Master Muffin Recipe

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

This master muffin recipe is perfect for anyone who loves variety without the hassle. It uses simple pantry staples and can be customized with your favorite mix-ins and toppings. You’ll enjoy a high rise and soft crumb with every batch, making this recipe a must-try for muffin lovers!

Ingredients

• ½ cup unsalted butter, softened

• 1 cup granulated sugar

• 2 large eggs

• 2 teaspoons vanilla extract

• 2 ½ cups all-purpose flour

• 2 teaspoons baking powder

• ½ teaspoon salt

• 1 cup milk (or buttermilk for extra moisture)

(Tip: You'll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

Directions

1. Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C) and line a muffin tin with paper liners.

2. Cream together the softened butter and sugar in a large bowl until light and fluffy.

3. Add the eggs, one at a time, beating well after each addition. Stir in the vanilla extract.

4. In another bowl, whisk together the flour, baking powder, and salt.

5. Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet mixture, alternating with the milk. Mix until just combined.

6. Divide the batter evenly among the muffin cups, filling each about ⅔ full.

7. Bake for 18-22 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean.

8. Cool the muffins in the pan for 5 minutes, then transfer to a wire rack to cool completely.

Servings and Timing

• Servings: 12 standard muffins

• Prep time: 10 minutes

• Cook time: 18-22 minutes

Variations

This recipe is perfect for customizing! Here are a few ideas:

• Chocolate Chips: Add your favorite type of chocolate chips.

• Fresh or Frozen Berries: Toss in blueberries, raspberries, or strawberries.

• Cinnamon Swirl: Add cinnamon chips or swirl in cinnamon and sugar.

• Nuts: Try walnuts, pecans, or almonds for some crunch.

• Citrus Zest: Add lemon or orange zest for a fresh, zesty twist.

Storage/Reheating

• Storage: Store muffins in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days.

• Freezing: To freeze, let muffins cool completely, then wrap individually in plastic wrap and place in a freezer bag for up to 3 months.

• Reheating: Reheat muffins in the microwave for 10-15 seconds or in the oven at 350°F (177°C) for 5-7 minutes.

FAQs

Can I use whole wheat flour instead of all-purpose flour?

Yes, but note that whole wheat flour will result in a denser muffin. You can substitute up to half of the flour with whole wheat flour for a lighter result.

Can I use non-dairy milk in this recipe?

Absolutely! You can use almond milk, soy milk, or oat milk as a substitute for regular milk or buttermilk.

Can I make mini muffins with this recipe?

Yes! To make mini muffins, bake them at 350°F (177°C) for 10-12 minutes. Start checking for doneness at the 8-minute mark.

How can I make these muffins dairy-free?

To make these muffins dairy-free, substitute the butter with dairy-free margarine and use a non-dairy milk alternative like almond or oat milk.

What can I add to make the muffins more flavorful?

You can add flavorings like cinnamon, nutmeg, or citrus zest. Try adding vanilla, almond, or lemon extract for a fun twist.

Can I add frozen berries to the muffins?

Yes, you can add frozen berries without thawing them. Just toss them in a little flour to help prevent them from sinking to the bottom.

How do I prevent my muffins from becoming too dense?

Be careful not to overmix the batter. Stir until just combined to ensure your muffins stay light and fluffy.

Can I use brown sugar instead of white sugar?

Yes, you can use brown sugar in place of white sugar. This will give the muffins a slightly richer, molasses-like flavor.

Can I add a streusel topping to my muffins?

Yes! You can make a simple streusel topping by combining flour, brown sugar, cinnamon, and cold butter, then sprinkling it over the muffins before baking.

How can I make the muffins fluffier?

For fluffier muffins, make sure your baking powder is fresh and avoid overmixing the batter. You can also try using buttermilk instead of regular milk.

Conclusion

This master muffin recipe is the perfect base for creating delicious muffins that suit your taste preferences. Whether you prefer classic flavors or want to experiment with different add-ins and toppings, this recipe is versatile and easy to make. Try it today and enjoy bakery-quality muffins at home!

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