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 delightful muffins are suitable for various occasions, from cozy breakfasts to festive gatherings. With their warm spices and sweet glaze, they stand out as an irresistible addition to your dessert table.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Easy to Make: The simple steps make this recipe perfect for bakers of all levels.
• Delicious Flavor: A blend of ginger, cinnamon, and molasses creates a rich taste that everyone will love.
• Versatile Treat: Serve them warm for breakfast or cool with tea as a snack.
• Perfectly Glazed: The lemon glaze adds a refreshing touch that balances the spices beautifully.
• Great for Sharing: With 12 servings, these muffins are ideal for sharing during the holiday season.

Tools and Preparation

Before diving into the recipe, gather your tools. Having everything on hand will make baking smoother and more enjoyable.

Essential Tools and Equipment

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

Importance of Each Tool

• Muffin tray: Ensures even baking and helps shape the muffins perfectly.
• Mixing bowls: Allows for easy combining of wet and dry ingredients without spills.
• Whisk: Helps achieve a smooth batter by thoroughly mixing ingredients together.

Ingredients

To create these delicious glazed gingerbread muffins, gather the following ingredients:

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: Prepare the Molasses Mixture

Combine the molasses and butter in a large microwave-safe bowl. Microwave for about one minute or until the butter is fully melted. Stir until well combined and set aside to cool.

Step 3: Mix Dry Ingredients

In another large bowl, whisk together the flour, ginger, baking soda, cinnamon, cloves, nutmeg, and salt until everything is well combined.

Step 4: Combine Wet Ingredients

Add brown sugar, sour cream, milk, and an egg to the cooled molasses mixture. Mix everything together until completely blended.

Step 5: Combine Wet and Dry Mixtures

Gradually add the molasses mixture to the flour mixture. Stir gently 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 up to the top. If desired, sprinkle coarse sugar on top for extra crunch.

Step 7: Bake Muffins

Place in the preheated oven and bake for five minutes at 425°F. Without opening the oven door, reduce the temperature to 350°F. Continue baking for an additional 11-14 minutes or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean.

Step 8: Cool Muffins

Once baked, remove from oven and let them cool in the pan for a few minutes before transferring them to a wire rack to cool completely.

Step 9: Prepare Lemon Glaze

In a small bowl, mix powdered sugar with fresh lemon juice until creamy. Adjust consistency by adding more lemon juice or powdered sugar if necessary.

Step 10: Glaze Muffins

Drizzle lemon glaze over cooled muffins as desired. Serve these delicious treats warm or at room temperature!

Optional Vanilla Glaze:

If you prefer a vanilla glaze instead of lemon, combine powdered sugar with milk and vanilla extract until creamy and drizzle over muffins after they cool.

Now you’re ready to enjoy these delightful glazed gingerbread muffins!

How to Serve Glazed Gingerbread Muffins

Glazed gingerbread muffins are a delightful treat for any occasion. Their warm spices and sweet glaze make them perfect for breakfast, snacks, or even dessert. Here are some creative serving suggestions to enhance your experience.

With a Hot Beverage

• Coffee – Pair your muffins with a rich cup of coffee to balance the sweetness.
• Tea – A warm cup of spiced chai or herbal tea complements the ginger flavors beautifully.

Topped with Fresh Fruit

• Sliced Apples – Serve alongside sliced apples for a refreshing crunch that contrasts the muffin’s softness.
• Berries – Fresh berries add a burst of flavor and color, making the dish visually appealing.

For a Festive Touch

• Whipped Cream – Top your muffins with dollops of whipped cream for an indulgent treat.
• Chopped Nuts – Sprinkle chopped walnuts or pecans on top for added texture and nuttiness.

As a Dessert Platter

• Mini Cheesecakes – Pair with mini cheesecakes for a delightful dessert spread at gatherings.
• Chocolate Dipped Treats – Offer chocolate-dipped fruits or cookies to create a fun dessert platter.

