Christmas Gingerbread Muffins with Molasses Recipe

If you’re looking to fill your kitchen with the cozy, spicy scent of the holidays, these Christmas Gingerbread Muffins with Molasses Recipe is just what you need. Soft, warmly spiced, and kissed with the rich depth of molasses, these muffins strike the perfect balance between tender crumb and bold flavor. Whether you’re serving them as a festive breakfast treat or sneaking one alongside your favorite afternoon tea, these gingerbread muffins bring a joyful, homey charm to every bite. Trust me, once you try this Christmas Gingerbread Muffins with Molasses Recipe, it might just become a holiday staple you’ll crave year after year.

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Ingredients You’ll Need

Gathering your ingredients is wonderfully straightforward for this Christmas Gingerbread Muffins with Molasses Recipe. Each component plays a crucial role, from the warm spices that create that signature gingerbread flavor to the molasses that adds moisture, color, and a distinct sweetness. With every ingredient ready, you’re just moments away from holiday baking magic.

• 2 cups all-purpose flour: The sturdy base that gives structure and a tender crumb.
• ¾ cup brown sugar: Adds sweetness with a hint of caramel notes that enhance the molasses.
• 1 tsp baking soda: Helps your muffins rise perfectly and stay fluffy.
• 1 tsp ground ginger: Brings that warm, spicy kick essential to gingerbread.
• 1 tsp cinnamon: Adds depth and familiar holiday warmth.
• ¼ tsp cloves: A little goes a long way in rounding out the spice profile.
• ¼ tsp salt: Balances the sweetness and enhances overall flavor.
• ½ cup molasses: The star ingredient delivering moisture, rich color, and that iconic gingerbread taste.
• ¾ cup milk: Adds moisture and tenderness to the batter.
• ⅓ cup vegetable oil: Keeps the muffins moist and soft.
• 1 large egg: Binds everything together and adds stability.

How to Make Christmas Gingerbread Muffins with Molasses Recipe

Step 1: Preheat and Prepare Your Pan

Start by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). Line your muffin pan with paper liners or lightly grease it—this early prep ensures your muffins bake evenly and don’t stick, making for an easier, more enjoyable baking process.

Step 2: Mix the Dry Ingredients

In a large bowl, whisk together the all-purpose flour, brown sugar, baking soda, ground ginger, cinnamon, cloves, and salt. This blend of dry ingredients combines all the warm spices and leavening agents so they disperse evenly throughout your muffins.

Step 3: Whisk the Wet Ingredients

Separate from your dry mix, combine the molasses, milk, vegetable oil, and egg in another bowl. Whisk these together until smooth and well incorporated—that molasses will give the batter its signature dark amber hue and deep flavor.

Step 4: Combine Wet and Dry Mixes

Pour the wet ingredients into the dry ingredients and gently fold together using a spatula or wooden spoon. Stir just until combined to avoid overworking the batter—those slight lumps are perfectly fine! This ensures your Christmas Gingerbread Muffins with Molasses Recipe stay tender and moist.

Step 5: Bake the Muffins

Spoon the batter evenly into your prepared muffin cups, filling each about two-thirds full. Pop the pan into your preheated oven and bake for 18 to 22 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean. The aroma filling your kitchen at this point is pure holiday joy.

Step 6: Cool and Enjoy

Once baked, allow your muffins to cool in the pan for a few minutes, then transfer them to a wire rack. This prevents sogginess and helps the muffins set beautifully before digging in.

How to Serve Christmas Gingerbread Muffins with Molasses Recipe

Garnishes

Add a simple dusting of powdered sugar or a drizzle of honey to enhance the warmth of your muffins. For something extra festive, top with a dollop of whipped cream or a smear of cinnamon butter to elevate those holiday flavors.

Side Dishes

These muffins pair beautifully with fresh fruit like crisp apple slices or spiced cranberry sauce. A steaming cup of chai tea, coffee, or hot chocolate really completes this cozy holiday snack or breakfast ensemble.

Creative Ways to Present

For holiday gatherings, arrange your Christmas Gingerbread Muffins with Molasses Recipe on a rustic wooden board alongside nuts, cheeses, and seasonal preserves. Or wrap individually in parchment tied with festive twine for charming homemade gifts that everyone will love.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

If you find yourself lucky enough to have leftovers, store the muffins in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days. This keeps them soft and moist without drying out, making them perfect for a quick snack or breakfast the next day.

Freezing

For longer storage, wrap each muffin tightly in plastic wrap or aluminum foil, then place them in a freezer-safe bag. Frozen, they keep their freshness for up to 3 months—perfect for preparing ahead of busy holiday times.

Reheating

To reheat, simply unwrap your muffin and warm it in a microwave for 20 to 30 seconds or place it in a preheated 350°F oven for about 5-7 minutes. This brings back that freshly baked softness and lets the warm spices shine once more.

FAQs

Can I substitute molasses with honey or maple syrup?

While honey or maple syrup add sweetness, molasses provides a unique depth and character essential for the classic gingerbread flavor. Substituting will change the taste and color, but it can be done if you prefer a milder flavor.

Are these muffins gluten-free?

This recipe uses all-purpose flour, so it’s not gluten-free. However, you can experiment with gluten-free flour blends, but results might vary in texture. Make sure to use one suited for baking to get the best outcome.

Can I add nuts or dried fruit?

Absolutely! Chopped walnuts, pecans, or dried cranberries make excellent additions to the batter for added texture and festive flavor. Just fold them in just before baking to distribute them evenly.

What’s the difference between gingerbread muffins and gingerbread cookies?

Gingerbread muffins are soft, moist, and fluffy with a tender crumb, while gingerbread cookies are firm and crisp. Muffins provide that comforting, cake-like experience, making them perfect for breakfast or snacks.

Can these muffins be made vegan?

Yes! To make this Christmas Gingerbread Muffins with Molasses Recipe vegan, substitute the egg with a flax egg or applesauce and swap milk with your favorite plant-based milk. The texture will be just as delicious and festive.

Final Thoughts

Making these Christmas Gingerbread Muffins with Molasses Recipe is like inviting the holiday spirit right into your kitchen. The cozy spices, rich molasses, and tender texture make them a heartwarming treat that’s sure to impress your friends and family. Whether you enjoy them fresh from the oven or as part of your festive brunch spread, these muffins capture all the joys of the season in every bite. Go ahead and whip up a batch—you’ll be so glad you did!

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