Pecan Pie Muffins Recipe

Homemade Pecan Pie Muffins Recipe: Scrumptious Breakfast Joy

Warm memories of southern kitchens sparked my love for these delectable pecan pie muffins that blend sweet nostalgia with comforting flavors.

Buttery crumbs melt in your mouth, creating an irresistible blend of classic pie and tender breakfast treat.

Clusters of toasted pecans add delightful crunch and depth to each golden-brown bite.

Crafting these muffins requires minimal effort but delivers maximum satisfaction for anyone seeking a delicious morning indulgence.

Simple ingredients from your pantry transform into a magical breakfast experience that feels both familiar and exciting.

Rich caramel notes dance alongside nutty undertones, promising a sensory journey with every single muffin.

You won’t be able to resist the temptation of these irresistible pecan-studded delights that bring comfort and joy to your table.

Pecan Pie Muffins Standout Qualities

  • Speedy Sweet Treat: Whip up these delightful pecan pie muffins in under 30 minutes with minimal prep work, perfect for sudden dessert cravings.
  • Crowd-Pleasing Comfort: Packed with rich brown sugar and crunchy pecans, these muffins offer a nostalgic twist on classic pecan pie that everyone from kids to grandparents will adore.
  • Versatile Breakfast and Dessert Companion: Enjoy these moist, nutty muffins as a quick breakfast alongside coffee or as a sweet ending to any meal, making them incredibly adaptable for different occasions.
  • Minimal Ingredient Magic: Created with simple pantry staples and requiring just one bowl for mixing, these muffins are a stress-free baking experience for novice and experienced bakers alike.

Pecan Pie Muffins Ingredient List

Core Ingredients:
  • Brown Sugar: Provides a deep, rich sweetness and helps create a caramel-like flavor in the muffins.
  • Flour: Serves as the primary structure and base for the muffin batter.
  • Pecans: Adds a nutty crunch and classic pecan pie flavor to the muffins.
  • Butter: Contributes richness, moisture, and helps create a tender muffin texture.
  • Eggs: Bind the ingredients together and provide structure to the muffin.
Seasoning and Flavor Enhancers:
  • Vanilla Extract, Salt: Enhance the overall flavor profile and balance the sweetness of the muffins.
Baking Preparation:
  • Cooking Spray, Muffin Cups: Help prevent the muffins from sticking and allow for easy removal from the pan.

Instructions for Pecan Pie Muffins

Step 1: Warm Up the Oven

Fire up your oven to 350F (175C).

Grab your muffin tin and give it a generous coating of cooking spray or butter to prevent any sticky situations.

Step 2: Create the Dry Blend

In a spacious mixing bowl, toss together:
  • Brown sugar
  • All-purpose flour
  • Chopped pecans

Stir these ingredients until they’re perfectly mingled.

Step 3: Whip the Wet Mixture

In a separate bowl, crack your eggs and add softened butter.

Whisk them together until they transform into a smooth, creamy blend.

Step 4: Marry the Mixtures

Gently fold the dry ingredients into the wet ingredients.

Use a light touch and mix just until everything comes together.

Stop mixing the moment you see no dry streaks – overmixing will make tough muffins.

Step 5: Fill the Cups

Scoop the batter into your prepared muffin tin.

Fill each cup about two-thirds full to give the muffins room to rise and create beautiful domed tops.

Step 6: Bake to Golden Perfection

Slide the muffin tin into the preheated oven.

Bake mini muffins for 12-13 minutes or regular-sized muffins for 15-17 minutes.

Look for a gorgeous golden-brown color as your signal they’re ready.

Step 7: Release the Muffins

Once baked, take a knife and gently trace around each muffin’s edge to help them pop out smoothly.

Step 8: Serve and Savor

Let the muffins cool for a few minutes.

Serve them warm for a melt-in-your-mouth experience that captures the essence of a classic pecan pie.

Baking Tips for Pecan Pie Muffins

  • Gently fold dry and wet ingredients together to keep muffins tender and avoid tough, dense texture.
  • Use butter or cooking spray to ensure muffins release easily from the pan without sticking.
  • Insert a toothpick into the center – if it comes out clean with a few crumbs, the muffins are perfectly baked.
  • Toast pecans before chopping to intensify their nutty, rich taste and add depth to the muffins.
  • Keep muffins in an airtight container at room temperature for 2-3 days, or freeze for up to a month for longer preservation.

Ways to Change Up Pecan Pie Muffins

  • Gluten-Free Pecan Pie Muffins: Replace wheat flour with almond flour or gluten-free blend for celiac or gluten-sensitive bakers.
  • Vegan Pecan Muffins: Swap eggs with flax eggs and use coconut oil instead of butter to create a plant-based version.
  • Maple Walnut Alternative: Substitute pecans with walnuts and drizzle maple syrup for a different nutty flavor profile.
  • Low-Sugar Option: Use monk fruit sweetener or stevia in place of brown sugar to reduce overall sugar content while maintaining sweetness.

