Strawberry Muffins

One bite of these strawberry muffins and you will agree, these are the BEST! Perfect for breakfast, snacks, or even dessert, they are fluffy, moist, and bursting with fresh strawberry flavor. With simple ingredients like applesauce or Greek yogurt, these muffins are not only delicious but also healthy. Plus, they freeze well for easy grab-and-go options on busy days!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Easy to Make: These strawberry muffins come together quickly and require minimal effort.
• Versatile Ingredients: You can use applesauce, banana, or Greek yogurt based on your preference.
• Perfect for Any Occasion: Whether it’s a breakfast treat or an afternoon snack, they fit right in.
• Freezer Friendly: Store extras in the freezer for a quick breakfast or a sweet snack later.
• Healthy Option: Made with whole wheat flour and natural sweeteners, they’re a guilt-free indulgence.

Tools and Preparation

To make your muffin-making experience smooth and enjoyable, gather the right tools. Having the essentials ready will save you time and ensure that your strawberry muffins turn out perfectly.

Essential Kitchen Tools

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

Why These Tools Matter

• Muffin tin: This is essential for shaping your muffins perfectly and ensuring they bake evenly.
• Mixing bowls: A good set of mixing bowls helps keep all your ingredients organized while you prepare the batter.
• Whisk: A whisk ensures that all liquid ingredients blend together smoothly without clumps.
• Rubber spatula: Ideal for folding in strawberries gently to maintain their integrity without crushing them.

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 from the start.

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 and toss gently with ¼ cup all purpose flour. This helps prevent them from sinking to the bottom during baking.

Step 4: Melt Butter

Place butter in a large microwave-safe bowl. Microwave on high heat until melted. This step adds richness to your muffins.

Step 5: Mix Wet Ingredients

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

Step 6: Combine Dry Ingredients

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

Step 7: Add Flour and Strawberries

Stir in white whole wheat flour and remaining all-purpose flour using a rubber spatula or spoon until almost combined. Gently fold in strawberries until just mixed through.

Step 8: Bake the Muffins

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

Step 9: Cool Down

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

These delightful strawberry muffins can be stored at room temperature for up to three days or wrapped airtight and frozen for up to two months! Enjoy every bite!

How to Serve Strawberry Muffins

Strawberry muffins are versatile and delightful, making them perfect for various occasions. Whether you’re enjoying them for breakfast or as a snack, here are some creative serving suggestions to enhance your experience.

With Fresh Fruit

• Sliced Bananas: Add a few slices of fresh bananas on the side for a sweet and nutritious boost.
• Mixed Berries: Serve alongside a bowl of mixed berries for added color and flavor.

With Spreads

• Cream Cheese: A light spread of cream cheese adds a creamy texture that complements the fruitiness.
• Nut Butter: Try almond or peanut butter for a protein-packed option that pairs well with the sweetness.

As a Dessert

• Whipped Cream: Top with fresh whipped cream for an indulgent treat.
• Ice Cream: Serve warm muffins with a scoop of vanilla ice cream for a delicious dessert option.

How to Perfect Strawberry Muffins

To achieve the best strawberry muffins, consider these helpful tips that will elevate your baking game.

• Use Fresh Strawberries: Fresh strawberries provide better flavor and moisture compared to frozen ones.
• Don’t Overmix the Batter: Mix just until combined to keep your muffins light and fluffy.
• Room Temperature Ingredients: Ensure eggs and milk are at room temperature for better mixing and texture.
• Check Doneness Early: Start checking your muffins a few minutes before the timer goes off to prevent overbaking.
• Cool Properly: Allow muffins to cool in the pan briefly before transferring them to a wire rack to maintain their texture.

Best Side Dishes for Strawberry Muffins

Pairing strawberry muffins with delicious side dishes can create an exciting meal. Here are some great options to consider.

1. Greek Yogurt Parfait: Layer Greek yogurt with granola and fresh strawberries for a refreshing side.
2. Fruit Salad: A colorful mix of seasonal fruits adds freshness and complements the muffin’s flavors.
3. Cheese Plate: Include slices of mild cheese like gouda or brie for a savory contrast to the sweet muffins.
4. Oven-Baked Eggs: Serve soft-baked eggs seasoned with herbs as a hearty addition alongside your muffins.
5. Cucumber Salad: A light cucumber salad dressed with lemon vinaigrette can balance the sweetness nicely.
6. Smoothie Bowl: Blend up your favorite smoothie base, top it with nuts and seeds, and enjoy alongside your muffins.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

When making strawberry muffins, it’s easy to overlook some key steps. Here are common mistakes to ensure your muffins turn out perfectly every time.

• Ignoring fresh ingredients: Using stale or overripe strawberries can alter the flavor and texture of your muffins. Always use fresh, in-season strawberries for the best results.
• Skipping the flour toss: Not tossing the strawberries in flour can cause them to sink to the bottom of the batter. Lightly coat them with flour before adding to prevent this issue.
• Overmixing the batter: Overmixing can lead to tough muffins. Mix just until combined for a light and fluffy texture.
• Not measuring accurately: Using too much flour or other ingredients can throw off the recipe. Use proper measuring tools for accuracy.
• Skipping preheating: Not preheating your oven may result in uneven baking. Always ensure your oven is at 375°F before you start baking.

Refrigerator Storage

• Store muffins in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days.
• Place a paper towel at the bottom of the container to absorb moisture and keep them fresh longer.

Freezing Strawberry Muffins

• Wrap each muffin individually in plastic wrap before placing them in a freezer-safe bag or container.
• Muffins can be frozen for up to 2 months without losing flavor or texture.

Reheating Strawberry Muffins

• Oven: Preheat to 350°F and heat muffins for about 10 minutes for a warm, freshly baked taste.
• Microwave: Heat one muffin on high for about 15-20 seconds for a quick snack.
• Stovetop: Place muffins in a skillet over low heat, cover, and warm for about 5 minutes, ensuring they don’t dry out.

Frequently Asked Questions

How do I make strawberry banana muffins?

You can easily add mashed bananas to your strawberry muffin recipe. Substitute half of the applesauce with ripe mashed banana for added flavor and moisture.

Can I use frozen strawberries?

Yes! Frozen strawberries work well; however, be sure to thaw and drain excess liquid before using them in your muffin batter.

How long will strawberry muffins last?

Strawberry muffins can last up to 3 days at room temperature or up to 2 months when properly frozen.

What can I substitute for eggs?

If you’re looking for an egg substitute, you can use flaxseed meal mixed with water or unsweetened applesauce. Each egg can be replaced with 1/4 cup of either option.

Conclusion

These strawberry muffins are not only delicious but also versatile enough to suit various dietary preferences. With options such as using Greek yogurt or swapping ingredients like banana, you can create your own unique version. Enjoy these treats as breakfast, snacks, or even desserts!

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