Nutmeg Strawberry Muffins
Nutmeg Strawberry Muffins Recipe - Delicious and Easy to Make
Introduction
Nutmeg Strawberry Muffins are a delightful treat that combines the sweet and juicy flavor of strawberries with the warm and aromatic spice of nutmeg. These muffins are perfect for breakfast, brunch, or as a sweet snack any time of day.
History
The combination of strawberries and nutmeg in baked goods has been a popular flavor pairing for centuries. Nutmeg has been used in cooking and baking since ancient times, prized for its warm and slightly sweet flavor. When combined with the fresh and juicy taste of strawberries, it creates a delicious and unique flavor profile that is sure to please your taste buds.
Ingredients
- 2 cups stemmed and halved (quartered if large) California strawberries (about 1 pt (473 ml) basket)
- 2 cups sugar, divided
- 3 cups flour
- 0.5 cup cornmeal
- 1 tbsp nutmeg
- 1 tsp salt
- 1 tsp baking soda
- 1.25 cups vegetable oil
- 4 eggs, beaten
- 1 cup chopped walnuts
How to prepare
- Preheat the oven to 375°F (191°C).
- In a bowl, toss the strawberries with 1 tbsp of sugar; set aside.
- In a large bowl, mix the remaining sugar, flour, cornmeal, nutmeg, salt, and baking soda.
- Mix the oil and eggs with the strawberries; add to the flour mixture along with the walnuts.
- Mix just until the dry ingredients are moistened.
- Measure 0.33 cup each into 24 paper-lined or greased 2.75-inch muffin tin cups.
- In a small bowl, mix 1 tbsp each of additional sugar and cornmeal with 0.25 tsp of additional nutmeg; sprinkle on top of the muffins.
- Bake in the center of the oven for about 25 minutes, until the muffins are springy to the touch and a toothpick inserted into the centers comes out clean.
- Serve warm or at room temperature.
- Cooled muffins can be wrapped and frozen for up to 2 months.
- To make Nutmeg Strawberry Bread: Divide the batter between two greased 8.5 x 4-inch loaf pans.
- Sprinkle the tops with the sugar mixture.
- Bake in the preheated 375-degree oven for about 1 hour and 10 minutes, until a toothpick inserted into the centers comes out clean.
- Cool on a rack and slice to serve.
- Makes 24 muffins and 2 loaves.
Variations
- You can substitute the walnuts with pecans or almonds for a different flavor and texture.
- Add a sprinkle of cinnamon or cardamom for an extra layer of spice.
- Try using different fruits such as blueberries or raspberries for a variation on the recipe.
Cooking Tips & Tricks
Be sure to toss the strawberries with sugar before adding them to the batter. This helps to draw out the natural juices of the strawberries and adds a touch of sweetness to the muffins.
- Do not overmix the batter. Mix just until the dry ingredients are moistened to ensure a tender and fluffy texture.
- For a more intense nutmeg flavor, you can increase the amount of nutmeg in the recipe to suit your taste preferences.
Serving Suggestions
Serve Nutmeg Strawberry Muffins warm or at room temperature with a cup of hot tea or coffee for a delightful breakfast or snack.
Cooking Techniques
Be sure to preheat the oven to the correct temperature before baking the muffins.
- Use a light hand when mixing the batter to ensure a tender and fluffy texture.
- Check for doneness by inserting a toothpick into the center of the muffins. If it comes out clean, they are ready.
Ingredient Substitutions
You can use whole wheat flour or gluten-free flour as a substitute for all-purpose flour.
- Coconut oil or melted butter can be used in place of vegetable oil.
- If you do not have nutmeg, you can use cinnamon or allspice as a substitute.
Make Ahead Tips
Nutmeg Strawberry Muffins can be made ahead of time and stored in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days. They can also be frozen for up to 2 months.
Presentation Ideas
Serve Nutmeg Strawberry Muffins on a decorative platter with fresh strawberries and a sprinkle of powdered sugar for a beautiful presentation.
Pairing Recommendations
Enjoy Nutmeg Strawberry Muffins with a glass of cold milk, a dollop of whipped cream, or a scoop of vanilla ice cream for a delicious and indulgent treat.
