Glazed Gingerbread Muffins

Tender and flavorful glazed gingerbread muffins filled with warm fall spices and topped with a zesty lemon glaze make for the perfect holiday treat. These muffins are delightful for festive gatherings, cozy breakfasts, or as a sweet snack throughout the day. With their sweet aroma and perfectly spiced flavor, they stand out as a favorite during the season.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Easy to Make: The recipe is straightforward, making it perfect for bakers of all skill levels.
• Delicious Flavors: The combination of molasses and spices creates a rich, comforting taste in every bite.
• Versatile Enjoyment: These muffins can be enjoyed warm or at room temperature, making them great for any occasion.
• Customizable Toppings: Drizzle with lemon glaze or opt for a vanilla version to suit your taste preferences.
• Perfect for Sharing: With 12 servings, these muffins are ideal for family gatherings or holiday parties.

Tools and Preparation

Before diving into baking, gather your essential tools to ensure a smooth process.

Essential Tools and Equipment

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

Importance of Each Tool

• Muffin tray: Provides the perfect shape and structure for your muffins, ensuring even baking.
• Mixing bowls: Different sizes allow you to combine ingredients without mess and maintain organization.
• Whisk: Ensures that your dry ingredients are well combined and aerated for fluffy muffins.

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 about one minute or until the butter is melted. Stir to combine and set this mixture aside to cool.

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 (or yogurt), whole milk, and the well-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 to the flour mixture. Stir gently until just combined; avoid overmixing. 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 up to the top. If desired, sprinkle with coarse sugar on top for added crunch.

Step 7: Bake Muffins

Place into the preheated oven and bake for five minutes. Without opening the oven door, reduce heat to 350°F and continue baking for an additional 11–14 minutes or until a tester inserted in the center comes out clean. Starting at a higher temperature helps create a nice dome on your muffins.

Step 8: Cool Muffins

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

Step 9: Make Lemon Glaze

To prepare the lemon glaze, combine powdered sugar with fresh lemon juice until you achieve a creamy consistency that suits your taste preference.

Step 10: Glaze Muffins

Drizzle the lemon glaze over cooled muffins as desired before serving. Enjoy!

Optional Vanilla Glaze

If you prefer a vanilla glaze instead of lemon, mix powdered sugar with milk and vanilla extract until creamy.

Now you’re ready to enjoy these delightful 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 beautifully paired with different accompaniments.

With Coffee or Tea

• A warm cup of coffee or tea complements the spices in the muffins, enhancing their flavors.

Topped with Fresh Fruit

• Sliced apples or pears add a refreshing contrast to the sweetness of the muffins.

Served with Whipped Cream

• A dollop of whipped cream on top adds richness and a creamy texture, making them feel indulgent.

As Part of a Breakfast Spread

• Present these muffins alongside other breakfast items like yogurt, granola, and fresh fruit to create a delightful brunch experience.

Drizzled with Additional Lemon Glaze

• For those who love a zesty kick, adding more lemon glaze can elevate the flavor profile even further.

How to Perfect Glazed Gingerbread Muffins

Achieving the ideal glazed gingerbread muffins is simple with a few handy tips. Follow these suggestions to enhance your baking experience.

• Use Room Temperature Ingredients: Bringing ingredients like butter and eggs to room temperature helps them combine better, leading to a more uniform batter.
• Don’t Overmix the Batter: Mix until just combined for light and fluffy muffins. Overmixing can lead to dense baked goods.
• Check for Doneness: Use a toothpick inserted into the center; it should come out clean when your muffins are ready.
• Cool Before Glazing: Allow muffins to cool completely before drizzling with glaze to prevent it from melting into the muffin.
• Experiment with Spices: Feel free to adjust the spice levels according to your taste; more ginger or cinnamon can give your muffins extra warmth.

Best Side Dishes for Glazed Gingerbread Muffins

Pairing your glazed gingerbread muffins with side dishes can create an even more satisfying meal. Here are some great options to consider.

1. Greek Yogurt: This tangy addition provides protein and pairs well with sweet muffins.
2. Fruit Salad: A mix of seasonal fruits offers freshness and balances out the rich flavors of the muffins.
3. Cheese Platter: Soft cheeses like cream cheese or goat cheese add a savory element that complements sweetness.
4. Nut Butter: Almond or peanut butter spread adds healthy fats and makes for an energizing snack.
5. Granola Parfait: Layering granola and yogurt creates a delicious breakfast option that works well alongside muffins.
6. Chai Latte: The spiced flavor of chai enhances the gingerbread notes in the muffin while providing warmth.
7. Cinnamon Sugar Oatmeal: A comforting bowl of oatmeal topped with cinnamon sugar is perfect for chilly mornings.
8. Hot Chocolate: Enjoying these muffins with rich hot chocolate makes for a cozy treat during colder months.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Making Glazed Gingerbread Muffins can be simple, but a few common mistakes can lead to less-than-perfect results. Here are some pitfalls to avoid:

• Ignoring ingredient temperatures: Using cold ingredients can lead to dense muffins. Ensure your butter, eggs, and dairy are at room temperature for optimal mixing.

• Overmixing the batter: This can create tough muffins instead of tender ones. Mix just until combined for the best texture.

• Not measuring ingredients correctly: Accurate measurements are crucial in baking. Use a kitchen scale or measuring cups for precision.

• Skipping the cooling process: Allowing muffins to cool in the pan can lead to sogginess. Transfer them to a wire rack after a few minutes for better texture.

• Baking at incorrect temperatures: Make sure your oven is preheated properly. Starting at a higher temperature helps achieve that perfect dome shape.

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store in an airtight container.
• Best consumed within 3-4 days for optimal freshness.

Freezing Glazed Gingerbread Muffins

• Wrap each muffin tightly in plastic wrap.
• Place them in a freezer-safe bag or container; they will last up to 3 months.

Reheating Glazed Gingerbread Muffins

• Oven: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Wrap muffins in foil and heat for 10-15 minutes.

• Microwave: Place muffin on a microwave-safe plate and heat for about 15-20 seconds. Be careful not to overheat.

• Stovetop: For a quick option, place the muffin in a non-stick pan over low heat for a couple of minutes until warm.

Frequently Asked Questions

If you have questions about making Glazed Gingerbread Muffins, you’re not alone! Here are some common queries:

Can I substitute molasses in Glazed Gingerbread Muffins?

Yes, you can use maple syrup or honey as alternatives, but it will slightly change the flavor profile.

How do I enhance the spice flavor in my muffins?

Adding an extra teaspoon of ground ginger or cinnamon can amplify the spice notes beautifully.

What should I do if my muffins turn out too dense?

Ensure you’re not overmixing the batter and check that all ingredients are at room temperature before mixing.

Can I make Glazed Gingerbread Muffins vegan?

You can substitute butter with coconut oil and use flaxseed meal mixed with water instead of eggs for a vegan version.

How long do Glazed Gingerbread Muffins last?

When stored properly, these muffins will remain fresh for up to 4 days in the refrigerator or up to 3 months in the freezer.

Final Thoughts

These Glazed Gingerbread Muffins are not only delicious but also incredibly versatile. Their warm spices and sweet glaze make them perfect for any occasion. Feel free to customize with nuts, chocolate chips, or different spices according to your taste preferences!