Name: Cozy Spiced Molasses Gingerbread Muffins for Holiday Cheer
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 15 min
Total time: 35 min
Ingredients: 2 cups all-purpose flour (Substitute with whole wheat flour for a denser muffin.); 1 tsp kosher salt (Use regular salt if unavailable.); 1 tsp baking soda (Ensure it's fresh for optimal rise.); 2 tsp ground cinnamon (Substitute with mixed spices as desired.); 1 tsp ground ginger (Crucial for that authentic gingerbread taste.); 1/2 tsp ground cloves (Omit if unavailable or for a milder flavor.); 1/2 cup unsalted butter (melted) (Replace with coconut oil for dairy-free muffins.); 1/4 cup neutral oil (Swap with olive oil if needed.); 1 tsp vanilla extract (Don’t skip this for better taste.); 3/4 cup molasses (Dark brown sugar can be a substitute.); 1/2 cup light brown sugar (packed) (Granulated sugar can be used in a pinch.); 1 large egg (room temperature) (Use a flax egg for a vegan version.); 1/2 cup sour cream (room temperature) (Substitute with Greek yogurt or buttermilk.); 1 tbsp coarse sugar (Regular sugar can be used as a substitute.)

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Stepping into my kitchen, the warm, inviting aroma of spices dances through the air, instantly whisking me into the cozy realms of holiday baking. There’s nothing quite like the comforting taste of Spiced Molasses Gingerbread Muffins to kick off the festive season and brighten any morning. With a delightful balance of earthy molasses and fragrant spices like cinnamon and ginger, these muffins promise a soft, fluffy texture crowned with a satisfying crunch of coarse sugar on top. The best part? They come together in just 30 minutes, making them an incredibly quick treat for breakfast or a delightful snack to share. Whether enjoyed solo or paired with a warm cup of eggnog, these muffins are sure to evoke those heartwarming memories we cherish during the holidays. Curious about how to make this cozy delight in your own kitchen? Let’s dive into the delicious details!

Why are these muffins a holiday must?

Cozy warmth: The blend of spices like ginger and cinnamon creates that irresistible holiday aroma that fills your home.
Quick to bake: Ready in just 30 minutes, these muffins fit perfectly into your busy holiday schedule—ideal for last-minute gatherings.
Crowd-pleasing: Whether for breakfast or as a snack, they’re loved by all ages, making them a hit at family gatherings.
Versatile toppings: Enjoy them plain, topped with butter, or drizzled with maple syrup—perfect for any palate.
Homemade charm: Baking these Spiced Molasses Gingerbread Muffins fills your kitchen with love and warmth, far surpassing any fast food option! For more cozy recipes, check out our fluffy banana muffins and pumpkin sour cream muffins.

Spiced Molasses Gingerbread Muffin Ingredients

For the Muffins

All-purpose flour – Provides structure; substitute with whole wheat flour for a denser muffin.
Kosher salt – Enhances flavor balance; use regular salt if unavailable.
Baking soda – Acts as a leavening agent for lift; ensure it’s fresh for optimal rise.
Ground cinnamon – Adds warmth and flavor; substitute with mixed spices as desired.
Ground ginger – Contributes spiciness, crucial for that authentic gingerbread taste.
Ground cloves – Adds aromatic richness; omit if unavailable or for a milder flavor.
Unsalted butter (melted) – Adds moisture and richness; replace with coconut oil for dairy-free muffins.
Neutral oil – Ensures moisture without affecting flavor; swap with olive oil if needed.
Vanilla extract – Enhances overall flavor; don’t skip this for a better taste.
Molasses – Provides deep sweetness and flavor, essential for spiced molasses gingerbread muffins; dark brown sugar can be a substitute, but it’ll alter the flavor.
Light brown sugar (packed) – Adds sweetness and moisture; granulated sugar can be used in a pinch.
Large egg (room temperature) – Binds ingredients; for a vegan version, use a flax egg.
Sour cream (room temperature) – Adds moisture and tanginess; substitute with Greek yogurt or buttermilk.

For the Topping

Coarse sugar – Promises a crunchy texture on top; regular sugar can be used as a substitute for the finish.

These ingredients come together to create a delightful batch of Spiced Molasses Gingerbread Muffins, perfect for sharing and savoring during the festive season!

