Basic Walnut Muffin Recipe: A Simple Guide to Delicious Homemade Treats
Are you craving a warm, comforting treat that's both easy to make and incredibly delicious? Look no further than these basic walnut muffins! This recipe is perfect for beginners and seasoned bakers alike, offering a delightful balance of sweetness and nutty flavor. Let's dive into the simple steps to baking perfection.
Ingredients You'll Need:
This recipe uses common ingredients readily available at most grocery stores. No need for any fancy substitutions!
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Dry Ingredients:
- 2 cups all-purpose flour (you can experiment with whole wheat for a healthier twist!)
- 1 teaspoon baking soda
- ½ teaspoon baking powder
- ¼ teaspoon salt
- ¾ cup granulated sugar (adjust to your sweetness preference)
- 1 cup chopped walnuts (or pecans, if you prefer!)
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Wet Ingredients:
- 1 cup milk (any kind will work, even buttermilk for a tangier flavor)
- ¼ cup vegetable oil (or melted unsalted butter for a richer taste)
- 1 large egg
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract (optional, but highly recommended!)
Step-by-Step Baking Instructions:
Follow these easy steps for perfectly baked walnut muffins every time:
1. Preheat & Prepare:
Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). Line a 12-cup muffin tin with paper liners or grease it well. This prevents sticking and ensures easy removal.
2. Combine Dry Ingredients:
In a large bowl, whisk together the flour, baking soda, baking powder, salt, and sugar. Make sure everything is evenly distributed.
3. Combine Wet Ingredients:
In a separate bowl, whisk together the milk, oil, egg, and vanilla extract (if using).
4. Gently Combine Wet and Dry:
Pour the wet ingredients into the dry ingredients. Gently fold them together until just combined. Don't overmix! Overmixing can lead to tough muffins. A few lumps are perfectly fine.
5. Add the Walnuts:
Stir in the chopped walnuts. Again, gently fold them in to distribute them evenly throughout the batter.
6. Fill the Muffin Cups:
Fill each muffin cup about ¾ full. This allows for proper rising during baking.
7. Bake to Perfection:
Bake for 18-20 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean. Keep an eye on them, as ovens can vary.
8. Cool & Enjoy:
Let the muffins cool in the tin for a few minutes before transferring them to a wire rack to cool completely. Enjoy your warm, delicious walnut muffins!
Tips and Variations:
- Add-ins: Feel free to experiment with other add-ins like chocolate chips, blueberries, or cranberries.
- Glaze: A simple glaze made with powdered sugar and milk can add extra sweetness and elegance.
- Storage: Store leftover muffins in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days, or freeze them for longer storage.
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