Pecan Pie Brown Sugar Muffins

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Golden, sticky-sweet, and rich with buttery brown sugar and toasted pecans, these Pecan Pie Brown Sugar Muffins are everything you love about pecan pie, in a soft and tender muffin form. Each bite is filled with cozy fall flavors and a crunch from caramelized pecans on top that gives the perfect contrast to the moist, fluffy center.

Whether you’re baking for a cozy brunch, a holiday gathering, or simply craving a warm muffin with your morning coffee, these muffins bring serious bakery-style vibes without the fuss. No pie crust, no rolling pins—just mix, scoop, and bake. The aroma alone is enough to make everyone wander into the kitchen.

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What Makes These Muffins Taste Like Pecan Pie?

It’s all about balance. The dark brown sugar mimics that deep, molasses-like sweetness found in pecan pie filling. When it bakes with the chopped pecans and a touch of vanilla, the edges turn golden and slightly crisp, almost like the top of a classic pecan pie. The pecans toast while baking, bringing out their natural oils and nutty aroma, which pairs beautifully with the sweetness of the batter.

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Ingredients for the Pecan Pie Brown Sugar Muffins

Brown Sugar: The star of the show. Choose dark brown sugar for a richer, more molasses-forward flavor that makes these muffins taste like the gooey base of pecan pie.

Chopped Pecans: Essential for that crunch and nuttiness. Toasting them brings out their full flavor—and don’t forget to add a few whole ones on top for that irresistible finish.

All-Purpose Flour: Keeps the muffins light but structured. Be sure to spoon and level to avoid a dense crumb.

Eggs: For richness and structure, helping bind everything together and giving that golden finish.

Melted Butter: Adds moisture and flavor, much like the buttery richness of pecan pie filling.

Baking Powder & Baking Soda: A combo to get the perfect rise and soft texture.

Salt: Just a pinch to balance out the sweetness and deepen the flavors.

Vanilla Extract: Rounds everything out with warmth and depth.

Milk or Buttermilk: Helps the batter stay moist and gives it a soft crumb. Buttermilk adds a subtle tang that complements the brown sugar well.

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How To Make the Pecan Pie Brown Sugar Muffins

Step 1: Prep the Oven and Muffin Tin

Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and line a 12-cup muffin tin with paper liners. Lightly spray the liners with nonstick spray if you want extra insurance against sticking.

Step 2: Mix the Dry Ingredients

In a medium bowl, whisk together 1 and 1/2 cups of all-purpose flour, 1 teaspoon of baking powder, 1/2 teaspoon of baking soda, and a pinch of salt. Set this aside.

Step 3: Combine the Wet Ingredients

In a separate large mixing bowl, whisk together 3/4 cup melted butter (cooled slightly), 1 cup dark brown sugar, 2 large eggs, and 1 teaspoon vanilla extract until smooth and glossy.

Step 4: Bring It All Together

Gradually stir the dry ingredients into the wet mixture until just combined. Avoid over-mixing to keep the muffins tender. Then fold in 3/4 cup of chopped pecans.

Step 5: Fill and Top

Scoop the batter evenly into your prepared muffin liners, filling each about 3/4 of the way. Top each muffin with 2 to 3 whole pecans gently pressed into the batter.

Step 6: Bake to Perfection

Bake for 18 to 22 minutes or until the tops are golden brown and a toothpick inserted into the center comes out with a few moist crumbs. Allow muffins to cool in the pan for 5 minutes before transferring to a wire rack.

Step 7: Serve Warm or Cool

These muffins are delicious warm out of the oven but just as good at room temperature the next day—especially with a smear of cinnamon butter or honey.

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How to Serve and Store These Muffins

These Pecan Pie Brown Sugar Muffins are irresistible straight from the oven, slightly warm with the pecans still glossy and toasty. Serve them with a pat of salted butter, cinnamon honey butter, or even a drizzle of maple syrup for a little indulgence. They pair perfectly with coffee, tea, or even a scoop of vanilla ice cream for dessert.

For storage, let the muffins cool completely, then place them in an airtight container. They’ll stay fresh at room temperature for up to 3 days. If you need to keep them longer, refrigerate for up to a week or freeze for up to 2 months. To reheat, simply microwave for 15–20 seconds or warm them in the oven at 300°F for a few minutes.

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Frequently Asked Questions

How do I keep the muffins from becoming too dry?

Measure your flour properly by spooning it into the measuring cup and leveling it off. Overbaking can also dry them out, so keep an eye on them in the final minutes.

Can I use light brown sugar instead of dark?

Yes, you can substitute it, but dark brown sugar adds a deeper, richer flavor closer to traditional pecan pie.

What’s the best way to toast pecans?

Spread chopped or whole pecans on a baking sheet and bake at 350°F for 6–8 minutes, stirring halfway through. Let them cool before adding to your batter.

Can I make these gluten-free?

You can try using a 1:1 gluten-free flour blend. The texture may be slightly different, but the flavor should remain delicious.

Do these muffins freeze well?

Absolutely. Once cooled, wrap them individually in plastic wrap and store in a freezer-safe bag. They reheat beautifully.

Can I make them mini muffin-sized?

Yes! Use a mini muffin pan and reduce the bake time to around 10–12 minutes. Perfect for bite-sized treats or party trays.

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Want More Muffin Ideas with a Twist?

If you loved these Pecan Pie Brown Sugar Muffins, here are more delicious options that combine fun flavors and cozy textures:

• Healthy Banana Oatmeal Muffins for a guilt-free treat that’s still full of flavor.
• Triple Chocolate Banana Bread when you’re craving something rich and indulgent.
• Lemon Oatmeal No-Bake Cookies if you love citrus with a hint of spice.
• Blueberry Swirl Yogurt Bites for a fruity, creamy twist in mini form.
• Strawberry Cheesecake Cupcakes that bring dessert vibes to your muffin tin.

For more cozy kitchen creations and easy-to-follow sweet recipes, check out my Pinterest board where I share daily bakes and inspiration: Life with Nina on Pinterest

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Save This Pin + Share Your Results

📌 Save this recipe to your Pinterest muffin or dessert board so it’s ready whenever the craving strikes.

Tried them out? I’d love to hear how they turned out for you! Did you go with dark brown sugar or try something different? Add a little cinnamon? Drop your questions and tips in the comments—let’s bake better together.

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