Recipe for Muffins

Muffins are the perfect grab-and-go breakfast, a satisfying snack, or even a comforting dessert. With just a few pantry staples and a handful of mix-ins, you can create deliciously fluffy muffins that suit every taste. Whether you’re craving blueberry, chocolate chip, banana, or even zucchini muffins, our ultimate muffin recipe will become your go-to favorite.

Why This Muffin Recipe Is the Best

This recipe is masterfully crafted to create moist, tender muffins with a lightly crisp golden top. The secret lies in balancing the dry and wet ingredients, mixing with care, and customizing with your favorite additions. Best of all, the recipe is extremely versatile and yields 12 muffins — perfect for sharing or freezing for later.

Ingredients for Classic Muffins (Yields 12 Muffins)

Optional Mix-In Variations

These can be used solo or in combination. For example, banana walnut muffins, blueberry and white chocolate, or zucchini and dark chocolate—the possibilities are endless.

Step-by-Step Instructions for Perfect Muffins

Step 1: Preheat the Oven

Begin by preheating your oven to 400°F (200°C). Line a standard 12-cup muffin tin with paper liners or grease each cup lightly with butter or non-stick spray. This ensures your muffins release cleanly and bake evenly.

Step 2: Combine the Dry Ingredients

In a large mixing bowl, whisk together:

• 1 ½ cups all-purpose flour

• ¾ cup sugar (adjust if you prefer less sweetness)

• ½ tsp salt

• 2 tsp baking powder

Ensure these ingredients are evenly incorporated. The baking powder helps provide fluffiness and lift, so accurate measuring is crucial.

Step 3: Mix the Wet Ingredients

In a separate medium bowl, whisk together:

• ⅓ cup melted butter or vegetable oil

• 1 beaten egg

• ¾ cup milk

• 1 tsp vanilla extract (if using)

The fat from the butter or oil helps create a rich texture, while the egg provides structure and the milk adds moisture.

Step 4: Combine Wet and Dry Ingredients

Pour the wet mixture into the dry ingredients. Using a spatula or wooden spoon, gently stir until just combined. It’s important not to overmix—a few lumps are perfectly fine. Overmixing results in dense, chewy muffins.

Step 5: Fold in Your Favorite Mix-Ins

Now it’s time to customize your muffins:

• Blueberries: Toss them in a bit of flour first to prevent sinking.

• Chocolate chips: Use dark, milk, or white chocolate.

• Bananas: Make sure they’re fully ripe and mashed.

• Nuts: Toast them lightly for extra flavor.

• Zucchini: Squeeze out excess moisture before adding.

Gently fold in 1 cup (or less for combos) of your chosen mix-ins until evenly distributed throughout the batter.

Step 6: Fill the Muffin Cups

Spoon the batter into each muffin tin, filling each about ⅔ full. For bakery-style domed tops, let the batter sit for 5 minutes before baking—this activates the leavening agents and helps with rise.

Step 7: Bake to Perfection

Place the muffin tray in the preheated oven and bake for 18–20 minutes, or until the tops are golden brown and a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean.

Let the muffins rest in the pan for 5 minutes, then transfer them to a wire rack to cool completely. This prevents sogginess and allows them to set properly.