We’ve always been fans of Cinnamon and Raisin Muffins for their cozy blend of warm spices and plump raisins that evoke classic comfort baking. Originating from simple home kitchens these muffins offer a delightful twist on traditional treats making them ideal for busy mornings or afternoon tea.
What we love most is how easy it is to bake a batch that fills your home with irresistible aromas. Whether you’re a seasoned baker or just starting out our recipe delivers that perfect balance of sweetness and spice every time.
Ingredients
In our Cinnamon and Raisin Muffins recipe, we gather simple, high-quality ingredients that blend to create the perfect balance of warm spices and sweet bursts. Let’s break them down by category for easy preparation, ensuring you achieve that comforting aroma and texture we all love.
Dry Ingredients
- 2 cups all-purpose flour: Sifted to ensure lightness and even mixing.
- 1/2 cup granulated sugar: Provides the ideal sweetness to complement the raisins.
- 2 teaspoons baking powder: Fresh for optimal rise and fluffiness.
- 1 teaspoon cinnamon: Ground and aromatic, this is the star spice that infuses the muffins with cozy flavor.
- 1/2 teaspoon salt: Enhances all the flavors without overpowering.
- 1 cup raisins: Plumped in warm water for 5 minutes if needed, for juicy texture.
Wet Ingredients
- 1 large egg: Beaten lightly before adding for better incorporation.
- 1 cup milk: Whole milk for richness, or any milk alternative for a lighter option.
- 1/4 cup vegetable oil: Or melted butter for added moisture and tenderness.
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract: Pure variety for authentic depth of flavor.
These ingredients, measured precisely, form the foundation of our foolproof Cinnamon and Raisin Muffins, making baking accessible and enjoyable for everyone.
Equipment and Tools
Now that we’ve gathered our ingredients for the Cinnamon and Raisin Muffins, let’s focus on the essential equipment and tools to ensure a smooth baking process. Having the right items on hand allows us to mix, bake, and cool these muffins efficiently, delivering that perfect balance of cinnamon-spiced warmth and fluffy texture.
We recommend the following key tools, organized by their role in the recipe for easy reference:
- Muffin Tin: A standard 12-cup muffin tin is crucial for shaping and baking the muffins evenly. We suggest using a non-stick version to prevent sticking and ensure easy removal.
- Mixing Bowls: At least two medium-sized mixing bowls—one for dry ingredients and one for wet—help us keep things organized and avoid cross-contamination for a cleaner bake.
- Measuring Cups and Spoons: Accurate measurement is key to our recipe’s success, so we rely on a set of dry measuring cups (for flour and sugar) and spoons (for spices like cinnamon and baking powder) to maintain precision.
- Whisk or Wooden Spoon: A whisk works best for blending dry ingredients quickly, while a wooden spoon is ideal for gently folding in the raisins without overmixing, preserving the muffins’ tender crumb.
- Spatula: A rubber spatula helps us scrape down the sides of the bowls and transfer batter smoothly into the muffin tin, minimizing waste and ensuring even distribution.
- Oven: A conventional or convection oven preheated to the required temperature is essential for baking. We advise using an oven thermometer for accuracy, as consistent heat is vital for the muffins’ rise and aromatic flavor development.
- Cooling Rack: Once baked, a wire cooling rack allows the muffins to cool properly, preventing sogginess and locking in that fresh-baked appeal.
| Tool | Primary Function | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| Muffin Tin | Shaping and baking muffins | Non-stick for easy release |
| Mixing Bowls | Combining ingredients separately | At least two for efficiency |
| Measuring Cups and Spoons | Ensuring precise measurements | Essential for baking accuracy |
| Whisk or Wooden Spoon | Blending and mixing | Choose based on task |
| Spatula | Scraping and folding | Rubber for batter handling |
| Oven | Baking the muffins | Use thermometer for consistency |
| Cooling Rack | Cooling muffins post-bake | Prevents moisture buildup |
Instructions
Now that we have gathered our ingredients and essential tools, we guide you through the straightforward steps to create our irresistible Cinnamon and Raisin Muffins. These instructions ensure a fluffy texture with warm, spicy notes that will make your kitchen smell heavenly.
Prepare the Ingredients
Before we begin mixing, let’s organize everything for efficiency. Start by measuring out the dry ingredients: 2 cups all-purpose flour, 1/2 cup granulated sugar, 2 teaspoons baking powder, 1 teaspoon cinnamon, 1/2 teaspoon salt, and 1/2 cup raisins. For the wet ingredients, measure 1 large egg, 1 cup milk, 1/4 cup vegetable oil, and 1 teaspoon vanilla extract. We recommend sifting the flour and cinnamon to remove lumps, and rinsing the raisins under cool water then patting them dry to enhance their plumpness and flavor.
