Glazed Gingerbread Muffins

Tender and flavorful glazed gingerbread muffins filled with fall spices and topped with a refreshing lemon glaze are the perfect holiday treat. These muffins are not only delicious but also versatile, making them suitable for breakfast, dessert, or a festive gathering. The unique blend of spices combined with the zesty glaze gives them a standout quality that everyone will love.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Easy to Make: These muffins come together quickly, making them perfect for busy mornings or last-minute gatherings.
• Flavorful Spices: The combination of ginger, cinnamon, and cloves creates a warm flavor profile that’s synonymous with the holiday season.
• Versatile Toppings: Enjoy them plain, or dress them up with lemon or vanilla glaze for an extra special touch.
• Perfectly Moist: Thanks to sour cream and molasses, these muffins stay moist and tender even after baking.
• Great for Sharing: With 12 servings, you can easily share these delightful treats with family and friends.

Tools and Preparation

Before you dive into baking your glazed gingerbread muffins, gather your essential tools. Having the right equipment makes the process smoother and more enjoyable.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Muffin tray
• Mixing bowls
• Whisk
• Measuring cups
• Measuring spoons
• Microwave-safe bowl

Importance of Each Tool

• Muffin tray: Ensures even baking and helps achieve that perfect muffin dome.
• Mixing bowls: Essential for mixing ingredients thoroughly without spilling.
• Whisk: Helps combine dry ingredients uniformly for a better texture in your muffins.

Ingredients

To make these delightful glazed gingerbread muffins, gather the following ingredients:

For the Muffins

• ¾ cup un-sulphured or dark molasses (do not use blackstrap, Grandma’s brand is a good choice)
• 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 your oven to 425°F (220°C). Coat a muffin tray well with cooking spray to prevent sticking.

Step 2: Prepare the Molasses Mixture

Combine the molasses and butter in a large glass bowl. Microwave for about one minute or until the butter melts. Stir to combine and set aside to cool.

Step 3: Mix Dry Ingredients

In another large bowl, whisk together:
* flour
* ground ginger
* baking soda
* ground cinnamon
* ground cloves
* ground nutmeg
* salt

Make sure all dry ingredients are well combined.

Step 4: Combine Wet Ingredients

Add brown sugar, sour cream, whole milk, and the well-beaten egg into the cooled molasses mixture. Mix until everything is very well combined.

Step 5: Combine Mixtures

Gradually add the molasses mixture to the flour mixture. Stir until just combined; avoid overmixing as it will make the batter thick and slightly lumpy.

Step 6: Fill Muffin Tray

Divide the batter among prepared muffin cups, filling them all the way to the top. If desired, sprinkle coarse sugar on top for added crunch.

Step 7: Bake

Place in preheated oven and bake for 5 minutes. Without opening the oven door, reduce heat to 350°F (175°C). Continue baking for an additional 11–14 minutes or until a tester inserted in the center comes out clean.

Step 8: Cool Muffins

Remove from oven and let cool in the pan for a few minutes before transferring them 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 by adding more lemon juice if desired.

Step 10: Drizzle Glaze

Once cooled, drizzle your lemon glaze over each muffin. Serve immediately and enjoy!

Step 11: Optional Vanilla Glaze

For those who prefer a vanilla twist, mix powdered sugar with milk and vanilla extract until creamy. Drizzle on cooled muffins if desired.

How to Serve Glazed Gingerbread Muffins

These tender and flavorful glazed gingerbread muffins make for a delightful treat any time of the day. Whether enjoyed at breakfast or as an afternoon snack, here are some serving suggestions to elevate your muffin experience.

With a Hot Beverage

• Coffee: Pair these muffins with a warm cup of coffee for a cozy morning start.
• Tea: Herbal or spiced tea complements the warm flavors perfectly.
• Hot Chocolate: A rich hot chocolate creates a sweet contrast to the gingerbread spices.

Topped with Spreads

• Cream Cheese: Spread on some cream cheese for added richness and flavor.
• Butter: A pat of butter melts beautifully into the warm muffin, enhancing its taste.
• Fruit Jam: Add a layer of fruit jam for a sweet and tangy twist.

As Part of a Festive Brunch

• Fruit Salad: Serve alongside a fresh fruit salad for a refreshing balance.
• Yogurt Parfait: Layer with yogurt and granola for a wholesome brunch option.

How to Perfect Glazed Gingerbread Muffins

To ensure your glazed gingerbread muffins turn out perfectly every time, consider these helpful tips.

• Use Room Temperature Ingredients: Ingredients like egg, butter, and milk should be at room temperature for better mixing.
• Don’t Overmix the Batter: Gently combine dry and wet ingredients to keep muffins tender and fluffy.
• Check Oven Temperature: Use an oven thermometer to ensure your oven is at the correct temperature for accurate baking.
• Cool Before Glazing: Allow muffins to cool before adding glaze to prevent it from melting off.
• Experiment with Spices: Adjust spices according to your preference for more or less warmth in flavor.

Best Side Dishes for Glazed Gingerbread Muffins

Glazed gingerbread muffins are versatile and can be complemented by various side dishes. Here are some delicious options you can serve alongside them.

