- 1 1/2 cups all-purpose flour
- 1 cup packed brown sugar
- 1 teaspoon baking powder
- 1/2 teaspoon baking soda
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
- 1 cup chopped pecans (toasted for extra flavor)
- 1 large egg
- 1/2 cup vegetable oil (or melted butter for richness)
- 1/2 cup milk
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
For the Topping:
- 1/2 cup chopped pecans
- 1/4 cup packed brown sugar
- Optional: Drizzle of caramel sauce or powdered sugar for added flair
Step-by-Step Instructions
1. Preheat the Oven
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
- Line a 12-cup muffin tin with paper liners or lightly grease it for easy removal.
2. Toast the Pecans
- Spread the chopped pecans on a baking sheet and toast them in the preheated oven for 5–7 minutes, or until fragrant. Set aside to cool.
3. Mix the Dry Ingredients
- In a medium bowl, whisk together the flour, brown sugar, baking powder, baking soda, and salt.
- Stir in half of the toasted pecans, reserving the rest for the topping.
4. Prepare the Wet Ingredients
- In a separate bowl, whisk together the egg, vegetable oil (or melted butter), milk, and vanilla extract until smooth.
5. Combine Wet and Dry Ingredients
- Gradually add the wet ingredients to the dry ingredients, stirring gently until just combined. Do not overmix—the batter should be slightly lumpy.
6. Fill the Muffin Cups
- Divide the batter evenly among the prepared muffin cups, filling each about 2/3 full.
- Sprinkle the remaining toasted pecans and a pinch of brown sugar over the tops of the muffins for a crunchy, sweet crust.
7. Bake
- Bake in the preheated oven for 18–20 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center of a muffin comes out clean.
- Remove from the oven and let the muffins cool in the pan for 5 minutes, then transfer them to a wire rack to cool completely.
8. Serve and Enjoy
- Optional: Drizzle with caramel sauce or dust with powdered sugar for an extra touch of sweetness.
- Enjoy every bite of these sweet, nutty, and indulgent Pecan Pie Muffins!
- Perfect as a standalone treat, paired with coffee or tea, or gifted in decorative tins.
Tips for Success
- Toast the Pecans: Toasting enhances their flavor and adds extra crunch to the muffins.
- Use Fresh Ingredients: Fresh baking powder and high-quality pecans ensure the best flavor and texture.
- Don’t Overmix: Stir the batter just until combined to avoid dense muffins.
- Make Ahead: Store baked muffins in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days or freeze for longer storage.
- Add Variations: Stir in mini chocolate chips, a swirl of caramel, or a sprinkle of cinnamon for added flair.
Why This Recipe Works
These Pecan Pie Muffins combine the rich, buttery flavors of pecan pie with the convenience and portability of muffins into a treat that’s both satisfying and versatile. The straightforward preparation ensures consistent results without requiring advanced baking skills, while the customizable options allow you to tailor the recipe to your taste. Whether served as a standalone snack or customized with your favorite toppings, these muffins deliver big on flavor and nostalgia.
Conclusion: A Treat Everyone Will Love
Whether you’re craving something sweet and indulgent, looking for a way to simplify baking, or simply want to indulge in a homemade treat, these Pecan Pie Muffins are sure to delight. Their bold flavors, satisfying textures, and practical preparation make them a standout recipe that’s as versatile as it is delicious. Plus, their adaptability means you can tailor them to suit any occasion.
We’d love to see your creations! Tag us in your photos or share your favorite variations—your take on these muffins might just inspire others to try them too! š“✨