Serving Ideas for Pecan Pie Muffins

  • Sweet Morning Breakfast Companion: Pair these warm muffins with a steaming cup of coffee or freshly brewed tea for a delightful morning treat.
  • Decadent Dessert Upgrade: Serve the muffins with a scoop of vanilla ice cream or a drizzle of caramel sauce to elevate them into an indulgent dessert.
  • Nutty Garnish Delight: Top each muffin with extra chopped pecans or a light dusting of powdered sugar to enhance their visual appeal and add a crunchy texture.
  • Brunch Party Pleaser: Arrange the muffins on a beautiful platter alongside fresh fruit and whipped cream for an impressive brunch spread that will wow your guests.

Storing Pecan Pie Muffins Well

  • Store cooled muffins in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. Wrap each muffin individually in plastic wrap to maintain moisture and prevent them from drying out.
  • Place muffins in a freezer-safe container or ziplock bag. Freeze for up to 3 months. Separate layers with parchment paper to prevent sticking.
  • Remove muffins from the freezer and let them sit at room temperature for 1-2 hours. Alternatively, microwave each muffin for 15-20 seconds until warm.

FAQs

  • Are pecan pie muffins healthy?

While delicious, these muffins are a sweet treat with butter, sugar, and pecans. They contain nuts which offer some protein and healthy fats, but they’re best enjoyed in moderation as a dessert or special breakfast item.

  • Can I use different nuts instead of pecans?

Yes, you can substitute pecans with walnuts or almonds. Each nut will bring a slightly different flavor and texture to the muffins, but will work similarly in the recipe.

  • Why do the instructions say to avoid over-mixing?

Over-mixing develops gluten in the flour, which can make muffins tough and dense instead of light and tender. Mixing just until ingredients are combined helps maintain a soft, fluffy texture.

  • Do I need any special equipment to make these muffins?

You’ll need a muffin tin and basic mixing bowls.

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Pecan Pie Muffins Recipe

Pecan Pie Muffins Recipe


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4.8 from 33 reviews

  • Total Time: 30 minutes
  • Yield: 12 1x

Description

Southern charm meets sweet indulgence in these irresistible Pecan Pie Muffins, blending classic Southern hospitality with rich, buttery notes. Crumbly yet moist, these muffins deliver a delightful twist on traditional pecan pie that will make you crave another bite.


Ingredients

Scale

Main Ingredients:

  • 2 cups chopped pecans
  • 2 eggs, beaten
  • 2/3 cup (151 grams) butter, softened

Dry Ingredients:

  • 1 cup packed light brown sugar
  • 1/2 cup (60 grams) all-purpose flour

Sweet Additions:

(none)


Instructions

  1. Prepare a 350°F (175°C) oven and thoroughly coat muffin tins with cooking spray or butter to prevent sticking.
  2. In a mixing bowl, thoroughly combine brown sugar, flour, and finely chopped pecans until evenly distributed.
  3. Separately whisk softened butter with eggs until the mixture becomes smooth and integrated.
  4. Gently fold dry ingredients into wet ingredients, stirring minimally to maintain a light texture and prevent dense muffins.
  5. Carefully distribute batter into muffin cups, ensuring each is approximately two-thirds full for proper rising.
  6. For mini muffins, bake 12-13 minutes; for standard muffins, bake 15-17 minutes until edges turn golden brown and a toothpick emerges clean.
  7. Immediately after removing from oven, delicately loosen muffins’ edges using a thin knife to facilitate easy removal.
  8. Allow muffins to rest and slightly cool for optimal flavor and texture before serving, enjoying them while still warm for maximum deliciousness.

Notes

  • Swap flour with gluten-free alternatives like almond or coconut flour for those with wheat sensitivities.
  • Toast pecans briefly before chopping to enhance their nutty flavor and release natural oils.
  • Use room temperature eggs and butter for smoother batter and more consistent muffin texture.
  • Store leftover muffins in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days, or freeze for longer preservation.
  • Prep Time: 15 minutes
  • Cook Time: 15 minutes
  • Category: Breakfast, Snacks, Desserts
  • Method: Baking
  • Cuisine: American

Nutrition

  • Serving Size: 12
  • Calories: 343
  • Sugar: 24 g
  • Sodium: 65 mg
  • Fat: 27 g
  • Saturated Fat: 6 g
  • Unsaturated Fat: 18 g
  • Trans Fat: 0.2 g
  • Carbohydrates: 26 g
  • Fiber: 2 g
  • Protein: 4 g
  • Cholesterol: 40 mg
Nathaniel Brooks

Nathaniel Brooks

Founder & Recipe Developer

Expertise

Farm-to-table cuisine, Seasonal recipe development, Culinary storytelling

Education

Ivy Tech Community College – Indianapolis, IN
Culinary Arts / Hospitality Administration & Events
Focused on hands-on training in classical and modern culinary techniques. ​


Nathaniel’s story starts in the foothills of the Appalachian Mountains, where farm stands, backyard gardens, and old family recipes shaped his love for real food. After graduating from Ivy Tech Community College in Indianapolis, he spent years working in farm-to-table kitchens, learning how to turn local, seasonal ingredients into something memorable.
Today, Nathaniel pours that same spirit into every single recipe on Aspiring Culinarian – recipes that feel real, comforting, and connected to the land. When he’s not in the kitchen, you’ll find him foraging wild herbs, chasing sunsets with his camera, or writing about the flavors that shaped his roots.

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