Who can resist the charm of a perfect muffin, especially when it's imbued with the warm, comforting flavors of autumn? Our Spiced Butternut Squash Muffins are a delightful way to welcome the season, showcasing the rich, sweet taste of butternut squash paired with aromatic pumpkin pie spice.
The key ingredient for this recipe is butternut squash. Not as common as the zucchini or cucumber in a home kitchen, but it's worth the extra effort to find. When ripe, it has a sweet, nutty flavor that complements the muffin perfectly. You'll find it in the produce section of your supermarket, usually near other squashes. And for the pumpkin pie spice, check the spice aisle. It's a warming blend of cinnamon, ginger, nutmeg, and allspice, perfect for autumnal baking.
Spiced Butternut Squash Muffin Ingredients
Butternut squash: A sweet, nutty winter squash that's packed with vitamins, fiber, and antioxidants. It gives the muffins a lovely orange color and a moist, tender crumb.
All-purpose flour: A pantry staple, it provides structure to the muffins.
Baking powder: It's a leavening agent that helps the muffins rise in the oven.
White sugar: Adds sweetness to balance the savory squash. You could substitute with brown sugar for a deeper flavor.
Salt: Just a pinch enhances the flavors of the other ingredients.
Pumpkin pie spice: This blend of spices adds a warm, autumnal flavor.
Milk: Adds moisture and helps create a tender texture.
Egg: Binds the ingredients together and contributes to the structure and rise of the muffins.
Butter: Adds richness and flavor. It also helps with browning.
One reader, Forster Matlock says:
These spiced butternut squash muffins are a delightful treat! The warm, comforting flavors of the squash and pumpkin pie spice make them perfect for fall. The texture is moist and fluffy, and the aroma while baking is simply heavenly. A must-try for anyone who loves a cozy, homemade baked good.
Techniques Required for Making Spiced Butternut Squash Muffins
How to puree butternut squash: Boil the butternut squash until tender, then drain and puree in a food processor until smooth.
How to mix the wet ingredients: Thoroughly combine the milk, egg, and butter in a medium bowl before stirring in the pureed squash.
How to fold the wet and dry ingredients: Gently combine the squash mixture with the flour mixture until just moistened, being careful not to overmix.
How to fill the muffin pan: Spoon the batter into the prepared muffin pan, filling each cup about halfway full to allow room for the muffins to rise.
How to check for doneness: Insert a toothpick into the center of a muffin to check for doneness. If it comes out clean, the muffins are ready.
How To Make Spiced Butternut Squash Muffins
The butternut squash’s sweet and nutty taste complements the muffin’s moist texture. Try out our butternut squash muffins recipe.
Serves:
Ingredients
- ½lbbutternut squashpeeled, seeded and cubed
- 1½cupsall-purpose flour
- 2tspbaking powder
- ½cupwhite sugar
- ¼tspsalt
- 2tsppumpkin pie spice
- ¾cupmilk
- 1pceggbeaten
- 1tbspbuttermelted
Instructions
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Preheat oven to 400 degrees F (200 degrees C). Lightly grease a 12-cup muffin pan.
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In a medium saucepan with enough water to cover, boil squash 20 minutes, or until tender. Remove from heat, drain, and puree in a food processor.
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In a large bowl, whisk together flour, baking powder, white sugar, salt and pumpkin pie spice.
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In a medium bowl, thoroughly mix together milk, egg and butter. Stir in squash. Fold the squash mixture into the flour mixture just until moistened.
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Spoon the batter into the prepared muffin pan, filling cups about ½ full. Bake 20 minutes in the preheated oven, or until a toothpick inserted in the center of a muffin comes out clean. Remove from muffin pan and cool on a wire rack.
Nutrition
- Calories: 121.90kcal
- Fat: 2.00g
- Saturated Fat: 1.05g
- Trans Fat: 0.04g
- Monounsaturated Fat: 0.52g
- Polyunsaturated Fat: 0.21g
- Carbohydrates: 23.60g
- Fiber: 0.84g
- Sugar: 9.58g
- Protein: 2.76g
- Cholesterol: 17.40mg
- Sodium: 122.04mg
- Calcium: 89.44mg
- Potassium: 110.70mg
- Iron: 1.07mg
- Vitamin A: 121.43µg
- Vitamin C: 4.04mg
Technique Tip for Perfect Spiced Butternut Squash Muffins
When pureeing the butternut squash, ensure it is completely cooled before adding it to the food processor. This will not only protect your equipment from the heat, but also prevent the squash from becoming too watery, which could affect the consistency of your muffins. Additionally, when folding the squash mixture into the flour mixture, be gentle and avoid overmixing. This will help keep your muffins light and fluffy.
