Blueberry Muffins
Blueberry muffins are a delightful addition to any brunch or breakfast table. These fluffy, moist treats are packed with fresh blueberries, making them a favorite for both kids and adults alike. The aroma of baked muffins wafting through your kitchen simply cannot be beaten. In this post, we will lead you through a simple and delicious blueberry muffins recipe that ensures perfect results every time.
Why You Will Love This Recipe
This blueberry muffins recipe stands out for several reasons. First, it uses simple, wholesome ingredients, which you likely already have at home. Additionally, it yields muffins that are light, fluffy, and bursting with juicy blueberries. The optional crumb topping offers a delightful crunch that elevates the flavor without overpowering the muffin’s underlying sweetness. Whether enjoyed fresh or stored for later, these muffins remain irresistibly tasty!
Ingredients
Below are the primary ingredients you’ll need for this blueberry muffins recipe. Make sure to gather everything before you begin baking!
- 1½ cups cake flour
- 2 teaspoons baking powder
- ½ teaspoon salt
- ¾ cup sugar
- ⅓ cup oil
- 1 large egg
- 1 teaspoon vanilla essence
- ½ cup milk
- 1 cup blueberries, fresh or frozen
Optional Crumb Topping
If you want to add an extra touch, consider using the following ingredients for a crumb topping:
- ⅓ cup flour
- ½ cup sugar
- 50g margarine, cold
- 1 heaped teaspoon cinnamon powder
Directions
Step 1: Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C) and line a muffin tray with paper liners or grease it lightly with cooking spray. Preheating your oven is crucial, as it ensures that your muffins bake evenly.
Step 2: In a mixing bowl, whisk together the cake flour, baking powder, and salt. Mixing these dry ingredients first is important to distribute the baking powder evenly throughout the batter.
Step 3: In another bowl, combine the sugar, oil, egg, vanilla essence, and milk. Use a whisk or electric mixer to blend these ingredients until smooth. The sugar should be dissolved, and the mixture should be cohesive.
Step 4: Gently fold the wet mixture into the dry ingredients. Mix just until combined, being careful not to overmix, as this can lead to dense muffins.
Step 5: Gently fold in the blueberries, making sure they’re evenly distributed throughout the batter. If you’re using frozen blueberries, you may want to toss them in a little flour beforehand to prevent them from sinking to the bottom during baking.
Step 6: To prepare the crumb topping (optional), combine the flour, sugar, cold margarine, and cinnamon in a bowl. Use a fork or your fingers to mix until crumbly.
Step 7: Scoop the batter evenly into the prepared muffin tray, filling each cup about 2/3 full. If you’re using a crumb topping, sprinkle it generously over each muffin before baking.
Step 8: Bake in the preheated oven for 18-20 minutes or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean. Let the muffins cool in the tray for a few minutes before transferring them to a wire rack to cool completely.
FAQs
Can I use frozen blueberries?
Yes, you can use frozen blueberries. It’s recommended to toss them in a bit of flour to help prevent them from sinking to the bottom of the muffins.
How do I store leftover muffins?
Store leftover muffins in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days. For longer storage, place them in the refrigerator or freeze them for up to 3 months.
Can I substitute cake flour with all-purpose flour?
Yes, you can substitute cake flour with all-purpose flour. However, the texture might be slightly denser, so you may want to reduce the amount slightly.
Why do my muffins sink in the middle?
Muffins can sink in the middle due to overmixing the batter, using too much leavening agent, or opening the oven door too frequently while baking. Ensure you mix just until combined and keep the oven door closed during baking!
Can I make mini muffins with this recipe?
Absolutely! To make mini muffins, simply reduce the baking time to about 12-15 minutes. Keep an eye on them as baking times can vary depending on your oven.
Conclusion
Baking blueberry muffins at home is not only simple but incredibly rewarding. With this easy recipe, you can whip up a batch of warm, delicious muffins that will delight your family and friends. Feel free to experiment with various add-ins, like nuts or chocolate chips, to personalize your muffins. Happy baking!
