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 not only delightful for festive gatherings but also make a cozy breakfast option or afternoon snack. With their warm spices and sweet glaze, they are sure to become a favorite in your home.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Easy to Make: This recipe uses simple ingredients and straightforward steps, making it perfect for both novice and experienced bakers.
• Bursting with Flavor: The combination of spices like ginger, cinnamon, and cloves brings warmth and richness to every bite.
• Versatile Enjoyment: Serve these muffins warm, with a drizzle of glaze, or as part of a festive brunch spread.
• Perfect for Gifting: Wrap them up as gifts during the holidays; everyone loves homemade treats!
• Customizable Toppings: Switch up the glaze with vanilla or use different spices to suit your taste.

Tools and Preparation

Before you get started on these delicious glazed gingerbread muffins, gather your tools. Having everything ready will make the baking process smoother and more enjoyable.

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 helps achieve that perfect muffin dome shape.
• Mixing bowls: Allows you to combine ingredients without spills or messes.
• Whisk: Helps in creating a light batter by incorporating air while mixing.

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Ingredients

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

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 to prevent sticking.

Step 2: Prepare the Molasses Mixture

Combine the molasses and butter in a large microwave-safe bowl. Microwave for about one 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
* 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, milk, and beaten egg into the cooled molasses mixture. Mix until fully combined.

Step 5: Combine Mixtures

Gradually fold the molasses mixture into the dry ingredients until just combined; do not 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 to the top. Optionally sprinkle coarse sugar on top for added crunch.

Step 7: Bake Muffins

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

Step 8: Cool Muffins

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

Step 9: Make Lemon Glaze

Combine powdered sugar with fresh lemon juice until creamy. Adjust consistency by adding more lemon juice if desired.

Step 10: Drizzle Glaze Over Muffins

Once cooled completely, drizzle lemon glaze over muffins as desired before serving. Enjoy!

Optional Vanilla Glaze

For an alternative flavor, mix powdered sugar with milk and vanilla extract until creamy. Drizzle over cooled muffins if preferred.

How to Serve Glazed Gingerbread Muffins

Glazed gingerbread muffins are a delightful treat that can be enjoyed in various ways. Their warm spices and sweet glaze make them perfect for different occasions, from breakfast to dessert. Here are some serving suggestions to elevate your experience.

Enjoy with Coffee or Tea

• Pair your muffins with a hot cup of coffee or tea for a cozy morning ritual. The warmth of the beverage complements the spicy flavors of the muffins.

Add Fresh Fruit

• Serve alongside sliced apples, pears, or berries. The freshness of the fruit balances the richness of the muffins and adds a vibrant color to your plate.

Spread with Butter

• For an extra indulgent treat, spread a bit of softened butter on a warm muffin. This enhances the flavors and gives a creamy texture that’s irresistible.

Top with Whipped Cream

• Add a dollop of whipped cream on top for a festive touch. This makes each bite feel like a special occasion and adds lightness to the rich muffin base.

Create a Muffin Parfait

• Layer crumbled muffins with yogurt and fresh fruit in a glass for a beautiful parfait. This makes for an attractive presentation and is great for brunch gatherings.

How to Perfect Glazed Gingerbread Muffins

To achieve the perfect glazed gingerbread muffins, consider these helpful tips. Each step will enhance flavor and texture, ensuring your muffins are delicious every time.

• Use Room Temperature Ingredients: Make sure your eggs, sour cream, and milk are at room temperature before mixing. This helps create a uniform batter that rises better during baking.

• Don’t Overmix: Mix your ingredients until just combined to keep the muffins tender and fluffy. Overmixing can lead to tough muffins due to gluten development.

• Check Oven Temperature: Use an oven thermometer to ensure accurate baking temperatures. An oven that runs hot or cold can affect how your muffins bake.

• Cool Before Glazing: Allow your muffins to cool completely before drizzling the glaze on top. This prevents the glaze from melting into the muffin and losing its beautiful finish.

• Experiment with Spices: Feel free to adjust the spice amounts according to your preference. Adding more ginger or cinnamon can enhance the flavor profile based on personal taste.

Best Side Dishes for Glazed Gingerbread Muffins

Pairing side dishes with glazed gingerbread muffins can create an enjoyable meal or snack experience. Here are some great options that complement their flavors beautifully.

1. Yogurt Parfait: Layer yogurt with granola and fruits for a refreshing side that balances sweetness.
2. Fruit Salad: A mix of seasonal fruits adds brightness and freshness, making it a delightful contrast.
3. Cheese Platter: Include soft cheeses like brie or cream cheese for creaminess alongside the spicy muffins.
4. Spiced Nuts: Roasted spiced nuts provide crunch and enhance the warm spice flavors of the muffins.
5. Herbal Tea: Brew some chamomile or peppermint tea as an aromatic drink pairing that complements dessert-like treats.
6. Maple Syrup Drizzle: A light drizzle of maple syrup can add additional sweetness, enhancing each bite.
7. Cinnamon Sugar Toast: Serve toasted bread sprinkled with cinnamon sugar for a nostalgic flavor combination.
8. Savory Quiche: A slice of savory quiche offers contrasting flavors that balance out sweet desserts effectively.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Baking glazed gingerbread muffins can be a delightful experience, but there are common pitfalls to watch out for.

• Using the wrong type of molasses – Always choose un-sulphured or dark molasses. Blackstrap molasses is too bitter for these muffins.
• Overmixing the batter – It’s crucial to mix the wet and dry ingredients until just combined. Overmixing can lead to dense muffins.
• Skipping the room temperature ingredients – Ensure your butter, milk, egg, and sour cream are at room temperature for a smoother batter and better rising.
• Not measuring flour correctly – Spoon your flour into the measuring cup and level it off; scooping directly can pack it down and result in too much flour.
• Ignoring baking times – Always check your muffins a few minutes before the suggested time. Ovens vary, and starting at a higher temperature helps achieve nice domes.

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Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store glazed gingerbread muffins in an airtight container for up to 3 days.
• You can also wrap them in plastic wrap for extra freshness.

Freezing Glazed Gingerbread Muffins

• Freeze muffins in a freezer-safe container or bag for up to 3 months.
• Make sure they are completely cooled before freezing to avoid ice crystals.

Reheating Glazed Gingerbread Muffins

• Oven – Preheat to 350°F (175°C) and heat the muffins for about 5-10 minutes until warm.
• Microwave – Heat on medium power for 15-20 seconds per muffin for quick warmth.
• Stovetop – Use a skillet over low heat; cover with a lid for about 5 minutes to warm through evenly.

Frequently Asked Questions

Here are some common questions about making glazed gingerbread muffins.

How do I ensure my Glazed Gingerbread Muffins turn out fluffy?

To achieve fluffy muffins, make sure your leavening agents (baking soda) are fresh and thoroughly mixed with the dry ingredients before adding wet ingredients.

What can I use instead of sour cream?

You can substitute sour cream with plain yogurt. It provides similar moisture and tanginess that complements the spices well.

Can I make Glazed Gingerbread Muffins without eggs?

Yes, you can use flaxseed meal or applesauce as an egg replacement. For one egg, use 1 tablespoon of ground flax mixed with 2.5 tablespoons of water or ¼ cup of applesauce.

How long do Glazed Gingerbread Muffins last?

When stored properly, these muffins will stay fresh in the refrigerator for about 3 days or in the freezer for up to 3 months.

Final Thoughts

Glazed gingerbread muffins are not only flavorful but also versatile enough to customize with different spices or glazes. They make a perfect holiday treat that everyone will love. Try adding nuts or dried fruits for an extra twist!