Time-Saving Tips for Preparing Spiced Butternut Squash Muffins
Prep ahead: Prepare the butternut squash puree in advance and store it in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. This will save time on the day of baking.
One-bowl method: Combine the wet ingredients and dry ingredients in the same bowl to minimize cleanup and streamline the preparation process.
Freeze extra: Make a double batch of the muffins and freeze the extras for a quick grab-and-go breakfast or snack option.
Use canned puree: If you're short on time, consider using canned butternut squash puree instead of boiling and pureeing fresh squash.
Pre-measure: Pre-measure all the dry ingredients the night before, so you can quickly mix everything together when ready to bake.
Quick mix: Avoid overmixing the batter to save time and ensure tender muffins. Mix just until the ingredients are combined.
Substitute Ingredients For Spiced Butternut Squash Muffins Recipe
butternut squash - Substitute with pumpkin: Both butternut squash and pumpkin have a similar sweet and nutty flavor, making pumpkin a great substitute for butternut squash in this recipe.
all-purpose flour - Substitute with whole wheat flour: Whole wheat flour can be used as a healthier alternative to all-purpose flour, adding a nutty flavor and extra nutrients to the muffins.
baking powder - Substitute with baking soda: Baking soda can be used as a substitute for baking powder, but it requires an acidic ingredient such as buttermilk or yogurt to activate it.
white sugar - Substitute with brown sugar: Brown sugar can add a deeper, caramel-like flavor to the muffins compared to white sugar.
pumpkin pie spice - Substitute with cinnamon, nutmeg, and ginger: A combination of cinnamon, nutmeg, and ginger can replicate the flavors of pumpkin pie spice.
milk - Substitute with almond milk: Almond milk can be used as a dairy-free alternative, adding a subtle nutty flavor to the muffins.
egg - Substitute with applesauce: Applesauce can act as a binding agent and add moisture to the muffins, serving as a vegan-friendly alternative to eggs.
butter - Substitute with coconut oil: Coconut oil can be used as a dairy-free alternative to butter, adding a hint of coconut flavor to the muffins.
Presenting Spiced Butternut Squash Muffins
Elevate the plating: When presenting the spiced butternut squash muffins, focus on creating an elegant and visually appealing arrangement on the plate. Consider using a minimalist approach to showcase the muffins as the star of the dish.
Incorporate seasonal garnishes: Enhance the presentation by incorporating seasonal elements such as delicately placed sage leaves or a sprinkle of cinnamon to add a touch of warmth and earthiness to the overall aesthetic.
Utilize contrasting textures: Pair the muffins with a dollop of whipped maple butter to introduce a luxurious and creamy element that contrasts with the muffin's crumb, adding depth to the overall dining experience.
Emphasize precision: Pay close attention to the placement of each component on the plate, ensuring that the presentation reflects a sense of artistry and attention to detail that aligns with the standards of a Michelin-starred establishment.
Incorporate edible flowers: Introduce a pop of color and elegance by delicately placing edible flower petals around the muffins, adding a sophisticated and refined touch to the overall presentation.
Essential Tools for Making Spiced Butternut Squash Muffins
- Medium saucepan: A medium-sized pot with a long handle and a lid, used for boiling, simmering, and cooking various ingredients.
- Food processor: A kitchen appliance used to puree, blend, or mix ingredients, often used for processing the butternut squash in this recipe.
- Muffin pan: A baking pan with individual cup-shaped depressions used to bake muffins or cupcakes.
- Wire rack: A metal rack used for cooling baked goods, allowing air to circulate around the food to prevent sogginess.
Storing and Freezing Spiced Butternut Squash Muffins
Allow the spiced butternut squash muffins to cool completely on a wire rack before storing them. This will prevent moisture from building up inside the container, which can lead to soggy muffins.
Once cooled, place the muffins in an airtight container or resealable plastic bag. If using a container, make sure to arrange the muffins in a single layer to prevent them from sticking together.
If you plan to consume the muffins within 2-3 days, you can store them at room temperature. Keep the container in a cool, dry place away from direct sunlight.
For longer storage, up to a week, keep the muffins in the refrigerator. The cold temperature will help maintain their freshness and prevent mold growth.
If you want to freeze the butternut squash muffins for later consumption, wrap each muffin individually in plastic wrap or aluminum foil. This will prevent freezer burn and help maintain their texture.
After wrapping the muffins, place them in a freezer-safe container or resealable plastic bag. Make sure to label the container with the date of freezing, so you can keep track of how long they've been stored.
