Glazed Gingerbread Muffins

Tender and flavorful glazed gingerbread muffins filled with warm fall spices and topped with a tangy lemon glaze make for the perfect holiday treat. These delightful muffins are not only easy to prepare but also versatile enough for any occasion, from festive gatherings to cozy family breakfasts. With their inviting aroma and unique flavor, these muffins stand out as a must-try recipe this season.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Irresistible Flavor: The combination of ginger, cinnamon, and molasses creates a rich taste that warms the soul.
• Quick Preparation: With just 10 minutes of prep time, you can have these delicious muffins in the oven in no time.
• Versatile Toppings: While the lemon glaze adds a refreshing touch, feel free to experiment with different toppings like vanilla glaze or even chocolate chips!
• Perfect for Sharing: These muffins are great for holiday parties, brunches, or simply as a sweet treat to brighten someone’s day.
• Easy Storage: Glazed gingerbread muffins can be stored easily and enjoyed later, making them perfect for meal prep or on-the-go snacks.

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Tools and Preparation

To make these glazed gingerbread muffins, it’s essential to have the right tools on hand. Proper preparation ensures a smooth baking process and delicious results.

Essential Tools and Equipment

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

Importance of Each Tool

• Muffin tray: Ensures your muffins bake evenly and maintain their shape during cooking.
• Mixing bowls: Essential for combining all your ingredients without spilling.
• Whisk: Helps incorporate air into your batter, giving your muffins a light texture.

Ingredients

Tender and flavorful glazed gingerbread muffins filled with fall spices and topped with a lemon glaze 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 your muffin tray well with cooking spray to prevent sticking.

Step 2: Melt Molasses and Butter

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

Step 3: Mix Dry Ingredients

In another large bowl, whisk together:
flour
ground ginger
baking soda
ground cinnamon
ground cloves
ground nutmeg
salt

Ensure everything is 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 thoroughly combined.

Step 5: Combine Mixtures

Gradually add the molasses mixture to the dry flour mixture. Mix until just combined; avoid overmixing as 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. If desired, sprinkle coarse sugar on top for added crunch.

Step 7: Bake

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

Step 8: Cool

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

Step 9: Prepare Lemon Glaze

To make your lemon glaze, combine powdered sugar with fresh lemon juice until creamy. Adjust consistency as needed by adding more juice or powdered sugar.

Step 10: Drizzle Glaze

Once cooled, drizzle your lemon glaze over each muffin. Serve immediately or store for later enjoyment!

Optional Vanilla Glaze

For an alternative topping, mix powdered sugar with milk and vanilla extract until creamy. Adjust as desired!

How to Serve Glazed Gingerbread Muffins

These Glazed Gingerbread Muffins are delightful on their own, but they can be paired with various accompaniments to enhance your experience. Here are some creative serving suggestions to enjoy these muffins even more.

With a Hot Beverage

• Coffee: The rich flavors of coffee complement the spices in the muffins beautifully.
• Tea: A warm cup of chai or herbal tea balances the sweetness and adds warmth.

As a Breakfast Treat

• With Fresh Fruit: Serve alongside sliced apples or pears for a refreshing contrast.
• Yogurt Parfait: Crumble the muffins over yogurt with berries for a satisfying breakfast bowl.

For Dessert

• Ice Cream: Pair with vanilla ice cream for a delicious dessert option.
• Whipped Cream: A dollop of whipped cream on top makes it extra indulgent.

At Holiday Gatherings

• Festive Platter: Arrange muffins on a platter with other seasonal treats for a colorful display.
• Gift Packages: Wrap them in cellophane and give as gifts during the holidays.

How to Perfect Glazed Gingerbread Muffins

Creating the perfect batch of Glazed Gingerbread Muffins is simple if you follow these tips. These suggestions will help ensure your muffins are moist, flavorful, and visually appealing.

