Glazed Gingerbread Muffins

Tender and flavorful glazed gingerbread muffins filled with fall spices and topped with a zesty lemon glaze are the perfect holiday treat. These delightful pastries are not only scrumptious but also versatile enough for any occasion, from festive gatherings to cozy breakfasts at home. Their warm spices and sweet glaze make them a standout option that everyone will love.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Easy to Make: With simple ingredients and straightforward steps, these muffins are beginner-friendly.
• Flavor Explosion: The blend of spices like ginger, cinnamon, and cloves creates a rich, aromatic flavor that is truly irresistible.
• Perfect for Any Occasion: Whether it’s a holiday party or a weekend brunch, these muffins fit right in.
• Customizable Glaze Options: Choose between a tangy lemon glaze or a sweet vanilla glaze to suit your taste preference.
• Makes Great Leftovers: These muffins store well, making them an excellent snack for days after baking.

Tools and Preparation

To make these delicious glazed gingerbread muffins, you’ll need some essential tools to ensure everything runs smoothly in your kitchen.

Essential Tools and Equipment

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

Importance of Each Tool

• Muffin tray: A quality muffin tray ensures even baking and helps achieve the perfect muffin dome shape.
• Mixing bowls: Using separate bowls for wet and dry ingredients helps prevent clumping and guarantees even distribution of flavors.
• Whisk: A whisk is ideal for blending ingredients thoroughly, ensuring a smooth batter without lumps.

Ingredients

To create your 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 Lemon Glaze

• ½ cup powdered sugar
• 1-2 tbsp fresh squeezed lemon juice (to taste)

For the Vanilla Glaze (optional)

• 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: Melt Butter with Molasses

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

Step 3: Mix Dry Ingredients

In another large bowl, whisk together the flour, ginger, baking soda, cinnamon, cloves, nutmeg, and salt until evenly mixed.

Step 4: Combine Wet Ingredients

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

Step 5: Combine Mixtures

Gradually add the molasses mixture to the flour mixture. Stir until just combined; avoid overmixing as this may result in dense muffins. 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 added crunch.

Step 7: Bake Muffins

Place muffins in the oven at 425°F for five minutes. Without opening the oven door, reduce heat to 350°F and continue baking for another 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 onto a wire rack to finish cooling completely.

Step 9: Prepare Lemon Glaze

In a mixing bowl, combine powdered sugar with fresh lemon juice until creamy and achieve your desired consistency.

Step 10: Drizzle Glaze

Once cooled, drizzle lemon glaze over muffins as desired. Serve warm or at room temperature.

Step 11: Optional Vanilla Glaze

If you prefer a vanilla glaze instead of lemon, mix powdered sugar with milk and vanilla extract until creamy. Drizzle over cooled muffins if desired.

Enjoy your freshly baked glazed gingerbread muffins!

How to Serve Glazed Gingerbread Muffins

Glazed gingerbread muffins are a delightful treat that can be enjoyed in various ways. Whether for breakfast, a snack, or dessert, these muffins can be paired with several accompaniments to enhance their flavors.

With Fresh Fruit

• Sliced Apples or Pears: The crispness of fresh fruit complements the warm spices in the muffins.
• Cranberry Sauce: A tangy cranberry sauce adds a burst of flavor and pairs well with the sweetness of the muffins.

With Whipped Cream

• Sweetened Whipped Cream: A dollop of lightly sweetened whipped cream creates a rich and creamy contrast to the gingerbread flavor.
• Flavored Whipped Cream: Try adding a hint of vanilla or cinnamon to your whipped cream for an extra layer of taste.

For Breakfast

• With Coffee or Tea: Pairing these muffins with your favorite morning beverage makes for a cozy breakfast experience.
• With Yogurt: Serve alongside a bowl of yogurt for a balanced meal that combines protein and sweetness.

