Strawberry Muffins

One bite of these strawberry muffins and you will agree, these are the BEST! Perfect for breakfast, brunch, or a delightful snack, these muffins bring together the sweetness of strawberries with a moist, fluffy texture. Their versatility allows you to enjoy them fresh out of the oven or frozen for those busy days when a quick treat is needed. With simple ingredients and easy preparation, they are sure to become a favorite in your household.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Easy to Make: This recipe requires simple steps and minimal prep time, making it perfect for bakers of all skill levels.
• Deliciously Moist: Using applesauce or Greek yogurt ensures that each muffin stays moist and flavorful.
• Versatile Ingredients: You can easily swap ingredients like fruits or sweeteners based on what you have on hand.
• Freezer Friendly: These muffins store well in the freezer, making them a convenient snack option for busy days.
• Healthy Choice: With whole wheat flour and fresh strawberries, these muffins offer a nutritious way to satisfy your sweet tooth.

Tools and Preparation

To get started on your strawberry muffins, gather the right tools. Having the appropriate kitchen equipment will make your baking experience smoother and more enjoyable.

Essential Kitchen Tools

• Muffin tin
• Mixing bowls
• Whisk
• Rubber spatula or spoon
• Microwave-safe bowl

Why These Tools Matter

• Muffin tin: A good quality muffin tin ensures even baking and helps achieve that perfect muffin shape.
• Mixing bowls: Sturdy mixing bowls are essential for combining wet and dry ingredients without spills.
• Whisk: A whisk is ideal for aerating the batter, which results in lighter muffins.

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!

Ingredients:
– 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 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 with Flour

Place chopped strawberries in a bowl and toss gently with ¼ cup all purpose flour. Set aside. This helps prevent the strawberries from sinking during baking.

Step 4: Melt the Butter

Place butter in a large microwave-safe bowl. Microwave on high heat until melted. Allow it to cool slightly before adding other ingredients.

Step 5: Combine Wet Ingredients

Add the applesauce (or mashed banana/Greek yogurt), pure maple syrup (or honey), milk, vanilla extract, and eggs to the bowl with melted butter. Whisk until well combined.

Step 6: Mix Dry Ingredients

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

Step 7: Incorporate Flours

Add both white whole wheat flour and remaining all-purpose flour. Use a rubber spatula or spoon to mix until just combined. Be careful not to overmix; then gently fold in the floured strawberries until just combined.

Step 8: Fill Muffin Tin

Scoop the batter into prepared muffin tin wells, filling each about two-thirds full.

Step 9: Bake Muffins

Bake for 16-18 minutes, until a tester inserted into the center of a muffin comes out clean.

Step 10: Cool

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

These delightful strawberry muffins can be stored at room temperature for up to three days or frozen for later enjoyment!

How to Serve Strawberry Muffins

Strawberry muffins are delightful on their own, but you can elevate the experience with some creative serving suggestions. Here are a few ways to enjoy these tasty treats for breakfast, snacks, or dessert.

Pair with Fresh Fruit

• Sliced Bananas – Serve your muffins alongside fresh banana slices for a sweet and healthy contrast.
• Mixed Berries – A bowl of mixed berries enhances the berry flavor and adds a refreshing touch.

Spread with Nut Butter

• Almond Butter – Spread almond butter on warm strawberry muffins for added creaminess and protein.
• Peanut Butter – A classic pairing that provides a satisfying crunch and richness.

Add a Touch of Sweetness

• Honey Drizzle – A light drizzle of honey can enhance the natural sweetness of the muffins.
• Maple Syrup – Pour a small amount of maple syrup over the muffin for an extra indulgent treat.

Enjoy with Yogurt

• Greek Yogurt – Serve strawberry muffins with a side of Greek yogurt for creaminess and protein.
• Cottage Cheese – This low-fat option pairs well while adding extra texture.

How to Perfect Strawberry Muffins

To ensure your strawberry muffins turn out perfectly every time, consider these helpful tips. These will help you achieve that ideal texture and flavor.

• Use Fresh Strawberries – Fresh strawberries provide the best flavor and moisture content for your muffins.
• Don’t Overmix – Mix until just combined to keep your muffins light and fluffy; overmixing can lead to dense textures.
• Room Temperature Ingredients – Using ingredients at room temperature helps create a smoother batter and better rise.
• Check Doneness Early – Start checking your muffins at 15 minutes to avoid overbaking; they should be golden brown on top.
• Cool Properly – Allow muffins to cool in the pan briefly before transferring them to a wire rack to prevent sogginess.
• Store Correctly – To maintain freshness, store in an airtight container at room temperature or freeze for longer preservation.

Best Side Dishes for Strawberry Muffins

Serving strawberry muffins can be even more enjoyable when paired with complementary side dishes. Here are some delicious options to consider:

1. Scrambled Eggs – Fluffy scrambled eggs provide protein and balance the sweetness of the muffins.
2. Fruit Salad – A vibrant fruit salad adds freshness and variety, making your meal colorful and nutritious.
3. Oatmeal – Creamy oatmeal offers heartiness, perfect for a filling breakfast alongside your muffins.
4. Smoothie Bowl – A smoothie bowl topped with granola complements the muffin’s flavors while adding nutrition.
5. Cheese Platter – Include some mild cheeses for a savory contrast that enhances the muffin experience.
6. Chia Seed Pudding – This creamy dessert is rich in nutrients and pairs nicely with the fruity notes of strawberry muffins.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Making strawberry muffins can be a delightful experience, but there are common pitfalls to watch out for.

• Using Overripe Strawberries: Overripe strawberries can affect the texture and flavor of your muffins. Choose firm, fresh strawberries for the best results.
• Not Measuring Ingredients Accurately: Accurate measurements are key to baking success. Use measuring cups and spoons specifically made for dry and liquid ingredients.
• Skipping the Flour Dusting: Not tossing strawberries in flour can lead to them sinking to the bottom. Lightly coating them helps distribute their weight throughout the batter.
• Overmixing the Batter: Overmixing can make your muffins dense. Mix just until ingredients are combined to keep your muffins light and fluffy.
• Ignoring Oven Temperature: Every oven is different. Always preheat your oven and consider using an oven thermometer to ensure accurate baking temperatures.

Refrigerator Storage

• Store in an airtight container for up to 3 days.
• Place muffins on a paper towel inside the container to absorb moisture.

Freezing Strawberry Muffins

• Wrap individually in plastic wrap or aluminum foil before placing in a freezer bag.
• They will maintain quality for up to 2 months in the freezer.

Reheating Strawberry Muffins

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

Frequently Asked Questions

How do I make my Strawberry Muffins extra moist?

Adding applesauce, mashed banana, or Greek yogurt contributes moisture. Ensure not to overbake them as well.

Can I use frozen strawberries in my Strawberry Muffins?

Yes, you can! Just thaw and drain them before adding to the batter, but note that they may alter the texture slightly.

How can I customize my Strawberry Muffins?

Feel free to add nuts, chocolate chips, or other fruits like blueberries or raspberries for variety.

What’s the best way to store leftover Strawberry Muffins?

Keep them in an airtight container at room temperature or freeze them if you want to save them longer.

Conclusion

These strawberry muffins are not only delicious but also versatile! You can customize them with various ingredients according to your preferences. Try making them today and enjoy their fruity goodness as a breakfast treat or snack!

---