Name: Delicious Strawberry Muffins
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 24 min
Total time: 39 min
Ingredients: ¼ cup (30 g) all-purpose flour (for crumble topping); 3 tablespoons (38 g) granulated sugar (for crumble topping); 1½ tablespoons (28 g) unsalted butter, melted (for crumble topping); 2 cups (240 g) all-purpose flour (for muffins); 2½ teaspoons baking powder (for muffins); ¼ teaspoon salt (for muffins); 4 tablespoons (57 g) unsalted butter, melted (for muffins); ¼ cup (60 ml) oil (for muffins); 1 cup (200 g) granulated sugar (for muffins); 2 large eggs, room temperature (for muffins); ½ cup (120 ml) buttermilk, room temperature (for muffins); 2 teaspoons (10 ml) vanilla extract (for muffins); 2 cups diced or sliced fresh strawberries tossed in 2 teaspoons flour (for muffins)

There’s something wonderfully comforting and inviting about the aroma of freshly baked muffins wafting through your kitchen. Today, we delve into the delightful world of strawberry muffins. These scrumptious treats are not only perfect for breakfast but also make a fantastic snack any time of day. With their soft, fluffy texture and the sweet burst of strawberries, it’s no wonder these muffins earn rave reviews from anyone who tries them.

Strawberry muffins are versatile delights, easily customizable to suit your taste. Whether you’re looking for a quick breakfast on the go or a sweet addition to a leisurely brunch, these muffins fit the bill perfectly. The use of fresh strawberries provides a natural sweetness, while the crumb topping gives each muffin a satisfying crunch, making every bite an experience to savor. Plus, these can be made in just about 39 minutes, perfect for a busy morning or an impromptu gathering!

Why You’ll Love This Strawberry Muffins

Deliciously fluffy and light texture.
Loaded with fresh strawberries for a fruity flavor.
Crunchy crumb topping adds an enjoyable contrast.
Easy to make and great for sharing with friends and family.
Perfect for breakfast, snacks, or dessert.

Preparation Phase & Tools to Use

Preparing for your baking adventure begins with setting the right workspace. Start by preheating your oven to 425°F (205°C). This initial high temperature will help create a nice rise for your muffins. As you’re prepping, line two muffin pans that hold 12 muffins each with cupcake liners to ease the removal process once they’re baked.

For this recipe, having a few essential tools on hand will ensure your strawberry muffin-making experience goes smoothly. You’ll need a couple of mixing bowls—one for dry ingredients and another for the wet ones. A whisk is essential for mixing, so be sure you have a reliable one handy. Use a cookie scoop for easy and uniform muffin portioning, and don’t forget to have a rubber spatula to combine your ingredients gently without overmixing.

Ingredients

¼ cup (30 g) all-purpose flour (for crumble topping)
3 tablespoons (38 g) granulated sugar (for crumble topping)
1½ tablespoons (28 g) unsalted butter, melted (for crumble topping)
2 cups (240 g) all-purpose flour (for muffins)
2½ teaspoons baking powder (for muffins)
¼ teaspoon salt (for muffins)
4 tablespoons (57 g) unsalted butter, melted (for muffins)
¼ cup (60 ml) oil (for muffins)
1 cup (200 g) granulated sugar (for muffins)
2 large eggs, room temperature (for muffins)
½ cup (120 ml) buttermilk, room temperature (for muffins)
2 teaspoons (10 ml) vanilla extract (for muffins)
2 cups diced or sliced fresh strawberries tossed in 2 teaspoons flour (for muffins)

Instructions

Step 1: Prepare Your Crumb Topping

Begin by making the crumb topping that gives these muffins their delightful texture. In a medium mixing bowl, whisk together the ¼ cup of all-purpose flour and 3 tablespoons of sugar until fully combined. Pour in the melted butter and mix until the mixture forms a crumbly texture resembling small pebbles. This crumb topping will add a sweet crunch to your muffins. Once it’s ready, set the bowl in the refrigerator to firm up while preparing the muffin batter.

