Holiday Breakfast Muffins are a delightful and versatile way to celebrate the festive season. Packed with seasonal flavors like cranberries, nuts, and warm spices, these muffins are perfect for breakfast, brunch, or as a grab-and-go snack during the busy holiday season. They are moist, flavorful, and sure to please everyone at your holiday gatherings!
Ingredients
For the Muffins:
- 2 cups all-purpose flour
- 1 cup granulated sugar
- 1 tablespoon baking powder
- 1/2 teaspoon baking soda
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
- 1/2 teaspoon ground nutmeg
- 1/2 cup unsalted butter, melted
- 2 large eggs
- 1 cup milk (dairy or non-dairy)
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1 cup fresh or frozen cranberries (or dried cranberries)
- 1/2 cup chopped nuts (walnuts or pecans)
- 1/2 cup chocolate chips (optional)
For Topping (Optional):
- Turbinado sugar (for sprinkling)
- Additional nuts or cranberries for garnish
Timing
Preparing Holiday Breakfast Muffins takes about 15 minutes of prep time and 20-25 minutes of baking time. Total time is approximately 40-45 minutes.
Instructions
Step 1: Preheat the Oven
Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C) and line a muffin tin with paper liners or grease it lightly.
Step 2: Mix Dry Ingredients
In a large bowl, whisk together the flour, sugar, baking powder, baking soda, salt, cinnamon, and nutmeg until well combined.
Step 3: Mix Wet Ingredients
In another bowl, whisk together the melted butter, eggs, milk, and vanilla extract until smooth.
Step 4: Combine Mixtures
Pour the wet ingredients into the dry ingredients and stir until just combined. Be careful not to overmix; a few lumps are okay. Gently fold in the cranberries, chopped nuts, and chocolate chips (if using).
Step 5: Fill Muffin Tins
Divide the muffin batter evenly among the prepared muffin cups, filling each about 2/3 full. If desired, sprinkle a bit of turbinado sugar and extra nuts or cranberries on top of each muffin.
Step 6: Bake
Bake in the preheated oven for 20-25 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean and the tops are golden brown.
Step 7: Cool and Serve
Allow the muffins to cool in the pan for about 5 minutes, then transfer them to a wire rack to cool completely. Serve warm or at room temperature.
Nutritional Information
| Nutrient | Amount per Muffin |
|---|---|
| Calories | 200 |
| Protein | 3g |
| Fat | 8g |
| Carbohydrates | 30g |
| Fiber | 1g |
Healthier Alternatives
- Use whole wheat flour instead of all-purpose flour for added fiber.
- Substitute applesauce or Greek yogurt for some of the butter for a lower-fat option.
- Reduce the sugar or use a sugar substitute to lower calories.
Serving Suggestions
- A cup of hot cocoa or spiced tea for a cozy beverage.
- A side of yogurt or cottage cheese for added protein.
- Fresh fruit for a refreshing contrast.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
- Overmixing the batter can lead to dense muffins.
- Not filling the muffin cups enough can prevent a nice dome shape.
- Skipping the cooling step may cause muffins to break apart.
Storing Tips
Holiday Breakfast Muffins can be stored in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days or can be frozen for up to 3 months. To freeze, wrap each muffin tightly in plastic wrap and place them in a freezer-safe bag.
Conclusion
In just about 45 minutes, you can create delightful Holiday Breakfast Muffins that will add a festive touch to your morning routine. These muffins are not only delicious but also versatile, making them a perfect addition to your holiday celebrations!
FAQs
Can I make the batter ahead of time?
Yes! You can prepare the batter ahead of time and store it in the refrigerator for up to 24 hours before baking.
Can I use different fruits or nuts?
Absolutely! Feel free to substitute with your favorite fruits (like blueberries or apples) and nuts according to your preference.
Are these muffins suitable for kids?
Yes! These muffins are a fun and tasty treat that kids will enjoy, especially with the addition of chocolate chips.
Can I make mini muffins instead?
Yes! You can use a mini muffin tin; just adjust the baking time to about 10-15 minutes.
Holiday Breakfast Muffins: A Festive Morning Treat
Ingredients
- For the Muffins:
- • 2 cups all-purpose flour
- • 1 cup granulated sugar
- • 1 tablespoon baking powder
- • 1/2 teaspoon baking soda
- • 1/2 teaspoon salt
- • 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
- • 1/2 teaspoon ground nutmeg
- • 1/2 cup unsalted butter, melted
- • 2 large eggs
- • 1 cup milk (dairy or non-dairy)
- • 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- • 1 cup fresh or frozen cranberries (or dried cranberries)
- • 1/2 cup chopped nuts (walnuts or pecans)
- • 1/2 cup chocolate chips (optional)
- For Topping (Optional):
- • Turbinado sugar (for sprinkling)
- • Additional nuts or cranberries for garnish
Instructions
- Preheat the Oven: Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C) and line a muffin tin with paper liners or grease it lightly.
- Mix Dry Ingredients: In a large bowl, whisk together the flour, sugar, baking powder, baking soda, salt, cinnamon, and nutmeg until well combined.
- Mix Wet Ingredients: In another bowl, whisk together the melted butter, eggs, milk, and vanilla extract until smooth.
- Combine Mixtures: Pour the wet ingredients into the dry ingredients and stir until just combined. Be careful not to overmix; a few lumps are okay. Gently fold in the cranberries, chopped nuts, and chocolate chips (if using).
- Fill Muffin Tins: Divide the muffin batter evenly among the prepared muffin cups, filling each about 2/3 full. If desired, sprinkle a bit of turbinado sugar and extra nuts or cranberries on top of each muffin.
- Bake: Bake in the preheated oven for 20-25 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean and the tops are golden brown.
- Cool and Serve: Allow the muffins to cool in the pan for about 5 minutes, then transfer them to a wire rack to cool completely. Serve warm or at room temperature.
