How to Make Pecan Pie Muffins – Gooey, Nutty, and Delicious

These pecan pie muffins capture all the rich, caramelized flavor of the classic Southern dessert in a lighter, portion-controlled form. Made with wholesome ingredients and a simplified method, they’re perfect for breakfast, dessert, or an anytime sweet fix—without the heaviness of traditional pecan pie.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Pecan Pie Flavor in Muffin Form – Gooey center, crisp edges, and nutty richness
Lighter Ingredients – No corn syrup, less butter, and natural sweeteners
Quick & Easy – One bowl, no mixer needed
Perfect for Any Occasion – Great for holidays, meal prep, or gifting

Ingredients

• 1/2 cup chopped pecans
• 1/4 cup almond flour or oat flour
• 1/4 cup brown sugar substitute (like Swerve or monk fruit blend)
• 1/4 tsp baking powder
• Pinch of salt
• 1 egg
• 2 tbsp unsweetened applesauce
• 1 tbsp melted light butter or coconut oil
• 1/2 tsp vanilla extract

Instructions

Preheat & Prep

• Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C). Line a muffin tin with 9 paper liners or lightly grease them.

Mix the Batter

• In a medium bowl, whisk together the almond flour, sweetener, baking powder, and salt.
• Stir in the chopped pecans.
• In a separate bowl, whisk the egg, applesauce, melted butter, and vanilla extract.
• Combine wet and dry ingredients; stir until fully mixed.

Fill & Bake

• Divide batter evenly among the 9 muffin cups (they will be about 2/3 full).
• Bake for 20–22 minutes, or until tops are golden and a toothpick inserted comes out clean.
• Let cool in the pan for 5 minutes, then transfer to a wire rack.

Nutritional Information (Per Muffin, Approximate)

Calories: 120 | Carbs: 6g | Fat: 10g | Protein: 3g | Fiber: 2g | Sugar: 2g

Tips for Success

• Don’t Overbake: Muffins should stay moist inside—test at 20 minutes.
• Use Silicone Liners: These help the muffins release cleanly.
• Toast the Pecans: For extra depth of flavor, lightly toast pecans before mixing.
• Double the Batch: They freeze beautifully for quick snacks later on.

Why This Recipe Works

• Smart Ingredient Swaps – Almond flour and applesauce keep things moist and lower-carb
• Classic Flavor Profile – Toasty pecans and brown sugar notes without the sugar overload
• Minimal Effort, Big Reward – A bakery-style muffin made with pantry staples

These pecan pie muffins offer everything you love about the traditional dessert—rich, nutty, sweet flavor—in a lighter, easy-to-make form. Whether you’re serving them with your morning coffee or offering them at your next gathering, they’re guaranteed to disappear fast.