Moist Christmas Stollen Muffins
If you’re looking for a delightful treat that brings the festive spirit into your kitchen, then these Moist Christmas Stollen Muffins are just what you need! They are perfect for cozy family gatherings or even those busy weeknights when you want to whip up something special. The combination of spices and dried fruits in each muffin creates a warm, inviting aroma that fills your home with holiday cheer.
What makes this recipe truly special is its simplicity and the use of wholesome ingredients. It’s one of those recipes that can become a cherished tradition, shared over cups of tea and laughter with loved ones. So gather your ingredients, and let’s bake some joy together!
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Quick to Prepare: With just 15 minutes of prep time, you can have these muffins in the oven before you know it!
- Family-Friendly: Everyone will love the sweet flavors and soft texture—perfect for kids and adults alike.
- Versatile Flavor Options: Customize with your favorite dried fruits to make them your own!
- Make-Ahead Convenience: These muffins store well, making them great for meal prep or last-minute guests.
- Deliciously Festive: The holiday spice mix adds a unique twist that really captures the essence of the season.
Ingredients You’ll Need
These Moist Christmas Stollen Muffins come together with simple, wholesome ingredients that you likely already have in your pantry. Let’s take a look!
For the Muffins
- 2 1/4 cups all-purpose flour (270g)
- 2 teaspoons baking powder
- 1/4 teaspoon baking soda
- 1/2 teaspoon fine table salt
- 2 tablespoons holiday spice mix (14g)
- 1/3 cup white sugar (67g)
- 1 cup fruitcake fruit blend or your choice of dried fruit (120g)
- 1/2 cup candied mixed peel (85g)
- 1 large egg
- 1 cup buttermilk or plain yogurt (227g, avoid greek-style)
- 3/8 cup melted butter (113g total; divided into 6 tablespoons and 2 tablespoons)
- Dust with non-melting sugar or powdered sugar
Variations
One of the best things about these muffins is their flexibility! Feel free to get creative and tailor them to your taste or whatever you have on hand.
- Change Up the Dried Fruit: Swap out the fruitcake blend for raisins, apricots, or cranberries for different flavors.
- Add Nuts: Stir in chopped walnuts or almonds for an extra crunch and nutty flavor.
- Make It Citrus-y: Incorporate orange or lemon zest for a refreshing twist that brightens up the muffins.
- Go Gluten-Free: Substitute all-purpose flour with a gluten-free blend to accommodate dietary needs.
How to Make Moist Christmas Stollen Muffins
Step 1: Preheat Your Oven
Start by preheating your oven to 350°F (180°C). This step is important because it ensures your muffins rise properly and get that beautiful golden color as they bake.
Step 2: Mix Dry Ingredients
In a large bowl, combine the all-purpose flour, baking powder, baking soda, fine table salt, holiday spice mix, and white sugar. Whisking these together helps evenly distribute the leavening agents and spices throughout your batter.
Step 3: Add Fruits
Now it’s time to fold in your dried fruits and candied peel. Gently mix them into the dry ingredients until they are well coated. This helps prevent them from sinking to the bottom during baking.
Step 4: Combine Wet Ingredients
In another bowl, whisk together the egg, buttermilk (or yogurt), and melted butter (remember to reserve a couple of tablespoons!). Mixing wet ingredients separately ensures they incorporate smoothly into the dry mixture.
Step 5: Combine All Ingredients
Pour the wet mixture into the dry ingredients. Gently stir until just combined; be careful not to overmix! A few lumps are perfectly fine because overmixing can lead to tough muffins.
Step 6: Fill Muffin Tins
Spoon the batter into lined or greased muffin tins. Fill each cup about three-quarters full. The reserved melted butter can be brushed on top before baking for an extra touch of richness!
Step 7: Bake & Cool
Bake in your preheated oven for about 20 minutes or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean. Allow them to cool slightly before dusting with non-melting sugar or powdered sugar for that festive touch!
And there you have it—your very own batch of Moist Christmas Stollen Muffins! Perfect for sharing with friends and family during this joyful season. Enjoy every crumb!
Pro Tips for Making Moist Christmas Stollen Muffins
Creating the perfect batch of Moist Christmas Stollen Muffins is all about the little details, and I’m here to help you nail them!
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Use Fresh Ingredients: Fresh spices and dried fruits make a world of difference in flavor. They enhance the overall taste, making your muffins irresistibly delicious.
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Don’t Overmix the Batter: Mixing just until combined will keep your muffins light and fluffy. Overmixing can lead to dense muffins, which we want to avoid!
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Check for Doneness Early: Ovens can vary, so start checking your muffins a few minutes before the suggested cook time. A toothpick inserted into the center should come out clean or with a few moist crumbs.
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Cool Completely Before Dusting: Allow your muffins to cool fully before dusting with sugar. This prevents the sugar from melting and helps it stay visually appealing.
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Experiment with Mix-Ins: Feel free to customize by adding nuts or different dried fruits! This gives each batch a unique twist that keeps things exciting.
