Gingerbread Muffins With a Sweet Lemon Glaze

There’s something magical about the way gingerbread captures the essence of the holiday season, isn’t there? The combination of warm spices and molasses, mingling in the oven, sends a comforting aroma through the house that feels like a warm embrace. Today, I’m excited to share a recipe that has been a staple in my kitchen during the chilly months: Gingerbread Muffins with a Sweet Lemon Glaze. Imagine biting into a soft, spicy muffin, with a tangy lemon glaze drizzling down the sides. It’s like Christmas morning in every bite!

Growing up, my mother would often bake gingerbread cookies, and I remember the joy of decorating them with colorful icing and little candies. Those memories are woven into this recipe, bringing back the nostalgia of family gatherings and holiday cheer. These muffins are not only delightful to eat but also simple enough to make, even on a busy weekday. They’re a perfect treat to share with loved ones or to enjoy with a quiet cup of tea by the fire.

In this post, we’ll explore the joys of baking these cozy muffins, the tools you’ll need to make the process a breeze, and some delicious pairings to elevate your experience. So, grab your favorite apron and let’s create something wonderful together!

Why This Recipe Should Be on Your Table

1. Nostalgic Comfort: The spicy, sweet aroma of gingerbread baking in the oven instantly transports you to a place of warmth and happiness, reminiscent of childhood holidays. This nostalgic comfort is one of the primary reasons these gingerbread muffins should find their way onto your table. They’re a delightful reminder of family traditions and festive joy, making every bite a journey back to the simpler, joyful moments of the past.

2. Simple Ingredients: No need to search for obscure items; everything you need is likely in your pantry already, making these muffins accessible and stress-free. With basic ingredients like flour, baking soda, and spices, you can whip these up without a last-minute grocery run. This simplicity doesn’t compromise flavor, ensuring a comforting bake that’s both economical and delicious.

3. Quick and Easy: From start to finish, you’ll have these muffins ready in just 30 minutes, perfect for a last-minute treat or a planned baking session. Their quick preparation time makes them an excellent choice for unexpected guests or a spontaneous baking urge. You’ll have more time to enjoy them with family and friends, and less time worrying about kitchen clean-up.

4. Family-Friendly: These muffins are a hit with both kids and adults, making them an ideal addition to any family gathering or holiday celebration. The familiar gingerbread flavor appeals to all ages, bringing smiles across generations. Involving kids in the baking process can also be a fun family activity, creating cherished memories along the way.

5. Versatile Delight: Enjoy them fresh out of the oven or save them for a cozy breakfast the next day. They’re delicious at any time! Their versatility allows them to be a delightful snack, a breakfast option, or even a dessert. They pair well with various beverages, making them suitable for any time of the day.

Kitchen Tools to Make This Recipe Easy Peasy

Let’s ensure you have everything you need to make these muffins with ease. Here’s a list of kitchen tools that will come in handy:

• 12-count Muffin Pan: Essential for shaping those perfect muffins. A non-stick pan is particularly useful to ensure easy removal without sticking or crumbling.
• Mixing Bowls: A couple of different sizes will help you stay organized. It’s helpful to have a smaller one for wet ingredients and a larger one for dry ingredients to facilitate smooth mixing.
• Whisk: For combining ingredients smoothly. A sturdy whisk helps in breaking any lumps and ensures an even distribution of spices and baking agents.
• Measuring Cups and Spoons: Accuracy is key in baking, and these are your best friends. Proper measurement ensures the right texture and flavor balance in your muffins.
• Microwave-safe Bowl: For melting butter and molasses together. This step is crucial for creating a smooth, homogenous mixture that blends seamlessly with other ingredients.
• Cooling Rack: Helps cool your muffins evenly once they’re out of the oven. Cooling racks prevent the bottoms from becoming soggy and allow air circulation for a perfect finish.

