Perfect Vanilla Muffins Recipe
Sweet, Simple, and Ideal for Any Occasion
Soft, fluffy, and filled with rich vanilla flavor, these Vanilla Muffins are your new go-to treat. Whether served for breakfast, a snack, or dessert, they’re an easy homemade option that never fails to please.
Why You’ll Love These Vanilla Muffins
- Quick to make: Ready in under 30 minutes.
- Incredibly soft: Thanks to whisked eggs and melted butter.
- Customizable: Add chocolate chips, berries, or nuts for extra flair.
- Great for all occasions: Perfect as a snack, brunch item, or sweet treat.
Ingredients
| Ingredient | Quantity |
|---|---|
| All-purpose flour | 2 cups (240g) |
| Granulated sugar | ¾ cup (150g) |
| Baking powder | 2 tsp |
| Salt | ¼ tsp |
| Unsalted butter, melted | ½ cup (113g) |
| Eggs, large | 2 |
| Whole milk | 1 cup (240ml) |
| Vanilla extract | 2 tsp |
| Optional toppings | Sugar sprinkles, chocolate chips, sliced almonds |
How to Make Vanilla Muffins
1. Preheat the Oven:
Set your oven to 375°F (190°C). Line a 12-cup muffin tin with paper liners or lightly grease with butter or non-stick spray.
2. Mix the Dry Ingredients:
In a large bowl, whisk together:
- 2 cups flour
- ¾ cup sugar
- 2 tsp baking powder
- ¼ tsp salt
Tip: Sift the dry ingredients to eliminate lumps and ensure even distribution.
3. Whisk the Wet Ingredients:
In a separate bowl, beat 2 eggs until light and frothy. Then add:
- 1 cup milk
- ½ cup melted, cooled butter
- 2 tsp vanilla extract
Whisk until smooth and fully incorporated.
4. Combine Wet and Dry:
Make a well in the center of the dry ingredients. Pour in the wet mixture. Using a spatula or wooden spoon, gently fold the ingredients together until just combined. Do not overmix—a few lumps are fine.
5. Fill the Muffin Tin:
Divide the batter evenly among the 12 muffin cups, filling each about ⅔ full. Sprinkle sugar or optional toppings over each one if desired.
6. Bake:
Place the tin in the preheated oven and bake for 18–22 minutes, rotating halfway through. Begin checking for doneness at the 18-minute mark by inserting a toothpick—if it comes out clean or with a few crumbs, they’re done.
7. Cool:
Let the muffins cool in the pan for 5 minutes before transferring them to a wire rack to cool completely.
Expert Baking Tips
- Room Temperature Ingredients: Ensure milk, butter, and eggs are not cold to encourage better mixing and rise.
- Fresh Baking Powder: Old leavening agents won’t produce the fluffy texture.
- Golden Tops: For an extra golden crust, brush muffin tops with melted butter before baking.
Variations and Customization Ideas
- Gluten-Free: Use a 1:1 gluten-free baking flour blend.
- Dairy-Free: Substitute almond milk or soy milk, and use melted coconut oil instead of butter.
- Healthier Version: Replace half the flour with whole wheat flour. Swap white sugar with honey or maple syrup.
- Flavor Twist: Add 1 tbsp of lemon or orange zest for a fresh citrus note.
- Add-ins: Fold in ½ cup of:
- Chocolate chips
- Fresh or frozen berries
- Chopped nuts
- Dried fruits
Serving Suggestions
- Breakfast: Pair with yogurt and fresh fruit.
- Afternoon Snack: Enjoy with coffee, tea, or hot chocolate.
- Dessert: Top with whipped cream and a drizzle of chocolate or caramel sauce.
Storage and Make-Ahead Tips
- Room Temperature: Store in an airtight container for up to 3 days.
- Refrigeration: Keeps for up to 1 week.
- Freezing: Wrap muffins individually in plastic wrap, then place in a freezer bag. Freeze up to 3 months.
- Reheat: Warm in a 350°F (175°C) oven for 5–7 minutes or microwave for 15–20 seconds.
- Make-Ahead Prep: Mix dry and wet ingredients separately the night before and combine in the morning for freshly baked muffins.
Final Thoughts
These classic Vanilla Muffins are the perfect canvas for creativity or simply to enjoy as they are—tender, buttery, and delicately sweet. Whether you bake them for a weekday breakfast or a weekend treat, they’ll surely become a family favorite.