Susan's Kitchen: Mini treats

By Susan Spicer

Do you have a mini muffin pan? If not, you'd better run out and get one so you can try these yummy recipes.
The Taco Tarts are delicious, and will disappear so fast you won't believe it.  They are very easy to make, and would be a great first recipe for young cooks-to-be. My experience is that kids really like these.
The Mini Pecan Pies are also super easy, very good, and they make a really pretty presentation. My grandma used to make something like this for my mom, who was a huge pecan pie fan (as am I.)
Try these two; you'll be glad you did, and so will your family.

Taco Tarts
1 lb. ground beef
2 T. taco seasoning
2 T. water
1 c. sour cream
2 T. taco sauce
1/4 c. olives, chopped
1 c. crushed taco chips, divided
3/4 c. shredded cheese

Spray mini muffin pan with non-stick cooking spray. Mix ground beef, taco seasoning, and water. Make small balls and press into mini muffin pan, making indentation in center. Combine sour cream, taco sauce, olives, and 3/4 c. of the crushed chips. Spoon small amount filling into meat shells. Combine remaining 1/4 c. chips and cheese. Sprinkle over each little pie. Bake at 375 degrees for 12-15 minutes. Makes 32 tarts.

Mini Pecan Pies
1 c. flour
3 oz. cream cheese
1 stick butter
1 egg
1 t. vanilla
1 c. brown sugar, lightly packed
1-1 1/2 c. chopped pecans

Mix together flour, cream cheese and butter. Make 24 small balls and press into mini muffin pans, making indentation in center. Mix together egg, vanilla, and brown sugar. Drop a few chopped pecans into each crust, then a teaspoon of filling on top of nuts. Bake at 350 degrees for 30 minutes. Makes 24.