Pecan Pie Muffins

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Instructions

  1. Prepare for Baking: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Generously grease the cups of a regular or mini muffin tin with butter or non-stick cooking spray. These muffins are prone to sticking, so be thorough.

  2. Combine Dry Ingredients: In a medium bowl, whisk together the packed brown sugar and all-purpose flour. Stir in the chopped pecans until they are evenly coated. This creates the base of your muffin batter.

  3. Mix Wet Ingredients: In a separate, larger bowl, use a hand mixer or a whisk to beat the softened butter and eggs together until the mixture is smooth and well-combined.

  4. Create the Batter: Pour the dry pecan and sugar mixture into the bowl with the wet ingredients. Gently fold everything together using a spatula just until combined. Be careful not to overmix; the batter will be thick.

  5. Fill Muffin Cups: Spoon the batter into the prepared muffin cups, filling each one about 2/3 of the way full. This allows space for the muffins to rise slightly without overflowing.

  6. Bake: Place the muffin tin in the preheated oven.

    • For Mini Muffins: Bake for 12-13 minutes.

    • For Regular Muffins: Bake for 15-17 minutes.
      The muffins are done when the edges are golden brown and the tops are set. For a gooier, more pie-like center, slightly under-bake them.

  7. Cool and Serve: As soon as the muffins are out of the oven, run a small knife or offset spatula around the edge of each muffin to loosen it. Carefully pop them out of the tin. For the best experience, serve warm.

Chef’s Notes

  • For Easy Release: Lining the greased muffin cups with parchment paper liners provides a foolproof way to prevent sticking.

  • The Gooey Factor: Baking for the lower end of the suggested time will yield a softer, more decadent center that closely mimics the texture of pecan pie filling.

  • Storage: Store any leftover muffins in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 2 days. Reheat gently in the microwave for a few seconds to restore that warm, just-baked goodness.

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