Storage and Reheating Instructions
Store Nutmeg Strawberry Muffins in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days. To reheat, simply warm them in the microwave for a few seconds or in a preheated oven at 350°F (177°C) for 5-10 minutes.
Nutrition Information
Calories per serving
Each serving of Nutmeg Strawberry Muffins contains approximately 250 calories.
Carbohydrates
Each serving of Nutmeg Strawberry Muffins contains approximately 35 grams of carbohydrates.
Fats
Each serving of Nutmeg Strawberry Muffins contains approximately 15 grams of fats.
Proteins
Each serving of Nutmeg Strawberry Muffins contains approximately 4 grams of proteins.
Vitamins and minerals
Strawberries are a good source of vitamin C, manganese, and antioxidants. Nutmeg is rich in vitamin B6, copper, and manganese.
Alergens
This recipe contains nuts (walnuts) and eggs. Please be mindful of any allergies or dietary restrictions.
Summary
Nutmeg Strawberry Muffins are a delicious and nutritious treat that provides a good source of carbohydrates, fats, proteins, vitamins, and minerals. Enjoy them as part of a balanced diet.
Summary
Nutmeg Strawberry Muffins are a delightful and flavorful treat that combines the sweet taste of strawberries with the warm spice of nutmeg. With a tender and fluffy texture, these muffins are perfect for breakfast, brunch, or as a sweet snack any time of day. Enjoy them warm or at room temperature, and store any leftovers in an airtight container for later enjoyment.
How did I get this recipe?
The first time I saw this recipe, I was filled with a sense of excitement. It was a handwritten note tucked away in an old cookbook that I had inherited from my own grandmother. The pages were yellowed with age and stained with splatters of flour and sugar, a testament to the countless hours spent in the kitchen perfecting her craft.
As I read through the ingredients and instructions, my mouth watered at the thought of the delicate balance of flavors that would come together in the form of Nutmeg Strawberry Muffins. The combination of warm nutmeg and sweet strawberries seemed like a match made in culinary heaven, and I couldn't wait to give it a try.
I had always been drawn to the art of baking, ever since I was a young girl watching my own grandmother work her magic in the kitchen. She had a way of transforming simple ingredients into delicious creations that brought joy to all who tasted them. Her recipes were passed down through generations, each one a cherished treasure that held a piece of our family history.
I remember the first time she taught me how to make her famous apple pie. I stood on a stool beside her, my small hands eagerly reaching for the mixing bowl as she guided me through each step with patience and love. The scent of cinnamon and apples filled the air, and I knew in that moment that I had found my passion.
As the years went by, I honed my skills in the kitchen, experimenting with new ingredients and techniques to create my own signature dishes. But there was something special about the recipes that had been handed down to me, a connection to my past that I treasured deeply.
So when I came across the recipe for Nutmeg Strawberry Muffins, I knew that I had to make it my own. I gathered the ingredients and set to work, following the instructions with care and precision. The scent of nutmeg filled the kitchen, mingling with the sweet aroma of fresh strawberries as they baked to perfection in the oven.
When the muffins were finally ready, I couldn't resist taking a bite before they had even cooled. The flavors burst on my tongue, a symphony of sweet and spice that danced together in perfect harmony. I knew in that moment that I had stumbled upon a true gem, a recipe that would become a staple in my own kitchen for years to come.
I shared the Nutmeg Strawberry Muffins with my family and friends, each one marveling at the unique combination of flavors that made them so special. They became a favorite at family gatherings and potlucks, a dish that always brought smiles and satisfied bellies.
As I look back on that moment of discovery, I am filled with gratitude for the legacy of recipes that has been passed down to me. Each one tells a story, a reminder of the love and dedication that has been poured into every dish that graces my table.
And so, as I continue to cook and bake for those I hold dear, I carry on the tradition of my grandmothers before me, sharing the joy and nourishment that comes from a well-loved recipe. For in each bite of Nutmeg Strawberry Muffins, I taste not just the flavors of the ingredients, but the memories and traditions that have shaped me into the cook I am today.