Glazed Gingerbread Muffins

Tender and flavorful glazed gingerbread muffins filled with fall spices and topped with a lemon glaze are the perfect holiday treat. These Glazed Gingerbread Muffins are not only delightful for breakfast but also make a charming addition to any holiday gathering, potluck, or cozy family brunch. The warm spices and sweet glaze create a comforting flavor profile that everyone will love.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Easy to Make: With simple ingredients and straightforward steps, these muffins can be whipped up quickly.
• Delicious Flavor: The combination of spices brings warmth and nostalgia, making them perfect for the holiday season.
• Versatile Treat: Enjoy them as breakfast, snacks, or dessert—these muffins fit any occasion.
• Customizable Glazes: Choose between a zesty lemon glaze or a classic vanilla glaze to suit your taste.
• Perfect for Sharing: This recipe yields 12 muffins, making it easy to share with friends and family.

Tools and Preparation

Before diving into the baking process, gather your tools. Having everything ready will streamline your experience in the kitchen.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Muffin tray
• Mixing bowls (large and small)
• Whisk
• Measuring cups and spoons
• Microwave-safe bowl
• Cooling rack

Importance of Each Tool

• Muffin tray: Ensures even baking and helps achieve that perfect muffin dome.
• Mixing bowls: Allows you to combine ingredients without spills, keeping your workspace tidy.

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Ingredients

These ingredients come together to create moist gingerbread muffins bursting with flavor.

For the Muffins

• ¾ cup un-sulphured or dark molasses
• ½ cup unsalted butter (cut into smaller pieces)
• 2⅔ cup flour
• 2 tsp ground ginger
• 1½ tsp baking soda
• 1½ tsp ground cinnamon
• ½ tsp ground cloves
• ¼ tsp ground nutmeg
• ¼ tsp salt
• ½ cup brown sugar
• ½ cup sour cream (or plain yogurt, room temperature)
• ½ cup whole milk (room temperature)
• 1 large egg (room temperature)
• Coarse sugar (for sprinkling)

For the Glaze

• ½ cup powdered sugar
• 1-2 tbsp fresh squeezed lemon juice (to taste)
• ½ cup powdered sugar
• 1-2 tbsp milk, to taste
• ½ tsp vanilla extract

How to Make Glazed Gingerbread Muffins

Step 1: Preheat the Oven

Preheat the oven to 425°F. Coat a muffin tray well with cooking spray.

Step 2: Prepare Molasses Mixture

Combine the molasses and butter in a large glass bowl. Microwave for about one minute or until the butter is melted. Stir until fully combined and set aside to cool.

Step 3: Mix Dry Ingredients

In another large bowl, whisk together:
1. Flour
2. Ground ginger
3. Baking soda
4. Ground cinnamon
5. Ground cloves
6. Ground nutmeg
7. Salt

Make sure all dry ingredients are well combined before proceeding.

Step 4: Combine Wet Ingredients

Add brown sugar, sour cream, whole milk, and the well-beaten egg to the cooled molasses mixture. Mix thoroughly until combined.

Step 5: Combine Wet and Dry Mixtures

Gradually add the molasses mixture to the flour mixture until just combined; avoid overmixing. The batter should be thick and slightly lumpy.

Step 6: Fill Muffin Tray

Divide the batter among the prepared muffin tray, filling each cup all the way up to the top. If desired, sprinkle coarse sugar on top for added crunch.

Step 7: Bake

Place in the oven and bake for 5 minutes at 425°F. Without opening the oven door, reduce heat to 350°F and continue baking for an additional 11-14 minutes or until a tester inserted in the center comes out clean.

Step 8: Cool

Remove from oven and let cool in pan for a few minutes before transferring muffins to a wire rack to cool completely.

Step 9: Prepare Lemon Glaze

In a small bowl, combine powdered sugar with fresh lemon juice until creamy; adjust consistency as needed.

Step 10: Drizzle Glaze

Once muffins are cool, drizzle lemon glaze on top if desired. Serve immediately and enjoy!

Optional Vanilla Glaze

For those who prefer a different flavor, mix powdered sugar with milk and vanilla extract until creamy for an alternate glaze option.

With these easy steps, you’ll have delicious Glazed Gingerbread Muffins ready in no time!

How to Serve Glazed Gingerbread Muffins

Glazed gingerbread muffins are delightful treats that can be enjoyed in various ways. Whether you serve them for breakfast, a snack, or dessert, these muffins are sure to please everyone.

