Pecan Pie Cupcakes

Pecan Pie Cupcakes: A Perfect Blend of Two Classic Desserts

If you love the rich, nutty flavor of pecan pie and the light, fluffy texture of cupcakes, then these Pecan Pie Cupcakes are going to be your new favorite dessert. Combining the best of both worlds, these cupcakes are filled with toasted pecans and topped with a luscious brown sugar cream cheese frosting. Whether you’re baking for a special occasion or just because, these cupcakes are sure to impress with their irresistible flavor and delightful texture.

Ingredients:

For the Butter Pecan Cupcakes:

• 1 1/8 cups butter (softened, divided – 1 cup + 2 tablespoons)
• 2 cups pecans (chopped)
• 2 cups granulated sugar
• 4 eggs
• 2 teaspoons vanilla extract
• 1 cup all-purpose flour
• 2 cups cake flour
• 2 teaspoons baking powder
• 1/2 teaspoon salt
• 1 teaspoon cinnamon
• 1 cup whole milk

For the Brown Sugar Cream Cheese Frosting:

• 8 ounces cream cheese (room temperature)
• 3/4 cup unsalted butter (room temperature – 1 1/2 sticks)
• 3/4 cup dark brown sugar
• 1 teaspoon cinnamon
• 3 cups powdered sugar
• 2/3 cup pecans (toasted and chopped, for garnish)

Directions:

1. Preheat the Oven:
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Line a cupcake pan with cupcake liners and set aside.

2. Toast the Pecans:
In a large skillet, melt 2 tablespoons of butter over medium heat. Stir in the chopped pecans and toast them for about 4-5 minutes, watching carefully to prevent burning. This step enhances the nutty flavor of the pecans, adding depth to your cupcakes.

3. Prepare the Cupcake Batter:
In the bowl of an electric mixer, cream together the remaining butter (1 cup) and granulated sugar until the mixture is light and fluffy. This should take about 3-4 minutes.

Add the eggs one at a time, beating well after each addition to ensure they are fully incorporated. Beat in the vanilla extract to add a rich, warm flavor.

In a separate mixing bowl, whisk together the all-purpose flour, cake flour, baking powder, salt, and cinnamon. This combination of dry ingredients gives the cupcakes a tender crumb with a hint of spice.

Gradually add the dry ingredients to the butter and sugar mixture, alternating with the milk. Begin and end with the dry ingredients, mixing until just combined. Be careful not to overmix, as this can lead to dense cupcakes.

Fold in the toasted pecans with a spoon, ensuring they are evenly distributed throughout the batter.

4. Bake the Cupcakes:
Fill the cupcake liners 2/3 full with the batter. Bake in the preheated oven for 21-23 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean.

Allow the cupcakes to cool completely in the pan before frosting. Cooling is essential to prevent the frosting from melting.

5. Make the Brown Sugar Cream Cheese Frosting:
In the bowl of an electric mixer, cream together the room temperature cream cheese and butter until the mixture is light and fluffy.

Add in the dark brown sugar and cinnamon, and continue to cream together for another 3-4 minutes. The brown sugar gives the frosting a rich, caramel-like flavor that pairs perfectly with the cupcakes.

Gradually add the powdered sugar, one cup at a time, until you reach your desired frosting consistency. For a thicker frosting, you can add a bit more powdered sugar.

6. Frost the Cupcakes:
Once the cupcakes are completely cool, pipe or spread the brown sugar cream cheese frosting onto the tops of the cupcakes.

Garnish each cupcake with additional toasted pecans or candied pecans for an extra touch of flavor and crunch.

Quick Facts:

• Prep Time: 20 minutes
• Cooking Time: 23 minutes
• Total Time: 43 minutes
• Calories: 420 kcal per serving
• Servings: 24 cupcakes

Tips for Success:

• Butter Consistency: Make sure the butter is softened to room temperature before you begin. This helps it cream more smoothly with the sugar.
• Toasting Pecans: Toasting the pecans is key to enhancing their flavor. Be sure to stir them frequently and keep an eye on them to avoid burning.
• Frosting: For best results, ensure that the cupcakes are completely cool before frosting. If the cupcakes are still warm, the frosting may melt and slide off.

Final Thoughts:

These Pecan Pie Cupcakes are the perfect combination of a classic pecan pie and a fluffy, moist cupcake. The toasted pecans add a delightful crunch, while the brown sugar cream cheese frosting adds a rich, sweet finish. Whether you’re serving them at a holiday gathering or simply enjoying them with a cup of coffee, these cupcakes are sure to be a hit. Try them out and indulge in the delicious flavors of this southern-inspired treat!

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