Pecan Pie Muffins Recipe

Quick & Fluffy Pecan Pie Muffins Recipe: A Sweet Morning Joy

Whipping up delectable pecan pie muffins brings pure comfort to any morning or afternoon treat.

Sweet kernels dancing through tender batter create irresistible magic in every bite.

Crisp edges and soft centers promise a delightful experience that feels like home.

Southern kitchens know these little delights can turn an ordinary moment into something special.

Nutty aromas will drift through your space, tempting everyone nearby with their warm, inviting essence.

Compact and simple, these muffins deliver intense flavor without complicated techniques.

Fall in love with this quick, memorable recipe that connects you to classic baking traditions.

FAQs About Pecan Pie Muffins Answered

  • Are these muffins similar to traditional pecan pie?

These muffins capture the classic pecan pie flavor but in a convenient, handheld form with a tender, cake-like texture.

  • Can I use different nuts instead of pecans?

While pecans are traditional, you can substitute with walnuts or almonds for a similar nutty taste and texture.

  • How do I prevent the muffins from sticking to the pan?

Generously grease the muffin cups or use silicone liners to ensure easy removal of the muffins.

  • Are these muffins very sweet?

Yes, they have a rich, sweet flavor typical of pecan pie, thanks to the brown sugar and buttery base.

Why Pecan Pie Muffins Make the Ultimate Nutty Treat

  • Savor Southern Comfort: Capture the heartwarming essence of classic pecan pie transformed into adorable, bite-sized muffins that bring pure Southern charm to your table.
  • Master Quick Baking: Create delectable treats with minimal ingredients and simple steps, perfect for bakers of all skill levels who want a hassle-free dessert experience.
  • Crowd-Pleasing Versatility: Ideal for breakfast gatherings, potlucks, or sweet afternoon snacks, these muffins appeal to both kids and adults with their rich, nutty flavor profile.
  • No-Fuss Preparation: Mix ingredients in just two bowls, requiring basic kitchen tools and minimal technical baking skills, making these muffins accessible for novice and experienced bakers alike.

Ingredients You Need for Delicious Pecan Pie Muffins

Dry Ingredients:
  • Brown Sugar: Adds a rich, deep sweetness and helps create a moist texture.
  • All-Purpose Flour: Provides structure and helps bind the muffin ingredients together.
  • Pecans: Brings a delightful nutty crunch and authentic pecan pie flavor.
Wet Ingredients:
  • Butter: Ensures a tender, rich texture and adds a smooth, creamy flavor.
  • Eggs: Helps bind the ingredients and creates a soft, light muffin structure.
Baking Essentials:
  • Cooking Spray or Butter: Prevents the muffins from sticking to the pan and helps with easy removal.

How to Bake Soft and Flavorful Pecan Pie Muffins

Step 1: Warm Up the Oven

Crank your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grab a muffin tin and coat every single cup with a generous layer of cooking spray or butter to prevent sticking.

Step 2: Craft the Dry Blend

In a spacious mixing bowl, combine these ingredients:
  • Brown sugar
  • All-purpose flour
  • Chopped pecans

Whisk them together until they’re perfectly blended.

Step 3: Create the Liquid Magic

In a separate bowl, whip together:
  • Softened butter
  • Eggs

Beat the mixture until it becomes smooth and creamy.

Step 4: Marry the Mixtures

Gently fold the dry ingredients into the wet mixture. Stir just until everything is incorporated. Remember, gentle mixing is the secret to tender muffins – don’t go overboard with stirring.

Step 5: Fill the Muffin Homes

Carefully spoon the batter into each muffin cup, filling them about two-thirds full. This gives them room to rise and become beautifully puffy.

Step 6: Bake to Golden Perfection

Slide the muffin tin into the preheated oven:
  • Mini muffins: Bake for 12-13 minutes
  • Regular muffins: Bake for 15-17 minutes

Look for a gorgeous golden-brown color as your doneness signal.

Step 7: Release and Enjoy

Once baked, take a knife and run it around the edge of each muffin to loosen them. Let them cool for a few minutes, then transfer to a serving plate. These nutty, sweet treats are ready to be devoured!

Pro Tips to Perfect Your Pecan Pie Muffins Every Time

  • Grease muffin tins thoroughly to prevent sticking and ensure easy removal of delicate muffins.
  • Use room temperature butter and eggs for smoother batter and more even mixing.
  • Chop pecans into smaller pieces for better distribution and more consistent texture throughout the muffins.
  • Measure flour carefully by spooning it into the measuring cup and leveling with a knife to avoid dense muffins.
  • Check muffins early and test with a toothpick to prevent overbaking, which can make them dry and tough.

Creative Twists to Change Up Your Pecan Pie Muffins

  • Chocolate Chip Pecan Muffins: Add 1/2 cup semi-sweet chocolate chips to the dry ingredients for a rich, decadent flavor boost.
  • Maple Glazed Pecan Muffins: Drizzle warm muffins with a simple maple glaze made from powdered sugar and pure maple syrup.
  • Cinnamon Streusel Pecan Muffins: Sprinkle a homemade cinnamon streusel topping over the muffins before baking for extra crunch and warmth.
  • Bourbon Pecan Muffins: Mix in 2 tablespoons of bourbon to the wet ingredients for a sophisticated adult version of the classic recipe.

