These Cozy Gingerbread Muffins are a delightful combination of warm spices and tender texture, making them the perfect treat for your holiday baking. Their sweet molasses flavor and subtle spice blend will fill your kitchen with festive cheer.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

The perfect balance of sweetness and spice, thanks to ginger, cinnamon, and nutmeg.
Quick and easy to make, ready in just 25 minutes.

Mini muffin size is perfect for snacking or sharing during holiday gatherings.
Great for meal prepping—they freeze beautifully and taste just as fresh when thawed.
Customizable with chocolate chips, nuts, or even a dusting of powdered sugar.

Ingredients

(Tip: You can find the complete list of ingredients and their measurements in the recipe card below.)

½ cup whole milk
1 ½ tsp white vinegar

½ cup brown sugar
1 ¼ cup all-purpose flour
1 tsp baking soda

½ tsp cinnamon
½ tsp ground ginger
¼ tsp salt

⅛ tsp nutmeg
1 large egg
¼ cup molasses

¼ cup melted butter

Directions

Step 1: Preheat the Oven

Set the Temperature: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Line a mini muffin pan with muffin liners to ensure easy removal and a mess-free cleanup.

Step 2: Create Buttermilk

Mix and Wait: In a small bowl, combine the milk and vinegar. Let it sit for about 5 minutes until the mixture curdles slightly, creating a homemade buttermilk.

Step 3: Mix the Dry Ingredients

Combine Spices and Flour: In a medium bowl, whisk together the brown sugar, flour, baking soda, cinnamon, ginger, salt, and nutmeg. This ensures even distribution of the spices.

Step 4: Combine the Wet Ingredients

Mix the Liquids: In a separate bowl, whisk together the egg, molasses, melted butter, and the buttermilk mixture until smooth.

Step 5: Bring It All Together

Gently Combine: Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet ingredients, stirring gently until just combined. Avoid overmixing to keep the muffins light and tender—some lumps are okay.

Step 6: Fill the Muffin Liners

Portion Batter: Using a piping bag or a zip-top bag with a corner cut off, fill each muffin liner about ¾ full.

Step 7: Bake

Bake to Perfection: Bake the muffins for 8-10 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean. Be careful not to overbake to maintain their moist texture.

Servings and Timing

Yields: 32 mini muffins

Prep Time: 15 minutes
Cook Time: 10 minutes
Total Time: 25 minutes

Variations

Add-ins: Mix in mini chocolate chips, chopped pecans, or walnuts for extra flavor and texture.
Toppings: Dust with powdered sugar or drizzle with a simple icing for a festive touch.
Make Regular Muffins: Use a standard muffin pan and bake for 15-18 minutes instead.

Spicy Kick: Add a pinch of ground cloves or allspice for an extra layer of warmth.

Storage and Freezing

Room Temperature: Store in an airtight container or zip-top bag at room temperature for 2-3 days.
Freezing: Freeze in an airtight container or freezer-safe bag for up to 3 months. Thaw at room temperature before serving.

FAQs

1. Can I use plant-based milk?

Yes, almond milk or oat milk works well as a substitute for whole milk.

2. What if I don’t have molasses?

You can substitute molasses with an equal amount of dark corn syrup, honey, or maple syrup, but the flavor will vary slightly.

3. Can I use white sugar instead of brown sugar?

Brown sugar is recommended for its moisture and depth of flavor, but white sugar can be used in a pinch.

4. How do I keep the muffins moist?

Avoid overbaking, and ensure the wet and dry ingredients are mixed gently to prevent drying out.

5. Can I make these muffins gluten-free?

Yes, use a 1:1 gluten-free baking flour blend for a gluten-free option.

6. Can I add frosting?

Absolutely! Cream cheese frosting pairs beautifully with the warm gingerbread flavors.

7. How do I prevent the muffins from sticking to the liners?

Using high-quality muffin liners or lightly greasing the liners helps prevent sticking.

8. What’s the best way to serve these muffins?

They’re delicious warm with a cup of coffee, tea, or hot cocoa.

9. Can I double the recipe?

Yes, this recipe can easily be doubled for larger batches.

10. Can I use fresh ginger instead of ground?

Fresh ginger can be used for a stronger flavor. Use about 1 tablespoon of finely grated fresh ginger.

Conclusion

Cozy Gingerbread Muffins are the perfect holiday treat, bringing together warm spices, sweet molasses, and tender texture in a bite-sized delight. Easy to make, customizable, and freezer-friendly, these muffins are an essential addition to your holiday baking. Whip up a batch and enjoy the festive flavors of the season!