Spiced Pear Muffins Recipe

If you’re craving a cozy treat that feels like a warm hug in every bite, this Spiced Pear Muffins Recipe is exactly what you need. These muffins combine the mellow sweetness of ripe pears with a perfectly balanced blend of cinnamon, nutmeg, ginger, and cardamom, making each bite bursting with autumnal flavors. Soft, moist, and gently spiced, these muffins are a delightful way to brighten your morning or elevate your afternoon snack. Whether you’re baking for family, friends, or simply indulging yourself, this recipe is sure to bring comfort and joy in every crumb.

Ingredients You’ll Need

All the magic begins with simple, wholesome ingredients that come together to create these utterly delicious spiced pear muffins. Each item has its role — from the fluffy texture provided by the flour and leavening agents, to the warm depth brought by the spice mix, and the juicy bursts of pear that make these muffins uniquely delightful.

• 2 cups all-purpose flour: The base that gives structure and tenderness to your muffins.
• 2 teaspoons baking powder: Ensures your muffins rise perfectly and stay fluffy.
• 1/2 teaspoon baking soda: A leavening agent that adds lift and works with the acidic ingredients.
• 1/2 teaspoon salt: Enhances all the flavors and balances the sweetness.
• 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon: Adds warmth and classic spiced flavor that’s essential here.
• 1/4 teaspoon ground nutmeg: Introduces a sweet, nutty aroma that deepens the spice profile.
• 1/4 teaspoon ground ginger: Lends a subtle tangy spice to round out the cinnamon and nutmeg.
• 1/8 teaspoon ground cardamom: Provides a delicate, floral note that makes these muffins extra special.
• 1/2 cup unsalted butter (softened): Gives richness and moistness for tender crumb.
• 3/4 cup brown sugar: Adds natural sweetness and a hint of caramel depth to the batter.
• 2 large eggs: Bind everything together and help with the rise and texture.
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract: Brings out all the flavors and adds a subtle sweetness.
• 1/2 cup milk: Moisturizes the batter and balances the dry ingredients for a soft muffin.
• 2 medium ripe pears (peeled and diced, about 1 1/2 cups): The star ingredient delivering juicy freshness inside each muffin.

How to Make Spiced Pear Muffins Recipe

Step 1: Prepare your oven and muffin tin

Start by preheating your oven to 375°F (190°C). While it warms up, line a 12-cup muffin tin with paper liners or lightly grease it with cooking spray. This sets the foundation for even baking and easy cleanup.

Step 2: Combine dry ingredients and spices

In a medium bowl, whisk together the all-purpose flour, baking powder, baking soda, salt, and your fragrant blend of cinnamon, nutmeg, ginger, and cardamom. Mixing these dry ingredients first ensures the spices are spread evenly and your muffins bake with consistent flavor.

Step 3: Cream butter and sugar until fluffy

In a large bowl, beat the softened unsalted butter with the brown sugar until the mixture becomes light and fluffy—about 2 to 3 minutes. This step is key for light muffins with a tender crumb that melts in your mouth.

Step 4: Add eggs and vanilla

Beat in the eggs one at a time, giving each a thorough mix before adding the next. Stir in the vanilla extract to uplift the sweet spices and pears you’ll add next.

Step 5: Alternate adding dry ingredients and milk

Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet mixture, alternating with the milk. Start and end with the dry ingredients. Mix gently until just combined—be careful not to overmix to keep your muffins tender and soft.

Step 6: Fold in the diced pears

Gently fold in the diced pears, making sure they are evenly distributed throughout the batter. This step adds those delightful juicy bursts you will love!

Step 7: Portion the batter into muffin cups

Divide the batter evenly among the prepared muffin cups, filling each about two-thirds full to allow room for rising without overflow.

Step 8: Bake to perfection

Bake your muffins in the preheated oven for 20 to 25 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean. This indicates your Spiced Pear Muffins Recipe is perfectly cooked with a golden top.

Step 9: Cool before serving

Allow the muffins to cool in the pan for 5 minutes to set up, then transfer them to a wire rack to cool completely. This helps avoid sogginess and lets those incredible flavors settle in.

How to Serve Spiced Pear Muffins Recipe

Garnishes

Top your muffins with a light dusting of powdered sugar or a small pat of cinnamon honey butter for an extra layer of flavor and visual appeal. Chopped nuts like walnuts or pecans sprinkled on top before baking can add a lovely crunch contrast.

Side Dishes

Serve with a steaming cup of spiced chai tea or a rich latte to complement the warm spices in these muffins. Fresh fruit or a mild cheese like brie can provide a balanced, refreshing side for a brunch spread.

Creative Ways to Present

For a charming breakfast table, arrange the muffins in a wicker basket lined with a soft linen napkin. You could also offer a variety of spreads alongside, such as crème fraîche, flavored cream cheese, or fruit preserves to let everyone customize their muffin experience.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

If you have leftovers from your Spiced Pear Muffins Recipe, store them in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 2 days. This keeps the muffins moist and fresh, ideal for a quick grab-and-go snack.

Freezing

To keep your muffins longer, freeze them individually wrapped in plastic wrap and placed inside a freezer-safe bag. They freeze beautifully for up to 3 months and thaw quickly at room temperature or in the microwave.

Reheating

Reheat muffins gently in the microwave for about 15 seconds or warm them in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for 5 to 7 minutes. This revives their soft texture and brings back that freshly baked aroma.

FAQs

Can I use other types of flour for this Spiced Pear Muffins Recipe?

All-purpose flour is best for maintaining the tender and fluffy texture, but you can experiment with whole wheat or a gluten-free blend. Just keep in mind this may affect the muffin’s density and moisture level.

How ripe should the pears be?

Use medium ripe pears that are soft enough to yield juicy bites but still firm to hold their shape in the muffin batter. Overripe pears might make the texture too wet and dense.

Can I substitute the butter with oil?

Yes, you can substitute butter with a mild vegetable oil or melted coconut oil. The texture might be slightly different—usually a bit more moist—but still delicious.

How can I make the muffins less sweet?

Reduce the brown sugar slightly or replace part of it with unsweetened applesauce to lower the sugar content without sacrificing moisture.

Are there any other fruits I can add?

Absolutely! Apples, cranberries, or chopped dates make wonderful additions or alternatives to pears. Just adjust the quantity to maintain the right moisture balance in the batter.

Final Thoughts

This Spiced Pear Muffins Recipe has quickly become one of my favorite go-to treats that never fails to delight. With its tender crumb, sweet pear pockets, and inviting spices, it’s perfect anytime you want a cozy, homemade comfort. Go ahead and try it—you’ll love the warm smiles it brings around your table!

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