How to Serve Moist Christmas Stollen Muffins
These delightful muffins are not only a treat for the taste buds but also for the eyes. Presenting them beautifully can make any festive occasion feel even more special!
Garnishes
- Powdered Sugar: A light dusting of powdered sugar adds a snowy touch that enhances the festive spirit.
- Fresh Citrus Zest: Grating some orange or lemon zest on top brings brightness and freshness, balancing the sweetness.
Side Dishes
- Spiced Hot Chocolate: The rich, comforting flavors of spiced hot chocolate pair wonderfully with these muffins, making for a cozy treat.
- Fruit Salad: A vibrant fruit salad adds a refreshing contrast to the richness of the muffins while providing a healthy element to your meal.
- Yogurt Parfait: Layer some plain yogurt with granola and fresh berries for a delightful side that complements the stollen muffins’ flavors perfectly.
- Herbal Tea: A warm cup of herbal tea offers a soothing accompaniment that rounds out this delightful holiday treat.
Enjoy these festive delights with loved ones and spread the joy of baking this holiday season!
Make Ahead and Storage
These Moist Christmas Stollen Muffins are perfect for meal prep, letting you enjoy the festive flavors any time you want! They store well and can be made ahead, ensuring you have delicious treats ready for holiday gatherings or cozy evenings at home.
Storing Leftovers
- Allow muffins to cool completely before storing.
- Place them in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days.
- For longer storage, refrigerate them for up to a week.
Freezing
- Wrap each muffin tightly in plastic wrap or aluminum foil.
- Place wrapped muffins in a zip-top freezer bag, removing as much air as possible.
- Freeze for up to 2 months. Remember to label the bag with the date!
Reheating
- For best results, let frozen muffins thaw overnight in the refrigerator.
- Reheat in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 10-12 minutes.
- Alternatively, microwave on medium power for 20-30 seconds until warm.
FAQs
Here are some common questions about making Moist Christmas Stollen Muffins!
Can I use different types of dried fruit in Moist Christmas Stollen Muffins?
Absolutely! Feel free to mix and match dried fruits according to your preference. Just ensure they are chopped into small pieces for even distribution.
How can I make these Moist Christmas Stollen Muffins healthier?
You can substitute some of the all-purpose flour with whole wheat flour or use a sugar alternative if you prefer a lower-sugar option. The muffins will still taste delightful!
Can I make Moist Christmas Stollen Muffins without eggs?
Yes! You can replace the egg with a flax egg (1 tablespoon ground flaxseed mixed with 2.5 tablespoons water) or applesauce (1/4 cup) for a vegan-friendly version.
Final Thoughts
I hope you feel inspired to whip up these Moist Christmas Stollen Muffins this holiday season! They bring warmth and joy with every bite, making them a special treat for both family and friends. Enjoy creating lovely memories in your kitchen while baking these delightful muffins. Happy baking!
Moist Christmas Stollen Muffins
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Total Time: 35 minutes
- Yield: Approximately 12 servings 1x
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Description
Indulge in the festive spirit with these Moist Christmas Stollen Muffins! Perfect for family gatherings or cozy nights, these muffins are infused with warm spices and a delightful mix of dried fruits, filling your home with a holiday aroma. Simple to prepare, this recipe can quickly become a cherished tradition shared over cups of tea and laughter. With just 15 minutes of prep time, you can enjoy a sweet treat that everyone will love. Customize them with your favorite dried fruits or nuts for a personal touch, making them a versatile addition to your holiday baking repertoire. Gather your ingredients and let’s spread some joy by baking these delicious muffins!
Ingredients
- 2 1/4 cups all-purpose flour
- 2 teaspoons baking powder
- 1/4 teaspoon baking soda
- 1/2 teaspoon fine table salt
- 2 tablespoons holiday spice mix
- 1/3 cup white sugar
- 1 cup fruitcake fruit blend or your choice of dried fruit
- 1/2 cup candied mixed peel
- 1 large egg
- 1 cup buttermilk or plain yogurt
- 3/8 cup melted butter
Instructions
- Preheat the oven to 350°F (180°C).
- In a large bowl, whisk together the flour, baking powder, baking soda, salt, spice mix, and sugar.
- Fold in the dried fruits and candied peel until evenly coated.
- In another bowl, whisk together the egg, buttermilk (or yogurt), and melted butter.
- Pour the wet mixture into the dry ingredients and stir gently until just combined.
- Fill muffin tins three-quarters full with batter; brush reserved melted butter on top if desired.
- Bake for about 20 minutes or until a toothpick comes out clean. Allow cooling slightly before dusting with powdered sugar.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 muffin (85g)
- Calories: 210
- Sugar: 10g
- Sodium: 190mg
- Fat: 9g
- Saturated Fat: 5g
- Unsaturated Fat: 4g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 29g
- Fiber: 1g
- Protein: 4g
- Cholesterol: 30mg