• Use Room Temperature Ingredients: Ensure your eggs, milk, and sour cream are at room temperature for better mixing.
• Don’t Overmix the Batter: Mix until just combined to keep your muffins tender and fluffy.
• Adjust Baking Time Carefully: Keep an eye on your muffins as baking times may vary based on your oven.
• Add Extra Spices If Desired: Feel free to customize by adding more spices like nutmeg or allspice for extra flavor.
• Store Properly After Baking: Keep muffins in an airtight container to maintain freshness.
• Experiment with Glazes: Try different glazes like chocolate or vanilla for variety!

Best Side Dishes for Glazed Gingerbread Muffins

Serving side dishes with your Glazed Gingerbread Muffins can elevate any meal. Here are some great options that work well together.

1. Scrambled Eggs: Fluffy scrambled eggs provide protein and balance out the sweetness of the muffins.
2. Bacon Strips: The salty crunch of bacon pairs excellently with the spiced flavor of gingerbread.
3. Fruit Salad: A mix of seasonal fruits adds brightness and freshness alongside the rich muffins.
4. Oatmeal with Honey: Creamy oatmeal topped with honey offers a comforting combination for breakfast.
5. Cheese Platter: Varieties like brie or sharp cheddar create a delightful contrast in flavors when served together.
6. Chia Seed Pudding: This healthy option complements the muffins while adding texture and nutrients.
7. Maple Syrup Drizzle: A light drizzle over both muffins and pancakes provides an extra layer of sweetness and spice.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Baking glazed gingerbread muffins can be a delightful experience, but it’s easy to make mistakes. Here are some common pitfalls and how to avoid them.

• Using the wrong molasses: Not all molasses is equal. Avoid blackstrap molasses, as it can make your muffins too bitter. Opt for un-sulphured or dark molasses for the best flavor.
• Overmixing the batter: Overmixing can lead to dense muffins. Mix until just combined; it’s okay if the batter is a bit lumpy.
• Skipping room temperature ingredients: Cold ingredients can affect the rise and texture of your muffins. Make sure your milk, sour cream, and egg are at room temperature before mixing.
• Not preheating the oven properly: Starting at a higher temperature helps create a nice dome on your muffins. Always preheat your oven to 425°F before baking.
• Ignoring cooling time: Letting muffins cool in the pan for too long can make them soggy. Remove them after a few minutes and transfer them to a wire rack.

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Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

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

Freezing Glazed Gingerbread Muffins

• Wrap each muffin tightly in plastic wrap or aluminum foil.
• Place wrapped muffins in a freezer-safe bag or container and freeze for up to 3 months.

Reheating Glazed Gingerbread Muffins

• Oven: Preheat to 350°F and bake for about 5-10 minutes until warmed through.
• Microwave: Heat one muffin at a time for about 15-20 seconds. Be careful not to overheat.
• Stovetop: Place on a skillet over low heat, cover with a lid, and warm for about 5 minutes.

Frequently Asked Questions

What makes glazed gingerbread muffins so special?

Glazed gingerbread muffins are special because they combine warm spices like ginger and cinnamon with a sweet lemon glaze, making them perfect for fall and winter celebrations.

Can I customize my glazed gingerbread muffins?

Absolutely! You can add nuts, chocolate chips, or dried fruits to personalize your muffins. Just ensure you adjust baking times if needed.

How do I make these muffins healthier?

To make healthier glazed gingerbread muffins, consider substituting whole wheat flour for some of the all-purpose flour or using coconut sugar instead of brown sugar.

What should I serve with glazed gingerbread muffins?

These muffins pair beautifully with coffee or tea. They also make a great addition to holiday brunch spreads alongside fruit or yogurt.

Can I use gluten-free flour for this recipe?

Yes! You can swap regular flour with a gluten-free blend that measures cup-for-cup. The texture may vary slightly but will still be delicious.

Final Thoughts

Glazed gingerbread muffins are not only tender and flavorful but also versatile. Their warm spices evoke cozy feelings during the holidays, while the lemon glaze adds a refreshing twist. Feel free to experiment with add-ins or glazes to suit your taste. Give this delicious recipe a try—you’ll love how easy it is!