Strawberry Muffins

One bite of these Strawberry Muffins and you’ll agree they are simply the BEST! Perfect for breakfast, snacks, or even dessert, these muffins are not only delicious but also versatile. With the option to use applesauce, banana, or Greek yogurt, you can easily customize them to suit your taste. They freeze beautifully, making them an excellent choice for busy days when you need a quick treat.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Quick and Easy: This recipe comes together in under 30 minutes, making it perfect for busy mornings.
• Healthy Ingredients: Packed with fresh strawberries and wholesome flours, these muffins are a guilt-free indulgence.
• Customizable Options: Use applesauce, mashed bananas, or Greek yogurt to tweak the flavor profile.
• Freezer Friendly: Make a batch and store them in the freezer for an easy grab-and-go snack anytime.
• Family Favorite: Kids and adults alike will love the sweet strawberry flavor that shines through.

Tools and Preparation

Gathering the right tools is key to baking delicious muffins. Here are some essentials you’ll need.

Essential Kitchen Tools

• Muffin tin
• Mixing bowls
• Whisk
• Rubber spatula
• Measuring cups and spoons

Why These Tools Matter

• Muffin tin: Ensures even baking and perfect portion sizes for your muffins.
• Mixing bowls: Having a variety of sizes allows for easy mixing without spills.
• Whisk: Helps combine ingredients smoothly for a fluffy muffin texture.

Ingredients

One bite of these strawberry muffins and you will agree, these are the BEST! Make these muffins with applesauce, banana or Greek yogurt and store them in your freezer for busy days!

• 1 ½ cups chopped fresh strawberries (about 10 ounces strawberries)
• ¼ cup all purpose flour
• 4 tablespoons unsalted butter (may substitute coconut oil)
• 1 cup unsweetened applesauce (or mashed ripe banana or plain Greek yogurt)
• ½ cup pure maple syrup or honey
• ¼ cup milk (whichever kind you prefer)
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
• 2 eggs
• 1 teaspoon baking powder
• ½ teaspoon baking soda
• ½ teaspoon salt
• 1 cup white whole wheat flour
• ½ cup all purpose flour

How to Make Strawberry Muffins

Step 1: Preheat the Oven

Preheat your oven to 375 degrees F. This ensures that your muffins bake evenly.

Step 2: Prepare the Muffin Tin

Spray a muffin tin with cooking spray or line it with parchment paper liners to prevent sticking.

Step 3: Toss Strawberries

Place chopped strawberries in a bowl. Gently toss them with ¼ cup of all-purpose flour. Set aside to coat the berries evenly.

Step 4: Melt Butter

In a large microwave-safe bowl, place butter. Microwave on high until melted.

Step 5: Combine Wet Ingredients

Add unsweetened applesauce, mashed banana, or Greek yogurt to the melted butter. Mix in pure maple syrup or honey, milk, vanilla extract, and eggs. Whisk until well combined.

Step 6: Mix Dry Ingredients

Add baking powder, baking soda, and salt into the wet mixture. Whisk until everything is well blended.

Step 7: Combine Flours

Stir in white whole wheat flour and remaining all-purpose flour using a rubber spatula or spoon. Mix until almost combined.

Step 8: Fold in Strawberries

Gently fold in the coated strawberries until just combined. Be careful not to overmix.

Step 9: Bake

Scoop the batter into prepared muffin tin wells. Bake for 16-18 minutes or until a tester inserted into the center comes out clean.

Step 10: Cool Down

Let muffins cool in the pan for about 5 minutes before transferring them to a wire rack to cool completely.

These delightful Strawberry Muffins will surely brighten your day whether served warm from the oven or enjoyed later!

How to Serve Strawberry Muffins

These strawberry muffins are versatile and can be enjoyed in various ways to enhance your breakfast or snack time. Here are some delicious serving suggestions to make the most out of your muffins.

Pair with Fresh Fruit

• Sliced Bananas: Add fresh banana slices on the side for extra sweetness and a complementary flavor.
• Berries Medley: Serve with a mix of berries like blueberries and raspberries for a colorful plate.

Enjoy with Spreads

• Cream Cheese: Spread a little cream cheese on your muffin for a creamy texture that pairs well with strawberry flavor.
• Nut Butter: A dollop of almond or peanut butter adds protein and richness, making for a filling snack.