How to Perfect Glazed Gingerbread Muffins

To achieve the best results with your glazed gingerbread muffins, follow these helpful tips. They will ensure your muffins turn out delicious every time!

• Use Room Temperature Ingredients: This helps create a smoother batter and ensures even baking.
• Don’t Overmix the Batter: Gently combine the wet and dry ingredients to keep your muffins tender and fluffy.
• Preheat Your Oven Properly: Make sure the oven is at the right temperature before baking; this helps create that perfect dome shape.
• Add Extra Spices if Desired: Customize your muffins by adding more cinnamon or ginger for an extra kick of flavor.
• Cool Before Glazing: Allow the muffins to cool completely before adding glaze to prevent it from melting off.

Best Side Dishes for Glazed Gingerbread Muffins

When serving glazed gingerbread muffins, consider pairing them with side dishes that complement their warm, spiced flavors. Here are some excellent options:

1. Greek Yogurt: A serving of Greek yogurt adds creaminess and protein, balancing out the sweetness of the muffins.
2. Fruit Salad: A colorful mix of seasonal fruits brightens up your plate and adds freshness.
3. Cheese Platter: Include mild cheeses like brie or goat cheese, which provide a savory contrast to the sweet muffins.
4. Chia Seed Pudding: This nutritious pudding can add texture and is easy to prepare ahead of time.
5. Nut Butter Spread: Almond or peanut butter adds richness and protein, making for a satisfying pairing.
6. Honey Drizzle: A light drizzle of honey enhances sweetness without overpowering the muffin’s flavors.
7. Oatmeal Bowl: Serve with a warm bowl of oatmeal topped with nuts for added crunch and nourishment.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Making glazed gingerbread muffins can be simple, but avoiding common mistakes is key to achieving the best results. Here are some pitfalls to watch for:

• Using cold ingredients: Cold butter, milk, and eggs can lead to uneven mixing and dense muffins. Make sure all ingredients are at room temperature for better texture.
• Overmixing the batter: Mixing too much can make muffins tough. Combine the ingredients just until you see no dry flour; a few lumps are okay!
• Skipping the cooling step: Allowing muffins to cool in the pan before transferring them prevents them from becoming soggy. Don’t rush this step!
• Not measuring flour correctly: Scooping flour directly from the bag can lead to packing it down and using too much. Use the spoon-and-level method for accuracy.
• Ignoring oven temperature: Starting baking at a higher temperature is crucial for creating that dome shape. Don’t skip this step!

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

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

Freezing Glazed Gingerbread Muffins

• Place cooled muffins in a freezer-safe container or wrap each muffin tightly with plastic wrap.
• These muffins can be frozen for up to 3 months.

Reheating Glazed Gingerbread Muffins

• Oven: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Wrap muffins in foil and heat for about 10 minutes.
• Microwave: Heat one muffin at a time for 15-20 seconds, checking for warmth.
• Stovetop: Use a skillet over low heat, covering it with a lid, for about 5 minutes until warmed through.

Frequently Asked Questions

Here are some common questions about glazed gingerbread muffins that may help you while making this delightful treat.

How do I store Glazed Gingerbread Muffins?

Store them in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days, or refrigerate for up to 5 days.

Can I freeze Glazed Gingerbread Muffins?

Yes! These muffins freeze well. Wrap each one individually and store them in a freezer-safe container for up to 3 months.

What can I use instead of molasses in Glazed Gingerbread Muffins?

You can substitute molasses with honey or maple syrup, though this may slightly change the flavor profile.

How do I achieve a nice dome on my Glazed Gingerbread Muffins?

Starting with a higher oven temperature helps create that signature dome shape. Bake at 425°F (220°C) initially before lowering the temperature.

Final Thoughts

Glazed gingerbread muffins are an irresistible treat perfect for any occasion. Their warm spices and sweet glaze make them delightful during fall and winter celebrations. Feel free to customize your muffins by adding nuts or chocolate chips based on your preferences!