1. Fresh Fruit Platter: A colorful assortment of seasonal fruits adds freshness and natural sweetness.
2. Whipped Cream: Lightly sweetened whipped cream makes an excellent topping that enhances flavors.
3. Granola: Crunchy granola offers texture and pairs well with muffins when served in yogurt parfaits.
4. Cheese Selection: A variety of cheeses can provide savory notes that balance the sweetness of the muffins.
5. Nut Mix: A simple mix of nuts adds crunch and protein, making it a satisfying accompaniment.
6. Smoothie Bowl: A nutritious smoothie bowl can round out your meal while providing additional flavors.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

When making glazed gingerbread muffins, even a small mistake can affect the final outcome. Here are some common pitfalls to watch out for:

• Bold Ingredients Measurement: Accurate measurements are key in baking. Use measuring cups and spoons to ensure you’re not adding too much or too little of any ingredient.

• Bold Overmixing the Batter: Mixing the batter too much can lead to tough muffins. Stir until just combined for a light texture.

• Bold Skipping Room Temperature Ingredients: Cold ingredients can affect how well they mix together. Make sure your butter, eggs, and milk are at room temperature before mixing.

• Bold Ignoring the Oven Temperature: Baking at the wrong temperature can change your muffins’ texture. Always preheat your oven and check with an oven thermometer for accuracy.

• Bold Not Using Cooking Spray: Failing to adequately grease your muffin tray can lead to sticking. Use a generous amount of cooking spray or line with muffin liners.

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

• Place cooled muffins in a freezer-safe bag or container.
• They can be frozen for up to 3 months.

Reheating Glazed Gingerbread Muffins

• Bold Oven: Preheat to 350°F (175°C) and heat for about 10 minutes until warm.
• Bold Microwave: Heat on medium power for about 15-20 seconds per muffin.
• Bold Stovetop: Warm in a covered skillet over low heat for a few minutes until they are heated through.

Frequently Asked Questions

Here are some frequently asked questions about glazed gingerbread muffins:

Can I make Glazed Gingerbread Muffins without molasses?

Yes! You can substitute molasses with dark corn syrup or maple syrup, though this will slightly change the flavor.

What spices are used in Glazed Gingerbread Muffins?

These muffins typically include ground ginger, cinnamon, cloves, nutmeg, and salt for that classic ginger flavor.

How do I make a glaze for Glazed Gingerbread Muffins?

Combine powdered sugar with lemon juice or vanilla extract and milk until you reach your desired consistency.

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

Absolutely! Feel free to customize your muffins by adding walnuts, pecans, or even chocolate chips for extra flavor.

Final Thoughts

Glazed gingerbread muffins are not just perfect for the holiday season; they offer warmth and comfort any time of year. Their tender texture paired with delightful spices creates an irresistible treat. Experiment with different glazes or add-ins like nuts or chocolate chips to make this recipe your own!

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Glazed Gingerbread Muffins

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• Author: Amelia
• Total Time: 35 minutes
• Yield: Makes 12 muffins 1x

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Description

Indulge in the warmth of the holidays with these delightful Glazed Gingerbread Muffins. Bursting with rich spices like ginger, cinnamon, and cloves, these tender muffins are topped with a refreshing lemon glaze that perfectly balances their sweetness. Ideal for breakfast, dessert, or festive gatherings, these muffins are as versatile as they are delicious. With a moist texture from sour cream and molasses, they invite everyone to savor each bite. Perfectly shareable and quick to prepare, these treats will become a cherished favorite in your kitchen.

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Ingredients

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• ¾ cup un-sulphured or dark molasses
• ½ cup unsalted butter
• 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
• ½ cup whole milk
• 1 large egg
• Coarse sugar for sprinkling
• ½ cup powdered sugar for glaze
• 1–2 tbsp fresh squeezed lemon juice to taste
• 1–2 tbsp milk to taste
• ½ tsp vanilla extract

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Instructions

1. Preheat oven to 425°F (220°C) and grease a muffin tray.
2. In a microwave-safe bowl, melt molasses and butter together; set aside to cool.
3. In another bowl, whisk together flour, ground ginger, baking soda, cinnamon, cloves, nutmeg, and salt.
4. Mix brown sugar, sour cream, milk, and egg into the molasses mixture until well combined.
5. Gradually stir the wet mixture into the dry ingredients until just combined.
6. Fill muffin cups to the top and sprinkle with coarse sugar if desired.
7. Bake for 5 minutes at 425°F (220°C), then reduce heat to 350°F (175°C) for an additional 11–14 minutes until a tester comes out clean.
8. Cool slightly before transferring to a wire rack and glazing with lemon icing.

• Prep Time: 15 minutes
• Cook Time: 20 minutes
• Category: Dessert
• Method: Baking
• Cuisine: American

Nutrition

• Serving Size: 1 muffin (75g)
• Calories: 210
• Sugar: 18g
• Sodium: 150mg
• Fat: 7g
• Saturated Fat: 4g
• Unsaturated Fat: 2g
• Trans Fat: 0g
• Carbohydrates: 34g
• Fiber: 1g
• Protein: 3g
• Cholesterol: 30mg