Accompany with Beverages

• Coffee: The classic pairing; enjoy your muffins with a hot cup of coffee for a delightful breakfast experience.
• Herbal Tea: A soothing herbal tea can balance the sweetness of the muffins perfectly, making it a relaxing treat.

How to Perfect Strawberry Muffins

To make sure your strawberry muffins are always delightful, follow these handy tips. They will enhance both texture and flavor!

• Boldly Use Fresh Strawberries: Fresh strawberries offer the best taste and texture. Avoid frozen ones for this recipe.
• Boldly Measure Ingredients Accurately: Use precise measurements, especially for flour and liquids, to achieve the perfect muffin consistency.
• Boldly Mix Wet and Dry Ingredients Separately: Combine wet ingredients in one bowl and dry ingredients in another before mixing them together to avoid overmixing.
• Boldly Allow Batter to Rest: Letting the batter sit for 5-10 minutes before baking allows the flavors to meld beautifully.
• Boldly Test for Doneness Early: Ovens vary, so check your muffins a few minutes before the timer goes off. They should spring back when lightly pressed.

Best Side Dishes for Strawberry Muffins

Strawberry muffins are delightful on their own but can be paired with several sides that elevate your meal. Here’s a list of tasty accompaniments to enjoy alongside your muffins.

1. Greek Yogurt: This creamy side adds protein and pairs perfectly with fruity muffins.
2. Granola Parfait: Layer yogurt, granola, and fresh strawberries for a crunchy contrast.
3. Fruit Salad: A refreshing mix of seasonal fruits complements the sweetness of strawberry muffins.
4. Oven-Baked Eggs: Savory baked eggs provide a hearty addition to balance out the sweetness.
5. Smoothie Bowl: Blend up a smoothie bowl topped with nuts and seeds for an energizing meal.
6. Cottage Cheese: This high-protein side offers creamy texture and mild flavor that pairs well with strawberries.

Enjoy these serving suggestions, tips, and side dishes to make your strawberry muffin experience even better!

Common Mistakes to Avoid

One common pitfall when making strawberry muffins is overlooking simple steps that can impact the final product. Here are some mistakes to steer clear of:

• Skipping the flour toss: Not tossing strawberries in flour can lead to them sinking to the bottom during baking. Always coat them lightly with flour before adding to the batter.
• Overmixing the batter: Mixing too much can make your muffins tough. Mix until just combined for a lighter texture.
• Inaccurate measurements: Using incorrect ingredient amounts can ruin your recipe. Always measure ingredients precisely, using a kitchen scale if possible.
• Not preheating the oven: Baking in an unpreheated oven can affect muffin rise and texture. Preheat your oven to ensure even baking.
• Ignoring cooling time: Removing muffins from the pan too quickly can cause them to break apart. Let them cool slightly in the pan before transferring to a wire rack.

Storage and Reheating

Refrigerator Storage

• Keep strawberry muffins in an airtight container.
• They will stay fresh for up to 3 days at room temperature.
• Use a paper towel inside the container to absorb moisture.

Freezing Strawberry Muffins

• Wrap each muffin tightly in plastic wrap or aluminum foil.
• Place wrapped muffins in a freezer-safe bag or container.
• They can be frozen for up to 2 months without losing flavor.

Reheating Strawberry Muffins

• Oven: Preheat to 350°F (175°C) and bake for about 5-10 minutes until warm.
• Microwave: Heat individually for about 15-20 seconds on medium power.
• Stovetop: Use a skillet on low heat, covering it for a few minutes until warmed through.

Frequently Asked Questions

How do I make gluten-free strawberry muffins?

You can substitute all-purpose flour with a gluten-free blend. Ensure that your other ingredients are also gluten-free.

Can I use frozen strawberries for strawberry muffins?

Yes, you can use frozen strawberries. Just thaw and drain any excess liquid before adding them to your batter.

What can I substitute for eggs in this strawberry muffin recipe?

You can use flaxseed meal mixed with water or unsweetened applesauce as an egg substitute.

Can I customize my strawberry muffins?

Absolutely! Feel free to add nuts, chocolate chips, or spices like cinnamon for extra flavor variations.

How long do these strawberry muffins last?

When stored properly at room temperature, they last up to 3 days; if frozen, they remain good for up to 2 months.

Conclusion

These strawberry muffins are not only delicious but also versatile! You can customize them with various mix-ins and toppings according to your preferences. Perfect for breakfast, brunch, or as a snack, we encourage you to try this delightful recipe today!

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