Frozen butternut squash muffins can be stored for up to 2-3 months. When you're ready to enjoy them, remove the desired number of muffins from the freezer and let them thaw at room temperature for about an hour.
If you prefer warm muffins, you can reheat them in the microwave for 15-20 seconds or in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for 5-7 minutes.
How To Reheat Leftover Spiced Butternut Squash Muffins
To reheat leftover spiced butternut squash muffins, preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Place the muffins on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper and heat them for about 5-7 minutes, or until they are warmed through and slightly crispy on the outside. This method will help restore the muffins' original texture and flavor, making them taste almost as good as when they were freshly baked.
Another option is to use a toaster oven. Set the toaster oven to 350°F (175°C) and place the muffins directly on the rack. Heat for 3-5 minutes, or until they are warmed to your liking. This method is quicker than using a conventional oven and works well if you only need to reheat a few muffins at a time.
For a quick and convenient reheating method, you can use a microwave. Place the muffins on a microwave-safe plate and heat them on high power for 15-20 seconds. If they are not warm enough, continue heating them in 5-second intervals until they reach the desired temperature. However, keep in mind that microwaving may cause the muffins to become slightly soggy, so it's best to consume them immediately after reheating.
If you want to add a touch of extra flavor and moisture to your leftover butternut squash muffins, try slicing them in half horizontally and spreading a small amount of butter or cream cheese on the cut sides. Place the muffin halves cut-side up on a baking sheet and broil them in the oven for 1-2 minutes, or until the butter or cream cheese is melted and bubbly. This method will give your muffins a delightful twist and make them even more irresistible.
Random Fact About Spiced Butternut Squash Muffins
Butternut squash is a good source of fiber, potassium, and several other key nutrients. It's also rich in vitamin A, which is essential for good vision and a healthy immune system.
Is Making Spiced Butternut Squash Muffins at Home Economical?
The cost-effectiveness of this spiced butternut squash muffins recipe is quite high. Butternut squash is an affordable and nutritious ingredient, and the other components are commonly found in most households. The overall verdict rating for this recipe is 9 out of 10. The approximate cost for a household of 4 people is around $10, making it a budget-friendly and delicious option for a healthy snack or breakfast.
Are Spiced Butternut Squash Muffins Healthy or Unhealthy?
The spiced butternut squash muffins recipe has both healthy and unhealthy aspects. On the positive side, butternut squash is a nutritious ingredient, rich in vitamins A and C, fiber, and antioxidants. The recipe also uses a moderate amount of sugar and butter compared to some muffin recipes.
However, there are a few areas where the recipe could be improved to make it healthier:
- The recipe relies on all-purpose flour, which is refined and lacks the fiber and nutrients found in whole grain flours.
- The sugar content could be reduced to make the muffins less calorie-dense and more balanced.
- The recipe doesn't include any additional sources of healthy fats or protein.
To make this recipe healthier, consider the following modifications:
- Replace half or all of the all-purpose flour with whole wheat pastry flour, oat flour, or almond flour to increase the fiber and nutrient content.
- Reduce the sugar to 1/3 cup and add 1/4 cup of unsweetened applesauce to maintain moisture and natural sweetness.
- Include 1/4 cup of chopped walnuts or pecans to add healthy fats, protein, and a satisfying crunch.
- Add 1/4 cup of raisins or dried cranberries for extra flavor and natural sweetness without increasing the sugar content significantly.
- Experiment with using coconut oil instead of butter for a healthier fat profile.
Editor's Thoughts on This Spiced Butternut Squash Muffin Recipe
The spiced butternut squash muffins recipe is a delightful twist on traditional muffins. The use of butternut squash adds a unique flavor and moistness to the muffins, while the pumpkin pie spice provides a warm and comforting aroma. The recipe's simplicity makes it accessible for home cooks, and the result is a delicious treat that can be enjoyed for breakfast or as a snack. The combination of flavors and textures in these muffins is sure to impress and satisfy anyone looking for a delightful fall-inspired baked good.
Enhance Your Spiced Butternut Squash Muffins Recipe with These Unique Side Dishes:
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Why trust this Spiced Butternut Squash Muffins Recipe:
This recipe uses fresh butternut squash puree, ensuring a rich and natural flavor. The combination of pumpkin pie spice and white sugar creates a delightful balance of sweetness and warmth. The use of baking powder guarantees a light and fluffy texture. The inclusion of milk and butter adds richness and moisture. With a careful balance of ingredients, these spiced butternut squash muffins promise to be a delightful addition to any table.
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