Craving a delightful treat during strawberry season? Dive into the world of healthy Strawberry Muffins – a perfect choice for a guilt-free breakfast or snack. These gluten-free, clean-eating, and paleo-friendly muffins are a must-try. Muffins hold a special place in my heart, and this Strawberry Muffin recipe is no exception.
As a seasoned food blogger, I always seek fresh and seasonal ingredients to elevate classic recipes. With ripe bananas and juicy strawberries at the forefront, these muffins embody the essence of spring and summer. Not to mention, they are gluten-free, sugar-free, and packed with wholesome goodness. Say goodbye to artificial flavors and added sugars – these Strawberry Muffins are a delicious and nutritious alternative.
Indulge in the joy of baking and savoring these Healthy Strawberry Muffins that are sure to become a staple during strawberry season.
Ingredients
When making these healthy strawberry muffins, it’s essential to gather the right ingredients to achieve the perfect balance of flavor and texture. Below are the key components required for this delightful recipe.
Essential Ingredients for Healthy Strawberry Muffins
- 2 cups all-purpose flour (spooned into measuring cup and leveled off with a knife) plus 2 teaspoons for tossing with strawberries
- 2 teaspoons baking powder
- ¾ teaspoon salt
- 1 stick (½ cup) unsalted butter, softened
- 1 cup granulated sugar
- 2 large eggs
- 1½ teaspoons vanilla extract
- ¼ teaspoon almond extract
- ½ cup milk
- 2¼ cups diced strawberries (from 1 pint), divided
- 2 tablespoons demerara (turbinado or raw sugar) for topping
Optional Add-Ins and Substitutes
Feel free to customize your healthy strawberry muffins with these optional add-ins and substitutes to suit your taste preferences or dietary needs:
- Blueberries, blackberries, or raspberries
- Coconut oil as a substitute for avocado oil
- Honey as an alternative to maple syrup
- Rolled oats instead of quick oats for added texture
- Cinnamon for a warm and comforting flavor twist
Experiment with these variations to create your own unique and delicious version of these moist and fluffy strawberry muffins.
Preparation
To ensure your healthy strawberry muffins turn out perfect, follow these steps for prepping your ingredients and setting up your baking environment.
Prepping Your Strawberries
For the best results, start by preparing your strawberries. Wash them thoroughly, remove the green tops, and dice them into evenly sized pieces. Coating the diced strawberries with a light dusting of flour will prevent them from sinking to the bottom of the batter while baking.
Preparing Muffin Tin and Preheating Oven
Grease your muffin tin with cooking spray or line it with paper liners for easy removal of the muffins. Preheat your oven to 400 degrees Fahrenheit (200 degrees Celsius) to ensure it’s ready when your muffin batter is prepared.
Instructions
Let’s move on to the step-by-step instructions for creating these delectable healthy strawberry muffins.
Mixing Dry Ingredients
In a medium bowl, combine the all-purpose flour, whole wheat flour, almond flour, baking powder, cinnamon, and sea salt. Ensure a thorough mix for a balanced distribution of dry ingredients in the batter.
Combining Wet Ingredients
In a separate large bowl, whisk together the almond milk, extra-virgin olive oil, eggs, cane sugar, and vanilla extract. Vigorously mix the wet ingredients to achieve a smooth consistency before adding the dry ingredients.
Incorporating Strawberries into the Batter
After dicing the strawberries, coat them lightly with flour to prevent sinking when baking. Gently fold the diced strawberries into the combined wet and dry ingredients, ensuring they are evenly distributed for a burst of fruity flavor in every bite.
Filling the Muffin Tin
Preheat the oven to 400°F (200°C) and grease a 12-cup muffin tin. Distribute the muffin batter evenly among the prepared muffin cups, filling them up to the top. This ensures beautifully risen muffins with a golden crust.
Now that the batter is ready, it’s time to bake these delightful healthy strawberry muffins to perfection.
Baking
When it comes to baking these healthy strawberry muffins, timing and temperature play crucial roles in achieving the perfect batch. Follow these guidelines for a delightful baking experience and delicious results.
Baking Time and Temperature
Preheat your oven to 400 degrees Fahrenheit for optimal baking conditions. Allow the muffins to bake for approximately 20 minutes or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out mostly clean. This ensures that the muffins are cooked through while maintaining their moist texture.
- Use silicone cupcake liners or nonstick cooking spray to prevent sticking.
- Be mindful not to overmix the batter to avoid a dense texture.
- Defrost frozen strawberries properly and mash them well for even distribution in the muffins.
- Allow the muffins to cool completely on a rack before serving for the best taste and texture.
- Store any leftovers in an airtight container at room temperature for 2-3 days or in the fridge/freezer for longer freshness. Remember to warm refrigerated muffins before serving to enjoy them freshly baked.
Cooling and Serving
Cooling Muffins Properly
After baking the strawberry muffins, it’s vital to allow them to cool properly. This helps to set the texture and flavors, ensuring the best taste. Once the muffins are out of the oven, let them cool on a wire rack for at least 10-15 minutes before serving.
Storing and Freezing
When it comes to enjoying strawberry muffins beyond the initial bake, proper storage and freezing techniques are key. Here’s how you can make the most of your delicious creations:
How to Store Strawberry Muffins
To keep your strawberry muffins fresh and flavorful, store them at room temperature in an airtight container for up to 2 days. For extended freshness, refrigerate them for up to 5 days. For optimal longevity, freeze any leftovers and enjoy them for up to 3 months.
How to Freeze and Reheat
To freeze your strawberry muffins, wrap them individually in plastic foil or place them in airtight bags before storing them in the freezer. When ready to enjoy, simply thaw the muffins at room temperature or reheat them in the oven for a warm, comforting treat.
Nutritional Information
Strawberry muffins offer a delightful balance of flavors and nutrients, making them a wholesome choice for breakfast or a snack.
Health Benefits of Ingredients
- Strawberries: Packed with vitamin C, fiber, and antioxidants, strawberries contribute to heart health, aid digestion, and boost immunity.
- Almond Flour: Rich in healthy fats, fiber, and vitamin E, almond flour supports heart health and helps manage blood sugar levels.
- Olive Oil: Contains monounsaturated fats that promote heart health and reduce inflammation in the body.
- Cane Sugar: In moderation, cane sugar adds sweetness without refined processing, making it a better alternative to traditional white sugar.
Caloric and Nutritional Breakdown
The nutritional values per serving (1 muffin) are as follows:
| Nutrient | Amount per Serving |
|---|---|
| Calories | 206 kcal |
| Fat | 9g |
| Saturated Fat | 5g |
| Carbohydrates | 38g |
| Sugar | 21g |
| Fiber | 1g |
| Protein | 4g |
| Sodium | 224mg |
| Cholesterol | 52mg |
These values can vary based on the specific ingredients used, emphasizing the importance of accurate measurement for a precise nutritional breakdown.
Conclusion
I’ve shared the secrets to creating delectable healthy Strawberry Muffins that are both nutritious and delicious. By incorporating wholesome ingredients like fresh strawberries, almond flour, and olive oil, you can indulge guilt-free. Remember, precise measurements are key to unlocking the full nutritional potential of these treats. So, whether you’re savoring them for breakfast or as a snack, these muffins are a delightful way to enjoy the flavors of the season while nourishing your body. Happy baking!