dazzling Christmas shows along Highway 76 to the twinkling lights of the  Shepherd of the Hills property, the holiday season in Branson, Missouri, is quite simply memorable.

But what truly completes the festive spirit? Well, how about a classic, homemade holiday cookie?

This year, skip the generic sugar cookies at Walmart and bake a batch of Little Nut Cups (also known as Pecan Tassies). These delicate, bite-sized tarts feature a buttery, tender cream cheese crust filled with a sticky, sweet pecan filling. They are the perfect, sophisticated treat to serve guests, enjoy after a day of holiday sightseeing in Branson, or simply savor with a cup of hot cocoa while planning your next steps while visiting the Ozarks! See the full recipe below!

Classic Little Nut Cups (Pecan Tassies)

This recipe yields about 3 dozen cookies.

I. Ingredients

For the Cream Cheese Crust:

• 1 cup (2 sticks) butter, softened

• 2 (3-ounce) packages cream cheese, softened

• ½ cup white sugar

• 2 cups all-purpose flour

For the Nut Filling:

• 2 teaspoons butter, melted

• 2 large eggs

• ½ teaspoon vanilla extract

• 2 cups chopped pecans (or walnuts)

• 1 ½ cups packed brown sugar

• ½ cup honey (for drizzling)

II. Directions

1. Prepare the Dough: In a medium bowl, mix together the softened butter, cream cheese, and white sugar until smooth. Gradually stir in the all-purpose flour until a firm dough forms.

2. Chill: Roll the dough into 36 small balls, place them on a plate, and refrigerate for one hour. Do not skip this step! Chilled dough is easier to work with.

3. Make the Filling: In a separate medium bowl, beat the eggs, melted butter, vanilla, and brown sugar until smooth. Stir in the chopped nuts.

4. Preheat: Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).

5. Form the Cups: Press each chilled dough ball into the bottom and up the sides of a mini muffin tin cup to create a shell.

6. Fill and Drizzle: Fill each shell almost to the top with the nut filling. Use a squeeze bottle or a small spoon to drip about ½ teaspoon of honey onto the top of each cup.

7. Bake: Bake for 15 to 20 minutes, or until the crust is lightly browned and the filling is set (it may still be a little jiggly in the center when removed).

8. Cool: Allow the nut cups to cool completely in the tins before carefully removing them.

9. Topping (optional): Once cool, you can top with a dusting of powdered sugar if you’d like!

Bring the Magic of Branson Home

These Little Nut Cups are the perfect reminder that the holidays are best spent with family, enjoying warm traditions and sweet moments.

Whether you’re decorating your tree, hosting a holiday party, or finally relaxing after tackling your Christmas shopping, make sure to save time for what truly matters. And if you’re looking for the ultimate way to celebrate the season, there’s no place like Branson.

Browse our holiday packages, book show tickets, and purchase Branson Gift Cards to share the gift of the Ozarks this Christmas!