Name: Strawberry Muffins Recipe: Sweet and Tender
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 20 min
Total time: 35 min
Ingredients: 2 cups all-purpose flour; 2 tsp baking powder; 1/2 tsp baking soda; 1/2 tsp kosher salt; 1/2 cup unsalted butter (melted); 3/4 cup granulated sugar; 2 large eggs; 1 cup plain Greek yogurt; 1 tsp vanilla extract; 1/4 cup milk; 1 1/2 cups fresh strawberries (diced); 2 tbsp turbinado sugar (optional); Optional: Fresh strawberries (powdered sugar); Suggested Pairings: Coffee (fruit)

Introduction

Table of Contents

Strawberry Muffins are a delightful breakfast treat, snack, or dessert, perfect for family gatherings, brunches, or casual indulgences. These tender muffins, bursting with juicy, fresh strawberries and a hint of vanilla, deliver a sweet, comforting flavor in every bite. Presented on a white ceramic platter, optionally garnished with fresh strawberries or a dusting of powdered sugar, these Strawberry Muffins offer a vibrant, appetizing aesthetic that elevates any spread. This recipe provides a traditional version, adaptable for dietary preferences, ideal for home cooks seeking a crowd-pleasing baked good that brings warm, summery charm to any occasion.

Ingredients

For the Strawberry Muffins:

2 cups all-purpose flour
2 tsp baking powder
1/2 tsp baking soda
1/2 tsp kosher salt
1/2 cup unsalted butter, melted and cooled
3/4 cup granulated sugar
2 large eggs
1 cup plain Greek yogurt (or sour cream)
1 tsp vanilla extract
1/4 cup milk
1 1/2 cups fresh strawberries, diced
2 tbsp turbinado sugar (optional, for topping)

For Serving:

Optional: Fresh strawberries, powdered sugar
Suggested Accompaniments: Whipped cream, fresh fruit
Suggested Pairings: Coffee, herbal tea
Suggested Aesthetic: Serve on a white ceramic platter
Suggested Equipment: Muffin tin, paper liners or nonstick spray, mixing bowls, whisk, spatula, measuring cups/spoons, knife, cutting board

Step-by-Step Process

Prepare Equipment: Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C). Line a 12-cup muffin tin with paper liners or grease with nonstick spray.
Mix Dry Ingredients: In a large mixing bowl, whisk together flour, baking powder, baking soda, and salt. Set aside.
Mix Wet Ingredients: In another bowl, whisk melted butter and granulated sugar until combined. Add eggs, Greek yogurt, vanilla extract, and milk; whisk until smooth. Taste a small amount of the wet mixture (safe since eggs will be baked) and adjust with 1–2 tbsp extra sugar if a sweeter batter is desired.
Combine and Add Strawberries: Pour wet ingredients into dry ingredients and stir with a spatula until just combined (do not overmix). Gently fold in diced strawberries until evenly distributed.
Fill Muffin Tin: Divide batter evenly among the 12 muffin cups, filling each about 3/4 full. Sprinkle turbinado sugar on top for a crunchy texture, if desired.
Bake: Bake for 18–22 minutes, until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean or with a few moist crumbs. Let muffins cool in the tin for 5 minutes, then transfer to a wire rack.
Serve: Arrange muffins on a white ceramic platter. Optionally garnish with fresh strawberries or a dusting of powdered sugar. Serve warm or at room temperature with whipped cream, fresh fruit, coffee, or herbal tea.

Tips for Better Strawberry Muffins

Use fresh strawberries for the best flavor and texture; pat dry after dicing to avoid excess moisture.
Taste the wet mixture before combining to ensure balanced sweetness; adjust with a touch of sugar if needed (use sparingly to avoid altering texture).
Avoid overmixing the batter to keep muffins tender and light.
Use room-temperature eggs and yogurt for a smoother batter.
Present on a white ceramic platter to highlight the golden muffins and red strawberry flecks.
Make ahead: Prepare dry and wet ingredients separately up to 1 day in advance; combine and bake fresh.
For taller muffins, fill cups nearly to the top and increase baking time by 2–3 minutes.
Enhance aesthetic: Garnish with fresh strawberries or powdered sugar on a white ceramic platter for a summery, inviting look.

Variations and Customization

Gluten-Free Strawberry Muffins: Use a 1:1 gluten-free flour blend; ensure baking powder is gluten-free.
Vegan Strawberry Muffins: Replace butter with vegan butter, eggs with 1/2 cup applesauce or 2 flax eggs (2 tbsp flaxseed meal + 5 tbsp water), and Greek yogurt with plant-based yogurt; use plant-based milk.
Low-Sugar Strawberry Muffins: Reduce granulated sugar to 1/2 cup and omit turbinado sugar.
Lemon Strawberry Muffins: Add 1 tbsp lemon zest and 1 tbsp lemon juice to the wet ingredients for a citrusy twist.
Streusel-Topped Strawberry Muffins: Mix 1/4 cup flour, 1/4 cup brown sugar, and 2 tbsp melted butter for a crumbly topping; sprinkle before baking.
Whole Wheat Strawberry Muffins: Substitute half the all-purpose flour with whole wheat flour for a heartier texture.
Chocolate Chip Strawberry Muffins: Fold in 1/2 cup mini chocolate chips with the strawberries.
Berry Medley Muffins: Replace half the strawberries with diced raspberries or blueberries.

Storage and Serving Tips

Store muffins in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 2 days or in the fridge for up to 5 days; reheat in a 300°F oven for 5–7 minutes for a fresh-baked texture.
Freeze baked muffins in a freezer-safe bag for up to 3 months; thaw at room temperature or warm in a microwave.
Serve warm or at room temperature for the best tender texture and sweet flavor.
Use as a breakfast treat, brunch addition, or dessert with fruit and cream.
Pair with coffee or herbal tea to complement the sweet, fruity flavor.
Present on a white ceramic platter with vibrant garnishes for an appetizing, summery charm.

Nutritional Information

Based on 6 servings (2 muffins each):

Calories: 320 kcal
Total Fat: 14g
Saturated Fat: 8g
Trans Fat: 0g
Cholesterol: 65mg
Sodium: 300mg
Total Carbohydrates: 44g
Dietary Fiber: 2g
Sugars: 20g
Protein: 6g
Vitamin A: 10% Daily Value
Vitamin C: 25% Daily Value
Calcium: 10% Daily Value
Iron: 8% Daily Value

Note: Values vary by ingredient brands and substitutions (low-sugar options reduce sugars to ~15g). Moderate in fat and carbs; enjoy with fruit for balance.

Conclusion

This Strawberry Muffins recipe delivers a sweet, tender treat, perfect for any occasion, transforming simple ingredients into a summery classic. Its straightforward preparation and vibrant presentation make it a favorite. The juicy strawberries and soft crumb delight with every bite. It’s sure to be a cherished recipe, loved for its crowd-pleasing appeal.