How to Perfect Glazed Gingerbread Muffins

Achieving the perfect glazed gingerbread muffins is all about attention to detail. Here are some helpful tips to ensure your muffins turn out wonderfully every time.

• Use room temperature ingredients – This helps create a smooth batter and allows for even baking.
• Don’t overmix the batter – Gently combine the ingredients; overmixing can lead to dense muffins.
• Check doneness carefully – Insert a toothpick into the center; it should come out clean when baked properly.
• Cool before glazing – Allow muffins to cool completely before adding glaze to prevent it from melting off.
• Experiment with spices – Adjust the spice levels according to your preference; more ginger can give you extra warmth!
• Store properly – Keep leftover muffins in an airtight container to maintain freshness.

Best Side Dishes for Glazed Gingerbread Muffins

When enjoying glazed gingerbread muffins, pairing them with complementary side dishes can enhance your meal. Here are some of the best options:

1. Fruit Salad – A mix of seasonal fruits adds brightness and balances the richness of the muffins.
2. Yogurt Parfait – Layer yogurt with granola and fruit for a nutritious side that contrasts nicely in texture.
3. Savory Cheese Plate – Include sharp cheeses that provide a savory contrast to sweet muffins.
4. Oatmeal Bowl – A warm bowl of oatmeal topped with nuts and fruit makes for a hearty breakfast alongside muffins.
5. Granola Bars – Homemade or store-bought granola bars offer an additional crunchy element when served together.
6. Vegetable Sticks with Hummus – Fresh veggies paired with hummus add crunch and nutrition, balancing out the sweetness.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Baking glazed gingerbread muffins can be a delightful experience, but there are common mistakes to keep in mind.

• Using the wrong molasses: Not all molasses is created equal. Avoid using blackstrap molasses, as it has a bitter taste. Opt for un-sulphured or dark molasses for the best flavor.
• Overmixing the batter: Mixing too much can lead to dense muffins. Combine the wet and dry ingredients until just incorporated for a lighter texture.
• Ignoring room temperature ingredients: Cold ingredients can affect how well your muffins rise. Make sure your butter, milk, and egg are at room temperature before mixing.
• Skipping the sprinkle: Forgetting to sprinkle coarse sugar on top can result in muffins that lack crunch. This step adds a lovely texture that enhances the eating experience.
• Not checking doneness: Relying solely on baking time can lead to undercooked or overcooked muffins. Use a toothpick to test for doneness; it should come out clean when inserted into the center.

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store in an airtight container for up to 3 days.
• If you want to keep them fresh longer, wrap each muffin individually.

Freezing Glazed Gingerbread Muffins

• Freeze in an airtight container or freezer bag for up to 3 months.
• For best results, freeze before glazing.

Reheating Glazed Gingerbread Muffins

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

Frequently Asked Questions

Here are some common questions about glazed gingerbread muffins that might help you with your baking journey.

Can I use whole wheat flour instead of regular flour for Glazed Gingerbread Muffins?

You can substitute whole wheat flour, but it may change the texture slightly. Consider using half whole wheat and half all-purpose flour for balance.

How do I make my Glazed Gingerbread Muffins more moist?

Adding extra sour cream or yogurt can enhance moisture levels. You may also consider reducing baking time slightly to avoid dryness.

Can I add nuts or chocolate chips to my Glazed Gingerbread Muffins?

Absolutely! Chopped nuts or chocolate chips can add flavor and texture. Just fold them in gently with the wet ingredients.

What other glazes can I use besides lemon?

You can create a vanilla glaze using powdered sugar, milk, and vanilla extract. Feel free to experiment with different flavors!

Final Thoughts

These glazed gingerbread muffins are a wonderful treat that captures the essence of fall with their warm spices and sweet glaze. They are perfect for holiday gatherings or cozy mornings at home. You can easily customize them by adding nuts or trying different glazes. Give this recipe a try—you’ll love making these delightful muffins!