I wired (11) recessed 4" incandescent cans in series with #12AWG on a 20amp circuit. After wiring was complete I noticed there was a note on the can that said "maximum of (8) 12AWG through branch circuit conductors" The maximum load on this circuit is approximately 12 amps. What is the ramification of 11 vs 8 and if so what should I do. I want to control all lights from one dimmer.

I don't get it. Are you saying you have 11 #12 conductors in one of the fixture's boxes?
If so, WHY?

Where was this written? Was it on the electrical connection box. I suspect but can not be certain because I do not where it is located, that the notice mean that there is a maximum of eight 12 gauge conductors allow in the box, not 8 lights on the circuits. The fixture itself would not determine the total number of fixtures allowed.

Oh wait, I get it now. You have 11 lights. That is NOT what that means. It means you cannot have more than 11 #12 conductors in each fixture's junction box.
That has nothing to do with the number of fixtures on the circuit.

Stan, Change "11 #12" in your post to "8 #12" which is what the label says.

Your wiring should be fine... but make sure the dimmer you choose has the wattage capacity for the total of the lamps you are going to use..

Stan, Change "11 #12" in your post to "8 #12" which is what the label says.

You're right. Nasty typos.

Thanks Stan, that makes more sense. I guess I misunderstood what the note was saying.