Mini muffins

Looking for a sweet snack that’s easy to make and satisfies your donut cravings? These mini muffins are the perfect answer! With a soft, fluffy texture and a delicious cinnamon-sugar topping, they taste just like classic donuts but in bite-sized form. Whether you’re hosting a brunch, need a quick dessert, or just want a sweet treat for the family, these mini muffins are sure to be a hit.

Ingredients:

For the Muffins:

• 1/2 cup white sugar
• 1/4 cup butter, melted
• 1/2 teaspoon ground nutmeg
• 1/2 cup milk
• 1 teaspoon baking powder
• 1 cup all-purpose flour

For the Topping:

• 1/4 cup butter, melted
• 1/2 cup white sugar
• 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon

Directions:

Step 1: Preheat the Oven
Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C) and grease 24 mini muffin cups to prevent the muffins from sticking.

Step 2: Prepare the Batter
In a large bowl, mix together the 1/2 cup of sugar, melted butter, and ground nutmeg. Stir in the milk until smooth, then add the baking powder and flour. Mix just until the ingredients are combined, being careful not to overmix.

Step 3: Fill the Muffin Cups
Spoon the batter into the prepared mini muffin cups, filling each one about halfway. This will allow the muffins to rise perfectly without spilling over.

Step 4: Bake the Muffins
Place the muffins in the preheated oven and bake for 15 to 20 minutes, or until the tops are lightly golden. Remove them from the oven and allow them to cool for a few minutes before removing them from the muffin cups.

Step 5: Coat with Cinnamon Sugar Topping
While the muffins are baking, melt the 1/4 cup of butter in a bowl. In a separate bowl, mix together the 1/2 cup of sugar and ground cinnamon. Once the muffins are out of the oven, dip each one into the melted butter, then roll it in the cinnamon-sugar mixture for a delicious coating.

Step 6: Serve and Enjoy
Let the muffins cool slightly before serving. These mini muffins are best enjoyed warm, but they taste great at room temperature too!

Serving Tips:

• Serve Warm: These mini muffins are best enjoyed warm, straight from the oven. The buttery cinnamon-sugar coating will melt in your mouth, making each bite irresistible.
• Pair with Coffee or Tea: These muffins make a perfect companion for a hot cup of coffee, tea, or even hot chocolate. Their donut-like flavor pairs wonderfully with your favorite beverage.
• Make a Mini Muffin Platter: If you’re serving these at a brunch or party, arrange the muffins on a platter alongside other breakfast treats like fruit, yogurt, or croissants.

Storage Tips:

• Room Temperature: Store the muffins in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 2 days. The cinnamon-sugar topping will stay fresh, and the muffins will remain soft.
• Refrigeration: You can refrigerate the muffins in an airtight container for up to 5 days. To enjoy them warm, simply microwave for 10-15 seconds before serving.
• Freezing: If you want to store the muffins for longer, freeze them in a freezer-safe container or bag for up to 2 months. When ready to eat, thaw them at room temperature, then reheat in the microwave or oven for a fresh, warm taste.

By following these tips, you’ll keep your mini muffins tasting delicious for days!

Variations:

• Chocolate Chip Mini Muffins: Add 1/2 cup of mini chocolate chips to the batter for a sweet and chocolatey twist. The melted chocolate pairs perfectly with the cinnamon-sugar topping.
• Lemon Sugar Muffins: Replace the nutmeg with 1 teaspoon of lemon zest and dip the muffins in melted butter mixed with a little lemon juice. Roll them in a sugar-lemon zest mixture instead of cinnamon for a fresh, citrusy flavor.
• Pumpkin Spice Muffins: For a fall-inspired treat, add 1 teaspoon of pumpkin spice to the batter and mix in 1/4 cup of pumpkin puree. Use the same cinnamon-sugar topping for a cozy, autumn feel.
• Apple Cinnamon Muffins: Mix 1/2 cup of finely chopped apples into the batter and replace the nutmeg with 1 teaspoon of cinnamon. The apple pieces add a juicy, sweet bite to every muffin.
• Maple Glazed Muffins: Instead of rolling the muffins in cinnamon-sugar, drizzle them with a simple maple glaze. Mix powdered sugar with a bit of maple syrup and milk until smooth, then drizzle over the cooled muffins.
• Coconut Muffins: Add 1/4 cup of shredded coconut to the batter for a tropical twist. Roll the warm muffins in a cinnamon-coconut sugar mixture for added texture and flavor.
• Blueberry Muffins: Add 1/2 cup of fresh or frozen blueberries to the batter. The bursts of juicy blueberries with the cinnamon-sugar topping create a delicious balance of sweet and tangy.
• Cinnamon Roll Muffins: Swirl some cinnamon and brown sugar into the batter before baking to create a cinnamon roll flavor. Add a drizzle of vanilla glaze for an extra touch of sweetness.
• Spiced Nutmeg Muffins: Enhance the nutmeg flavor by adding 1/4 teaspoon each of ground ginger and cloves. This spice blend gives the muffins a warm, aromatic flavor perfect for the colder months.
• Gluten-Free Mini Muffins: Substitute the all-purpose flour with a gluten-free flour blend. The muffins will still have the same delicious flavor and texture, making them perfect for those with dietary restrictions.

These variations will let you experiment with flavors and textures, turning the basic recipe into a customized treat for any occasion!

FAQs:

1. Can I use margarine instead of butter?
   Yes, you can substitute margarine for butter in this recipe. It will give a similar texture and taste, but butter typically adds a richer flavor.
2. Can I make these muffins in a regular-sized muffin pan?
   Yes, you can make these in a standard muffin pan. Just increase the baking time to about 20-25 minutes and fill each cup 2/3 full.
3. How can I make the muffins more moist?
   To make the muffins more moist, you can add a tablespoon of sour cream or Greek yogurt to the batter. This will give them a richer texture.
4. Can I use almond milk or another milk substitute?
   Yes, you can use almond milk, soy milk, or other milk substitutes in place of regular milk. It will not significantly alter the flavor or texture of the muffins.
5. Can I freeze the mini muffins?
   Yes, you can freeze the mini muffins. Allow them to cool completely, then store them in an airtight container or freezer bag. They can be frozen for up to 2 months.
6. Can I reduce the sugar in this recipe?
   Yes, you can reduce the sugar in both the muffin batter and the topping. However, reducing the sugar may slightly affect the sweetness and texture of the muffins.
7. How do I prevent the muffins from sticking to the pan?
   Make sure to grease the muffin cups well with butter or non-stick spray. You can also use mini muffin liners to make removal easier.
8. Can I add other spices besides nutmeg?
   Absolutely! You can add cinnamon, ginger, or even a pinch of allspice to the batter for a different flavor profile. These spices complement the donut-like taste.
9. How long can I store these muffins at room temperature?
   Store the muffins in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days. After that, it’s best to refrigerate or freeze them.
10. Can I add fruit or nuts to the recipe?
    Yes, you can add finely chopped fruit (like apples or blueberries) or chopped nuts (like walnuts or pecans) to the batter. Be sure to fold them in gently to avoid overmixing.

These FAQs cover the most common questions to ensure your mini muffins turn out perfectly every time!

These mini muffins that taste like donuts are a fun, easy, and delicious treat that’s perfect for any occasion. The cinnamon-sugar topping adds just the right amount of sweetness, while the buttery, nutmeg-infused muffin gives you that classic donut flavor. Whether you’re making them for breakfast, a snack, or dessert, they’ll quickly become a family favorite. Try them out and enjoy!