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 bring warmth and comfort to any gathering, making them ideal for festive occasions or cozy family breakfasts. Their unique blend of spices and the touch of sweetness from the glaze set them apart from regular muffins, ensuring they will be a hit at your next celebration.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Easy to Make: This recipe is straightforward, perfect for bakers of all skill levels.
• Delicious Flavor: The combination of spices creates a rich, warm flavor that’s perfect for the season.
• Versatile Treat: These muffins can be served as breakfast, dessert, or a snack anytime.
• Perfect for Sharing: With 12 servings, they are great for gatherings or holiday parties.
• Customizable Glaze Options: Enjoy with a tangy lemon glaze or a sweet vanilla option based on your preference.

Tools and Preparation

Before you start baking your delicious glazed gingerbread muffins, gather your tools. Having everything ready will make the process smoother.

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 uniform shape and size for perfectly baked muffins.
• Mixing bowls: Allows you to combine ingredients without mess; larger bowls prevent spills while mixing.
• Whisk: Helps incorporate air into the batter, leading to light and fluffy muffins.

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 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 until the butter melts. Stir until well combined and set aside to cool slightly.

Step 3: Prepare Dry Ingredients

In another large bowl, whisk together:
1. Flour
2. Ground ginger
3. Baking soda
4. Ground cinnamon
5. Ground cloves
6. Ground nutmeg
7. Salt

Ensure all dry ingredients are well combined.

Step 4: Mix Wet Ingredients

Add brown sugar, sour cream, whole milk, and the beaten egg to the cooled molasses mixture. Mix until everything is very well combined.

Step 5: Combine Mixtures

Gradually add the molasses mixture into the flour mixture. Stir gently until just combined; be careful not to overmix! The batter should 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 coarse sugar on top for added crunch.

Step 7: Bake Muffins

Place muffin tray in the preheated oven. Bake at high heat for five minutes. Then reduce temperature to 350°F without opening the oven door. Continue baking for an additional 11–14 minutes or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean.

Step 8: Cool Muffins

Remove from oven once baked through and allow cooling in the pan for several 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 and smooth. Adjust consistency by adding more lemon juice if needed.

Step 10: Drizzle Glaze

Once muffins have cooled completely, drizzle lemon glaze over each muffin as desired before serving.

Step 11: Optional Vanilla Glaze

For those who prefer vanilla flavoring, mix powdered sugar with milk and vanilla extract until creamy as an alternative glaze option.

Now you’re ready to enjoy delicious glazed gingerbread muffins!

How to Serve Glazed Gingerbread Muffins

Glazed gingerbread muffins are delicious on their own, but you can elevate your serving experience with a few creative ideas. Whether for breakfast, dessert, or a cozy snack, these suggestions will enhance the enjoyment of your muffins.

With Fresh Fruit

• Sliced Apples: Pair your muffins with thinly sliced apples for a crisp and refreshing contrast.
• Berries: A handful of fresh berries adds a burst of color and natural sweetness.

With Coffee or Tea

• Warm Beverages: Serve your muffins alongside a hot cup of coffee or tea to complement their rich flavors.
• Spiced Chai: The spices in chai tea harmonize beautifully with the gingerbread flavor.

For Breakfast

• Cream Cheese Spread: A light layer of cream cheese enhances the moistness of the muffins.
• Yogurt Parfait: Serve with yogurt and granola for a wholesome breakfast option.

For Dessert

• Ice Cream Scoop: A scoop of vanilla ice cream melts over warm muffins for an indulgent treat.
• Whipped Cream: Top with fresh whipped cream for extra creaminess and flair.

How to Perfect Glazed Gingerbread Muffins

To achieve the best glazed gingerbread muffins, consider these helpful tips. They will ensure that your muffins turn out tender, flavorful, and perfectly glazed every time.

• Use Room Temperature Ingredients: Bring butter, eggs, and dairy to room temperature for better mixing and texture.
• Don’t Overmix the Batter: Gently combine wet and dry ingredients to keep your muffins light and fluffy.
• Check Oven Temperature: An accurate oven temperature ensures even baking; use an oven thermometer if needed.
• Cool Before Glazing: Allow muffins to cool completely before adding glaze to prevent it from melting away.
• Experiment with Spices: Feel free to adjust spice quantities based on your taste preferences for a unique flavor profile.

Best Side Dishes for Glazed Gingerbread Muffins

Glazed gingerbread muffins pair wonderfully with various side dishes. Here are some great options to consider when planning your meal or snack.

1. Crisp Bacon: The salty crunch of bacon contrasts nicely with the sweet flavors of gingerbread.
2. Scrambled Eggs: Fluffy scrambled eggs add protein and balance the sweetness of the muffins.
3. Cheese Platter: A selection of cheeses can provide savory notes that complement the muffin’s flavors.
4. Cinnamon Applesauce: This warm side dish enhances the spice profile while adding moisture.
5. Nut Butter Spread: Almond or peanut butter provides healthy fats and pairs well with sweet muffins.
6. Fruit Salad: A mix of seasonal fruits brings freshness and acidity that cuts through the richness.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Baking Glazed Gingerbread Muffins can be a fun and rewarding experience. However, there are some common mistakes that can affect the outcome.

• Using the wrong molasses: Using blackstrap molasses can lead to a bitter flavor. Stick to dark or unsulfured molasses for the best results.
• Overmixing the batter: Overmixing can make your muffins tough. Mix until just combined for a tender texture.
• Not measuring ingredients accurately: Inaccurate measurements can ruin your muffins. Use a kitchen scale or measuring cups for precision.
• Skipping the cooling step: Letting the muffins cool in the pan for too long can make them soggy. Remove them to a wire rack to cool completely.
• Ignoring room temperature ingredients: Cold eggs or dairy can affect how well the batter combines. Ensure all ingredients are at room temperature before mixing.

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store Glazed Gingerbread Muffins in an airtight container.
• They will last up to 5 days in the fridge.

Freezing Glazed Gingerbread Muffins

• Freeze muffins in a freezer-safe bag or container.
• They will retain quality for up to 3 months.

Reheating Glazed Gingerbread Muffins

• Oven: Preheat to 350°F (175°C), wrap muffins in foil, and heat for about 10-15 minutes.
• Microwave: Heat one muffin at a time on high for about 15-20 seconds, being careful not to dry it out.
• Stovetop: Place a muffin in a skillet over low heat, covering it with a lid for about 5 minutes until warmed through.

Frequently Asked Questions

Here are some frequently asked questions about Glazed Gingerbread Muffins.

Can I make Glazed Gingerbread Muffins ahead of time?

Yes, these muffins can be made ahead and stored in the fridge or freezer. Just reheat when ready to enjoy!

What can I use instead of sour cream?

You can substitute plain yogurt for sour cream in this recipe without affecting the flavor.

How do I make my Glazed Gingerbread Muffins more festive?

Consider adding nuts, chocolate chips, or dried fruit to the batter for extra flavor and texture.

Can I customize the glaze?

Absolutely! You can create a vanilla glaze using milk and vanilla extract instead of lemon juice for variation.

Final Thoughts

Glazed Gingerbread Muffins are not only delicious but also incredibly versatile. You can customize them with your favorite mix-ins or glazes, making them suitable for any occasion. Try this recipe as a delightful treat during the holiday season or whenever you’re craving something sweet!