Basic Muffin Recipe

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Author: Olivia
Published:
Basic muffin recipe with ingredients and finished muffins on a table

why make this recipe

This basic muffin recipe is quick, simple, and works every time. You can make plain muffins or add fruit, chips, or nuts. It uses common kitchen ingredients. You can bake a batch in about 20 minutes and have warm muffins for breakfast or snacks.

introduction

This recipe gives soft, light muffins with a simple batter and easy steps. It is good for beginners and for busy mornings. If you want a fruity take later, try the blueberry muffin and strawberry shortcake recipe for more flavor ideas.

why make this recipe

You make these muffins because they are fast, forgiving, and tasty. The batter is quick to mix and you do not need special tools. You can change the mix-ins to use what you have at home. They freeze well and warm up fast.

how to make Basic Muffin Recipe

  1. Preheat the oven and line a muffin tin with paper liners.
  2. Mix dry ingredients in one bowl and wet ingredients in another.
  3. Pour the wet into the dry and stir until just combined. Do not overmix.
  4. Fold in any add-ins you like.
  5. Fill each muffin cup about two-thirds full.
  6. Bake until a toothpick comes out clean.
  7. Let muffins cool a few minutes, then move them to a wire rack.

Ingredients :

  • 2 cups all-purpose flour
  • 1/2 cup granulated sugar
  • 1 tablespoon baking powder
  • 1/2 teaspoon salt
  • 1 cup milk
  • 1/2 cup vegetable oil
  • 2 large eggs
  • 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
  • Optional add-ins (e.g., chocolate chips, blueberries, nuts)

Directions :

  1. Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C) and line a muffin tin with paper liners.
  2. In a large bowl, mix the flour, sugar, baking powder, and salt.
  3. In another bowl, whisk together the milk, vegetable oil, eggs, and vanilla extract.
  4. Pour the wet ingredients into the dry ingredients and stir until just combined. Do not overmix.
  5. Fold in your chosen add-ins.
  6. Fill each muffin cup about two-thirds full with batter.
  7. Bake for 18-20 minutes or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.
  8. Allow to cool for a few minutes before transferring to a wire rack.

how to serve Basic Muffin Recipe

Serve muffins warm or at room temperature. They go well with butter, jam, or a light glaze. For a breakfast plate, add fruit and a cup of coffee or milk.

how to store Basic Muffin Recipe

Keep muffins in an airtight container at room temperature for 2-3 days. For longer storage, freeze them in a sealed bag for up to 3 months. Thaw at room temperature or warm briefly in the oven or microwave.

tips to make Basic Muffin Recipe

  • Measure flour by spooning into the cup and leveling with a knife.
  • Do not overmix the batter; small lumps are okay.
  • Use cold or room-temperature add-ins so they do not sink.
  • Fill cups two-thirds full for a good shape.
  • Check muffins a few minutes before the time ends to avoid overbaking.

variation (if any)

  • Add 1 cup fresh or frozen blueberries for blueberry muffins.
  • Stir in 1 cup chocolate chips for sweet treats.
  • Fold in 1/2 cup chopped nuts for crunch.
  • For lemon muffins, add 1 tablespoon lemon zest and 1 tablespoon lemon juice.

FAQs

Q: Can I use whole wheat flour?
A: Yes. Replace half the all-purpose flour with whole wheat for a denser, nuttier muffin.

Q: Can I reduce the sugar?
A: Yes. You can lower sugar to 1/3 cup for less sweetness. Texture may change a bit.

Q: Can I make these dairy-free?
A: Yes. Use a plant milk (almond, soy) and keep the oil. The muffins will still turn out well.

Q: Do I need paper liners?
A: You can bake without liners. Grease the tin well to prevent sticking.

Q: Can I double the recipe?
A: Yes. Use a larger bowl and mix in the same way. Bake in more muffin tins or in batches.

Print
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Basic Muffin Recipe

  • Author: arianarecipes
  • Prep Time: 10 minutes
  • Cook Time: 20 minutes
  • Total Time: 30 minutes
  • Yield: 12 servings 1x
  • Category: Breakfast
  • Method: Baking
  • Cuisine: American
  • Diet: Vegetarian

Description

A quick and simple recipe for soft, light muffins that are perfect for breakfast or snacks.


Ingredients

Scale
  • 2 cups all-purpose flour
  • 1/2 cup granulated sugar
  • 1 tablespoon baking powder
  • 1/2 teaspoon salt
  • 1 cup milk
  • 1/2 cup vegetable oil
  • 2 large eggs
  • 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
  • Optional add-ins (e.g., chocolate chips, blueberries, nuts)

Instructions

  1. Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C) and line a muffin tin with paper liners.
  2. In a large bowl, mix the flour, sugar, baking powder, and salt.
  3. In another bowl, whisk together the milk, vegetable oil, eggs, and vanilla extract.
  4. Pour the wet ingredients into the dry ingredients and stir until just combined. Do not overmix.
  5. Fold in your chosen add-ins.
  6. Fill each muffin cup about two-thirds full with batter.
  7. Bake for 18-20 minutes or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.
  8. Allow to cool for a few minutes before transferring to a wire rack.

Notes

Measure flour by spooning into the cup and leveling with a knife. Do not overmix the batter; small lumps are okay. Use cold or room-temperature add-ins so they do not sink. Fill cups two-thirds full for a good shape.


Nutrition

  • Serving Size: 1 muffin
  • Calories: 200
  • Sugar: 6g
  • Sodium: 200mg
  • Fat: 9g
  • Saturated Fat: 1g
  • Unsaturated Fat: 5g
  • Trans Fat: 0g
  • Carbohydrates: 28g
  • Fiber: 1g
  • Protein: 4g
  • Cholesterol: 50mg

Ariana’s Delicious Moments
Hi, I’m Ariana!

A self-taught home cook who loves creating everyday recipes that are simple, flavorful, and family-friendly. This blog is where I share the meals I actually make from quick weeknight dinners to sweet weekend treats.Let’s cook together!

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