Strawberry Muffins
Whenever I think about the joys of baking, Strawberry Muffins always come to mind. It brings back warm memories of summer afternoons spent in my grandmother’s kitchen. The aroma of fresh strawberries mingling with warm muffins was irresistible! I remember her saying that the secret to a great muffin was not just in the ingredients but in the love you put into them. Now, every time I bake these delightful muffins, I feel that same warmth and connection to my roots. They’re perfect for breakfast, an afternoon snack, or even a sweet treat at a picnic. The vibrant red of the strawberries brightens up any plate, making them not just tasty but visually appealing as well.
Recipe Snapshot
30 mins
10 mins
20 mins
Medium
210 kcal
3 g
Vegan, Gluten-Free, AIP
9 g
Oven, Mixing Bowl, Baking Sheet, Frying Pan, Wooden Spoon, Cutting Board, Whisk
Why Try This Strawberry Muffins
1. Fresh Ingredients Make All the Difference
One of the things I love most about Strawberry Muffins is how fresh ingredients shine through. Using ripe, juicy strawberries elevates the muffin to a whole new level. You can truly taste the difference when you use the best quality ingredients. Fresh strawberries add sweetness and moisture, ensuring each bite is bursting with fruity flavor.
2. Simple to Prepare
Don’t be intimidated by baking! This recipe for Strawberry Muffins is incredibly easy to follow. With just a few simple steps, you can whip up a batch in no time. The straightforward method makes it perfect for novice bakers and experienced ones alike. Plus, it’s a great way to get kids involved in the kitchen!
3. Irresistible Aroma
There’s something magical about the smell of muffins baking in the oven. The sweet and fruity aroma of Strawberry Muffins fills the entire house, inviting everyone to gather in the kitchen. It’s not just about taste; it’s about creating an atmosphere that brings friends and family together.
4. Versatile for Any Occasion
Whether it’s a summer picnic, a cozy breakfast at home, or an afternoon tea party, Strawberry Muffins fit right in. They are versatile enough to be enjoyed on their own or paired with a dollop of cream cheese frosting. You can even serve them warm with a side of whipped cream for that extra touch of indulgence!
5. Great for Leftovers
One of the best things about Strawberry Muffins is that they store well. They can be kept in an airtight container for a few days, making them a great option for meal prep. You can even freeze them and enjoy a homemade muffin whenever you crave one. Just pop it in the microwave, and you have a warm, delicious treat in minutes!
6. Perfect for Sharing
These muffins make an excellent gift for friends and neighbors. I love baking a batch of Strawberry Muffins and sharing them with those I care about. Wrapped in a pretty box or on a plate covered with a napkin, they are a lovely gesture that brings a smile to anyone’s face.
Strawberry Muffins Ingredients
When it comes to baking Strawberry Muffins, the ingredients matter. Each one plays a vital role in creating that perfect muffin texture and flavor. The combination of dry and wet ingredients is essential for moisture and sweetness. Let’s break them down:
- 2 cups all-purpose flour: This forms the base of our muffins, providing structure and texture.
- ½ cup granulated sugar: Adding just the right amount of sweetness to balance the tartness of the strawberries.
- 1 tablespoon baking powder: The leavening agent that helps the muffins rise beautifully.
- ½ teaspoon salt: Enhances flavor and balances the sweetness.
- 1 cup milk: Adds moisture and richness to the batter.
- ½ cup vegetable oil: Ensures the muffins are moist and tender.
- 2 large eggs at room temperature: Binds the ingredients together.
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract: Provides a hint of warmth and flavor.
- 1 ¼ cups diced strawberries: The star ingredient that adds sweetness and moisture.
- 2 teaspoons all-purpose flour: Tossed with strawberries to prevent sinking.
Directions for Strawberry Muffins
Making Strawberry Muffins is a delightful experience that fills your home with the aroma of baking. Follow these steps, and you’ll have a warm batch of muffins ready to enjoy in no time:
- Preheat the oven to 425 degrees Fahrenheit. This initial heat helps create that perfect domed top for your muffins. Line each well of your standard muffin baking pan with liners and set them aside.
- In a medium bowl, whisk together the 2 cups of all-purpose flour, ½ cup of granulated sugar, 1 tablespoon of baking powder, and ½ teaspoon of salt. Ensure all the dry ingredients are well combined to avoid any lumps.
- Add 1 cup of milk, ½ cup of vegetable oil, 2 large eggs, and 1 teaspoon of vanilla extract to the dry ingredients. Gently stir until the dry ingredients are just moistened. It’s okay if there are a few lumps; don’t overmix!
- In a small mixing bowl, toss the 1 ¼ cups of diced strawberries with the remaining 2 teaspoons of flour. This step prevents the strawberries from sinking to the bottom of the muffins.
- Remove ½ cup of the floured strawberries and set them aside for garnish. Fold the remaining strawberries into the batter gently with a spatula until combined. Be careful not to overmix!
