Pecan Pie Brown Sugar Muffins Recipe
Introduction
Pecan Pie Brown Sugar Muffins bring together the rich flavors of classic pecan pie in an easy-to-make, handheld treat. These moist muffins are perfect for breakfast or an indulgent snack any time of day.

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
Instructions
- Step 1: Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C) and line a 12-cup muffin tin with paper liners.
- Step 2: In a medium bowl, whisk together the flour, baking soda, baking powder, salt, and cinnamon.
- Step 3: In a large bowl, combine the melted butter and 1 cup brown sugar until smooth.
- Step 4: Add the eggs, sour cream, milk, and vanilla extract to the wet mixture and stir until fully incorporated.
- Step 5: Gently fold the dry ingredients into the wet ingredients, mixing just until combined.
- Step 6: In a small bowl, stir together the chopped pecans, 1/4 cup brown sugar, and 2 tablespoons melted butter to make the topping.
- Step 7: Divide the batter evenly into the muffin cups, filling each about 3/4 full.
- Step 8: Spoon the pecan topping over each muffin and gently press a pecan half onto the top of each muffin.
- Step 9: Bake for 18 to 22 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.
- Step 10: Cool in the pan for 10 minutes, then transfer muffins to a wire rack to cool completely.
Tips & Variations
- For a richer flavor, toast the pecans lightly before chopping and adding to the topping.
- Substitute sour cream with Greek yogurt for a slight tang and added moisture.
- Try adding a pinch of nutmeg to the dry ingredients for a warm, spiced note.
- Use maple syrup instead of brown sugar in the topping for a different sweetness profile.
Storage
Store the muffins in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days. For longer storage, keep them refrigerated for up to a week or freeze individually wrapped for up to 3 months. Reheat muffins gently in the microwave for about 20 seconds or until warm.
How to Serve

Serve this delicious recipe with your favorite sides.
FAQs
Can I use chopped walnuts instead of pecans?
Yes, chopped walnuts make a great substitute if you prefer or only have walnuts on hand. They will provide a slightly different nutty flavor but work well in this recipe.
Can I make these muffins dairy-free?
You can substitute the butter with a plant-based margarine or coconut oil, use a non-dairy milk like almond or oat milk, and replace sour cream with a dairy-free yogurt alternative to make the recipe dairy-free.
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Pecan Pie Brown Sugar Muffins Recipe
- Total Time: 35 minutes
- Yield: 12 muffins 1x
Description
Delightfully moist and flavorful, these Pecan Pie Brown Sugar Muffins combine the warm spices of cinnamon with the rich sweetness of brown sugar and pecans, creating a perfect breakfast treat or afternoon snack. Topped with a buttery pecan crumble and whole pecan halves, they offer a satisfying crunch and irresistible taste reminiscent of classic pecan pie.
Ingredients
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
Pecan Topping
- 1/2 cup finely chopped pecans
- 1/4 cup whole pecan halves
- 1/4 cup brown sugar
- 2 tablespoons melted butter
Instructions
- Prepare Oven and Muffin Tin: Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C) and line a 12-cup muffin tin with paper liners to prevent sticking and ensure easy removal.
- Mix Dry Ingredients: In a medium bowl, whisk together the all-purpose flour, baking soda, baking powder, salt, and cinnamon until well combined for an even distribution of leavening agents and spices.
- Combine Wet Ingredients: In a large bowl, blend the melted unsalted butter and light brown sugar until the mixture is smooth and creamy, setting a rich base for your muffins.
- Add Remaining Wet Ingredients: Incorporate the eggs, sour cream, whole milk, and vanilla extract into the butter-sugar mixture, stirring until fully blended to create a moist batter.
- Combine Wet and Dry Mixtures: Gently fold the dry ingredients into the wet ingredients, mixing just until combined to avoid overworking the batter and keep the muffins tender.
- Prepare Pecan Topping: In a small bowl, stir together the finely chopped pecans, brown sugar, and melted butter to create a flavorful crumbly topping.
- Fill Muffin Cups: Evenly divide the batter among the prepared muffin cups, filling each about 3/4 full to allow room for rising.
- Add Topping and Pecan Halves: Spoon the pecan topping over each muffin and gently press a whole pecan half into the top of each muffin to add texture and visual appeal.
- Bake Muffins: Bake for 18 to 22 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean, indicating the muffins are fully cooked.
- Cool Muffins: Allow the muffins to cool in the pan for 10 minutes before transferring them to a wire rack to cool completely, which helps maintain their texture and prevents sogginess.
Notes
- Be careful not to overmix the batter to keep the muffins light and fluffy.
- Ensure the melted butter is cooled slightly before mixing with eggs to prevent scrambling.
- You can substitute whole milk with a dairy-free alternative if desired.
- For a crunchier topping, toast the pecans lightly before mixing with sugar and butter.
- Store muffins in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days or freeze for longer storage.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Category: Breakfast
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Keywords: Pecan Pie Muffins, Brown Sugar Muffins, Breakfast Muffins, Pecan Topping, Cinnamon Muffins

