North Carolina Watermelon Muffins

North Carolina Watermelon Muffins Recipe - USA

Region / culture: USA | Preparation time: 45 minutes | Cooking time: 25 minutes | Servings: 12

Introduction

North Carolina Watermelon Muffins are a unique and delicious treat that combines the sweetness of watermelon pickles with the crunch of pecans. These muffins are perfect for a summer brunch or as a sweet snack any time of the day.

History

This recipe for North Carolina Watermelon Muffins has been passed down through generations in North Carolina. Watermelon pickles are a traditional Southern delicacy, and adding them to muffins gives them a sweet and tangy flavor that is sure to please.

Ingredients

1 cup sugar
1 cup water
0.25 tsp salt
1 cup chopped pecans
2 cups all-purpose flour
1 cup chopped watermelon pickles (10 oz jar)
1 tsp baking soda
0.5 tsp cloves
1 tsp cinnamon
0.5 cup margarine
1 tsp vanilla

Frosting

0.25 cup margarine
1-3 tbsp cream
2 cups sifted confectioners' sugar
1 tsp vanilla
0.25 tsp cinnamon

How to prepare

In a saucepan, combine the sugar, water, chopped watermelon pickles, margarine, and spices. Bring the mixture to a boil.
Allow the mixture to cool for at least 30 minutes.
Sift the flour, soda, and salt together, then add them to the cooled mixture.
Fold in the nuts and vanilla.
Fill the muffin cups, which should be lined with paper cups, about half full.
Bake the muffins at 350°F (177°C) for approximately 25 minutes.
Once baked, allow the muffins to cool and then frost them.

Frosting

In a bowl, combine the margarine, cinnamon, vanilla, and sugar.
Gradually add enough cream to achieve a nice spreading consistency.

Variations

Add a handful of chocolate chips for a sweeter twist.
Substitute the pecans with walnuts or almonds for a different flavor profile.

Cooking Tips & Tricks

Be sure to allow the mixture to cool before adding the flour mixture to prevent the muffins from becoming dense.

- Make sure to line the muffin cups with paper liners to prevent sticking.

- Do not overmix the batter, as this can result in tough muffins.

Serving Suggestions

Serve North Carolina Watermelon Muffins warm with a cup of coffee or tea for a delightful breakfast or snack.

Cooking Techniques

Be sure to allow the mixture to cool before adding the flour mixture to prevent the muffins from becoming dense.

- Do not overmix the batter to ensure light and fluffy muffins.

Ingredient Substitutions

You can use butter instead of margarine in this recipe.

- If you can't find watermelon pickles, you can substitute with regular pickles or even dried fruit.

Make Ahead Tips

You can prepare the muffin batter ahead of time and store it in the refrigerator for up to 24 hours before baking.

Presentation Ideas

Top the muffins with a slice of watermelon pickle for a decorative touch.

Pairing Recommendations

North Carolina Watermelon Muffins pair well with a glass of sweet tea or lemonade.

Storage and Reheating Instructions

Store leftover muffins in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days. To reheat, simply microwave for 10-15 seconds or warm in the oven at 300°F (150°C) for 5 minutes.

Nutrition Information

Calories per serving

Each serving of North Carolina Watermelon Muffins contains approximately 250 calories.

Carbohydrates

Each serving of North Carolina Watermelon Muffins contains approximately 35g of carbohydrates.

Fats

Each serving of North Carolina Watermelon Muffins contains approximately 12g of fats.

Proteins

Each serving of North Carolina Watermelon Muffins contains approximately 3g of proteins.

Vitamins and minerals

North Carolina Watermelon Muffins are a good source of vitamin A and vitamin C.

Alergens

This recipe contains nuts and dairy (margarine), so it may not be suitable for those with nut or dairy allergies.

Summary

North Carolina Watermelon Muffins are a delicious treat that is relatively high in carbohydrates and fats, but also provides some essential vitamins and minerals.

Summary

How did I get this recipe?

I have a strong memory of the first time I saw this recipe for North Carolina Watermelon Muffins. It was a hot summer day in the small town of Asheville, and I was visiting my dear friend Margaret. Margaret was a wonderful cook, and I always loved spending time in her kitchen, watching her whip up delicious meals and treats.

On this particular day, Margaret had just returned from a farmers market with a huge, juicy watermelon. As she was cutting it up, she told me about a new recipe she had come across for watermelon muffins. I was intrigued - I had never heard of such a thing before! Margaret handed me a copy of the recipe, and I eagerly read through it.

The recipe called for fresh watermelon puree, along with flour, sugar, eggs, and a few other ingredients. It seemed simple enough, but I could tell from the list of ingredients that these muffins would be bursting with flavor. Margaret explained that the muffins were a popular summer treat in North Carolina, where watermelons are abundant and delicious.

I watched as Margaret mixed the batter, the sweet scent of watermelon filling the air. She poured the batter into muffin tins and popped them into the oven. As they baked, the kitchen filled with the mouthwatering aroma of watermelon and warm spices.

When the muffins were done, Margaret pulled them out of the oven and let them cool slightly. I eagerly took a bite of one, and it was like nothing I had ever tasted before. The muffin was moist and tender, with the perfect balance of sweetness from the watermelon and a hint of spice from cinnamon and nutmeg. I was hooked.

After that day, I couldn't stop thinking about those delicious watermelon muffins. I asked Margaret for the recipe, and she gladly shared it with me. I made a batch as soon as I got home, and they turned out just as delicious as Margaret's.

Over the years, I have made North Carolina Watermelon Muffins countless times, each batch bringing back memories of that hot summer day in Asheville. I have shared the recipe with friends and family, and it has become a staple in my kitchen.

I like to think of this recipe as a reminder of the importance of trying new things and embracing different flavors and traditions. Cooking is not just about following a set of instructions - it's about creativity, curiosity, and a willingness to explore new tastes and ideas.

So the next time you come across a unique recipe like North Carolina Watermelon Muffins, don't be afraid to give it a try. You never know - it could become a new favorite in your kitchen, just like it did in mine.