Pecan Muffins

Pecan Muffins are soft, buttery, and loaded with crunchy pecans. Topped with a maple brown sugar glaze, they're perfect for breakfast or brunch.

Prep Time15

Cook Time20

Cool Time15

Total Time50

Servings:

Calories: 417kcal

Preheat your oven to 350°F and line a 12-cup muffin pan with paper liners.
In a large mixing bowl, beat together the softened butter, brown sugar, eggs, vanilla extract, whole milk, and maple syrup until smooth and well combined.
In a separate bowl, whisk together the flour, baking powder, baking soda, and salt.
Add the dry ingredients to the wet ingredients and stir just until combined, then gently fold in the chopped pecans.
Divide the batter evenly among the prepared muffin cups, filling each about ¾ full. Press a few pecan halves onto the top of each muffin.
Bake for 20 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.
Cool in the pan for 5 minutes, then transfer to a wire rack placed over parchment paper while you prepare the topping.

In a small microwave-safe bowl or saucepan, combine the melted butter, dark brown sugar, vanilla extract, and maple syrup. Heat until the mixture just begins to bubble (about 1 minute in the microwave), then stir until smooth and glossy.
Brush or drizzle the warm maple topping over the slightly warm muffins, allowing it to soak into the tops.
Serve immediately, or let the topping set for a few minutes before enjoying.

Measure and mix carefully: Use room temperature butter, eggs, and milk for a smooth batter, and mix just until the ingredients are combined to keep the muffins soft and tender.
Toast and top with pecans: Toast the pecans beforehand for deeper flavor, gently fold the chopped pecans into the batter, and press a few pecan halves onto each muffin before baking for a beautiful presentation.
Bake for the best texture: Fill the muffin cups about three-quarters full, avoid overbaking, and check for doneness with a toothpick. Cool the muffins in the pan for 10-15 minutes before adding glaze.
Perfect the maple topping: Warm the topping only until bubbly, stir until smooth, and brush or drizzle it over the muffins while they're still slightly warm so it soaks into the tops.
Make them your own: Add chocolate chips, cinnamon, fresh fruit, or different nuts, and enjoy the muffins warm or at room temperature for the best flavor.