Craving the flavors of a classic Southern pecan pie without the fuss of rolling out dough? These Bourbon Pecan Pie Muffins bring all the warm, nutty, and caramel-like richness of pecan pie—wrapped in a handheld, muffin-sized treat. Made with simple pantry ingredients and just one bowl, these muffins are a must-have for holiday baking, weekend brunches, or cozy comfort food cravings.
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Why You’ll Love This Recipe:
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Easy one-bowl recipe: Minimal prep and cleanup
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Perfectly portable: Ideal for parties, brunches, or gifting
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No crust needed: All the flavor of pecan pie in muffin form
Ingredients Breakdown
Dry Ingredients:
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Chopped Pecans (1 cup): The star ingredient—adds nutty flavor and crunchy texture.
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Light Brown Sugar (1 cup, packed): Sweetens the muffins and gives them a rich, caramel-like depth.
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All-Purpose Flour (½ cup): Provides structure and balances the sweetness.
Wet Ingredients:
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Eggs (2 large): Bind the ingredients and add richness.
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Unsalted Butter – Melted (½ cup): Adds moisture and a tender crumb.
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Bourbon (1 tbsp, optional): Enhances flavor with warm, toasty notes—highly recommended!
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Vanilla Extract (½ tsp): Adds a sweet aroma that complements the pecans and bourbon.
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Salt (¼ tsp): Balances the sweetness and intensifies flavor.
Tips and Tricks:
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Use toasted pecans for even more depth of flavor.
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Let butter cool slightly before mixing—it helps with texture.
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Don’t skip the salt—it balances the sweetness beautifully.
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Add a pecan half on top before baking for an elegant presentation.
Variations and Customizations:
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Bourbon-Free Option: Simply omit the bourbon and add a touch more vanilla.
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Mini Muffins: Bake in mini muffin tins for 10–12 minutes for bite-sized treats.
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Chocolate Chip Version: Stir in ½ cup mini chocolate chips for a twist.
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Gluten-Free: Use a 1:1 gluten-free flour blend.
Pairing Suggestions:
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Coffee or espresso drinks: Perfect for breakfast or brunch.
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Bourbon-based cocktails: Great for evening desserts.
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Vanilla ice cream: Warm a muffin and serve with a scoop on top.
Storage Instructions:
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Room Temperature: Store in an airtight container for up to 3 days.
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Refrigerator: Lasts up to 5 days when chilled.
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Freezer-Friendly: Wrap individually and freeze for up to 2 months. Thaw at room temperature or warm briefly in the microwave.
Popular Questions:
Can I make these ahead of time?
Yes! They store beautifully and are even better the next day after the flavors meld.
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Do I have to use bourbon?
No—but it does enhance the pecan pie flavor. For a non-alcoholic version, substitute with 1 extra teaspoon of vanilla.
Can I double the recipe?
Absolutely. It doubles well for holiday baking or entertaining
Print
Bourbon Pecan Pie Muffins
- Total Time: 30 minutes
- Yield: 12 muffins 1x
Description
Bourbon Pecan Pie Muffins – All the rich, buttery goodness of pecan pie—minus the crust! Toasted pecans, caramel-like brown sugar, and a hint of bourbon bake into gooey, irresistible muffin cups. Perfect for holiday gatherings or anytime you need a sweet, Southern-inspired bite
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Ingredients
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1 cup chopped pecans
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1 cup packed light brown sugar
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½ cup all-purpose flour
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2 large eggs
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½ cup unsalted butter, melted and slightly cooled
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1 tablespoon bourbon (optional but highly recommended)
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½ teaspoon vanilla extract
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¼ teaspoon salt
Instructions
Step 1: Prep Your Oven and Pan
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Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C).
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Lightly grease a standard 12-cup muffin tin or line with paper liners.
Step 2: Combine Dry Ingredients
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In a large mixing bowl, stir together chopped pecans, brown sugar, and flour until evenly coated.
Step 3: Mix Wet Ingredients
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In a separate bowl, whisk together eggs, melted butter, bourbon, vanilla extract, and salt until fully combined.
Step 4: Combine and Fill
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Pour the wet mixture into the dry ingredients. Stir gently until just combined—do not overmix.
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Divide batter evenly into the muffin cups, filling each about ¾ full.
Step 5: Bake to Perfection
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Bake for 18–22 minutes, or until the tops are golden and a toothpick inserted in the center comes out mostly clean.
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Allow muffins to cool in the pan for 5 minutes, then transfer to a wire rack to cool completely.
Notes
These Bourbon Pecan Pie Muffins are a Southern-inspired delight that deliver comfort and decadence in every bite. Whether you’re preparing for Thanksgiving, a holiday brunch, or just craving something sweet and nutty, this easy recipe is bound to become a go-to favorite.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
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