Ingredients
Dry Ingredients
- 1½ cups (180 grams) all-purpose flour
- 1½ teaspoons baking powder
- ½ teaspoon baking soda
- ½ teaspoon salt
Wet Ingredients
- 1 cup (200 grams) dark brown sugar, packed
- ½ cup (113 grams) unsalted butter, melted and slightly cooled
- 2 large eggs
- ¾ cup (180 grams) sour cream
- ¼ cup (60 ml) whole milk
- 2 teaspoons vanilla extract
Nuts and Topping
- 1¾ cups (190 grams) pecans, roughly chopped, divided
- Coarse sugar, for topping (optional)
Instructions
- Preheat Oven and Prepare Pan: Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C). Line a standard 12-cup muffin pan with paper liners to prevent sticking and allow for easy cleanup.
- Toast Pecans: Spread 1½ cups of the chopped pecans evenly on a baking sheet. Toast them in the preheated oven for 5 to 7 minutes until they become fragrant and lightly browned. Remove from the oven and allow to cool.
- Mix Dry Ingredients: In a medium mixing bowl, whisk together the all-purpose flour, baking powder, baking soda, and salt. This ensures even distribution of the leavening agents and salt throughout the batter.
- Combine Wet Ingredients: In a large mixing bowl, whisk the dark brown sugar, melted butter, eggs, sour cream, milk, and vanilla extract until the mixture is smooth and fully combined, creating a rich base for the muffins.
- Combine Wet and Dry Mixtures: Add the dry ingredient mixture to the wet mixture. Stir gently until just combined—it’s okay if a few small streaks of flour remain, as overmixing can toughen the muffins.
- Fold in Toasted Pecans: Carefully fold the cooled toasted pecans into the batter, being cautious not to overmix to keep the muffins tender.
- Fill Muffin Cups: Divide the batter evenly among the 12 muffin cups, filling each about three-quarters full to allow room for rising.
- Add Topping: Sprinkle the remaining ¼ cup of chopped pecans evenly over the tops of the muffins. If desired, sprinkle a light layer of coarse sugar on top for added crunch and sweetness.
- Bake: Bake the muffins for 18 to 22 minutes, or until they have risen, are golden brown, and a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean or with a few moist crumbs.
- Cool: Let the muffins cool in the pan for 5 minutes. Then transfer them to a wire cooling rack to cool completely, preventing sogginess and preserving their texture.
Notes
- Ensure pecans are toasted lightly to enhance their flavor without burning.
- Do not overmix the batter to keep muffins tender and light.
- Coarse sugar topping is optional but adds pleasant texture and sweetness.
- Muffins can be stored in an airtight container for up to 3 days or frozen for longer storage.
- Use sour cream at room temperature for better mixing and texture.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 22 minutes
- Category: Breakfast, Snack, Dessert
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
- Diet: Vegetarian