For Breakfast

• Pair with Greek yogurt for a creamy texture that complements the spices.
• Serve alongside fresh fruit like sliced apples or pears for a refreshing contrast.

As a Snack

• Enjoy them warm with a spread of butter or cream cheese for added richness.
• Pack them in lunch boxes as a sweet treat that kids and adults alike will love.

For Dessert

• Top with whipped cream and sprinkle some cinnamon for an indulgent finish.
• Serve with a scoop of vanilla ice cream for a comforting dessert option.

How to Perfect Glazed Gingerbread Muffins

Perfecting your glazed gingerbread muffins can elevate your baking game. Here are some tips to ensure they turn out great every time.

• Use room temperature ingredients: This helps create a smooth batter and allows the muffins to rise better.
• Don’t overmix the batter: Gently fold the wet and dry ingredients together to keep the muffins light and fluffy.
• Check doneness with a toothpick: Insert it into the center; it should come out clean when fully baked.
• Experiment with spices: Feel free to adjust the spice levels based on your preference for ginger, cinnamon, or nutmeg.
• Store properly: Keep them in an airtight container at room temperature to maintain freshness for several days.
• Make mini muffins: Adjust baking time and enjoy bite-sized treats perfect for sharing.

Best Side Dishes for Glazed Gingerbread Muffins

Glazed gingerbread muffins can be complemented by various side dishes. Here’s a list of perfect pairings that enhance their flavor.

1. Cinnamon-Spiced Apples: Sauté sliced apples with cinnamon for a warm, sweet side dish.
2. Creamy Oatmeal: A bowl of oatmeal topped with nuts and dried fruit makes for a wholesome meal option.
3. Maple Yogurt Parfait: Layer yogurt, granola, and maple syrup for added sweetness and crunch.
4. Chai Tea Latte: The warm spices in chai tea harmonize beautifully with the flavors of gingerbread.
5. Pumpkin Spice Smoothie: Blend pumpkin puree with banana, yogurt, and spices for a seasonal drink.
6. Cheese Platter: Offer mild cheeses like Brie or goat cheese to balance the sweetness of the muffins.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

When making Glazed Gingerbread Muffins, avoiding common pitfalls can ensure your muffins turn out perfectly. Here are some mistakes to keep in mind:

• Skipping Room Temperature Ingredients: Using cold ingredients can affect the texture of your muffins. Ensure that your eggs, milk, and sour cream are at room temperature for a smoother batter.

• Overmixing the Batter: Overmixing can lead to dense muffins. Stir until just combined; it’s okay if the batter is a bit lumpy.

• Not Measuring Ingredients Accurately: Incorrect measurements can ruin your recipe. Use a kitchen scale or measuring cups for precision, especially with flour and sugar.

• Ignoring Oven Temperature: Baking at the wrong temperature can result in undercooked or burnt muffins. Always preheat your oven and use an oven thermometer for accuracy.

• Not Allowing Muffins to Cool: Cutting into warm muffins can cause them to crumble. Let them cool in the pan briefly before transferring to a wire rack.

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Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store glazed gingerbread muffins in an airtight container.
• They will stay fresh for up to 5 days in the refrigerator.

Freezing Glazed Gingerbread Muffins

• Wrap each muffin tightly in plastic wrap and place them in a freezer-safe bag.
• They can be frozen for up to 3 months.

Reheating Glazed Gingerbread Muffins

• Oven: Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C). Place muffins on a baking sheet and heat for about 5-10 minutes.
• Microwave: Heat one muffin on a microwave-safe plate for about 15-20 seconds.
• Stovetop: Place muffins in a skillet over low heat, cover, and warm for about 3-5 minutes.

Frequently Asked Questions

Here are some frequently asked questions about Glazed Gingerbread Muffins:

Can I make Glazed Gingerbread Muffins without molasses?

You can substitute molasses with honey or maple syrup, but this will alter the flavor and texture slightly.

How do I achieve a taller muffin dome?

Start baking at a high temperature before lowering it; this technique creates steam that helps the muffins rise beautifully.

Can I add nuts or chocolate chips to my Glazed Gingerbread Muffins?

Yes! Consider adding chopped walnuts or dark chocolate chips for extra flavor and texture.

How long do Glazed Gingerbread Muffins last?

These muffins remain fresh for up to 5 days in the refrigerator or up to 3 months when frozen properly.

Final Thoughts

Glazed Gingerbread Muffins are not only delicious but also versatile. You can customize them with various spices or add-ins like nuts or chocolate chips. Their warm flavors make them perfect for any holiday gathering or cozy morning treat. Don’t hesitate to try making these delightful muffins!