Pecan Pie Cupcakes: A Sweet Southern Delight

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Transform a classic Southern dessert into a handheld treat with these Pecan Pie Cupcakes. Combining the nutty richness of pecan pie with the softness of a cupcake, this dessert features a luscious pecan pie pudding filling, fluffy brown sugar cupcakes, and a decadent brown sugar buttercream frosting. Perfect for holidays, celebrations, or any time you’re craving something extraordinary, these cupcakes deliver the ultimate indulgence in every bite.

Ingredients

For the Pecan Pie Pudding Filling:

  • 2 tbsp (30g) unsalted butter
  • 1 tsp pure vanilla extract
  • ¾ cup (100g) chopped pecans
  • ¾ cup (180mL) milk
  • ½ cup (100g) packed brown sugar (light or dark)
  • 2 tbsp cornstarch
  • ¼ tsp salt
  • ½ tsp ground cinnamon

For the Brown Sugar Cupcakes:

  • 1 ½ cups (180g) all-purpose flour (spooned and leveled)
  • 1 tsp baking powder
  • ½ tsp baking soda
  • ½ tsp ground cinnamon
  • ¼ tsp salt
  • 6 tbsp (90g) unsalted butter, softened to room temperature
  • ½ cup (100g) packed brown sugar (light or dark)
  • ⅓ cup (67g) granulated sugar
  • 2 large eggs, at room temperature
  • 1 tsp pure vanilla extract
  • ¾ cup (180g) sour cream, at room temperature

For the Brown Sugar Buttercream Frosting:

  • 1 cup (225g) unsalted butter, softened to room temperature
  • ½ cup (100g) packed brown sugar (light or dark)
  • ½ tsp salt
  • 4 cups (520g) powdered sugar, sifted
  • 1 tsp pure vanilla extract
  • 3 to 4 tbsp milk

Instructions

Preparing the Pecan Pie Pudding Filling:

  1. Cook the Base: In a medium saucepan, melt the butter over medium heat. Add the brown sugar, cornstarch, salt, and cinnamon. Stir to combine.
  2. Add the Milk: Gradually whisk in the milk, ensuring no lumps form. Cook until the mixture thickens, about 3-5 minutes.
  3. Finish the Filling: Remove from heat and stir in the vanilla extract and chopped pecans. Let the mixture cool completely before using.

Baking the Brown Sugar Cupcakes:

  1. Heat the Oven: Begin by setting your oven to 350°F (175°C). Prepare a 12-cup muffin tin by lining it with cupcake liners.
  2. Mix the Dry Ingredients: In a separate bowl, sift together the flour, baking powder, baking soda, cinnamon, and salt. Set the mixture aside for later use.
  3. Cream the Butter and Sugars: In a large mixing bowl, beat the butter, brown sugar, and granulated sugar until light and fluffy, about 2-3 minutes.
  4. Add Wet Ingredients: Incorporate the eggs one by one, ensuring each is fully blended before adding the next. Stir in the vanilla extract for a smooth, aromatic base.
  5. Combine Dry and Wet Mixtures: Slowly fold in the dry ingredients, alternating with the sour cream, starting and finishing with the dry ingredients. Mix gently until everything is just incorporated.
  6. Bake the Cupcakes: Spoon the batter evenly into the cupcake liners. Place in the oven and bake for 18-22 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean. Let the cupcakes cool completely before serving.

Making the Brown Sugar Buttercream Frosting:

  1. Whip the Butter: In a large mixing bowl, beat the butter until creamy.
  2. Add the Brown Sugar: Mix in the brown sugar and salt, beating until fully combined.
  3. Add the Powdered Sugar: Slowly blend in the powdered sugar, adding one cup at a time while mixing on a low speed to ensure a smooth, lump-free texture.
  4. Adjust Consistency: Add the vanilla extract and milk, one tablespoon at a time, until the frosting reaches a spreadable consistency.

Assembling the Cupcakes:

  1. Fill the Cupcakes: Use a small knife or cupcake corer to remove the center of each cupcake. Fill each hole with the cooled pecan pie pudding.
  2. Frost the Cupcakes: Pipe or spread the brown sugar buttercream frosting onto the filled cupcakes.
  3. Finish with a Touch of Flair: For an added treat, top each cupcake with a handful of chopped pecans or a light drizzle of caramel sauce for extra flavor and visual appeal.

Conclusion

These Pecan Pie Cupcakes marry the best of two classic desserts, creating a rich and satisfying treat that’s perfect for any occasion. With their buttery pecan filling, tender cupcake base, and luxurious buttercream frosting, they’re sure to be the star of your dessert spread. Give them a try, and let the sweet, nutty flavors whisk you away to dessert heaven!