Glazed Gingerbread Muffins

Tender and flavorful glazed gingerbread muffins filled with fall spices and topped with a lemon glaze are the perfect holiday treat. These muffins are not only delicious but also versatile, making them ideal for cozy mornings or festive gatherings.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Flavorful Spices: Each muffin is infused with rich spices like ginger, cinnamon, and cloves, creating a warm and inviting taste.
• Easy to Make: Simple steps ensure that even beginner bakers can whip up these delightful treats without any hassle.
• Perfect for Any Occasion: Whether it’s a holiday brunch or a casual snack, these muffins fit right in at any gathering.
• Customizable Glaze: You can choose between a zesty lemon glaze or a sweet vanilla glaze to suit your taste preference.
• Makes a Great Gift: Packaged nicely, these muffins make for thoughtful homemade gifts during the holiday season.

Tools and Preparation

Having the right tools will make your baking experience smooth and enjoyable. Here’s what you’ll need to prepare your glazed gingerbread muffins.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Muffin tray
• Mixing bowls
• Whisk
• Measuring cups and spoons
• Rubber spatula
• Microwave-safe bowl

Importance of Each Tool

• Muffin tray: This is essential for shaping the muffins into uniform portions, ensuring even baking.
• Mixing bowls: Having multiple bowls helps keep ingredients organized, making the mixing process easier.
• Whisk: A good whisk is crucial for properly combining dry ingredients and achieving a smooth batter.

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 (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)
• 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 Butter and Molasses

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

Step 3: Mix 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: Combine Wet Ingredients

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

Step 5: Combine Mixtures

Gradually add the molasses mixture to the flour mixture until just combined; be careful not to overmix. 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 to the top. If desired, sprinkle coarse sugar on top for added crunch.

Step 7: Bake

Place in the oven and bake for 5 minutes at 425°F. 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 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 you achieve a creamy consistency that suits your taste.

Step 10: Drizzle Glaze

Drizzle the lemon glaze over cooled muffins if desired. Serve immediately and enjoy!

Optional Vanilla Glaze

If you prefer a vanilla flavor instead of lemon, mix powdered sugar with milk and vanilla extract until creamy for your desired consistency.

How to Serve Glazed Gingerbread Muffins

Glazed gingerbread muffins are a delightful treat that can be enjoyed in various ways. Whether you’re serving them at a holiday gathering or enjoying them as a cozy breakfast, these muffins are sure to please.

With Coffee or Tea

• Enjoy these muffins with your favorite hot beverage for a comforting morning routine.

Topped with Whipped Cream

• Add a dollop of whipped cream on top for an elegant touch that enhances the flavors.

Paired with Fresh Fruit

• Serve alongside slices of fresh fruit, like apples or pears, for a refreshing contrast.

As a Dessert

• Drizzle extra lemon glaze over the top and serve as a sweet ending to any meal.

With Ice Cream

• Warm up the muffins slightly and serve them with a scoop of vanilla ice cream for an indulgent dessert.

How to Perfect Glazed Gingerbread Muffins

To achieve the best texture and flavor in your glazed gingerbread muffins, consider these helpful tips.

• Use Room Temperature Ingredients: Ensure that your butter, eggs, and dairy are at room temperature for better mixing and fluffier muffins.

• Don’t Overmix the Batter: Gently combine the wet and dry ingredients to keep the muffins light and airy. Overmixing can lead to dense muffins.

• Fill Muffin Cups Generously: Fill each muffin cup all the way to the top to achieve that perfect dome shape while baking.

• Adjust Baking Time Carefully: Keep an eye on your muffins and adjust baking time as needed based on your oven’s performance for optimal doneness.

• Experiment with Spices: Feel free to adjust spices according to your taste preferences. A bit more ginger or cinnamon can add warmth!

Best Side Dishes for Glazed Gingerbread Muffins

Glazed gingerbread muffins pair well with various side dishes that complement their warm spices. Here are some great options:

1. Fruit Salad: A mix of seasonal fruits adds freshness and balances the rich flavors of the muffins.

2. Yogurt Parfait: Layer yogurt with granola and berries for a creamy and crunchy contrast.

3. Cheese Platter: Offer mild cheeses like brie or goat cheese which pair nicely with the sweetness of gingerbread.

4. Oatmeal: A warm bowl of oatmeal topped with nuts and honey makes for a hearty breakfast alongside the muffins.

5. Chia Seed Pudding: This healthy option provides a creamy texture that complements the dense muffins.

6. Scrambled Eggs: Fluffy scrambled eggs offer protein, making for a well-rounded breakfast when served together.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

When making glazed gingerbread muffins, it’s easy to stumble into some common pitfalls. Here are a few mistakes to watch out for:

• Bold Flour Measurement: Using too much or too little flour can ruin the texture. Always measure flour correctly by spooning it into the measuring cup and leveling it off.

• Bold Overmixing the Batter: Overmixing can lead to dense muffins. Mix until just combined for light and fluffy results.

• Bold Ignoring Temperature: Not using room temperature ingredients can affect how well they blend. Ensure your butter, eggs, and dairy are at room temperature for a smooth batter.

• Bold Skipping the Sugar Topping: The coarse sugar adds a delightful crunch. Don’t skip this step if you want that extra texture on top of your muffins.

• Bold Not Preheating the Oven: Baking in a cold oven can lead to uneven cooking. Always preheat your oven as directed in the recipe.

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

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

Freezing Glazed Gingerbread Muffins

• Wrap individual muffins 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

• Bold Oven: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and warm muffins for about 5-10 minutes.
• Bold Microwave: Heat one muffin at a time on medium power for 15-20 seconds until warm.
• Bold Stovetop: Place muffins in a skillet over low heat, covered, for about 5 minutes until warmed through.

Frequently Asked Questions

Here are some common questions about glazed gingerbread muffins:

What are Glazed Gingerbread Muffins?

Glazed gingerbread muffins are tender baked goods flavored with warm spices like ginger and cinnamon, topped with a sweet lemon glaze.

Can I use whole wheat flour instead of all-purpose flour?

Yes, you can substitute whole wheat flour, but the texture might be denser. It’s best to use half whole wheat and half all-purpose for better results.

How do I make these muffins vegan?

To make glazed gingerbread muffins vegan, substitute butter with plant-based margarine and use flax eggs instead of regular eggs.

Can I add nuts or dried fruits?

Absolutely! Chopped nuts or dried fruits like cranberries or raisins can enhance flavor and texture. Just fold them into the batter before baking.

How do I store leftover glazed gingerbread muffins?

Store any leftover muffins in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days or refrigerate them for longer freshness.

Final Thoughts

These glazed gingerbread muffins are not only delicious but also versatile enough for any occasion. Customize them with your favorite spices or toppings to make them truly your own. Whether enjoyed fresh out of the oven or as a treat later on, they’re sure to please friends and family alike!