Pecan Pie Mini Muffins

Pecan Pie Mini Muffins are a delightful twist on the classic pecan pie, offering all the rich, nutty flavors in a perfectly portable size. These mini muffins capture the essence of traditional pecan pie with their sweet, gooey filling and crunchy pecan topping, making them an irresistible treat for any occasion. Perfect for holiday gatherings, brunches, or as a sweet snack, these muffins are easy to bake and even easier to enjoy. With their warm, comforting flavors and bite-sized goodness, Pecan Pie Mini Muffins are sure to be a hit with family and friends, providing a delicious way to savor the taste of pecan pie without the fuss of a full dessert.

Ingredients:

For the Muffins:

• 1 cup all-purpose flour
• 1/2 teaspoon baking powder
• 1/4 teaspoon baking soda
• 1/4 teaspoon salt
• 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened
• 1/2 cup brown sugar, packed
• 1/4 cup granulated sugar
• 2 large eggs
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
• 1 cup chopped pecans

For the Filling:

• 1/2 cup corn syrup (light or dark)
• 1/4 cup granulated sugar
• 1/4 cup brown sugar, packed
• 2 tablespoons unsalted butter, melted
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
• 1/4 teaspoon salt
• 1 cup whole pecans (for topping)

Instructions:

1. Preheat the Oven: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and grease a mini muffin pan or line it with mini muffin liners.
2. Mix the Dry Ingredients: In a medium bowl, whisk together the flour, baking powder, baking soda, and salt. Set aside.
3. Cream the Butter and Sugars: In a large mixing bowl, cream together the softened butter, brown sugar, and granulated sugar until light and fluffy. Add the eggs, one at a time, mixing well after each addition, followed by the vanilla extract.
4. Combine Wet and Dry Ingredients: Gradually add the dry ingredient mixture to the wet mixture, stirring until just combined. Fold in the chopped pecans.
5. Prepare the Filling: In a separate bowl, whisk together the corn syrup, granulated sugar, brown sugar, melted butter, vanilla extract, and salt until smooth.
6. Fill the Muffin Pan: Spoon the muffin batter into the prepared mini muffin pan, filling each cup about halfway. Then, pour a small amount of the filling mixture on top of each muffin batter, filling just to the top. Place a whole pecan on top of each muffin for garnish.
7. Bake: Bake in the preheated oven for 15-18 minutes, or until the muffins are golden brown and a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.
8. Cool and Serve: Allow the muffins to cool in the pan for a few minutes before transferring them to a wire rack to cool completely.
9. Enjoy: Serve your Pecan Pie Mini Muffins warm or at room temperature, and watch them disappear as everyone enjoys this delightful, bite-sized version of a classic dessert!