How to Make This Recipe Easy Peasy

INGREDIENTS

1/2 cup (8 Tbsp; 113g) unsalted butter
3/4 cup (180ml) unsulphured or dark molasses (not blackstrap)
2 2/3 cups (334g) all-purpose flour
1 1/2 teaspoons baking soda
1/4 teaspoon salt
1 1/2 teaspoons ground cinnamon
1 1/4 teaspoons ground ginger
1/2 teaspoon ground cloves
1/2 cup (100g) packed light or dark brown sugar
1 large egg, at room temperature
1/2 cup (120g) plain yogurt or sour cream, at room temperature
1/2 cup (120ml) milk, at room temperature
Optional: coarse sugar for sprinkling
For the lemon glaze:
1 cup (120g) confectioners’ sugar
2 tablespoons fresh lemon juice
1 tablespoon (15ml) milk

INSTRUCTIONS

1. Preheat oven to 425°F (218°C). Grease a 12-count muffin pan or line with muffin liners. Lining the pan not only makes clean-up easier but also helps in achieving more defined muffin shapes.
2. Cut butter into pieces and microwave with molasses for 1 minute. Whisk to combine, then set aside to cool slightly. This step ensures the butter and molasses integrate smoothly, providing moisture and flavor.
3. In a large bowl, whisk together flour, baking soda, salt, cinnamon, ginger, and cloves. Make sure the spices are evenly distributed to avoid pockets of intense flavor.
4. Whisk brown sugar, egg, yogurt, and milk into the butter/molasses mixture until smooth. These ingredients come together to create a moist and tender crumb while the egg adds structure.
5. Pour the wet ingredients into the dry and whisk until just combined. Batter will be thick and lumpy. Avoid overmixing to prevent the muffins from becoming dense.
6. Divide batter evenly into muffin cups, filling to the top. Sprinkle with coarse sugar if using. The sugar adds a lovely crunchy texture to the muffin tops.
7. Bake at 425°F (218°C) for 5 minutes, then lower oven to 350°F (177°C) and bake another 15–16 minutes, until tops are cracked and centers set. This high-to-low baking technique helps the muffins rise beautifully.
8. For the glaze, mix confectioners’ sugar, lemon juice, and milk in a bowl. Adjust consistency as needed. Drizzle over warm muffins for the best absorption and flavor contrast.

Difficulty: Easy • Cuisine: American • Preparation Time: 10 minutes • Cooking Time: 20 minutes • Total Time: 30 minutes • Calories: 280 kcal per serving • Servings: 12

Note: For a spicier kick, consider adding a pinch more ginger or cloves to suit your taste. The spices can be adjusted according to personal preference, ensuring each batch is uniquely tailored.

Health and Flavor Benefits of Ingredients

The ingredients in these gingerbread muffins are not only wonderfully flavorful but also offer some surprising health benefits:

• Ginger: Known for its anti-inflammatory properties, ginger can help soothe digestive discomfort and boost your immune system. This spice not only enhances the flavor profile of the muffins but also adds a healthful touch.
• Cinnamon: This spice is rich in antioxidants and may help regulate blood sugar levels. Its warm and sweet flavor is a perfect match for the other spices present in the recipe.
• Molasses: A natural sweetener, molasses is packed with iron, calcium, and magnesium, adding a nutritional boost to these delightful muffins. It also contributes to the deep, rich color and flavor.
• Lemon Juice: Fresh lemon juice in the glaze not only provides a refreshing contrast to the warm spices but also offers a good dose of vitamin C. The tanginess of the lemon enhances the overall taste experience.

