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
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
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
