🍽 Recipe Card
Hook:
Fluffy, moist, and perfectly golden muffins fresh from the oven — a classic treat that’s easy to customize and perfect for breakfast or a snack!
Servings & Timing:
- Servings: 12 muffins
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Total Time: 35 minutes
- Dietary Badges: Vegetarian, can be made gluten-free and dairy-free (see notes)
Ingredients:
- All-purpose flour (or gluten-free flour blend)
- Baking powder
- Baking soda
- Salt
- Granulated sugar
- Eggs
- Milk (dairy or plant-based)
- Vegetable oil or melted butter
- Vanilla extract
- Optional add-ins: blueberries, chocolate chips, nuts, cinnamon
Instructions:
- Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C). Line a muffin tin with paper liners or grease well.
- In a large bowl, whisk together flour, baking powder, baking soda, salt, and sugar.
- In another bowl, beat eggs with milk, oil, and vanilla extract until combined.
- Pour wet ingredients into dry and gently fold until just combined — don’t overmix!
- Fold in optional add-ins like blueberries or chocolate chips if using.
- Divide batter evenly among muffin cups, filling about 2/3 full.
- Bake for 18–20 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.
- Let muffins cool in the pan for 5 minutes, then transfer to a wire rack to cool completely.
Additional Notes:
- For dairy-free, substitute milk with almond or oat milk and use oil instead of butter.
- For gluten-free, use a 1:1 gluten-free flour blend.
- Mix-ins can be swapped or combined to suit your taste.
Introduction
There’s nothing quite like the smell of freshly baked muffins wafting through your kitchen. Whether it’s a quick breakfast on-the-go or a cozy afternoon snack, muffins are a timeless favorite that’s easy to make and endlessly adaptable. This basic muffin recipe is my go-to because it’s simple, reliable, and welcomes all your favorite add-ins. Plus, it comes together in under 40 minutes — perfect for busy mornings or last-minute guests!
Step-by-Step Cooking Guide
Step 1: Prep the Oven and Tin
Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Line your muffin tin with paper liners or grease it lightly.
Tip: Using liners makes cleanup easier and keeps muffins from sticking.
Step 2: Mix Dry Ingredients
In a large bowl, whisk together flour, baking powder, baking soda, salt, and sugar until evenly combined.
Step 3: Combine Wet Ingredients
In a separate bowl, beat the eggs, milk, oil, and vanilla extract together until smooth.
Step 4: Combine Wet and Dry
Pour the wet mixture into the dry ingredients and fold gently using a spatula just until combined. Avoid overmixing to keep muffins tender.
Step 5: Add Your Favorite Mix-Ins
Fold in blueberries, chocolate chips, nuts, or cinnamon as desired.
Step 6: Fill Muffin Cups
Spoon the batter into the prepared muffin tin, filling each cup about two-thirds full.
Step 7: Bake
Bake for 18–20 minutes, until golden brown and a toothpick comes out clean.
Step 8: Cool
Allow muffins to cool in the pan for 5 minutes, then transfer to a wire rack.
Ingredient Insights & Substitutions
- Flour: All-purpose flour gives a classic texture; gluten-free blends can substitute easily.
- Leavening: Baking powder and soda provide lift — make sure these are fresh!
- Fat: Oil keeps muffins moist; melted butter adds richness and flavor.
- Milk: Dairy or plant-based milk works well — almond, oat, or soy are great alternatives.
- Add-Ins: Fresh or frozen berries, nuts, or spices add flavor and texture.
Recipe Variations & Serving Ideas
- Blueberry Muffins: Add 1 cup fresh or frozen blueberries.
- Chocolate Chip: Stir in ¾ cup chocolate chips.
- Banana Nut: Mash 1 ripe banana and add ½ cup chopped walnuts. Reduce sugar slightly.
- Spiced: Add 1 tsp cinnamon and ¼ tsp nutmeg for a cozy twist.
Serve muffins warm with butter, jam, or alongside a cup of coffee or tea.
Storage & Make-Ahead Tips
- Store: Keep muffins in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days.
- Freeze: Freeze muffins individually wrapped for up to 3 months. Thaw at room temperature or microwave briefly.
- Make Ahead: Batter can be prepared a day in advance and refrigerated; stir gently before baking.
Nutrition Snapshot (Per Muffin Approximate)
- Calories: 180
- Protein: 4g
- Carbs: 25g
- Fat: 7g
- Dietary Tags: Vegetarian, can be gluten-free and dairy-free
FAQs
Q: Can I use frozen berries?
A: Yes! Add them directly to the batter without thawing. Toss them in a little flour first to prevent sinking.
Q: Why are my muffins dense?
A: Overmixing can cause dense muffins. Mix just until combined and avoid overbaking.
Q: Can I double the recipe?
A: Yes, just double all ingredients and bake in batches or use two muffin tins.
Personal Note
I love this muffin recipe because it’s flexible and forgiving — perfect for experimenting with whatever you have on hand. Plus, they’re a warm hug in baked form that never fails to brighten a morning!
Let’s Connect!
Try these muffins and share your favorite add-ins or tweaks below! Don’t forget to tag me on social media if you bake a batch — I can’t wait to see your delicious creations.