Directions to follow
- Preheat your oven to 350 degrees F.
- Grease and flour the mini muffin tins, or line them with paper liners.
- In a medium bowl, whisk together the light brown sugar and flour until well combined.
- Stir in the chopped pecans until evenly distributed.
- In another bowl, beat the softened butter with the beaten eggs until the mixture is smooth.
- Pour the butter and egg mixture into the dry ingredients, and stir gently until just combined; don’t overmix!
- Spoon the batter into the mini muffin cups, filling each about two-thirds full.
- Bake for 20-25 minutes, or until golden brown and the tops spring back when gently touched.
- Allow cooling in the pan for 5 minutes, then transfer to a wire rack to cool completely.
Best ways to enjoy it
Pecan Pie Muffins are delightful on their own, but a little creativity can make them even more special. Consider serving them warm with a dollop of whipped cream or a drizzle of caramel sauce for an extra indulgent treat. Pair them with a steaming cup of coffee or tea for a cozy afternoon, or serve them alongside fresh fruit for a balanced breakfast.
How to store & freeze
To keep your muffins fresh, store any leftovers in an airtight container at room temperature for up to three days. If you want to keep them longer, you can freeze them. Wrap individual muffins tightly in plastic wrap, then place them in a freezer bag. They’ll be good for about three months. Just be sure to let them thaw at room temperature before enjoying!
Helpful cooking tips
Get the best results with these pro tips! Using room-temperature butter helps to blend it easily with the eggs. If you want extra flavor, consider toasting your pecans lightly before adding them to the mix; it enhances their nutty essence. Lastly, keep an eye on the muffins in the last few minutes of baking to ensure they don’t over-bake and lose their soft texture.
Creative twists
Feeling adventurous? Here are some variations to try:
- Add a touch of vanilla extract to the butter mixture for added flavor.
- Substitute the chopped pecans with walnuts or almonds for a new twist on the texture.
- Want a hint of chocolate? Mix in some mini chocolate chips, and enjoy the delightful contrast of flavors.
- For a holiday twist, incorporate a pinch of cinnamon or nutmeg to evoke the warm spices of the season.
FAQ
How long is the prep time for these muffins?
The prep time is about 15 minutes, making this recipe a quick and easy choice for any time.
Can I use a different type of sugar?
Yes! You can substitute brown sugar with granulated sugar, but the muffins will be less moist.
How should I reheat the muffins?
To reheat, place them in a preheated oven at 350 degrees F for about 5-10 minutes. Alternatively, you can microwave them for about 15-20 seconds.
With these instructions, you’ll create Pecan Pie Muffins that are not only delicious but also bring a warm, homey feeling to any occasion!