Step‑by‑Step Instructions for Spiced Molasses Gingerbread Muffins

Step 1: Preheat and Prepare
Begin by preheating your oven to 425°F (220°C). While the oven heats, line a 12-cup muffin tin with paper liners or generously grease each cup with cooking spray or butter. This will ensure your Spiced Molasses Gingerbread Muffins easily release after baking, giving them that perfect look and texture.

Step 2: Mix Dry Ingredients
In a large mixing bowl, whisk together all-purpose flour, kosher salt, baking soda, ground cinnamon, ground ginger, and ground cloves. This step is crucial as it evenly distributes the leavening agents and spices, enhancing the flavor of your muffins. Set this dry mixture aside for now, as it will be combined with the wet ingredients shortly.

Step 3: Combine Wet Ingredients
In another bowl, combine the melted unsalted butter, neutral oil, vanilla extract, molasses, and light brown sugar. Mix these ingredients until smooth and well-blended. Then, add in the large egg and sour cream, incorporating them thoroughly. This creates a rich mixture that adds moisture and depth to your Spiced Molasses Gingerbread Muffins.

Step 4: Combine Wet and Dry Mixtures
Gently fold the dry ingredients into the wet mixture using a spatula. Be cautious not to overmix; it’s perfectly fine if a few lumps remain, as this ensures tender muffins. Just blend until everything is incorporated. This will lead to soft, fluffy muffins that embody the warm spices of gingerbread.

Step 5: Fill Muffin Cups
Spoon the batter into the prepared muffin cups, filling each one all the way to the top. Don’t be shy—the batter will rise beautifully! For an extra touch of sweetness and crunch, sprinkle the tops with coarse sugar before going into the oven. This gives your muffins a delightful, sugary crust.

Step 6: Bake the Muffins
Place the muffin tin in the preheated oven and bake at 425°F for the first 5 minutes to give them a good initial rise. After that, reduce the temperature to 350°F (175°C) and continue baking for an additional 14-15 minutes. Check for doneness by inserting a toothpick into the center; it should come out clean or with a few moist crumbs.

Step 7: Cool and Transfer
Once baked to perfection, remove the muffin tin from the oven and let it cool for about 5 minutes. Then, carefully transfer the Spiced Molasses Gingerbread Muffins to a wire rack to cool completely. This allows air to circulate around the muffins, keeping them tender and fluffy, ready to devour or store for later.

Expert Tips for Spiced Molasses Gingerbread Muffins

Don’t Overmix: Lumps in the batter are okay. Overmixing can lead to tough muffins, so mix just until combined for a light and fluffy texture.
Check Baking Soda Freshness: Ensure your baking soda hasn’t expired for the best rise. Old baking soda can ruin the fluffy texture we’re aiming for in these muffins.
Room Temperature Ingredients: Using room temperature eggs and sour cream helps to create a smoother batter, leading to better texture in your Spiced Molasses Gingerbread Muffins.
Proper Cooling: Allow muffins to cool in the pan for just 5 minutes before transferring to a wire rack. This prevents them from becoming soggy on the bottom.
Storage Tips: Store muffins in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days. For longer storage, wrap individually and freeze—refresh in the microwave when you’re ready to enjoy!

How to Store and Freeze Spiced Molasses Gingerbread Muffins

Room Temperature: Store muffins in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days. This keeps them fresh and ready for a quick breakfast or snack.

Freezer: For longer storage, individually wrap cooled muffins in plastic wrap and place them in an airtight container or freezer bag. They can be safely frozen for up to 3 months.

Reheating: When you’re ready to enjoy your frozen muffins, simply microwave them for 10–15 seconds or warm them in the oven at 350°F until heated through. Enjoy these cozy treats anytime!

Spiced Molasses Gingerbread Muffin Variations

Feel free to get creative and personalize your muffins to suit your taste buds and dietary preferences!

