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Master Muffin Recipe

4.7 from 111 reviews

This master muffin recipe is a classic and versatile base that yields 12 moist and fluffy muffins. Perfectly balanced with butter, sugar, eggs, and vanilla, this recipe allows for customization by adding your favorite mix-ins like chocolate chips, berries, or nuts. Easy to prepare and baked to golden perfection, these muffins are an excellent choice for breakfast or a delightful snack.

Ingredients

Scale

Basic Muffin Batter

  • ½ cup butter (softened)
  • 1 cup granulated sugar (or brown sugar)
  • 2 eggs
  • 2 teaspoons baking powder
  • ½ teaspoon salt
  • 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
  • 2 cups all-purpose flour
  • ½ cup milk (or buttermilk)

Optional Add-ins

  • 1 cup chocolate chips, berries, or nuts (optional)

Instructions

  1. Prepare the muffin tin: Line a 12-cup muffin tin with paper liners and lightly grease the liners with nonstick cooking spray to prevent sticking.
  2. Cream butter and sugar: In a large mixing bowl, use a hand mixer to cream the softened ½ cup butter with 1 cup granulated sugar until the mixture is smooth and creamy, approximately 2 minutes.
  3. Add eggs and dry ingredients: Beat in 2 eggs until well combined, about 20 to 30 seconds. Then mix in 2 teaspoons baking powder, ½ teaspoon salt, and 1 teaspoon vanilla extract briefly.
  4. Incorporate flour and milk: Add 1 cup of all-purpose flour and mix until just combined. Stir in ½ cup of milk or buttermilk, scraping down the bowl sides, then add the remaining 1 cup of flour. Mix gently to avoid overmixing, which can toughen the muffins.
  5. Fold in optional add-ins: If using, gently fold 1 cup of chocolate chips, berries, or nuts into the batter with a rubber spatula.
  6. Fill muffin cups: Divide the batter evenly among the 12 muffin cups, filling each about ¾ full. Allow the batter to rest while you preheat the oven.
  7. Preheat oven: Set your oven to 425°F (220°C) to start the baking process.
  8. Initial baking: Bake the muffins in the preheated oven for 7 minutes to help them rise quickly and develop a crust without drying out.
  9. Reduce heat and finish baking: Without opening the oven door, reduce the heat to 350°F (175°C) and continue baking for an additional 13-15 minutes. Monitor closely, as ovens vary.
  10. Cool muffins: Let the muffins cool in the pan for 5 minutes before transferring them to a wire rack to cool completely, ensuring a perfect texture and easy removal from liners.

Notes

  • Do not overmix the batter to keep muffins tender and airy.
  • Letting the batter rest briefly while the oven preheats can help improve texture.
  • Feel free to customize this base recipe with your favorite add-ins like dried fruit or citrus zest.
  • Use buttermilk instead of regular milk for a slight tanginess and extra moistness.
  • Ensure oven temperature accuracy for optimal rise and browning.

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