- Evenly distribute the batter into the muffin liners, filling each about ⅔ full. Top with the reserved strawberries for an extra touch of sweetness.
- Place the muffin pan in the preheated oven and bake for 5 minutes at 425 degrees Fahrenheit. Then, reduce the temperature to 350 degrees Fahrenheit and bake for an additional 15 to 18 minutes. Look for a toothpick inserted in the center of a muffin to come out clean.
- Once done, allow the muffins to cool in the pan for 5 minutes before transferring them to a wire rack. This cooling step is essential to maintain their fluffy texture.
- Finally, enjoy your freshly baked Strawberry Muffins warm or at room temperature. They are perfect for sharing or enjoying as a treat!
Things Worth Knowing
- Use Ripe Strawberries: The flavor of your muffins relies heavily on the quality of strawberries. Choose ripe, juicy ones for the best results.
- Don’t Overmix the Batter: Overmixing can lead to dense muffins. Mix until just combined for a light and fluffy texture.
- Check for Doneness: Use the toothpick test. If it comes out clean, your muffins are ready. If it comes out with wet batter, give them a few more minutes.
- Cooling is Key: Letting your muffins cool on a wire rack prevents them from becoming soggy. This step preserves their delightful texture.
Tips for Success
Baking Strawberry Muffins can be simple with the right tips. Here are some helpful suggestions to ensure your muffins turn out perfectly:
- Storage: Store leftover muffins in an airtight container or zip-top bag for up to 4 days. Adding a paper towel inside can help absorb excess moisture.
- Freezing: You can freeze leftover muffins! Place them in a ziplock bag and lay them flat in the freezer for up to 3 months. Thaw as needed!
- Room Temperature Ingredients: Ensure your eggs and milk are at room temperature before mixing. This helps create a smoother batter.
- Experiment with Flavors: Feel free to mix in other fruits like blueberries or raspberries for a twist on the classic recipe.
- Serving Suggestions: These muffins are delicious on their own, but you can also serve them with yogurt or a drizzle of honey for added sweetness.
- Check Your Oven Thermometer: Ovens can vary in temperature. Use an oven thermometer to ensure accuracy for perfect baking.
How to Enjoy Strawberry Muffins
There are so many delightful ways to enjoy Strawberry Muffins. Here are some ideas that you might find appealing:
- Breakfast Treat: Start your day with a fresh muffin and a cup of coffee or tea. Perfect for a cozy morning.
- Picnic Delight: Pack these muffins for your next picnic. They are portable and make a sweet addition to any outdoor gathering.
- Afternoon Snack: Enjoy them with a glass of milk or a fruit smoothie as a tasty afternoon pick-me-up.
- Special Occasions: Serve them at brunches, baby showers, or birthday parties. They add a cheerful touch to any celebration.
- With Cream Cheese: Spread a little cream cheese or butter on a warm muffin for extra indulgence and flavor.
- Seasonal Pairings: Pair these muffins with other seasonal fruits or serve them with whipped cream during holidays.
FAQ
Conclusion
In conclusion, Strawberry Muffins are a delightful treat that bridges the gap between simple baking and gourmet flavors. Their sweet, fruity taste and fluffy texture make them a favorite for any occasion. I encourage you to give this recipe a try and share the joy of baking with your loved ones. You’re sure to create happy memories with every muffin you make!
Strawberry Muffins
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- Preheat the oven to 425 degrees Fahrenheit and place liners into each well of your standard size muffin baking pan. Set aside.
- In a medium bowl whisk together flour, sugar, baking powder and salt.
- Add the milk, vegetable oil, eggs and vanilla to the dry ingredients. Gently stir until dry ingredients are moistened. Don’t overmix; a few lumps are ok.
- In a small mixing bowl toss the diced strawberries with remaining flour to prevent them from sinking to the bottom of the muffins. Remove ½ cup strawberries and set aside. Add the remaining berries to the batter, fold with a spatula until combined. Do not overmix.
- Add batter to muffin cup liners so they are ⅔ full. Sprinkle extra strawberries on top.
- Place in preheated oven and bake for 5 minutes. Lower temperature to 350 degrees Fahrenheit and bake an additional 15 to 18 minutes or until a toothpick inserted into the center of a muffin comes out clean. Baking at the higher heat at first helps create the perfect domed top of your muffin.
- Allow to cool on a wire rack before enjoying.
Notes
- Tip 1: Store leftover muffins in an airtight container or zip-top bag for up to 4 days. It can help to store muffins with a paper towel inside the container to soak up excess moisture so that the muffins don’t get soggy.
- Tip 2: I do not recommend storing muffins in the fridge because they will dry out.
- Tip 3: You can freeze leftover muffins! Place them in a ziplock bag and lay them flat in the freezer. Freeze for up to 3 months and then thaw one (or all!) whenever you’re ready to eat them.
