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 muffins are great for breakfast, snacks, or dessert. The delightful aroma of ginger and spices fills your kitchen, making them an irresistible choice to share during gatherings or cozy family moments.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Easy to Make: This recipe requires simple ingredients and straightforward steps, making it accessible for bakers of all skill levels.
• Flavorful Spice Blend: The combination of ginger, cinnamon, and cloves creates a warm and inviting flavor profile that’s perfect for fall.
• Versatile Glaze Options: You can choose between a zesty lemon glaze or a sweet vanilla glaze to suit your taste preferences.
• Perfectly Moist Texture: The use of molasses and sour cream ensures these muffins stay moist and tender.
• Ideal for Any Occasion: Whether it’s a holiday brunch or a cozy afternoon snack, these muffins are sure to impress.

Tools and Preparation

To make these glazed gingerbread muffins, you’ll need some essential tools that will help streamline your baking process.

Essential Tools and Equipment

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

Importance of Each Tool

• Muffin tray: Ensures even baking and provides the perfect shape for your muffins.
• Mixing bowls: Using various sizes helps keep ingredients organized during preparation.
• Whisk: A good whisk is essential for achieving an even mixture without lumps in your batter.

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

Step 2: Melt Butter and Combine

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

Step 3: Mix Dry Ingredients

In another large bowl, whisk together flour, ginger, baking soda, cinnamon, cloves, nutmeg, and salt until well combined.

Step 4: Combine Wet Ingredients

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

Step 5: Combine Mixtures

Gradually add the molasses mixture to the flour mixture. Stir gently just until combined; do not overmix. The batter will be thick and slightly lumpy.

Step 6: Fill Muffin Tray

Divide the batter among the prepared muffin tray, filling each cavity all the way up to the top. Sprinkle with coarse sugar if desired for added crunch.

Step 7: Bake

Place into the oven and bake at 425°F for 5 minutes. Without opening the oven door, reduce heat to 350°F. 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 cool completely.

Step 9: Prepare Lemon Glaze

For the lemon glaze, combine powdered sugar with fresh lemon juice until creamy. Adjust consistency as desired.

Step 10: Drizzle Glaze

Drizzle the lemon glaze on top of cooled muffins before serving. Enjoy!

Step 11: Optional Vanilla Glaze

For a vanilla glaze option, mix powdered sugar with milk and vanilla extract until creamy. Drizzle over muffins if desired.

These glazed gingerbread muffins make every occasion special with their delightful flavors!

How to Serve Glazed Gingerbread Muffins

These tender and flavorful glazed gingerbread muffins are perfect for any occasion. Whether you enjoy them for breakfast, brunch, or as a delightful snack, here are some serving suggestions to enhance your experience.

With Fresh Fruit

• Serve with sliced apples or pears for a refreshing contrast to the warm spices in the muffins.

Accompanied by Whipped Cream

• Top each muffin with a dollop of whipped cream for a rich and creamy addition that balances the flavors.

Paired with Coffee or Tea

• Enjoy your muffins alongside a cup of coffee or herbal tea. The warmth of the drinks complements the spiced flavors beautifully.

As a Dessert Option

• Serve warm with vanilla ice cream or yogurt for a delicious dessert twist that’s sure to impress guests.

Drizzled with Additional Glaze

• For an extra sweet touch, drizzle more lemon glaze over the top before serving. This adds brightness and enhances flavor.

How to Perfect Glazed Gingerbread Muffins

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

• Use Room Temperature Ingredients: Ensure your butter, milk, and eggs are at room temperature. This helps them blend better, resulting in a smoother batter.

• Don’t Overmix: When combining the wet and dry ingredients, mix until just combined. Overmixing can lead to dense muffins instead of light and fluffy ones.

• Check Oven Temperature: Use an oven thermometer to confirm your oven temperature is accurate. This ensures even baking and prevents undercooked muffins.

• Experiment with Spices: Feel free to adjust the amount of spices according to your taste preference. Adding more ginger or cinnamon can enhance the flavor profile.

• Cool Before Glazing: Allow muffins to cool completely before drizzling with glaze. This prevents the glaze from melting into the muffins and losing its texture.

Best Side Dishes for Glazed Gingerbread Muffins

Pairing side dishes with your glazed gingerbread muffins can create a complete meal or snack experience. Here are some great options to consider.

1. Greek Yogurt: A creamy addition that adds protein and can be flavored with honey or fruit for extra sweetness.
2. Fruit Salad: A mix of seasonal fruits provides freshness that complements the spiced flavors of the muffins.
3. Nuts and Seeds: A small bowl of mixed nuts or seeds adds crunch and healthy fats, balancing out the sweetness.
4. Cheese Platter: Soft cheeses like cream cheese or ricotta can pair wonderfully, offering a savory contrast.
5. Granola: Serve alongside granola for added texture and a crunchy element that pairs well with moist muffins.
6. Herbal Tea: A warm cup of herbal tea can enhance the cozy vibe while complementing the spice notes in the muffins.
7. Apple Sauce: A side of apple sauce offers additional moisture and sweetness that harmonizes beautifully with gingerbread flavors.
8. Oatmeal: A bowl of warm oatmeal topped with fruits can make for a hearty breakfast when served alongside these muffins.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

When making Glazed Gingerbread Muffins, it’s easy to make a few common mistakes. Here are some tips to help you achieve the perfect muffins.

• Incorrect Oven Temperature: Starting at the wrong temperature can lead to uneven baking. Always preheat your oven accurately before placing the muffins inside.

• Overmixing the Batter: Overmixing can make your muffins tough. Mix until just combined for light and fluffy results.

• Using Cold Ingredients: Cold ingredients can affect how well your muffins rise. Ensure that your butter, milk, and eggs are at room temperature.

• Not Measuring Ingredients Properly: Accurate measurement is key in baking. Use a kitchen scale or proper measuring cups for best results.

• Skipping the Coarse Sugar Topping: This adds a delightful crunch. Don’t skip it if you want extra texture on your muffins!

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store in an airtight container.
• Keep in the fridge for up to 5 days.

Freezing Glazed Gingerbread Muffins

• Place in a freezer-safe bag or container.
• Freeze for up to 3 months.

Reheating Glazed Gingerbread Muffins

• Oven: Preheat to 350°F and warm muffins for about 10 minutes.
• Microwave: Heat individually for about 15-20 seconds on medium power.
• Stovetop: Cover with a lid and heat on low for a few minutes until warm.

Frequently Asked Questions

Here are some common questions about making Glazed Gingerbread Muffins.

Can I use whole wheat flour for Glazed Gingerbread Muffins?

You can substitute half of the all-purpose flour with whole wheat flour for added nutrition while keeping the texture light.

How do I know when my muffins are done?

Insert a toothpick into the center; if it comes out clean, they’re ready! If it has batter on it, bake for a few more minutes.

Can I replace molasses in Glazed Gingerbread Muffins?

Yes, you can use honey or maple syrup, but it will alter the flavor slightly. Stick with molasses for authentic gingerbread taste.

How long do Glazed Gingerbread Muffins last?

Stored properly, these muffins last up to 5 days in the refrigerator and up to 3 months if frozen.

Final Thoughts

These Glazed Gingerbread Muffins are not only tender and flavorful but also versatile enough for various occasions. Feel free to customize them with add-ins like nuts or dried fruits. Enjoy baking and savoring this delightful treat!