Butternut Squash Muffins With Cranberries
Discover the delightful combination of butternut squash and tart cranberries in these easy-to-make muffins, perfect for a cozy breakfast or a quick snack. This recipe, which I found tucked away in an old calendar clipping, promises a comforting taste that perfectly captures the essence of autumn, making it an ideal addition to your brunch table or a sweet treat for any occasion. With just a few simple ingredients and minimal prep time, you can whip up a batch of these muffins that are sure to impress your family and friends.
Nutritional Information
| Nutrient | Amount per Serving |
|---|---|
| Calories | 292.9 kcal |
| Total Fat | 14.6 g |
| Saturated Fat | 1.4 g |
| Cholesterol | 16.5 mg |
| Sodium | 274 mg |
| Total Carbohydrates | 37.9 g |
| Dietary Fiber | 1.4 g |
| Sugars | 17.8 g |
| Protein | 3.4 g |
Ingredients
| Quantity | Ingredient |
|---|---|
| 2 1/4 cups | All-purpose flour |
| 1 cup | Granulated sugar |
| 1 teaspoon | Ground cinnamon |
| 1/4 teaspoon | Ground mace |
| 1/4 teaspoon | Ground nutmeg |
| 1/8 teaspoon | Ground cloves |
| 2 teaspoons | Baking powder |
| 1 teaspoon | Baking soda |
| 1/2 teaspoon | Salt |
| 1 | Egg |
| 1/2 cup | Canola oil |
| 1 cup | Fresh cranberries |
| 1 cup | Mashed butternut squash |
Instructions
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Preheat the Oven: Start by preheating your oven to 375ยฐF (190ยฐC). This step is crucial for ensuring your muffins rise beautifully and bake evenly. Prepare a 12-cup muffin pan by either spraying it with nonstick cooking spray or lining it with paper liners; this will help with easy removal after baking.
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Mix the Dry Ingredients: In a large mixing bowl, combine the all-purpose flour, granulated sugar, ground cinnamon, mace, nutmeg, ground cloves, baking powder, baking soda, and salt. Whisk these dry ingredients together thoroughly to ensure that the spices and leavening agents are evenly distributed throughout the flour. This step is essential for a uniform flavor in each muffin.
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Prepare the Wet Ingredients: In a separate bowl, combine the mashed butternut squash, egg, canola oil, and milk (if using). Whisk these wet ingredients until they are well incorporated and smooth. The squash will add moisture and sweetness to the muffins, while the oil ensures they remain tender.
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Combine Wet and Dry Ingredients: Carefully pour the wet ingredients into the bowl of dry ingredients all at once. Using a spatula or wooden spoon, gently mix the ingredients together until just combined. Be cautious not to overmix, as this can lead to dense muffins. The batter should be slightly lumpy but without any visible flour streaks.
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Add the Cranberries: Gently fold in the fresh cranberries, ensuring they are evenly distributed throughout the batter. The tartness of the cranberries will provide a delightful contrast to the sweetness of the muffins and enhance their flavor profile.
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Fill the Muffin Cups: Spoon the batter into the prepared muffin cups, filling each one about three-quarters full. This will allow the muffins to rise without overflowing.
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Bake the Muffins: Place the muffin pan in the preheated oven and bake for 16 to 20 minutes. To check for doneness, insert a toothpick or tester into the center of a muffin; if it comes out clean or with a few moist crumbs, your muffins are ready.
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Cool the Muffins: Once baked, remove the muffins from the oven and let them cool in the pan for a few minutes before transferring them to wire racks. This step allows the muffins to set and prevents them from becoming soggy.
Serving Suggestions
These butternut squash muffins with cranberries can be enjoyed warm, right out of the oven, or at room temperature. They pair beautifully with a spread of butter or a dollop of cream cheese for an indulgent breakfast treat. For an added touch, consider drizzling a light glaze made from powdered sugar and milk over the top of the cooled muffins, creating an enticing sweetness that complements the flavors of the squash and cranberries.
With their moist texture and delightful flavors, these muffins are not just a delicious option for breakfast but also make a wonderful afternoon snack or a delightful addition to any holiday brunch spread. Enjoy the seasonal flavors and the comfort that comes with each bite of these delightful butternut squash muffins!
