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 delicious but also incredibly versatile, making them suitable for various occasions such as cozy family gatherings, festive parties, or as a delightful snack throughout the day. The blend of warm spices and the refreshing glaze makes these muffins stand out, ensuring they will become a seasonal favorite.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Unforgettable Flavor: The combination of spices creates a rich and warming flavor profile that captures the essence of the season.
• Simple to Make: With straightforward instructions and common ingredients, these muffins are accessible for both novice and experienced bakers.
• Versatile Glazes: You can customize the finish with either a zesty lemon glaze or a creamy vanilla glaze to match your taste.
• Perfect for Sharing: With 12 servings per batch, these muffins are ideal for sharing with friends, family, or coworkers during holiday festivities.
• Great Texture: The muffins are moist and fluffy on the inside while providing a delightful crunch from the coarse sugar topping.

Tools and Preparation

Before you start baking your glazed gingerbread muffins, gather your tools to streamline the process. Having everything ready will make your baking experience enjoyable.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Muffin tray
• Cooking spray
• Large glass bowl
• Whisk
• Measuring cups and spoons
• Microwave

Importance of Each Tool

• Muffin tray: This ensures even baking and helps shape your muffins perfectly.
• Large glass bowl: Allows you to mix all your ingredients thoroughly without spills.
• Whisk: Essential for combining dry ingredients evenly and incorporating air into your batter for fluffiness.

REMEMBER

WANT TO SAVE THIS RECIPE? CLICK BELOW AND PIN IT

PIN

Ingredients

For these delicious glazed gingerbread muffins, you will need:

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)

Alternative Vanilla Glaze:

• 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 until combined, then set 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 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 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 cavity all the way up to the top. If desired, sprinkle with coarse sugar for added crunch.

Step 7: Bake

Place in the oven and bake at 425°F 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.

Step 8: Cool Muffins

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

Step 9: Make 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

Once cooled, drizzle lemon glaze over each muffin as desired. Serve immediately and enjoy!

Optional Vanilla Glaze:

If you prefer a vanilla glaze instead of lemon:
Combine powdered sugar with milk and vanilla extract until creamy. Drizzle over cooled muffins as desired.

Now that you have this recipe for glazed gingerbread muffins ready at hand, it’s time to bake! Enjoy this delightful treat during holiday gatherings or whenever you crave something sweet!

How to Serve Glazed Gingerbread Muffins

Glazed gingerbread muffins are a delightful treat that can be enjoyed in various ways. Their warm, spiced flavors make them perfect for any occasion, especially during the holiday season. Here are some serving suggestions to elevate your muffin experience.

Pair with Hot Beverages

• Coffee: The robust flavor of coffee complements the sweet and spicy notes of gingerbread.
• Tea: A warm cup of chai or herbal tea enhances the cozy vibe of these muffins.
• Hot Chocolate: Indulge in a rich hot chocolate for a festive treat that pairs perfectly with gingerbread flavors.

Enjoy with Spreads

• Butter: A pat of softened butter adds richness and enhances the flavor of the muffins.
• Cream Cheese: Spread a layer of cream cheese for a tangy contrast to the sweetness.
• Honey or Maple Syrup: Drizzle honey or maple syrup over the muffins for an extra touch of sweetness.

Serve as Breakfast or Snack

• Breakfast Treat: These muffins make for an easy and delicious breakfast on busy mornings.
• Snack Time: Pack them as a snack for school or work, providing a sweet pick-me-up during the day.

How to Perfect Glazed Gingerbread Muffins

Creating perfect glazed gingerbread muffins is all about attention to detail. Here are some tips to ensure your muffins turn out delicious every time.

• Use Room Temperature Ingredients: Let your eggs, milk, and sour cream come to room temperature for better mixing and texture.
• Don’t Overmix: Gently combine the wet and dry ingredients to keep your muffins tender and fluffy.
• Fill Muffin Cups Generously: Fill each muffin cup almost to the top for tall, bakery-style muffins.
• Check Doneness with a Toothpick: Insert a toothpick into the center; if it comes out clean, your muffins are ready!
• Cool Before Glazing: Allow your muffins to cool completely before adding glaze so it doesn’t melt away.

Best Side Dishes for Glazed Gingerbread Muffins

Pairing side dishes with glazed gingerbread muffins can enhance your meal experience. Here are some great options that complement their rich flavors.

1. Fruit Salad: A refreshing mix of seasonal fruits balances the sweetness of the muffins.
2. Yogurt Parfait: Layer yogurt with granola and berries for a nutritious side that adds crunch.
3. Scrambled Eggs: Savory scrambled eggs provide protein and make for a hearty breakfast alongside muffins.
4. Cinnamon Applesauce: This warm side brings out the spices in the muffins while adding moisture.
5. Cheese Platter: Offer a selection of cheeses like goat cheese or sharp cheddar for contrasting flavors.
6. Nuts and Dried Fruits Mix: A nutty trail mix serves as a crunchy side that adds texture without overpowering the muffins.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Avoiding common mistakes can make your Glazed Gingerbread Muffins even better. Here are a few to keep in mind:

• Not measuring accurately – Using incorrect measurements can throw off the texture and flavor. Always use a kitchen scale or measuring cups for precision.
• Overmixing the batter – Mixing too much can lead to tough muffins. Stir until just combined for a light and fluffy texture.
• Skipping the cooling time – Cutting into muffins while they’re still hot can affect their texture. Allow them to cool on a wire rack for the best results.
• Neglecting proper oven temperature – If your oven temperature is too high or low, it can alter baking time and muffin rise. Use an oven thermometer to ensure accuracy.
• Choosing the wrong glaze consistency – A glaze that’s too runny or thick won’t stick properly. Adjust with lemon juice or milk until you reach your desired consistency.

REMEMBER

WANT TO SAVE THIS RECIPE? CLICK BELOW AND PIN IT

PIN

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store in an airtight container for up to 5 days.
• Place parchment paper between layers if stacking to prevent sticking.

Freezing Glazed Gingerbread Muffins

• Freeze in a single layer on a baking sheet, then transfer to an airtight container once solid.
• They can be stored for up to 3 months.

Reheating Glazed Gingerbread Muffins

• Oven – Preheat to 350°F (175°C) and warm muffins for about 10 minutes for freshness.
• Microwave – Heat individually for about 15-20 seconds, checking frequently.
• Stovetop – Place in a covered skillet over low heat for about 5 minutes until warmed through.

Frequently Asked Questions

Here are some common inquiries regarding Glazed Gingerbread Muffins:

Can I make Glazed Gingerbread Muffins without molasses?

You can substitute molasses with a mix of brown sugar and maple syrup, although the flavor will differ slightly.

How do I customize my Glazed Gingerbread Muffins?

Feel free to add nuts, chocolate chips, or dried fruits like cranberries or raisins for added texture and taste.

What should I serve with Glazed Gingerbread Muffins?

These muffins pair wonderfully with coffee, tea, or a dollop of whipped cream for a festive treat.

How long do Glazed Gingerbread Muffins last?

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

Final Thoughts

Glazed Gingerbread Muffins are not only perfect for holiday gatherings but also versatile enough for any occasion. With delightful spices and a sweet glaze, they offer warmth and comfort with every bite. Don’t hesitate to customize them to fit your taste preferences—experimenting is part of the fun!