Creating these Mini Pecan Pies is straightforward. Follow these steps to make your own delicious treats:

1. Preheat the Oven: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and prepare a mini muffin tin by greasing it lightly.

2. Make the Pie Crust: In a mixing bowl, combine flour and salt. Cut in softened butter until the mixture resembles coarse crumbs. Stir in sugar. Add egg yolk and cold water, mixing until the dough forms a ball. Wrap in plastic wrap and refrigerate for 15 minutes.

3. Roll Out the Dough: On a lightly floured surface, roll out the chilled dough to about 1/8 inch thick. Cut out circles that fit into your mini muffin tin, pressing them gently into each cup.

4. Prepare the Filling: In a separate bowl, whisk together corn syrup, brown sugar, eggs, vanilla, and cinnamon (if using). Stir in chopped pecans until evenly distributed.

5. Fill the Crusts: Spoon the filling into each dough-lined muffin cup, filling them about three-quarters full. Bake in the preheated oven for 20-25 minutes or until the filling is set and the crust is golden brown.

6. Cool and Serve: Allow the mini pecan pies to cool in the tin for 10 minutes before transferring them to a wire rack to cool completely.