Mardi Gras Sticky Pecan Popcorn Muffins

Sticky Pecan Popcorn Muffins Recipe: A Delightful Mardi Gras Treat

Welcome to a unique and delectable recipe that’s perfect for your next gathering or a fun brunch! These Sticky Pecan Popcorn Muffins were created during a lively discussion about the meaning of the word “Cajun” and make a fantastic companion to Cajun Yam-Pecan Bisque. Ideal for Mardi Gras or any festive occasion, these muffins are sure to impress with their sweet, nutty, and buttery flavors. Here’s how to create these delightful treats:

Ingredients

• Butter: 2 tablespoons (plus extra for greasing)
• Pecan halves: 18 pieces
• Brown sugar: 9 tablespoons
• All-purpose flour: 3 cups
• Baking powder: 1 1/2 teaspoons
• Salt: 6 tablespoons
• Granulated sugar: 2 cups
• Milk: 2 cups
• Eggs: 4 large
• Ground cinnamon: 2 teaspoons
• Chopped pecans: 1/2 cup

Equipment Needed

• 18 muffin cups
• Muffin tin
• Mixing bowls
• Sifter or fine mesh sieve
• Measuring cups and spoons
• Spoon or ice cream scoop

Instructions

1. Preheat the Oven: Begin by preheating your oven to 435°F (225°C). This high temperature helps in achieving a perfect muffin crust.

   Related Articles

   • 
     Savory Italian-Inspired Spaghetti Sauce: A Flavorful Delight!
   • 
     Summer Veggie Delight
   • 
     Velvet Berry Dream: A Danish Delight
   • 
     Ultimate Moist Carrot Cake with Cream Cheese Frosting

2. Prepare Muffin Cups: Lightly spray the bottom of 18 muffin cups with non-stick cooking spray, like Pam. Place a few drops of melted butter into each cup for added flavor.

3. Add Pecan Halves: Place one pecan half in each muffin cup. This will give each muffin a delightful crunch and a touch of elegance.

4. Brown Sugar Base: Sprinkle 1/2 teaspoon of brown sugar in each muffin cup over the pecans. This will caramelize slightly during baking, creating a sticky, sweet base.

5. Mix Dry Ingredients: In a large bowl, sift the flour, then measure it again and sift with baking powder, salt, and granulated sugar. Sifting ensures an even distribution of ingredients and a lighter muffin texture.

6. Combine Wet Ingredients: Add milk, popped corn, eggs, and melted butter to the dry ingredients. Stir gently until just combined. The mixture should be thick but not overly so.

7. Layer the Batter: Divide the batter evenly among the 18 muffin cups. Start with a layer of batter to cover the pecan and brown sugar base.

8. Prepare Cinnamon Pecan Topping: In a smaller bowl, stir together granulated sugar, cinnamon, melted butter, brown sugar, and chopped pecans. This mixture will add a crunchy, spiced topping.

9. Add Third Layer: Spoon half of the cinnamon pecan topping mixture onto the batter in each muffin cup.

10. Final Layer of Batter: With the remaining batter, fill the muffin cups equally, adding the last layer of batter on top of the cinnamon pecan mixture.

11. Top with Remaining Filling: Use any remaining cinnamon pecan topping as the final layer on top of each muffin.

12. Bake: Place the muffin tin in the preheated oven and bake for 20 minutes, or until the tops are golden brown and a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.

13. Cool and Serve: Allow the muffins to cool in the tin for about 5 minutes before transferring them to a wire rack to cool completely.

Serving Suggestions

These Sticky Pecan Popcorn Muffins are fantastic served warm or at room temperature. They make a great addition to any brunch or festive meal and pair wonderfully with Cajun Yam-Pecan Bisque for a complete Mardi Gras experience. They are also delightful on their own or enjoyed with a cup of coffee or tea.

Enjoy the sweet, nutty flavors and the crispy texture of these muffins that bring a touch of Mardi Gras fun to any occasion!

Happy baking! 🎉🧁🥂