Craving a fluffy treat without the guilt? Strawberry oatmeal muffins are the answer. These wholesome, lower-sugar delights are a go-to for satisfying cravings while keeping things light on the calories. Similar to my Blueberry Banana Oatmeal Muffins, this recipe swaps out traditional flour for oats, making it a nutritious choice for any time of day.
Whip up a batch of these strawberry oatmeal muffins in under an hour with just 15 minutes of prep time. Whether you’re looking for a quick breakfast on the run or a satisfying snack, these muffins are the ultimate treat. Packed with whole grains and fresh strawberries, they are a delicious way to start your day or curb that mid-afternoon hunger pang.
Ingredients
Dry Ingredients
- 1 1/2 cups all-purpose flour
- 1/2 cup rolled oats
- 1 teaspoon baking powder
- 1/2 teaspoon baking soda
- 1/2 teaspoon cinnamon
- 1/2 cup brown sugar
- Pinch of salt
Wet Ingredients
- 1/3 cup oil (vegetable oil works well)
- 1/2 cup Greek yogurt
- 1 egg
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1/4 cup milk
- 1 1/2 cups diced fresh strawberries
- Extra flour for tossing the strawberries
Equipment Needed
For preparing these scrumptious strawberry oatmeal muffins, you will need just a few basic kitchen tools and equipment. Here’s a list of what you’ll need:
- Muffin pan
- Muffin liners
- Medium bowl for mixing dry ingredients
- Small mixing bowl for stirring liquids
- Whisk for combining ingredients
- Pot for melting butter
- Spoon for scooping batter
- Teaspoon for filling muffin cavities
- Nonstick spray for coating muffin tins
- Oven for baking
- Cooling rack for cooling muffins
Preparations Steps
Preheat and Prepare Pans
- Preheat the oven to 400°F (204°C) and get your 12-cup muffin pan ready. You can line the muffin cups with parchment paper or spray with oil if needed.
- Rinse and core the strawberries, then roughly chop them. I recommend cutting them into quarters lengthwise and making one or two crosswise cuts.
- Place the chopped strawberries in a small bowl and sprinkle them with white sugar and balsamic vinegar. Gently stir to coat the strawberries evenly with the sugar and vinegar.
Mixing Instructions
To create the perfect strawberry oatmeal muffins, follow these simple steps for combining the dry and wet ingredients and adding the delicious strawberries:
Combining Dry Ingredients
- Prepare the Flour Mixture: In a medium bowl, whisk together 1 cup of all-purpose flour, 1 cup of quick-cooking oats, 1/2 cup of packed brown sugar, 1/2 teaspoon of salt, 1 teaspoon of baking powder, and 1/2 teaspoon of baking soda. Set the mixture aside for later use.
Mixing in Wet Ingredients
- Create the Batter: In a separate bowl, combine 1 cup of Greek yogurt, 1/3 cup of oil, 1 beaten egg, and 1 teaspoon of vanilla extract. Mix the wet ingredients thoroughly until well combined.
- Incorporate the Fresh Strawberries: Take 1 cup of chopped strawberries and toss them in a bit of extra flour. This step will prevent the strawberries from sinking to the bottom of the muffins during baking.
- Fold in the Berries: Gently fold the flour-coated strawberries into the batter mixture until they are evenly distributed, providing a burst of fruity flavor in every bite.
Baking Instructions
Fill Muffin Cups
I fill each muffin cavity to the top to make 12 muffins, ensuring an even distribution of batter for perfectly sized treats.
Baking Time and Temperature
Bake the muffins at 400°F (204°C) for 18-20 minutes until they turn golden brown and a tester comes out clean. Cool the muffins in the pan for about 10 minutes before transferring them to a wire cooling rack for further cooling.
Serving Suggestions
When serving these delightful strawberry oat muffins, there are various ways to enhance the experience and make them even more enjoyable. Here are some serving suggestions to elevate these tasty treats:
1. Fresh Toppings:
Top the muffins with a dollop of Greek yogurt or a sprinkle of powdered sugar for added sweetness and a creamy finish.
2. Nutty Crunch:
Add a crunchy element by sprinkling chopped nuts like walnuts or almonds on top of the muffins.
3. Drizzle of Honey:
For a touch of natural sweetness, drizzle some honey over the muffins before serving.
4. Pair with Tea or Coffee:
Enjoy these strawberry oat muffins with a warm cup of tea or coffee for a delightful breakfast or afternoon snack.
5. Fruit Medley:
Serve the muffins with a side of fresh fruit salad or mixed berries to complement the strawberry flavor.
6. Ice Cream Indulgence:
For a decadent treat, pair the muffins with a scoop of vanilla ice cream or yogurt for a delightful dessert.
7. Lemon Zest Twist:
Grate some lemon zest over the muffins to add a citrusy touch and enhance the overall flavor.
These serving suggestions aim to enhance the flavors and textures of the strawberry oat muffins, providing you with creative ways to enjoy these delicious baked goodies. Experiment with different toppings and accompaniments to find your perfect combination and savor every bite of these wholesome treats.
Storage and Freezing Tips
When it comes to preserving your delightful strawberry oatmeal muffins, proper storage and freezing techniques can help extend their freshness. Here are some tips to maximize the shelf life of your muffins.
Room Temperature Storage
For short-term storage, you can keep your strawberry oatmeal muffins at room temperature, covered, for up to 2 days. Ensure they are stored in an airtight container or covered with foil to maintain freshness. If you plan to consume them within a couple of days, room temperature storage is ideal for quick access to your delicious treats.
Freezing and Reheating Instructions
To enjoy your strawberry oatmeal muffins at a later time, freezing is a convenient option. You can freeze the muffins for up to 3 months by wrapping them individually in plastic wrap and placing them in a freezer-safe container. When reheating, simply thaw them at room temperature or warm them in the oven at a low temperature until heated through. This method allows you to savor the scrumptious flavors of your muffins even after they have been stored in the freezer.
Conclusion
I’ve shared a delightful strawberry oatmeal muffin recipe that’s both nutritious and delicious. By incorporating oats into the mix, these muffins offer a guilt-free treat option. From the detailed preparation steps to serving suggestions like pairing with Greek yogurt or nuts, there are endless ways to enjoy these wholesome goodies. Don’t forget to experiment with toppings and accompaniments to elevate the flavors. When it comes to storage, follow the tips provided to ensure your muffins stay fresh for longer periods. Whether enjoyed fresh out of the oven or reheated after freezing, these strawberry oatmeal muffins are sure to be a hit with your taste buds.