These Pecan Pie Brown Sugar Muffins bring the warm, cozy flavors of a Southern pecan pie into soft, bakery-style muffins. They’re rich, buttery, and sweet with a caramelized top and toasty pecans nestled into each bite. Perfect for chilly mornings, holiday brunches, or anytime you want to impress without much fuss.

What makes these muffins unforgettable is their crackly, brown sugar pecan topping that mimics the best part of a pecan pie. Moist on the inside, with a caramelized crust and nutty crunch on top, they strike the perfect balance of indulgent and comforting. Whether you’re baking for a crowd or treating yourself, this is a muffin you’ll want to make again and again.

Why You’ll Love This Pecan Pie Brown Sugar Muffin Recipe

Tastes like a portable slice of pecan pie
No mixer needed and minimal cleanup
Sweet, moist, and packed with buttery brown sugar flavor
Perfect for holiday mornings or potlucks
Freezes beautifully for future snacking

What Kind of Brown Sugar Should I Use?

Light brown sugar is ideal for this recipe as it melts beautifully and lends a subtle molasses depth. If you want a bolder flavor, dark brown sugar can be used, though it will intensify the richness and color. For that classic pecan pie taste, light brown sugar keeps things balanced.

Ingredients for the Pecan Pie Brown Sugar Muffins

Each ingredient in this recipe brings flavor and texture into harmony. Here’s what you’ll need:

All-purpose flour: Forms the base structure of the muffins.
Baking powder & baking soda: Ensures a fluffy, well-risen muffin.
Salt: Balances the sweetness and enhances the overall flavor.
Cinnamon: Adds a warm, spiced undertone that complements the pecans.
Brown sugar: Light brown sugar gives that caramel-like richness and moisture.
Eggs: Bind the ingredients and add moisture and richness.
Unsalted butter: Adds fat and flavor for a tender crumb.
Milk: Keeps the batter smooth and the muffins moist.
Vanilla extract: Enhances the sweetness and depth of flavor.
Chopped pecans: Provide crunch and that classic pecan pie flavor.
Whole pecans (for topping): Make for a visually appealing and delicious finish.

How To Make the Pecan Pie Brown Sugar Muffins

Step 1: Prep the Oven and Pan

Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Line a muffin tin with paper liners or lightly grease each cup.

Step 2: Mix the Dry Ingredients

In a large bowl, whisk together the flour, baking powder, baking soda, salt, and cinnamon.

Step 3: Cream the Wet Ingredients

In another bowl, whisk the brown sugar, melted butter, eggs, milk, and vanilla extract until smooth and well combined.

Step 4: Combine and Fold

Gently fold the wet ingredients into the dry until just combined. Do not overmix. Stir in the chopped pecans.

Step 5: Fill and Top

Spoon the batter evenly into the muffin cups, filling them about 3/4 full. Press a few whole pecans on top of each muffin.

Step 6: Bake to Perfection

Bake for 18-22 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean. Let cool slightly before serving.

How to Serve and Store These Muffins

These muffins are best served warm or at room temperature, allowing the brown sugar topping to remain slightly crisp and gooey. They’re a perfect grab-and-go breakfast, sweet afternoon snack, or holiday brunch treat.

This recipe yields 12 standard-sized muffins. To store, keep them in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days, or refrigerate for up to a week. For longer storage, freeze individually wrapped muffins for up to 3 months.