Delicious Pecan Pie Muffins That Everyone Will Rave About

 

Ever wished for a comforting treat that combines the best of pecan pie and muffins? Look no further! These Delicious Pecan Pie Muffins offer a delightful twist on a classic dessert. Imagine sinking your teeth into a moist, tender muffin with a gooey, pecan-studded filling. Perfect for a weekend brunch or a sweet afternoon snack!

Why You’ll Love These Pecan Pie Muffins

These pecan pie muffins are more than just delicious; they are incredibly convenient and satisfying. Here’s why you will adore them:

• Easy to Make: Simple enough for beginner bakers.
• Quick Prep: Get them in the oven in under 20 minutes.
• Perfectly Portioned: Individual servings for easy snacking.
• Incredible Flavor: The classic pecan pie taste in muffin form.
• Impressive Texture: Moist muffins with a gooey filling and crunchy pecans.
• Crowd-Pleaser: Guaranteed to be a hit at any gathering.
• Freezable: Make ahead and enjoy later.
• Comforting: Warm, sweet, and nutty – the ultimate comfort food.

Plus, they are less messy than slicing a pie! Get ready for an irresistible treat!

Ingredients Needed for Your Pecan Pie Muffins

Here’s a detailed list of everything you’ll need to bake these delectable pecan pie muffins. Getting high-quality ingredients is the first step to muffin perfection.

For the Muffins:

• 1 1/2 cups (192g) all-purpose flour: Provides the structure for the muffins.
• 1/2 cup (100g) granulated sugar: Adds sweetness and moisture.
• 1/4 cup (50g) packed light brown sugar: Contributes a caramel-like flavor.
• 2 teaspoons baking powder: Helps the muffins rise to a light, fluffy texture.
• 1/4 teaspoon salt: Enhances the flavors of the other ingredients.
• 1/2 cup (120ml) milk: Adds moisture and helps bind the ingredients. Opt for whole milk for a richer taste.
• 1/4 cup (60ml) vegetable oil: Keeps the muffins moist and tender.
• 1 large egg: Acts as a binder and adds richness.
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract: Enhances the overall flavor profile.

For the Pecan Pie Filling:

• 1/2 cup (1 stick, 113g) unsalted butter, melted: Adds richness and contributes to the gooey texture.
• 1 cup (200g) packed light brown sugar: Provides the classic pecan pie sweetness and caramel flavor.
• 1/4 cup (60ml) maple syrup: Adds a distinctive flavor and helps bind the filling.
• 1 large egg: Binds the filling ingredients together.
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract: Enhances the flavors of the filling.
• 1/4 teaspoon salt: Balances the sweetness and enhances the other flavors.
• 1 1/2 cups (150g) pecan halves: The star of the filling, providing a nutty crunch and flavor. Consider toasting them lightly for deeper flavor.

Essential Equipment List

Having the right tools on hand makes baking these pecan pie muffins a breeze. Here’s what you’ll need:

• • Muffin Tin: A 12-cup muffin tin is essential for baking the muffins evenly.
  • Muffin Liners: Paper or silicone liners make removing the muffins easier and cleanup simpler.
  • Mixing Bowls: You’ll need both a large and a medium bowl to prepare the batter and filling.
  • Whisk: A whisk is perfect for combining the dry and wet ingredients smoothly.
  • Measuring Cups and Spoons: Accurate measurements are crucial for baking success.
  • Wire Rack: A wire rack allows the muffins to cool evenly after baking, preventing them from becoming soggy.

this …

With these tools, you’ll be well-equipped to create these amazing muffins!

Recipe Details at a Glance

Here is a quick overview of the recipe details:

• Prep Time: 20 minutes
• Cook Time: 18-20 minutes
• Total Time: 40 minutes
• Servings: 12 muffins
• Difficulty: Easy

This recipe is perfect for a weekend brunch or a delightful snack any time of the day.

Step-by-Step Instructions for Perfect Pecan Pie Muffins

Follow these detailed instructions to create the most delicious pecan pie muffins you’ve ever tasted. Each step is designed for clarity and ease, ensuring baking success!

Step 1: Get Started

Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Line a 12-cup muffin tin with paper liners. This ensures the muffins release easily and cleanup is a breeze.

Step 2: Mix Dry Ingredients

In a large bowl, whisk together 1 1/2 cups all-purpose flour, 1/2 cup granulated sugar, 1/4 cup packed light brown sugar, 2 teaspoons baking powder, and 1/4 teaspoon salt. Whisking ensures even distribution of the baking powder and salt, leading to a consistent texture.

Step 3: Combine Wet Ingredients

In a separate bowl, whisk together 1/2 cup milk, 1/4 cup vegetable oil, 1 large egg, and 1 teaspoon vanilla extract. Ensure the egg is well combined for a smooth batter.

Step 4: Combine Wet and Dry

Pour the wet ingredients into the dry ingredients and stir until just combined. Be careful not to overmix. A few lumps are okay; overmixing can lead to tough muffins.

Step 5: Prepare Pecan Pie Filling

In a medium bowl, stir together 1/2 cup melted butter, 1 cup packed light brown sugar, 1/4 cup maple syrup, 1 large egg, 1 teaspoon vanilla extract, and 1/4 teaspoon salt until smooth. This forms the rich, gooey base of the pecan pie filling.

Step 6: Add Pecans

Stir in 1 1/2 cups pecan halves. Ensure the pecans are evenly coated in the filling mixture.

Step 7: Fill Muffin Liners

Fill each muffin liner about halfway with the muffin batter. This creates a base for the pecan pie filling.

