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If you love the rich flavors of pecan pie, these Pecan Pie Muffins are the perfect treat. Let's look at the simple ingredients that make these muffins a delightful twist on a classic dessert.
Ingredients
- 1 cup packed light brown sugar: Provides sweetness and caramel-like flavor, essential for that pecan pie taste.
- 1/2 cup all-purpose flour: Adds structure to the muffins while keeping them soft.
- 2 cups chopped pecans: The main ingredient, giving the muffins their nutty flavor and texture.
- 2/3 cup butter, softened: Adds moisture and richness, creating a tender muffin texture.
- 2 eggs, beaten: Helps bind the ingredients and gives the muffins a light, fluffy texture.
Instructions
- Step 1:
- Preheat your oven to 350°F. Generously grease the mini or regular muffin cups to prevent sticking and make it easier to remove the muffins.
- Step 2:
- In a medium mixing bowl, combine the packed light brown sugar, all-purpose flour, and chopped pecans. Stir well to ensure the dry ingredients are evenly distributed.
- Step 3:
- In a separate bowl, beat the softened butter and eggs together until well combined. This mixture should be smooth and creamy.
- Step 4:
- Pour the wet ingredients into the bowl with the dry ingredients. Stir just until the ingredients are combined; overmixing may lead to dense muffins.
- Step 5:
- Spoon the batter into the prepared muffin cups, filling each about 2/3 full to allow room for rising.
- Step 6:
- Bake for 12-13 minutes if using mini muffin cups or 15-17 minutes for regular-sized muffins. The muffins are done when they are golden on top and a toothpick inserted into the center comes out with just a few moist crumbs.
- Step 7:
- Once baked, allow the muffins to cool slightly. Run a knife around the edges of each muffin to loosen and carefully pop them out of the muffin cups.
Serving and Storage Tips
- Serve these Pecan Pie Muffins warm to enjoy their gooey, pie-like center.
- For a festive touch, dust the muffins with powdered sugar before serving.
- Store any leftovers in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days.
- To reheat, warm them in the microwave for 10-15 seconds to bring back that fresh-baked texture.
Helpful Notes
- Greasing the muffin cups generously is essential to ensure easy removal after baking.
- For an extra gooey center, try slightly under-baking the muffins by 1-2 minutes.
- If you’re a fan of a crispier exterior, bake the muffins a few minutes longer.
Tips from well-known chefs
- Chef Carla Hall recommends using high-quality butter to enhance the flavor and richness of baked goods.
- Chef Martha Stewart suggests adding a pinch of cinnamon to complement the pecans and brown sugar.
- Chef Alton Brown advises letting the muffins rest for a few minutes after baking to set the structure before serving.