Name: Pecan Pie Brown Sugar Muffins
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 22 min
Total time: 37 min
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: 1 and 3/4 cups all-purpose flour; 1/2 teaspoon baking soda; 1/2 teaspoon baking powder; 1/2 teaspoon salt; 1 teaspoon cinnamon; 1/2 cup unsalted butter, melted and slightly cooled; 1 cup packed light brown sugar; 2 large eggs; 1/2 cup sour cream; 1/4 cup whole milk; 2 teaspoons vanilla extract; 1/2 cup finely chopped pecans; 1/4 cup whole pecan halves; 1/4 cup brown sugar; 2 tablespoons melted butter

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Pecan Pie Brown Sugar Muffins

Sweet, crunchy, and undeniably delicious, pecan pie brown sugar muffins are a delightful twist on a classic dessert. These muffins combine the rich flavors of brown sugar and pecans, creating a warm treat perfect for breakfast or an afternoon snack. Whether you enjoy them with a cup of coffee or as a special treat, these muffins are sure to brighten your day.

Why Make This Recipe

If you’re looking for something that’s both simple to whip up and packed with flavor, this recipe is for you. Pecan pie brown sugar muffins deliver a comforting sweetness that appeals to a wide range of palates. They capture the essence of pecan pie in a more portable and easier-to-make form. Plus, these muffins are perfect for sharing with friends and family or enjoying on your own. Baking these muffins fills your kitchen with the warm, inviting aroma of cinnamon and brown sugar, making it a truly delightful experience.

How to Make Pecan Pie Brown Sugar Muffins

Creating these delectable muffins is a straightforward process that yields fantastic results. Just follow these easy-to-follow instructions, and you’ll soon have a batch of warm pecan pie brown sugar muffins that will make everyone smile.

Ingredients

1 and 3/4 cups all-purpose flour
1/2 teaspoon baking soda
1/2 teaspoon baking powder
1/2 teaspoon salt
1 teaspoon cinnamon
1/2 cup unsalted butter, melted and slightly cooled
1 cup packed light brown sugar
2 large eggs
1/2 cup sour cream
1/4 cup whole milk
2 teaspoons vanilla extract
1/2 cup finely chopped pecans
1/4 cup whole pecan halves
1/4 cup brown sugar
2 tablespoons melted butter

Directions

Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C) and line a 12-cup muffin tin with paper liners.
In a medium bowl, whisk together the all-purpose flour, baking soda, baking powder, salt, and cinnamon.
In a large bowl, combine the melted butter and brown sugar until smooth.
Add the eggs, sour cream, milk, and vanilla extract to the wet mixture and stir until fully incorporated.
Gently fold the dry ingredients into the wet ingredients, mixing just until combined.
In a small bowl, stir together the chopped pecans, 1/4 cup brown sugar, and 2 tablespoons melted butter for the topping.
Divide the batter evenly into the muffin cups, filling each about 3/4 full.
Spoon the pecan topping over each muffin and gently press a pecan half onto the top of each.
Bake for 18 to 22 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.
Cool in the pan for 10 minutes, then transfer muffins to a wire rack to cool completely.

Pro Tips for Success with Pecan Pie Brown Sugar Muffins

Don’t Overmix: When combining the dry and wet ingredients, mix until just combined. Overmixing can make your muffins dense instead of fluffy.
Use Room Temperature Ingredients: Make sure your eggs, sour cream, and milk are at room temperature. This helps create a smoother batter and a more even rise in the oven.
Measure Flour Properly: Use a spoon to scoop the flour into your measuring cup and level it off with a knife. Avoid packing the flour down, which can lead to dense muffins.
Check for Doneness: Bake your muffins until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean; if it has wet batter on it, give them a few more minutes.
Let Them Cool: Allow the muffins to cool in the tin for 10 minutes before transferring them to a wire rack. This helps them firm up and makes them easier to remove.

Flavor Variations for Pecan Pie Brown Sugar Muffins

Chocolate Chip Twist: Add 1/2 cup of semi-sweet or milk chocolate chips to your batter for a rich, chocolaty flavor that pairs perfectly with the brown sugar and pecans.
Spiced Pumpkin: Replace 1/2 cup of sour cream with pure pumpkin purée and add 1/2 teaspoon of nutmeg for a wonderful seasonal twist.
Maple Infusion: Substitute the brown sugar with maple sugar or add a splash of maple extract to enhance the sweetness and add depth.
Coconut Delight: Mix in 1/4 cup of shredded coconut into your batter for an extra texture and tropical flavor.

Serving Suggestions for Pecan Pie Brown Sugar Muffins

These muffins are versatile and can be enjoyed in various ways:

Breakfast Treat: Serve warm with a pat of butter and a drizzle of honey or maple syrup for a hearty breakfast.
Dessert Indulgence: Pair them with a scoop of vanilla ice cream and a drizzle of caramel sauce for a delightful dessert.
Coffee Companion: Enjoy with a cup of coffee or tea for a perfect afternoon snack. The buttery richness of the muffins complements the warm beverages beautifully.
Brunch Display: Place them on a cake stand at your next brunch gathering alongside fresh fruit and pastries for an eye-catching spread.

Storage and Freezing Instructions for Pecan Pie Brown Sugar Muffins

To keep your muffins fresh:

Room Temperature: Store in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days.
Refrigeration: You can also refrigerate them if you live in a humid area, where they can last for about a week.
Freezing: For long-term storage, freeze the muffins in a single layer on a baking sheet, then transfer them to a freezer bag or airtight container. When you’re ready to enjoy, thaw at room temperature or microwave for a few seconds.

Nutrition Facts (Per Serving)

| Calories | Protein | Carbs | Fat | Fiber | Sodium |
|———-|———|——-|—–|——-|——–|
| 210 | 3g | 28g | 10g | 1g | 150mg |

FAQ About Pecan Pie Brown Sugar Muffins

Can I use whole wheat flour instead of all-purpose flour?

Yes, you can substitute whole wheat flour for all-purpose flour. However, keep in mind that whole wheat flour can make the muffins denser, so you might want to experiment with a combination of both for the best texture.

How should I store leftover muffins?

Store your leftover muffins in an airtight container at room temperature for up to three days. If you want them to last longer, consider freezing them, as mentioned above. Just make sure they cool completely before freezing.

Can I make these muffins without eggs?

Absolutely! You can replace each egg with 1/4 cup of unsweetened applesauce or a flax egg (1 tablespoon of ground flaxseed mixed with 2.5 tablespoons of water) for a vegan-friendly option.

How can I tell when the muffins are done baking?

To check for doneness, insert a toothpick into the center of a muffin. If it comes out clean or with just a few moist crumbs, they are ready to be taken out of the oven. If the toothpick comes out with wet batter, give them a few more minutes.

What can I use as a topping instead of pecans?

If you want to try a different topping, consider using chopped walnuts or almonds. You could also mix in some chocolate chips or oats for a variety of textures and flavors.

Final Thoughts

Pecan pie brown sugar muffins are not just a delightful treat; they are a loving embrace of warmth and comfort in every bite. With easy-to-follow instructions and the potential for various flavor twists, they’re perfect for bakers of all levels. Serve them fresh out of the oven, share them with loved ones, or enjoy them as a special treat for yourself. Whatever the occasion, these muffins are bound to bring smiles and satisfaction. Enjoy your baking adventure and the delicious moments that follow!

Pecan Pie Brown Sugar Muffins