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 delightful muffins are not only easy to make but also versatile enough for various occasions, from cozy family breakfasts to festive gatherings. The warm spices combined with a zesty glaze create an irresistible flavor that will leave everyone wanting more.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Easy to Prepare: With simple ingredients and straightforward steps, these muffins are a breeze to whip up.
• Flavorful Spices: The blend of ginger, cinnamon, and cloves brings warmth and depth, making them perfect for fall.
• Versatile Serving Options: Enjoy them as a breakfast treat or serve them at holiday parties; they fit any occasion.
• Delicious Glaze: The lemon glaze adds a refreshing touch that perfectly balances the spices in the muffins.
• Great for Sharing: With 12 servings, they’re ideal for sharing with friends and family or keeping all to yourself!

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Tools and Preparation

To make your baking experience seamless, gather the necessary tools before you start. Having everything ready will help you focus on creating delicious glazed gingerbread muffins without interruptions.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Muffin tray
• Mixing bowls (large and medium)
• Whisk
• Measuring cups and spoons
• Rubber spatula
• Microwave-safe bowl

Importance of Each Tool

• Muffin tray: This ensures that your muffins bake evenly and maintain their shape.
• Mixing bowls: Using separate bowls helps prevent cross-contamination while mixing wet and dry ingredients.
• Whisk: A whisk allows for better incorporation of air into your batter, resulting in lighter muffins.

Ingredients

Tender and flavorful glazed gingerbread muffins filled with fall spices and topped with a lemon glaze are the perfect holiday treat.

Ingredients:
– 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)
– 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 to prevent sticking.

Step 2: Prepare Molasses Mixture

Combine the molasses and butter in a large glass bowl. Microwave for about one minute until the butter melts. Stir until well combined 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 thoroughly mixed.

Step 4: Combine Wet Ingredients

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

Step 5: Combine Wet and Dry Mixtures

Gradually add the molasses mixture to the flour mixture. Stir until just combined; be careful not to overmix. Note that the batter will 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. Sprinkle coarse sugar on top if desired for an added crunch.

Step 7: Bake Muffins

Place into the preheated oven. Bake for five minutes at high heat before reducing to 350°F without opening the oven door. Continue baking for an additional 11–14 minutes or until a tester comes out clean.

Step 8: Cool Muffins

Remove from oven and let cool in the pan for a few minutes before transferring them onto a wire rack to finish cooling completely.

Step 9: Prepare Lemon Glaze

Make your lemon glaze by combining powdered sugar with fresh lemon juice until creamy. Adjust consistency as needed.

Step 10: Drizzle Glaze

Drizzle the lemon glaze over cooled muffins as desired. Serve warm or at room temperature for maximum enjoyment!

Step 11: Optional Vanilla Glaze

If you prefer a vanilla glaze instead, mix powdered sugar with milk and vanilla extract until smooth.

Enjoy your delightful glazed gingerbread muffins, perfect for any occasion!

How to Serve Glazed Gingerbread Muffins

Glazed gingerbread muffins are versatile and can be served in various delightful ways. Whether for breakfast, a snack, or dessert, these muffins will surely impress your guests.

Breakfast Treats

• Pair with coffee or tea for a warm morning start.
• Serve alongside Greek yogurt for added protein and creaminess.

Holiday Brunch

• Present on a festive platter with fresh fruit for color and variety.
• Add a selection of jams or spreads to complement the ginger flavor.

Dessert Delight

• Top with whipped cream for a decadent finish.
• Serve warm with vanilla ice cream for a cozy dessert option.

Snack Time

• Enjoy plain as a quick grab-and-go snack.
• Pair with cheese slices for a sweet and savory experience.

How to Perfect Glazed Gingerbread Muffins

Perfecting glazed gingerbread muffins is easy with a few simple tips. Follow these suggestions to elevate your baking game.

• Use room temperature ingredients: Ensures better mixing and results in fluffy muffins.
• Don’t overmix the batter: Gently combine ingredients to maintain the perfect texture.
• Check doneness carefully: Use a toothpick; if it comes out clean, they’re ready to enjoy.
• Experiment with spices: Adjust spices like cinnamon or nutmeg for your preferred flavor profile.
• Cool completely before glazing: This prevents the glaze from melting and ensures it stays beautiful.

Best Side Dishes for Glazed Gingerbread Muffins

Glazed gingerbread muffins make an excellent addition to any meal. Here are some side dishes that pair wonderfully with them.

1. Fruit Salad: A refreshing mix of seasonal fruits complements the warm spices in the muffins.
2. Sautéed Spinach: Lightly sautéed spinach adds a nutritious green element to balance sweetness.
3. Cheese Platter: A variety of cheeses provides a savory contrast to the sweet muffins.
4. Yogurt Parfait: Layer yogurt, granola, and berries for a healthy breakfast option alongside your muffins.
5. Nut Mix: A small bowl of spiced nuts offers crunch and flavor harmony with the muffins.
6. Hot Cocoa: A rich cup of cocoa enhances the cozy vibe when enjoying these baked treats.
7. Maple Syrup Drizzle: A touch of maple syrup can enhance sweetness if desired by those who love extra flavor.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

When making Glazed Gingerbread Muffins, it’s easy to make a few common mistakes that can affect the final result. Here are some pitfalls to watch out for:

• Using the wrong molasses: Using blackstrap molasses can make your muffins bitter. Stick with unsulfured or dark molasses for a balanced flavor.

• Not measuring ingredients correctly: Baking is a science, so measuring ingredients precisely is crucial. Use dry measuring cups for flour and wet ones for liquids.

• Overmixing the batter: Mixing too much can lead to tough muffins. Combine until just mixed; it’s okay if there are some lumps.

• Skipping room temperature ingredients: Cold eggs or milk can affect the batter consistency. Ensure all dairy and eggs are at room temperature before mixing.

• Ignoring oven temperature adjustments: Starting at a high temperature helps create a nice dome. Don’t skip this step; it makes a difference in texture.

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Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store Glazed Gingerbread Muffins in an airtight container.
• They will last for up to 4 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) and warm muffins for about 5-10 minutes.
• Microwave: Heat one muffin at medium power for about 15-20 seconds.
• Stovetop: Place muffins in a covered skillet over low heat for about 5 minutes, checking frequently.

Frequently Asked Questions

If you have questions about making Glazed Gingerbread Muffins, we’ve got you covered!

Can I use whole wheat flour in Glazed Gingerbread Muffins?

Yes, you can substitute half of the all-purpose flour with whole wheat flour for added nutrition. The texture might be denser but still delicious.

What spices work well with Glazed Gingerbread Muffins?

Cinnamon, ginger, and cloves are typical spices used. You could also experiment with nutmeg or allspice for extra flavor.

How do I make my Glazed Gingerbread Muffins moist?

Make sure to measure your liquid ingredients accurately and avoid overbaking. Adding sour cream or yogurt helps maintain moisture.

Can I use a different glaze on my muffins?

Absolutely! You can use vanilla glaze instead of lemon. Just mix powdered sugar, milk, and vanilla extract until creamy.

Final Thoughts

Glazed Gingerbread Muffins are not only delightful but also versatile enough for any occasion. You can customize them with different spices or glazes according to your taste preferences. Try these muffins during the holiday season or anytime you’re craving something cozy and comforting!