Preheat your oven to 375°F and grease a mini muffin tin with cooking spray or butter.
In a large mixing bowl, whisk together the flour, sugar, baking powder, and salt until well combined.
In another bowl, mix the milk, egg, melted butter, and vanilla extract until smooth.
Pour the wet ingredients into the dry ingredients and stir until just combined. If using, gently fold in the crumbled bacon and chopped pecans.
Spoon the batter into the prepared mini muffin tin, filling each cup about 2/3 full.
Bake for 12-15 minutes, or until the tops are golden brown and a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.
Remove from the oven and let cool for a few minutes before transferring to a wire rack.
Serve warm with maple syrup for dipping.