Step 2: Mix Dry Ingredients

Next, in a separate mixing bowl, combine the 2 cups of all-purpose flour, baking powder, and salt. Whisk these dry ingredients thoroughly to ensure even distribution of the leavening agent. This step is crucial because an even mix prevents uneven rising in the muffins. Set this bowl aside to focus on your wet ingredients.

Step 3: Combine Wet Ingredients

Now comes the fun part! In a large mixing bowl, whisk together the melted 4 tablespoons of butter, ¼ cup of oil, and 1 cup of granulated sugar until the mixture is smooth. Add in the room temperature eggs, buttermilk, and 2 teaspoons of vanilla extract. Continue whisking until well combined, creating a rich, creamy base for your muffins.

Step 4: Combine Wet and Dry Mixtures

Gently stir the dry flour mixture into the wet ingredients using a rubber spatula. Be careful not to overmix as this can lead to denser muffins. Mix just until incorporated. Finally, add in the pre-coated strawberries, folding them carefully into the batter to avoid breaking the delicate fruit.

Step 5: Portion and Bake

Using a 3-tablespoon cookie scoop, portion the batter into each cupcake liner, filling them about two-thirds full for the perfect puff. Sprinkle the chilled crumb topping generously over each muffin, pressing it down lightly to help it adhere. Place the muffin pans in the oven and bake at 425°F (205°C) for about 8 minutes. After this, reduce the temperature to 375°F (190°C) and continue baking for an additional 9 to 11 minutes. Insert a toothpick into the center of a muffin; it should come out with a few moist crumbs indicating that they’re done.

Step 6: Cool and Serve

Once baked, remove the muffins from the oven and allow them to cool in the pan for about 5 to 10 minutes. This helps the muffins set and makes them easier to handle. After cooling slightly, transfer them to a wire rack to cool completely. Enjoy these delightful strawberry muffins warm or at room temperature with a smear of butter or jam!

Variations

Protein: For an added twist, consider folding in a half cup of nuts, like chopped walnuts or pecans, for a protein boost and textural contrast.
Vegetables: Add grated carrots or zucchini to incorporate some veggies for a nutritious twist.
Spices: A sprinkle of cinnamon or nutmeg in the batter can elevate the flavor profile, giving a warm, comforting essence.

Cooking Notes

Ensure your muffins are completely cooled before storing them to maintain their moisture and freshness.
Store in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days or in the fridge for longer shelf life.

Serving Suggestions

These muffins are delightful on their own, but for a heartier breakfast, serve them with Greek yogurt and fresh fruit.
Pair with a cup of tea or coffee for a cozy afternoon snack.

Tips

Choose ripe strawberries for maximum sweetness—frozen strawberries can also work, but keep in mind they may release more moisture during baking.
Use room temperature ingredients for the best mixing results and fluffy texture.

Prep Time, Cook Time, Total Time

Prep Time: 15 minutes
Cook Time: 24 minutes
Total Time: 39 minutes

Nutritional Information

Calories: approximately 180 per muffin
Protein: 3 g per muffin
Sodium: 150 mg per muffin

FAQs

Can I use frozen strawberries for this recipe?

Yes, you can use frozen strawberries in this recipe. Just remember to thaw and drain them before adding to the batter to avoid extra moisture.

How do I store the muffins for freshness?

Store the muffins in an airtight container at room temperature for up to three days or refrigerate them for extended freshness.

Can I add chocolate chips to the batter?

Absolutely! Adding chocolate chips can create a delightful combination of flavors and is a favorite among many muffin lovers.

What is the best way to serve strawberry muffins?

Strawberry muffins are perfect served warm, with a pat of butter or cream cheese. They also pair wonderfully with your favorite coffee or tea.

Conclusion

In conclusion, these strawberry muffins are a delightful blend of flavors and textures that are sure to please everyone at the table. With their fluffy interior and crunchy topping, they offer a snack that feels fancy yet is incredibly simple to make. Whether you serve them at breakfast, as a lunchbox treat, or for afternoon tea, they are guaranteed to be a hit. Don’t hesitate to experiment with the variations mentioned, and make this recipe your own. We would love to hear your feedback or any tips you discovered while baking—feel free to share your experiences in the comments below!