Pairing Ideas to Complement Pecan Pie Muffins

  • Pair Decadent Coffee with Pecan Pie Muffins: Brew a rich, dark roast coffee that complements the sweet, nutty flavors of the muffins, creating a warm and indulgent morning treat.
  • Drizzle Caramel Sauce for Extra Richness: Enhance the muffins with a light drizzle of homemade caramel sauce, adding a luxurious layer of sweetness that amplifies the pecan's natural buttery taste.
  • Match with Vanilla Ice Cream: Serve warm muffins alongside a scoop of creamy vanilla ice cream, creating a delightful contrast between the hot, crumbly muffin and the cold, smooth dessert.

How to Store Pecan Pie Muffins to Keep Them Fresh

  • Store cooled muffins in an airtight container for up to 4 days, keeping them fresh and moist in the refrigerator.
  • Wrap individual muffins tightly in plastic wrap, then place in a freezer bag. Freeze for up to 3 months for later enjoyment.
  • Remove frozen muffins from the freezer and let them sit at room temperature for 30-45 minutes before serving.
  • Warm refrigerated or thawed muffins in the microwave for 15-20 seconds or in a preheated oven at 300F for 5-7 minutes until heated through.
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Pecan Pie Muffins Recipe

Pecan Pie Muffins Recipe


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4.8 from 30 reviews

  • Total Time: 25-27 minutes
  • Yield: 12 1x

Description

Sweet Southern pecan pie muffins blend classic dessert comfort with convenient breakfast charm. Crumbly, nutty goodness delivers rich maple-caramel notes that welcome you into a delightful culinary experience.


Ingredients

Scale

Main Ingredients:

  • 2 cups chopped pecans
  • 1 cup all-purpose flour
  • 2 eggs, beaten

Sweeteners:

  • 1 cup packed light brown sugar

Binding/Moisture Ingredients:

  • 1/2 cup (113 grams) butter, softened

Instructions

  1. Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C) and thoroughly coat muffin tins with cooking spray or butter to prevent sticking.
  2. Combine brown sugar, flour, and finely chopped pecans in a mixing bowl, creating a fragrant dry mixture with a rich, nutty texture.
  3. Whisk softened butter and eggs together until smooth and well-integrated, ensuring a consistent and creamy base.
  4. Gently fold the dry ingredients into the wet mixture, stirring minimally to maintain a light, tender muffin consistency.
  5. Distribute the batter evenly into muffin cups, filling each approximately two-thirds full to allow proper rising during baking.
  6. Place muffin tin in the preheated oven and bake mini muffins for 12-13 minutes or standard muffins for 15-17 minutes until they develop a golden-brown exterior.
  7. After removing from the oven, let muffins rest for 2-3 minutes, then carefully loosen edges with a knife and transfer to a cooling rack to prevent continued cooking.

Notes

  • Toast pecans briefly before chopping to enhance their nutty, rich flavor and create a more aromatic base for the muffins.
  • Swap regular flour with gluten-free flour blend for those with wheat sensitivities, ensuring the same tender texture.
  • Use dark brown sugar for deeper caramel notes, which complement the pecans’ natural sweetness and create a more complex taste profile.
  • Prevent soggy bottoms by letting muffins cool in the pan for just 2-3 minutes before transferring to a wire rack, allowing steam to escape and maintaining a crisp exterior.
  • Prep Time: 10 minutes
  • Cook Time: 15-17 minutes
  • Category: Breakfast, Snacks, Desserts
  • Method: Baking
  • Cuisine: American

Nutrition

  • Serving Size: 12
  • Calories: 314 kcal
  • Sugar: 18 g
  • Sodium: 70 mg
  • Fat: 26 g
  • Saturated Fat: 5 g
  • Unsaturated Fat: 19 g
  • Trans Fat: 0.2 g
  • Carbohydrates: 23 g
  • Fiber: 2 g
  • Protein: 4 g
  • Cholesterol: 50 mg
Sarah Mitchell

Sarah Mitchell

Content Specialist & Home Cooking Enthusiast

Expertise

  • Making healthy, comforting meals that fit into real-life schedules
  • Planning balanced, single-serving meals for individuals and small families
  • Writing clear, practical food content with a focus on wellness and ease
  • Using seasonal ingredients to bring variety and freshness to everyday meals

Education

Asheville-Buncombe Technical Community College – Asheville, NC

  • Program: Diploma in Culinary Arts
  • Focus: Trained in the basics of professional cooking, with a strong focus on home-style meals, seasonal recipe development, and time-saving kitchen techniques for everyday use.

American Fitness Professionals & Associates – Online

  • Program: Nutrition and Wellness Consultant Certification
  • Focus: Studied how to make healthy eating simple, enjoyable, and accessible

Sarah’s passion for food was sparked by weekend trips to the farmers’ market and her belief that healthy meals should never feel boring.
After earning her culinary diploma and becoming a certified Nutrition and Wellness Consultant, she set out to help others fall in love with simple, wholesome cooking.
She’s all about celebrating the small wins in the kitchen: a colorful yogurt bowl, a new twist on a classic dish, or a homemade snack that feels just a little extra special.
Outside the kitchen, Sarah is a gardener at heart, a yoga enthusiast, and a believer that fresh herbs can brighten any meal, and any day.

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