Strawberry Jam-Filled Muffins – A Delicious Homemade Treat
Strawberry jam-filled muffins are a delightful twist on the classic muffin, offering a burst of fruity sweetness with every bite. Perfect for breakfast, snacks, or even dessert, these muffins are simple to make and incredibly satisfying. In this article, we’ll walk you through the ingredients, steps, and tips to make the best strawberry jam-filled muffins, and provide some helpful suggestions for variations.
History of Muffins
Muffins have a rich history that spans centuries, originating in Europe and later becoming a staple in American kitchens. While the traditional muffin recipes included basic ingredients like flour, eggs, and butter, modern variations such as jam-filled muffins have grown in popularity due to their added sweetness and creative flair. The introduction of jam-filled muffins has given the classic recipe a fun and flavorful upgrade.
Ingredients for Strawberry Jam-Filled Muffins
To make these delicious muffins, you will need the following ingredients:
- 2 cups all-purpose flour
- 2 teaspoons baking powder
- ½ teaspoon salt
- ½ cup unsalted butter, softened
- 1 cup sugar
- 2 large eggs
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- ½ cup milk
- Strawberry jam for filling
If you are looking for a healthier option, consider low-carb recipes that reduce sugar without sacrificing flavor.
Step-by-Step Recipe for Strawberry Jam-Filled Muffins
1. Preparation
Start by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C) and lining a 12-cup muffin tin with paper liners. Grease the liners slightly for easy muffin removal. Gather your ingredients and get ready to make these delicious treats!
2. Making the Muffin Batter
In a medium bowl, whisk together the flour, baking powder, and salt. In another bowl, cream together the softened butter and sugar until light and fluffy. Beat in the eggs one at a time, then stir in the vanilla extract. Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet mixture, alternating with milk. Mix until just combined.
3. Filling the Muffins with Strawberry Jam
Spoon a tablespoon of batter into each muffin cup. Add a small spoonful of strawberry jam to the center of the batter, then top with another tablespoon of batter to cover the jam completely. This technique ensures the jam is perfectly nestled in the center of the muffin.
For more creative filling options, you could explore different types of jams and fruits to experiment with your muffin flavors.
4. Baking the Muffins
Place the muffin tin in the oven and bake for 20-25 minutes or until a toothpick inserted into the side (not the jam-filled center) comes out clean. Allow the muffins to cool in the tin for a few minutes before transferring them to a wire rack to cool completely.
5. Cooling and Serving Suggestions
Once cooled, you can serve these muffins as-is or with a dusting of powdered sugar. They make a perfect pairing with your morning coffee or afternoon tea. For a complete breakfast, consider serving them alongside scrambled eggs for a balanced meal.
Variations and Customizations
Streusel Topping
A popular variation of these muffins includes adding a streusel topping made from butter, flour, sugar, and cinnamon. This extra layer of crunch adds a delightful texture contrast to the soft muffins.
Other Jam Flavors
While strawberry jam is a classic choice, you can also experiment with other flavors like raspberry, apricot, or blueberry. Using homemade jams is another great way to elevate the flavor of these muffins. You can even try pineapple jam for a tropical twist.
Tips for Perfect Muffins
- Avoid Overmixing: Overmixing the batter can lead to dense muffins. Mix until just combined to ensure fluffy muffins.
- Use Room Temperature Ingredients: Make sure your butter and eggs are at room temperature before starting the recipe for a smoother batter.
- Prevent Jam Sinking: To avoid the jam sinking to the bottom, place a layer of batter at the base of each muffin cup before adding the jam filling.
For more expert baking tips, check out our guide to perfect baked goods to ensure you get the best results every time.
Nutritional Information
Each muffin contains approximately 250 calories, with a breakdown of 35g carbs, 5g protein, and 10g fats. For those looking to reduce sugar, you can swap the sugar with a low-calorie alternative, making these muffins a little more diet-friendly.
Storage and Freezing Tips
Store your strawberry jam-filled muffins in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days. They can also be frozen for up to 3 months. To freeze, wrap each muffin individually in plastic wrap and place them in a ziplock bag. When ready to eat, thaw at room temperature or reheat in the microwave for 15-20 seconds.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
- Overfilling the Muffin Cups: Ensure that the jam is completely covered by batter to avoid it spilling out during baking.
- Baking at Too High a Temperature: Stick to the recommended temperature to avoid burning the tops while leaving the inside undercooked.
FAQs About Strawberry Jam-Filled Muffins
Can I Use Homemade Jam?
Yes! Using homemade jam can enhance the flavor of these muffins. Just be sure the jam is thick enough to prevent it from spreading too much during baking.
How Do I Prevent the Jam from Sinking?
To prevent the jam from sinking, make sure to add a layer of batter before and after placing the jam into the muffin cups.
Can I Use Different Types of Flour?
Yes, you can experiment with different types of flour, such as whole wheat or almond flour, to create a healthier version of these muffins. Make sure to adjust the liquid ingredients as needed.
Conclusion
Strawberry jam-filled muffins are the perfect combination of sweet and fruity. Whether you’re making them for breakfast or a snack, these muffins will surely impress. With the option to customize the recipe and try different variations, you can create a treat that is uniquely your own. For more delicious recipes like this, be sure to check out our collection of quick and easy desserts!