Step 8: Top with Pecan Filling

Spoon about 1-2 tablespoons of the pecan pie filling over the muffin batter in each liner. Don’t overfill to prevent overflow during baking.

Step 9: Bake to Perfection

Bake for 18-20 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center of a muffin comes out clean. The muffins should be golden brown on top.

Step 10: Cool and Enjoy

Let the muffins cool in the muffin tin for a few minutes before transferring them to a wire rack to cool completely. This prevents them from becoming soggy. Enjoy warm or at room temperature!

CHECK OUT: Pumpkin Coffee Cake – A delightful treat that pairs perfectly with these muffins!

Tips for Success

Follow these expert tips to ensure your pecan pie muffins turn out perfectly every time:

• Don’t Overmix: Overmixing the muffin batter develops the gluten in the flour, resulting in tough muffins. Mix until just combined.
• Use Room Temperature Ingredients: Room temperature eggs and milk blend more easily into the batter, creating a smoother texture.
• Measure Accurately: Baking is a science, so accurate measurements are essential. Use measuring cups and spoons to ensure the right proportions.
• Check for Doneness: Use a toothpick to check if the muffins are done. If it comes out clean, they’re ready.
• Cool Properly: Allow the muffins to cool in the muffin tin for a few minutes before transferring them to a wire rack. This prevents them from becoming soggy.

Follow these tips and you’ll be baking like a pro in no time!

Variations & Substitutions

Want to put your own spin on these pecan pie muffins? Here are a few variations and substitutions to try:

• Add Chocolate Chips: Stir chocolate chips into the muffin batter or pecan pie filling for a chocolatey twist.
• Use Different Nuts: Substitute walnuts, almonds, or cashews for the pecans.
• Make it Gluten-Free: Use a gluten-free all-purpose flour blend in place of regular flour.
• Add Spices: Sprinkle cinnamon, nutmeg, or pumpkin spice into the muffin batter for added warmth.
• Substitute Sweeteners: Replace granulated sugar with honey or agave nectar.

Experiment with these variations to create your perfect pecan pie muffin!

Serving Suggestions & Pairings with Pecan Pie Muffins

These pecan pie muffins are delicious on their own, but here are some serving suggestions and pairings to elevate your experience:

• Serve Warm: Warm muffins are extra comforting and delicious.
• Pair with Coffee or Tea: The sweetness of the muffins pairs perfectly with a warm beverage.
• Add a Scoop of Vanilla Ice Cream: For an extra indulgent treat, top a warm muffin with vanilla ice cream.
• Serve with Fresh Fruit: A side of fresh berries or sliced fruit adds a refreshing contrast to the rich muffins.

Enjoy these muffins as a sweet treat any time of the day!

Health Benefits

While these are a treat, they do offer some nutritional value. Pecans are a great source of healthy fats, fiber, and antioxidants. The muffins also provide carbohydrates for energy. Enjoy in moderation as part of a balanced diet.

• Fiber: Aids in digestion and promotes gut health.
• Healthy Fats: Pecans are rich in monounsaturated fats, which are good for heart health.
• Antioxidants: Protect your cells from damage.

Storage & Reheating

Proper storage ensures your pecan pie muffins stay fresh and delicious. Here’s how to store and reheat them:

• Storage: Store cooled muffins in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 2 days or in the refrigerator for up to 5 days.
• Reheating: To reheat, warm muffins in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for 5-10 minutes or microwave for 15-30 seconds.
• Freezing: Freeze cooled muffins in an airtight container for up to 2 months. Thaw at room temperature before reheating.

Enjoy these muffins anytime with these simple storage and reheating tips!

Frequently Asked Questions

Here are some common questions about making pecan pie muffins:

Can I use a different type of sugar?

Yes, you can substitute coconut sugar or maple sugar for the granulated and brown sugars. Keep in mind that this will slightly alter the flavor and texture of the muffins.

Can I make these muffins vegan?

Yes, you can make these muffins vegan by using plant-based milk, a flax egg (1 tablespoon flaxseed meal mixed with 3 tablespoons water), and a vegan butter substitute.

How do I prevent the pecans from sinking to the bottom?

To prevent the pecans from sinking, toss them with a tablespoon of flour before adding them to the filling. This helps them stay suspended in the mixture.

Can I add other nuts to the filling?

Absolutely! Feel free to add other nuts like walnuts, almonds, or cashews to the filling. Just make sure to chop them into small pieces for even distribution.

How do I store the muffins?

Store cooled muffins in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 2 days or in the refrigerator for up to 5 days. For longer storage, freeze them in an airtight container for up to 2 months.

Nutritional Information

• Calories: 250
• Total Fat: 15g
• Saturated Fat: 5g
• Cholesterol: 30mg
• Sodium: 150mg
• Total Carbohydrate: 30g
• Dietary Fiber: 2g
• Total Sugars: 18g
• Protein: 3g

More Delicious Dishes to Explore

Craving more muffin recipes? Check out these delightful options:

• Apple Pumpkin Muffins with Oat Topping: A seasonal treat blending apple and pumpkin flavors.
• Lemon Blueberry Oat Muffins with Yogurt: A healthy and flavorful option perfect for breakfast.
• Pumpkin Cinnamon Rolls: A twist on a classic with pumpkin spice.

Conclusion

These Delicious Pecan Pie Muffins are a fast, flavorful, and incredibly satisfying treat that everyone will rave about. They combine the best of both worlds: the comforting taste of pecan pie and the convenience of a muffin. Whip them up for your next brunch, snack, or dessert, and watch them disappear! Don’t forget to share your baking success!

Share this recipe with your friends and family who would love it! Join our vibrant community on Facebook and Pinterest for daily recipe inspiration, cooking tips, and more tasty ideas!

Print