Moist Christmas Stollen Muffins

If you’re looking for a delightful way to spread holiday cheer, look no further than these Moist Christmas Stollen Muffins! They are the perfect treat for cozy family gatherings or even just a quick snack after a busy day. With their rich flavor and comforting spices, these muffins capture the spirit of the season beautifully. Plus, they’re easy enough to whip up on a weeknight when you want something special without all the fuss.

What makes this recipe even more special is how versatile it can be. Whether you’re baking for a festive brunch or just treating yourself, these muffins will definitely bring joy to your table!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Quick and Easy: With only 15 minutes of prep time, you can have warm muffins ready in no time!
• Family-Friendly: Everyone loves a soft, sweet muffin—kids and adults alike will enjoy this treat.
• Perfect for Meal Prep: Make a batch ahead of time and enjoy them throughout the week for breakfast or dessert.
• Delicious Flavor: The combination of spices and fruit makes every bite feel like a warm hug.
• Customizable: Feel free to mix in your favorite dried fruits or nuts to make them your own!

Ingredients You’ll Need

Let’s gather some simple, wholesome ingredients that will come together to create these delicious muffins. You probably have most of them in your pantry already!

Dry Ingredients

• 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)

Sweeteners and Fruit

• 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)

Wet Ingredients

• 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)

For Dusting

• Non-melting sugar or powdered sugar

Variations

One of the best things about these muffins is how flexible they can be! Here are some fun ideas to customize this recipe:

• Change Up the Fruit: Swap in your favorite dried fruits like cranberries or apricots for a new twist.
• Add Nuts: Toss in some chopped nuts like almonds or walnuts for extra crunch.
• Spice it Up: Try adding some cinnamon or nutmeg if you want an extra kick of flavor.
• Make it Vegan: Substitute the egg with a flaxseed egg and use plant-based yogurt and butter.

How to Make Moist Christmas Stollen Muffins

Step 1: Preheat Your Oven

Start by preheating your oven to 375°F (190°C). This ensures that your muffins bake evenly and rise perfectly as soon as they hit the heat.

Step 2: Prepare the Muffin Tin

Grease a muffin tin with non-stick spray or line it with paper liners. This step is important so that your delicious muffins come out easily without sticking.

Step 3: Mix Dry Ingredients

In a large bowl, whisk together all your dry ingredients: flour, baking powder, baking soda, salt, and holiday spice mix. This helps distribute everything evenly so each muffin is packed with flavor.

Step 4: Combine Wet Ingredients

In another bowl, beat together the egg, buttermilk (or yogurt), and melted butter. Mixing wet ingredients separately ensures they combine smoothly with the dry ingredients later on.

Step 5: Combine Mixtures

Pour the wet mixture into the dry ingredients. Gently fold until just combined—be careful not to overmix! Overmixing can lead to dense muffins instead of fluffy ones.

Step 6: Fold in Fruits

Gently fold in your fruit blend and candied peel until evenly distributed. This adds bursts of sweetness throughout each muffin!

Step 7: Fill Muffin Tins

Scoop the batter into your prepared muffin tin, filling each cup about two-thirds full. This allows room for them to rise nicely without overflowing.

Step 8: Bake

Bake in your preheated oven for about 20 minutes or until golden brown and a toothpick comes out clean from the center. The aroma will fill your kitchen—trust me, it’s heavenly!

Step 9: Cool & Dust

Once baked, let them cool slightly before dusting with non-melting sugar or powdered sugar. This little touch makes them look festive and inviting!

Now that you know how to create these Moist Christmas Stollen Muffins, gather your loved ones around and enjoy this delightful treat together! Happy baking!

Pro Tips for Making Moist Christmas Stollen Muffins

Making these delightful muffins is a breeze with a few handy tips that ensure they come out perfect every time!

• Measure flour accurately: Use the spoon-and-level method for measuring your flour. This prevents your muffins from becoming too dense and helps achieve that light, fluffy texture we all love.

• Don’t overmix the batter: Gently fold the ingredients until just combined. Overmixing can lead to tough muffins, so embrace those little lumps for a tender outcome.

• Use room temperature ingredients: Allow your egg and buttermilk (or yogurt) to come to room temperature before mixing. This helps create a smooth batter that rises beautifully in the oven.

• Add extra moisture: If you want an even moister muffin, consider adding a tablespoon of applesauce or mashed banana to the batter. This not only enhances moisture but also adds a subtle sweetness.

• Cool completely before dusting: Let your muffins cool down on a wire rack before dusting them with sugar. This helps the sugar stick better and gives them that fancy finish we’re aiming for!

How to Serve Moist Christmas Stollen Muffins

Serving your Moist Christmas Stollen Muffins can be as festive as baking them! Here are some fun ideas to present this charming treat during the holiday season.

Garnishes

• Powdered sugar dusting: A light sprinkle of powdered sugar adds a sweet touch and makes these muffins look even more inviting.
• Chopped nuts: Toasted almonds or walnuts can be sprinkled on top for an added crunch and nutty flavor that complements the fruitiness of the muffins.

Side Dishes

• Warm Spiced Apple Cider: A cozy drink that pairs perfectly with these muffins, offering hints of cinnamon and nutmeg that enhance their festive flavors.

• Cranberry Sauce: A tart cranberry sauce provides a beautiful contrast to the sweetness of the muffins, making each bite delightful.

• Fresh Fruit Salad: A refreshing medley of seasonal fruits like oranges, pears, and pomegranates adds brightness to your serving plate while keeping it healthy.

• Cream Cheese Spread: A dollop of lightly sweetened cream cheese spread can elevate your stollen muffins into a decadent treat that’s perfect for brunch or dessert.

With these tips and serving suggestions, your Moist Christmas Stollen Muffins are sure to be a hit at any holiday gathering! Happy baking!

Make Ahead and Storage

These Moist Christmas Stollen Muffins are perfect for meal prep, allowing you to savor the festive flavor all week long. You can bake a batch ahead of time and enjoy them fresh whenever the mood strikes!

Storing Leftovers

• Store muffins in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days.
• For longer freshness, keep them in the fridge for up to a week.
• Ensure they are completely cooled before storing to prevent moisture buildup.

Freezing

• Wrap each muffin tightly in plastic wrap or aluminum foil.
• Place wrapped muffins in a freezer-safe bag or container before freezing.
• They can be frozen for up to 3 months without losing their delightful flavor.

Reheating

• To reheat from frozen, unwrap the muffin and microwave for about 30 seconds.
• For a crispier texture, pop them in a toaster oven at 350°F (175°C) for 5-7 minutes.
• Enjoy warm with a dusting of powdered sugar on top!

FAQs

Here are some common questions about making Moist Christmas Stollen Muffins.

Can I make Moist Christmas Stollen Muffins without buttermilk?

Absolutely! You can substitute buttermilk with plain yogurt or a mix of milk and vinegar (1 cup milk + 1 tablespoon vinegar). This will give you that lovely moisture.

How do I ensure my Moist Christmas Stollen Muffins stay moist?

To keep your muffins moist, avoid overmixing the batter and make sure not to overbake them. Keeping an eye on them during baking is key!

What can I use instead of candied mixed peel?

If you prefer not to use candied mixed peel, you can opt for additional dried fruits like apricots, cranberries, or cherries. They’ll add a different twist but keep the festive spirit alive!

Final Thoughts

I hope you find joy in making these Moist Christmas Stollen Muffins! They bring warmth and cheer to any holiday gathering or cozy afternoon snack. Don’t hesitate to share your experience or variations with me—I can’t wait to hear how they turn out for you! Happy baking!