Dairy-Free: Substitute unsalted butter with coconut oil and use almond milk or a dairy-free yogurt for a delicious twist.
Whole Grain: Replace all-purpose flour with whole wheat flour for a heartier muffin packed with fiber.
Nutty Crunch: Add chopped nuts like walnuts or pecans to the batter for a delightful crunch and added flavor.
Fruit-Tastic: Mix in dried fruits such as cranberries or raisins to sweeten the muffins naturally and enhance their chewiness.
Chocolate Lovers: Fold in chocolate chips for a sweet surprise that will make any muffin a standout treat.
Spice It Up: Experiment with different spices like nutmeg or cardamom to create a unique flavor profile that excites your palate.
Gluten-Free: Use gluten-free all-purpose flour to make these gingerbread muffins suitable for gluten-sensitive friends.
Sweet Swap: Instead of molasses, try honey or maple syrup for a different sweet twist while keeping the muffins moist.

For a memorable breakfast finish, serve these muffins with a side of whipped cream cheese or a drizzle of maple syrup, and don’t forget to check out our delicious pistachio muffins for more delightful options!

Make Ahead Options

These Spiced Molasses Gingerbread Muffins are ideal for meal prep, letting you enjoy their cozy flavors without the last-minute rush! You can prepare the batter up to 24 hours in advance and refrigerate it, ensuring the muffins are just as delicious when baked fresh. To maintain quality, be sure to cover the bowl tightly to prevent the batter from drying out. When you’re ready to bake, simply scoop the batter into your prepared muffin tin and follow the regular baking instructions, adding a few more minutes if the batter is chilled. This way, you can savor warm, spiced muffins even on the busiest mornings!

What to Serve with Cozy Spiced Molasses Gingerbread Muffins

The perfect meal experience takes your festive morning to delightful heights, inviting warmth and flavor to every bite.

Eggnog French Toast Casserole: A creamy, custardy dish that harmonizes with the spiced muffins, elevating your holiday brunch. The eggnog adds richness, making it a divine pairing.
Hot Apple Cider: Its spiced essence resonates with the warm notes of your muffins, creating a cozy beverage that warms both heart and soul. Perfect for sipping as you savor your delightful treats.
Crispy Bacon Strips: The salty crunch of bacon complements the sweet flavors of the muffins beautifully. The combination of sweet and savory will awaken all taste buds at the breakfast table.
Whipped Cream Cheese Spread: A smooth, tangy spread atop warm muffins adds an indulgent touch. A dash of cinnamon sprinkled over the top brings everything together exquisitely.
Maple Syrup Drizzle: Enhancing the flavor with a drizzle of maple syrup complements the sweetness of the muffins. This classic pairing elevates the cozy experience to new heights!
Fresh Fruit Salad: A vibrant mix of berries and citrus adds a refreshing, juicy contrast. The fruity brightness enhances the richness of the muffins while adding a textural balance.
Spiced Tea or Coffee: A warm cup of cinnamon-spiced tea or rich, aromatic coffee rounds out your meal perfectly. This pairing enhances the delightful warmth of the muffin flavors.
Gingerbread Cookies: Why not indulge further? These familiar holiday treats echo the flavors of the muffins, creating a delightful dessert spread for a cozy afternoon gathering!

Spiced Molasses Gingerbread Muffins Recipe FAQs

What type of flour is best for Spiced Molasses Gingerbread Muffins?
I recommend using all-purpose flour for these muffins to achieve the perfect texture. If you’re looking for a denser option, you can substitute it with whole wheat flour. Just keep in mind that it will change the muffin’s overall flavor and texture.

How should I store my muffins after baking?
To keep your muffins fresh, store them in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days. They’re best enjoyed within this time, but if you’d like to keep them longer, you can freeze them!

Can I freeze Spiced Molasses Gingerbread Muffins?
Absolutely! After the muffins have cooled, wrap each one individually in plastic wrap and place them in an airtight container or freezer bag. They’ll stay fresh for up to 3 months. When you’re ready to enjoy, just microwave for 10–15 seconds or warm them in the oven at 350°F until heated through.

What should I do if my muffins are too dense?
If you find that your muffins turn out dense, check if you overmixed the batter. It’s vital to combine the wet and dry ingredients just until moistened—lumps are perfectly fine! Also, ensure your baking soda is fresh; expired leavening agents can hinder the rise.

Are there any dietary considerations for these muffins?
Yes! If you’re making these muffins for someone with dietary restrictions, you can easily adapt them. For a dairy-free option, substitute unsalted butter with coconut oil and use almond milk or another non-dairy milk instead of sour cream. For a vegan version, replace the large egg with a flax egg (one tablespoon of ground flaxseed mixed with three tablespoons of water, let sit for 5 minutes).