Greetings, fellow food enthusiasts! Today, we're embarking on a flavorful journey into the world of irresistible desserts with a twist of warmth and coziness - Brown Sugar Spice Zucchini Muffins. These delightful muffins are like a warm hug for your taste buds, combining the garden-fresh goodness of zucchini with the comforting flavors of brown sugar and spices. Inspired by the culinary wonders of Barefeet in the Kitchen, I'm excited to guide you through creating these delectable muffins that are perfect for breakfast, brunch, or a sweet snack. Let's get baking!
Ingredients You'll Need:
For the Brown Sugar Spice Zucchini Muffins:
- 2 cups all-purpose flour
- 1 teaspoon baking soda
- 1/2 teaspoon baking powder
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
- 1/2 teaspoon ground nutmeg
- 1/4 teaspoon ground allspice
- 1/4 teaspoon ground cloves
- 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened
- 1 cup brown sugar, packed
- 2 large eggs
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1 1/2 cups grated zucchini (about 2 medium-sized zucchinis)
- 1/4 cup plain Greek yogurt or sour cream
For the Topping (Optional but Highly Recommended):
- 2 tablespoons granulated sugar
- 1/2 teaspoon ground cinnamon
Step-by-Step Instructions:
Step 1: Prep the Zucchini
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Line a muffin tin with paper liners or grease it lightly.
- Grate the zucchinis and place the grated zucchini in a clean kitchen towel. Squeeze out excess moisture. Set it aside.
Step 2: Mix Dry Ingredients
- In a mixing bowl, whisk together the all-purpose flour, baking soda, baking powder, salt, and the delightful mix of ground cinnamon, nutmeg, allspice, and cloves. These spices will infuse your muffins with a warm and cozy aroma.
Step 3: Cream the Butter and Sugar
- In another bowl, cream together the softened unsalted butter and brown sugar until the mixture is light and fluffy.
Step 4: Add Eggs and Vanilla
- Add the large eggs and vanilla extract to the butter-sugar mixture. Beat until well combined.
Step 5: Combine Wet and Dry Ingredients
- Gradually add the dry ingredient mixture into the wet ingredients, stirring until just combined. Be careful not to overmix; a few lumps are perfectly fine.
Step 6: Fold in Zucchini and Yogurt
- Gently fold in the grated zucchini and the plain Greek yogurt (or sour cream). The zucchini adds moisture and a hint of freshness to these muffins.
Step 7: Fill the Muffin Cups
- Using an ice cream scoop or a spoon, fill each muffin cup about two-thirds full with the muffin batter.
Step 8: Add the Topping (Optional but Irresistible)
- In a small bowl, mix together the granulated sugar and ground cinnamon for the topping.
- Sprinkle a pinch of this sweet and spiced mixture over the top of each muffin for an extra layer of flavor and a delightful crunch.
Step 9: Bake to Perfection
- Bake in the preheated oven for approximately 18-20 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center of a muffin comes out clean.
Step 10: Cool and Enjoy
- Allow the muffins to cool in the tin for a few minutes before transferring them to a wire rack to cool completely.
Tips for Extra Delight:
- Feel free to add a handful of chopped nuts like walnuts or pecans for a delightful crunch and added richness.
- These muffins freeze beautifully, so make a batch and save some for a cozy morning treat.
And there you have it, dear readers! Brown Sugar Spice Zucchini Muffins, a delightful dessert that brings together the comforting flavors of brown sugar and spices with the garden-fresh goodness of zucchini. Whether you enjoy them with a cup of coffee in the morning or as a sweet indulgence throughout the day, these muffins are sure to warm your heart.
So, preheat your oven, gather your ingredients, and let the aroma of spices and zucchini fill your kitchen as you embark on this warm and cozy baking adventure. Enjoy every bite of comfort! 🧁🍂🥒