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 muffins are not only easy to make but also bring a warm, comforting aroma to your kitchen. Ideal for breakfast, snacks, or holiday gatherings, their delightful taste and festive appeal make them a must-try this season.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Delicious Flavor: The combination of molasses and spices creates a rich, warm flavor that encapsulates the essence of autumn.
• Simple Preparation: With straightforward steps, even novice bakers can whip up these muffins without fuss.
• Versatile Serving Options: Enjoy them fresh out of the oven, or save some for later—these muffins are delicious at any time!
• Perfect for Any Occasion: Whether it’s a cozy family breakfast or a holiday party, these muffins are sure to impress.
• Customizable Glaze: Choose between a refreshing lemon glaze or a creamy vanilla option to suit your taste.

Tools and Preparation

Before you begin making your glazed gingerbread muffins, gather your essential tools. Having the right equipment will streamline the process and ensure perfect results.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Muffin tray
• Cooking spray
• Large mixing bowls
• Whisk
• Measuring cups and spoons
• Microwave-safe bowl

Importance of Each Tool

• Muffin tray: Ensures even baking and helps create perfectly shaped muffins.
• Cooking spray: Prevents sticking and makes muffin removal effortless.
• Large mixing bowls: Provides ample space for combining ingredients without spills.

REMEMBER

WANT TO SAVE THIS RECIPE? CLICK BELOW AND PIN IT

PIN

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
• 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 your oven to 425°F (220°C). Coat a muffin tray well with cooking spray to prevent sticking.

Step 2: Prepare Molasses Mixture

In a large glass bowl:
1. Combine the molasses and butter.
2. Microwave for about one minute or until the butter is melted.
3. Stir well to combine and set aside to cool.

Step 3: Mix Dry Ingredients

In another large bowl:
1. Whisk together flour, ginger, baking soda, cinnamon, cloves, nutmeg, and salt until fully combined.

Step 4: Combine Wet Ingredients

To the cooled molasses mixture:
1. Add brown sugar, sour cream, milk, and beaten egg.
2. Mix until everything is well combined.

Step 5: Combine Mixtures

Gradually add the molasses mixture to the flour mixture:
1. Stir gently until just combined; do not overmix.
– Note: The batter will be thick and slightly lumpy.

Step 6: Fill Muffin Tray

Divide the batter evenly among the prepared muffin cups:
– Fill each cup all the way up to the top.
– Sprinkle with coarse sugar if desired for added texture.

Step 7: Bake Muffins

Place in the oven:
1. Bake at 425°F for 5 minutes.
2. Without opening the oven door, reduce heat to 350°F (175°C).
3. Continue baking for an additional 11-14 minutes or until a tester comes out clean.

Step 8: Cool Muffins

Remove from oven:
– Allow cooling in the pan for a few minutes before transferring them onto a wire rack.

Step 9: Make Lemon Glaze

In a small bowl:
1. Combine powdered sugar with fresh lemon juice.
2. Mix until creamy; adjust consistency as desired.

Step 10: Glaze Muffins

Once cooled:
– Drizzle lemon glaze over muffins as desired before serving.

Optional Vanilla Glaze

For those who prefer vanilla:
1. Combine powdered sugar with milk and vanilla extract in another bowl.
2. Mix until creamy; adjust consistency as needed before drizzling over muffins.

Enjoy your 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 you want to serve them as a cozy breakfast or a festive dessert, these muffins are versatile and sure to please any crowd.

Breakfast Delight

• Pair with fresh fruit for a balanced meal.
• Enjoy with a side of yogurt for added creaminess.

Afternoon Snack

• Serve with a cup of tea or coffee to complement the spices.
• Add a smear of cream cheese for extra richness.

Dessert Option

• Top with whipped cream for an indulgent finish.
• Serve warm with vanilla ice cream for a delightful contrast.

How to Perfect Glazed Gingerbread Muffins

Creating the perfect glazed gingerbread muffins is all about attention to detail. Follow these tips for the best results.

• Use room temperature ingredients: This helps the batter mix evenly and rise properly.
• Don’t overmix the batter: Mixing just until combined keeps your muffins tender and fluffy.
• Check for doneness: Insert a toothpick; it should come out clean when the muffins are ready.
• Cool completely before glazing: This prevents the glaze from melting into the muffins.
• Experiment with spices: Adjust ginger, cinnamon, and cloves for your preferred flavor profile.

Best Side Dishes for Glazed Gingerbread Muffins

To enhance your experience of enjoying glazed gingerbread muffins, consider pairing them with some tasty side dishes. Here are some great options:

1. Fresh Fruit Salad: A medley of seasonal fruits adds freshness and balances sweetness.
2. Greek Yogurt Parfait: Layer yogurt with granola and berries for texture and flavor.
3. Herbal Tea: Warm herbal teas like chamomile or peppermint provide soothing notes.
4. Cheese Platter: Soft cheeses like brie or cream cheese complement the muffin’s spice perfectly.
5. Nut Butter Spread: Almond or peanut butter adds protein and richness to each bite.
6. Maple Syrup Drizzle: A touch of maple syrup enhances sweetness and provides a lovely glaze effect.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Making glazed gingerbread muffins can be a fun and rewarding experience, but there are some common mistakes that can affect your final product.

• Skipping the room temperature ingredients: Using cold eggs or milk can result in uneven mixing. Always ensure these ingredients are at room temperature for the best texture.
• Overmixing the batter: Mixing too much can lead to tough muffins. Mix just until combined for a tender crumb.
• Not measuring ingredients accurately: Baking is a science. Use proper measuring cups and spoons to ensure accuracy in your ingredients.
• Ignoring oven temperature adjustments: Starting at a high temperature and then reducing it is crucial. This method helps achieve that perfect muffin dome.
• Forgetting to cool properly: If you skip cooling the muffins before glazing, it can cause the glaze to melt away. Allow them to cool on a wire rack for best results.

REMEMBER

WANT TO SAVE THIS RECIPE? CLICK BELOW AND PIN IT

PIN

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store glazed gingerbread muffins in an airtight container.
• They will stay fresh for up to 5 days in the fridge.

Freezing Glazed Gingerbread Muffins

• Wrap each muffin tightly in plastic wrap or aluminum foil.
• Place them in a freezer-safe bag or container. They can be frozen for up to 3 months.

Reheating Glazed Gingerbread Muffins

• Oven: Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C). Place muffins on a baking sheet and heat for about 10 minutes.
• Microwave: Heat individual muffins on medium power for 15-20 seconds until warm.
• Stovetop: Use a skillet over low heat, covering it with a lid, and warm the muffins for about 5 minutes.

Frequently Asked Questions

Here are some commonly asked questions about making glazed gingerbread muffins.

How do I make Glazed Gingerbread Muffins healthier?

You can substitute whole wheat flour for all-purpose flour or use Greek yogurt instead of sour cream for added protein without compromising flavor.

Can I use other spices in Glazed Gingerbread Muffins?

Yes! Feel free to experiment with spices like cardamom or allspice to customize your flavor profile according to your preference.

What type of milk can I use for Glazed Gingerbread Muffins?

You can use any milk—dairy or non-dairy—as long as it’s at room temperature. Almond milk or oat milk works great!

How long do Glazed Gingerbread Muffins last?

When stored properly, they will last up to 5 days in the refrigerator and up to 3 months in the freezer.

Final Thoughts

Glazed gingerbread muffins are not just delicious; they are also versatile enough for any occasion. With their warm spices and zesty lemon glaze, these muffins bring joy during the holiday season and beyond. Feel free to customize them with your favorite spices or toppings, making them uniquely yours!