Tasty Pairings to Serve with This Easy Peasy Dish

Pairing these gingerbread muffins with the right accompaniments can turn a simple snack into a memorable experience:

• Warm Spiced Tea: A cup of chai or cinnamon tea perfectly complements the spiced flavors in the muffins. The spices in the tea highlight the ginger and cinnamon in the muffins, creating a harmonious culinary experience.
• Hot Cocoa: For a sweeter pairing, serve with a rich, creamy hot chocolate topped with whipped cream. The sweetness of the cocoa balances the spiciness of the muffins beautifully.
• Fresh Fruit: A side of sliced pears or apples can add a fresh, juicy contrast to the warm muffins. The fruity notes provide a refreshing counterpoint to the spices.
• Savory Cheese Platter: For a more sophisticated touch, offer a selection of mild cheeses that pair beautifully with the muffins’ sweet and spicy profile. The creaminess of the cheese adds a delightful richness to the pairing.

Storage Tips and How to Enjoy Leftovers the Easy Peasy Way

If you find yourself with leftover muffins (a rare occasion, indeed!), here are some tips to keep them tasting fresh:

• Storage: Place muffins in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days. For longer storage, freeze them in a sealed bag for up to 3 months. This ensures they maintain their moisture and flavor over time.
• Reheating: Warm frozen muffins in a preheated oven at 350°F (177°C) for about 10 minutes or until heated through. This gentle reheating method revives their fresh-baked taste.
• Creative Uses: Crumble leftover muffins over yogurt or ice cream for a quick dessert, or toast slices and spread with cream cheese for a delightful breakfast twist. These creative uses allow you to enjoy the muffins in new and exciting ways.

These Gingerbread Muffins with a Sweet Lemon Glaze are more than just a treat; they’re a way to bring a little piece of holiday magic into your home, regardless of the season. I hope this recipe fills your kitchen with warmth and joy, just as it does mine.

Gingerbread Muffins With a Sweet Lemon Glaze

Gingerbread Muffins That Taste Like Christmas Morning

Print Recipe Pin Recipe

Prep Time 10 minutes mins

Cook Time 20 minutes mins

Total Time 30 minutes mins

Servings: 12 muffins

Course: Dessert

Cuisine: American

Calories: 280

Ingredients Equipment Method Notes

Ingredients

  

Gingerbread Muffins

• 1/2 cup unsalted butter 113g
• 3/4 cup unsulphured or dark molasses 180ml, not blackstrap
• 2 2/3 cups all-purpose flour 334g
• 1 1/2 teaspoons baking soda
• 1/4 teaspoon salt
• 1 1/2 teaspoons ground cinnamon
• 1 1/4 teaspoons ground ginger
• 1/2 teaspoon ground cloves
• 1/2 cup packed light or dark brown sugar 100g
• 1 large egg at room temperature
• 1/2 cup plain yogurt or sour cream 120g, at room temperature
• 1/2 cup milk 120ml, at room temperature
• optional: coarse sugar for sprinkling

Lemon Glaze

• 1 cup confectioners’ sugar 120g
• 2 tablespoons fresh lemon juice
• 1 tablespoon milk 15ml

Equipment

• Muffin Pan

Method

 

1. Preheat oven to 425°F (218°C). Grease a 12-count muffin pan or line with muffin liners.
2. Cut butter into pieces and microwave with molasses for 1 minute. Whisk to combine, then set aside to cool slightly.
3. In a large bowl, whisk together flour, baking soda, salt, cinnamon, ginger, and cloves.
4. Whisk brown sugar, egg, yogurt, and milk into the butter/molasses mixture until smooth.
5. Pour the wet ingredients into the dry and whisk until just combined. Batter will be thick and lumpy.
6. Divide batter evenly into muffin cups, filling to the top. Sprinkle with coarse sugar if using.
7. Bake at 425°F (218°C) for 5 minutes, then lower oven to 350°F (177°C) and bake another 15–16 minutes, until tops are cracked and centers set. Cool in the pan for 5–10 minutes.
8. For the glaze, mix confectioners’ sugar, lemon juice, and milk in a bowl. Adjust consistency as needed. Drizzle over warm muffins.

Notes

These gingerbread muffins are perfect for holiday mornings. The lemon glaze adds a refreshing touch that complements the spices beautifully.