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 muffins bring warmth and comfort to any gathering, from cozy family breakfasts to festive holiday parties. Their unique blend of spices and sweet glaze makes them a standout choice that everyone will love.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Rich Flavor: The combination of molasses and warm spices infuses each muffin with a deep, delicious taste.
• Easy to Make: With simple ingredients and straightforward steps, these muffins come together quickly, even for beginner bakers.
• Versatile Treat: Perfect for breakfast, snacks, or dessert, glazed gingerbread muffins suit any occasion throughout the fall and winter months.
• Beautiful Presentation: The glossy lemon glaze adds an appealing touch that makes these muffins not only tasty but also visually enticing.

Tools and Preparation

Before diving into the recipe, gather all necessary tools to ensure a smooth baking experience.

Essential Tools and Equipment

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

Importance of Each Tool

• Muffin tray: Essential for shaping your muffins and ensuring even baking.
• Mixing bowls: You’ll need multiple bowls for combining ingredients without any cross-contamination.
• Whisk: Helps to achieve a light texture by thoroughly mixing dry ingredients and incorporating air into the batter.

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Ingredients

To make your glazed gingerbread muffins, you will need the following 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 your oven to 425°F. Coat a muffin tray well with cooking spray to prevent sticking.

Step 2: Melt Molasses and Butter

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

Step 3: Mix Dry Ingredients

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

Step 4: Combine Wet Ingredients

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

Step 5: Combine Wet and Dry Mixtures

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

Step 6: Fill Muffin Tray

Divide the thick batter among the prepared muffin trays. Fill each muffin cup all the way up to the top. If desired, sprinkle coarse sugar on top for added crunch.

Step 7: Bake Muffins

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

Step 8: Cool Muffins

Once baked, remove from oven and let cool in the pan for a few minutes. Then transfer them onto a wire rack to finish cooling 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 or powdered sugar.

Step 10: Drizzle Glaze on Muffins

Once cooled completely, drizzle your desired amount of lemon glaze over each muffin. Serve immediately!

Step 11: Optional Vanilla Glaze

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

Enjoy your freshly baked glazed gingerbread muffins! They are sure to warm your heart during chilly days ahead!

How to Serve Glazed Gingerbread Muffins

Glazed gingerbread muffins are delightful on their own, but pairing them with the right accompaniments can elevate your experience. Here are some serving suggestions to enhance these festive treats.

Pair with Coffee

• Enjoy a warm gingerbread muffin alongside your favorite coffee brew. The spiced flavors complement the rich notes of coffee beautifully.

Serve with Whipped Cream

• Top the muffins with a dollop of whipped cream for an indulgent touch. This adds a creamy contrast to the spiced muffin and glaze.

Accompany with Fresh Fruit

• Include slices of fresh apple or pear on the side. The natural sweetness and crunch provide a refreshing balance to the rich muffins.

Add a Scoop of Ice Cream

• Serve warm muffins with a scoop of vanilla or cinnamon ice cream for a decadent dessert experience that melds perfectly with the spices.

Create a Muffin Parfait

• Layer crumbled muffins with yogurt and fruit in a glass for a delicious breakfast parfait. This adds texture and makes for a stunning presentation.

How to Perfect Glazed Gingerbread Muffins

Achieving the perfect glazed gingerbread muffins takes a little care and attention. Here are some tips to ensure your muffins turn out delicious every time.

• Use Room Temperature Ingredients: Ensure that your eggs, milk, and sour cream are at room temperature. This helps create a smoother batter and better rise.

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

• Check Oven Temperature: Always use an oven thermometer if possible. An accurate temperature ensures proper baking, especially when using varying heat settings as described in the recipe.

• Cool Before Glazing: Allow your muffins to cool completely before adding the glaze. This helps prevent it from melting away and ensures it sets nicely on top.

Best Side Dishes for Glazed Gingerbread Muffins

Glazed gingerbread muffins can be enjoyed in various ways, and pairing them with side dishes can enhance your meal significantly. Here are some fantastic options to consider.

1. Fresh Fruit Salad
   A colorful mix of seasonal fruits adds freshness and brightness, balancing out the spiced flavors of the muffins.

2. Creamy Yogurt Parfait
   Layer yogurt with granola and fruit for a satisfying side that complements the muffin’s flavor profile while providing protein.

3. Hot Cocoa
   A mug of rich hot cocoa pairs wonderfully, especially during cooler months, creating a cozy treat combination.

4. Spiced Chai Tea
   The aromatic spices in chai tea harmonize beautifully with gingerbread flavors, making it an ideal drink pairing.

5. Cheese Plate
   Offer mild cheeses like brie or goat cheese alongside crackers for an interesting contrast in textures and flavors.

6. Maple Syrup Drizzle
   A small dish of warm maple syrup can serve as an additional dip for those who love extra sweetness alongside their muffins.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

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

• Using cold ingredients: Start with room temperature ingredients like eggs and milk. Cold ingredients can result in uneven mixing and a denser muffin.
• Overmixing the batter: Mix until just combined. Overmixing can lead to tough muffins instead of tender ones.
• Skipping the lemon glaze: The lemon glaze adds a bright flavor that balances the spices. Don’t skip it; it’s what makes these muffins special!
• Not checking for doneness: Use a toothpick or tester to check if your muffins are done. It should come out clean; underbaked muffins can be doughy.
• Incorrect oven temperature: Always preheat your oven before baking. An incorrect temperature can affect the rise and texture of your muffins.

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Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store glazed gingerbread muffins in an airtight container.
• They will last 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

• Oven: Preheat to 350°F (175°C), wrap muffins in foil, and heat for about 10-15 minutes.
• Microwave: Heat muffins individually on medium power for about 15-20 seconds.
• Stovetop: Place muffins in a covered skillet on low heat for a few minutes until warmed through.

Frequently Asked Questions

Here are some common questions about glazed gingerbread muffins.

Can I substitute molasses in glazed gingerbread muffins?

You can use dark brown sugar mixed with water to mimic molasses, but it may alter the flavor slightly.

How do I make vegan glazed gingerbread muffins?

Replace butter with coconut oil and use a flax egg instead of a regular egg. Additionally, use plant-based yogurt or applesauce.

What can I use instead of sour cream?

Plain yogurt is an excellent substitute for sour cream in this recipe while keeping the same moisture level.

Can I add nuts or chocolate chips?

Absolutely! Feel free to customize your glazed gingerbread muffins by adding nuts, chocolate chips, or dried fruit for extra texture and flavor.

How many servings does this recipe yield?

This recipe yields 12 delicious glazed gingerbread muffins, perfect for sharing!

Final Thoughts

These glazed gingerbread muffins are a wonderful treat filled with warm spices and topped with a zesty lemon glaze. Their versatility allows you to customize them easily with your favorite mix-ins. Whether enjoyed as a snack or dessert, they are sure to delight everyone at your table. Give this recipe a try and make it your own!