Glazed Gingerbread Muffins

Tender and flavorful glazed gingerbread muffins filled with fall spices are a delightful treat for any occasion. These muffins are perfect for holiday gatherings, cozy mornings, or simply as a sweet snack. Topped with a bright lemon glaze, they offer a unique twist that enhances their warm, spiced flavor. Enjoy them fresh from the oven or share them with friends and family—they’re sure to be a hit!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Irresistible Flavor: The combination of molasses and spices creates a rich taste that’s both comforting and festive.
• Easy to Make: With simple ingredients and straightforward instructions, these muffins are perfect for bakers of all skill levels.
• Versatile Serving Options: Enjoy them warm for breakfast, as an afternoon snack, or topped with your favorite glaze for dessert.
• Perfect for Any Occasion: Whether it’s a holiday party or a cozy gathering, these muffins fit right in!
• Moist and Tender Texture: Thanks to the sour cream and butter, each bite is deliciously moist.

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Tools and Preparation

Before you start making your glazed gingerbread muffins, gather your tools and prepare your workspace.

Essential Tools and Equipment

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

Importance of Each Tool

• Muffin tray: Ensures even baking and perfect muffin shapes.
• Mixing bowls: Essential for combining wet and dry ingredients without mess.
• Whisk: Helps achieve a smooth batter by thoroughly mixing ingredients.

Ingredients

Tender and flavorful glazed gingerbread muffins filled with fall spices 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 the Molasses Mixture

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

Step 3: Mix Dry Ingredients

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

Step 4: Combine Wet Ingredients

Add the brown sugar, sour cream, milk, and 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; 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. For added texture, sprinkle with coarse sugar if desired.

Step 7: Bake

Place into the oven and bake for five minutes. Without opening the oven door, reduce the heat to 350°F. Continue baking for another 11–14 minutes or until a tester inserted in the center comes out clean.

Step 8: Cool Muffins

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

Step 9: Prepare Lemon Glaze

To make the lemon glaze, mix together powdered sugar and fresh lemon juice until creamy. Adjust consistency by adding more lemon juice if needed.

Step 10: Glaze Muffins

Drizzle the lemon glaze on top of cooled muffins if desired. Serve immediately or enjoy later!

Step 11: Optional Vanilla Glaze

If you prefer a vanilla glaze instead of lemon, combine powdered sugar, milk, and vanilla extract until creamy. Drizzle over muffins as desired.

How to Serve Glazed Gingerbread Muffins

Glazed gingerbread muffins are delightful on their own, but you can elevate your serving experience with a few simple additions. Whether it’s a cozy breakfast or a festive treat, these muffins pair well with various accompaniments.

With Cream Cheese Spread

• Cream cheese adds a rich and tangy flavor that complements the spices in the muffins perfectly.

Alongside Fresh Fruit

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

Paired with Coffee or Tea

• A hot beverage enhances the flavors of the gingerbread, making for a perfect cozy moment.

Topped with Whipped Cream

• Add a dollop of whipped cream for an indulgent dessert option that feels special.

As Part of a Holiday Brunch

• Include them in a spread alongside other festive dishes like quiches and pastries for a delightful brunch experience.

How to Perfect Glazed Gingerbread Muffins

To ensure your glazed gingerbread muffins turn out perfectly every time, keep these tips in mind.

• Use Room Temperature Ingredients: Make sure your eggs, milk, and sour cream are at room temperature for better mixing and texture.

• Don’t Overmix: Mix until just combined to avoid dense muffins; lumps are okay!

• Check Oven Temperature: Use an oven thermometer to verify that your oven is at the correct temperature for even baking.

• Cool Before Glazing: Allow the muffins to cool completely before drizzling with glaze to prevent it from melting away.

• Experiment with Spices: Adjust the amount of spices according to your taste; feel free to add nutmeg or cardamom for extra flavor depth.

Best Side Dishes for Glazed Gingerbread Muffins

Glazed gingerbread muffins can be complemented by several delicious side dishes. Here are some great options to consider:

1. Spiced Apple Compote: A warm apple compote adds sweetness and warmth, enhancing the ginger flavors.

2. Yogurt Parfait: Layer yogurt with granola and berries for a refreshing contrast that balances the sweetness of the muffins.

3. Maple Syrup Drizzle: A drizzle of maple syrup can enhance the sweetness while adding an additional flavor layer.

4. Savory Quiche: Pairing these muffins with a slice of quiche makes for a balanced meal, combining sweet and savory elements nicely.

5. Cinnamon Sugar Toast: Offer slices of toast sprinkled with cinnamon sugar as an easy side that echoes the muffin’s spice notes.

6. Herbal Tea Selection: A selection of herbal teas provides soothing beverages that go well with coffee or tea while enjoying your muffins.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Making glazed gingerbread muffins can be a delightful experience, but some common mistakes can hinder your results.

• Ingredients: Using the wrong type of molasses can affect the flavor. Stick to un-sulphured or dark molasses for the best results.
• Overmixing: Overmixing the batter leads to tough muffins. Mix just until combined for a light, fluffy texture.
• Wrong Temperature: Starting at the wrong temperature can ruin the muffin dome. Begin baking at 425°F before lowering to 350°F.
• Inaccurate Measurements: Not measuring ingredients properly can throw off the balance. Use measuring cups and spoons for accuracy.
• Skipping Cooling Time: Failing to cool muffins properly makes them soggy. Allow them to cool in the pan before moving them to a wire rack.

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Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store glazed gingerbread muffins in an airtight container.
• They will stay fresh for up to 3 days in the refrigerator.

Freezing Glazed Gingerbread Muffins

• Wrap each muffin individually in plastic wrap.
• Place them in a freezer-safe bag or container for up to 3 months.

Reheating Glazed Gingerbread Muffins

• Oven: Preheat your oven to 350°F and warm muffins for about 10 minutes.
• Microwave: Heat in 15-second intervals until warm, being careful not to overheat.
• Stovetop: Place muffins in a skillet over low heat, covering with a lid for even warming.

Frequently Asked Questions

Here are some common questions about glazed gingerbread muffins that many bakers have.

How do I make Glazed Gingerbread Muffins lighter?

You can make your muffins lighter by ensuring you don’t overmix and by using room temperature ingredients.

Can I substitute ingredients in Glazed Gingerbread Muffins?

Yes, you can use yogurt instead of sour cream and experiment with different spices according to your taste preferences.

What if I don’t have molasses for Glazed Gingerbread Muffins?

If you don’t have molasses, you could try using maple syrup or honey as an alternative, although it will change the flavor slightly.

How long will Glazed Gingerbread Muffins last?

When stored properly, they last about three days at room temperature and up to three months if frozen.

Final Thoughts

These glazed gingerbread muffins are not only delicious but also versatile. You can customize them with various spices or toppings based on your preferences. Enjoy making this cozy treat that brings warmth and joy during the holiday season!