Are you ready to elevate your baking game? Look no further than these delightful spiced parsnip & maple muffins. Bursting with flavor and packed with wholesome ingredients, these muffins are the perfect treat for any occasion. Whether you're a seasoned baker or just starting out, this recipe is sure to impress. So, let's dive in and discover how to create these delectable muffins from scratch!
Ingredients
To get started, gather the following ingredients:
- 200g plain flour
- 2 tsp baking powder
- 1 tsp ground cinnamon, plus extra to serve (optional)
- 1 tsp ground nutmeg
- 125g light brown soft sugar
- 1 parsnip (around 200g), peeled and grated
- 100g pecans, chopped, plus 10-12 whole pecans to serve (optional)
- 3 tbsp maple syrup
- 3 eggs
- 125ml vegetable oil
- 50g icing sugar
- 50g softened butter
- 100g soft cheese
- 1 tbsp maple syrup, plus extra for drizzling (optional)
Instructions
1. Prepare the Oven and Muffin Tin
Start by preheating your oven to 180C/160C fan/gas 4. Line a 12-hole muffin tin with paper cases. This will ensure your muffins don't stick and make for easy cleanup.
2. Combine Dry Ingredients
In a large bowl, sift the plain flour, baking powder, ground cinnamon, and ground nutmeg. This will help remove any lumps and ensure even distribution of the spices. Add the light brown soft sugar and mix well, breaking up any lumps with your fingers. Next, incorporate the grated parsnip and chopped pecans, ensuring all the ingredients are fully combined.
3. Prepare the Wet Ingredients
In a jug, pour in the maple syrup and add the eggs and vegetable oil. Whisk the ingredients together until well blended. The maple syrup adds a touch of sweetness, while the eggs and oil contribute to the moist texture of the muffins.
4. Combine Wet and Dry Ingredients
Pour the wet ingredients into the dry ingredients. Using a wooden spoon, gently mix until the batter is nearly combined, with a few specks of flour remaining. Be careful not to overmix, as this can result in dense muffins.
5. Fill the Muffin Cases
Spoon approximately 2 tablespoons of the batter into each paper case, filling them about three-quarters full. This allows room for the muffins to rise and prevents them from overflowing during baking.
6. Bake to Perfection
Place the muffin tin in the preheated oven and bake for 22-24 minutes. To check if the muffins are done, insert a skewer into the middle of one muffin. If it comes out clean, with no batter clinging to it, the muffins are ready. Remove the muffin tin from the oven and let the muffins cool in the tin for 10 minutes before transferring them to a wire rack to cool completely.
7. Create the Creamy Frosting
While the muffins are cooling, let's prepare the creamy frosting. In a bowl, sift the icing sugar and add the softened butter. Using an electric whisk, beat the sugar and butter together until smooth and creamy. Next, fold in the soft cheese and add a tablespoon of maple syrup for a hint of sweetness. If the frosting is too loose, continue whisking until it reaches the desired consistency. Alternatively, you can chill the frosting to firm it up.
8. Frost the Muffins
Once the muffins have cooled completely, it's time to add the finishing touch. Spoon or pipe the creamy frosting onto each muffin, ensuring an even distribution. For an extra touch of sweetness, drizzle some maple syrup over the frosted muffins. Dust them with a sprinkle of ground cinnamon for a visually appealing presentation. If you'd like, decorate each muffin with a whole pecan on top.
9. Enjoy!
Now that your spiced parsnip & maple muffins are beautifully frosted and garnished, it's time to indulge in their irresistible flavors. These muffins are perfect for a cozy morning treat, a delightful afternoon snack, or even a sweet dessert. Pair them with a cup of hot coffee or tea for the ultimate indulgence. Share them with loved ones or savor them all to yourself - the choice is yours!
Conclusion
In conclusion, these spiced parsnip & maple muffins are a true delight for the senses. The combination of warm spices, sweet maple syrup, and the earthy flavor of parsnips creates a unique and memorable taste experience. Whether you're a fan of traditional muffins or looking to try something new, these muffins are sure to satisfy your cravings. So, roll up your sleeves, gather your ingredients, and get ready to bake a batch of these scrumptious muffins. Your taste buds will thank you!