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Pecan Pie Brown Sugar Muffins Recipe

4.8 from 103 reviews

These Pecan Pie Brown Sugar Muffins feature a moist, tender crumb infused with cinnamon and brown sugar, topped with a buttery pecan streusel and a whole pecan half for a delightful crunch. Perfect for breakfast, brunch, or as a sweet snack, these muffins combine the rich flavors of pecan pie in an easy-to-make, handheld treat.

Ingredients

Scale

Dry 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

Wet Ingredients

  • 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

Topping

  • 1/2 cup finely chopped pecans
  • 1/4 cup whole pecan halves
  • 1/4 cup brown sugar
  • 2 tablespoons melted butter

Instructions

  1. Preheat Oven and Prepare Tin: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and line a 12-cup muffin tin with paper liners to prevent sticking and ease cleanup.
  2. Mix Dry Ingredients: In a medium bowl, whisk together the all-purpose flour, baking soda, baking powder, salt, and cinnamon until fully combined to ensure even flavor distribution.
  3. Combine Wet Ingredients: In a large bowl, mix the melted unsalted butter and light brown sugar until smooth and slightly glossy, creating a rich base.
  4. Add Remaining Wet Ingredients: To the butter and sugar mixture, add the eggs, sour cream, whole milk, and vanilla extract. Stir thoroughly until the mixture is fully incorporated and smooth.
  5. Combine Wet and Dry Mixtures: Gently fold the dry ingredients into the wet ingredients, mixing just until combined to keep the muffins tender and avoid overworking the batter.
  6. Prepare Pecan Topping: In a small bowl, combine the finely chopped pecans, brown sugar, and melted butter, stirring until evenly mixed to create the streusel-like topping.
  7. Fill Muffin Cups: Divide the batter evenly among the muffin cups, filling each about three-quarters full to allow room for rising.
  8. Add Topping: Spoon the pecan topping evenly over each muffin and gently press a whole pecan half onto the top of each muffin for garnish and extra crunch.
  9. Bake: Bake the muffins for 18 to 22 minutes or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean, indicating they are fully cooked.
  10. Cool: Allow the muffins to cool in the pan for 10 minutes before transferring them to a wire rack to cool completely, ensuring they set and achieve the best texture.

Notes

  • For a dairy-free version, substitute sour cream and milk with plant-based alternatives.
  • Ensure butter is melted and slightly cooled before mixing to avoid scrambling the eggs.
  • Do not overmix the batter; fold until just combined for light and fluffy muffins.
  • Store muffins in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days or freeze for longer storage.
  • Serve muffins slightly warm or at room temperature for best flavor.

Keywords: pecan pie muffins, brown sugar muffins, pecan muffins, breakfast muffins, cinnamon muffins, nutty muffins