Mix the Dry Ingredients
In a medium mixing bowl, we combine the dry components to create a uniform base. Add the 2 cups all-purpose flour, 1/2 cup granulated sugar, 2 teaspoons baking powder, 1 teaspoon cinnamon, and 1/2 teaspoon salt. Using a whisk, we stir these together vigorously for about 30 seconds until everything is evenly blended and the cinnamon’s aroma begins to emerge, promising that spicy warmth in every bite.
Mix the Wet Ingredients
In a separate medium bowl, we prepare the wet mixture to keep things neat and precise. Whisk together the 1 large egg, 1 cup milk, 1/4 cup vegetable oil, and 1 teaspoon vanilla extract until the mixture is smooth and fully incorporated. This step takes about 20 seconds and ensures the liquids emulsify, creating a creamy base that will add moisture and a subtle vanilla undertone to our muffins.
Combine and Fill Muffin Tins
We gently fold the wet ingredients into the dry ones to avoid overmixing and keep the muffins tender. Pour the wet mixture into the bowl with the dry ingredients, then use a rubber spatula to stir just until combined—aim for about 10-15 strokes to form a lumpy batter. Avoid over-stirring to prevent tough muffins. Once ready, spoon the batter evenly into a greased 12-cup muffin tin, filling each cup about two-thirds full for perfect rising and a golden, domed top.
Bake the Muffins
Preheat your oven to 375°F for optimal baking. We place the filled muffin tin in the center of the oven and bake for 18-22 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean and the tops are lightly golden. During this time, the kitchen fills with the irresistible scent of cinnamon and fresh-baked goodness, signaling moist, flavorful muffins ready to enjoy.
Cool and Serve
After baking, we remove the muffin tin from the oven and let it cool on a wire rack for 5 minutes to set the structure. Then, carefully transfer the muffins to the rack to cool completely for another 10 minutes, preventing sogginess and allowing the flavors to settle. Serve them warm for the best taste, perhaps with a pat of butter, as a comforting breakfast or snack that highlights their spicy-sweet balance.
Make-Ahead Instructions
We understand that life gets busy, so our Make-Ahead Instructions for Cinnamon and Raisin Muffins make it simple to prepare these warm, spice-kissed treats in advance without losing their soft texture and inviting cinnamon aroma. Follow these steps to streamline your baking and savor that perfect balance of sweetness and raisins whenever you need a quick comfort.
Preparing the Batter Ahead
To get a head start, we recommend mixing the batter up to 24 hours in advance. Begin by combining the dry ingredients—all-purpose flour, sugar, baking powder, cinnamon, salt, and raisins—as outlined in our earlier steps. In a separate bowl, whisk together the wet ingredients—egg, milk, vegetable oil, and vanilla extract—until smooth and creamy. Gently fold the wet mixture into the dry one just until incorporated, avoiding overmixing to preserve the muffins’ tender crumb. This step ensures the flavors meld beautifully overnight, enhancing the cinnamon’s warm spice.
Transfer the batter to an airtight container and refrigerate it immediately. When you’re ready to bake, let the batter sit at room temperature for about 15-20 minutes to soften slightly, then proceed with filling the muffin tin as per the original instructions.
Baking and Storing Baked Muffins
If you’ve already baked a batch, we make it easy to store them for later enjoyment. Once the muffins have cooled completely on the wire rack, place them in a single layer in an airtight container or resealable bag. For short-term storage, keep them at room temperature for up to 2 days, where they’ll retain their fluffy texture and fresh-baked scent.
For longer storage, use the fridge or freezer as detailed in the table below:
| Storage Method | Duration | Tips for Best Results |
|---|---|---|
| Room Temperature | Up to 2 days | Store in a cool, dry spot to maintain the muffins’ moist interior and prevent staleness. |
| Refrigerator | Up to 5 days | Wrap individually in plastic wrap to lock in the cinnamon aroma and soft consistency. |
| Freezer | Up to 3 months | Flash-freeze on a baking sheet first, then transfer to a freezer-safe bag for easy thawing without sogginess. |
Freezing and Reheating Tips
For ultimate convenience, we suggest freezing the muffins right after baking and cooling. Arrange them on a baking sheet to freeze individually for about 1 hour, then pack them into a freezer-safe container to avoid sticking. This method preserves the muffins’ golden crust and burst of raisins, ready to delight with minimal effort.
To reheat, thaw frozen muffins in the refrigerator overnight or at room temperature for 1-2 hours. Warm them in a preheated oven at 350°F for 5-7 minutes, or pop them in the microwave for 20-30 seconds on high. This revives their fluffy texture and releases that comforting cinnamon scent, making your kitchen feel like a cozy bakery once more.
Conclusion
We’ve loved sharing this simple recipe for cinnamon and raisin muffins, as it’s one of those timeless treats that brings warmth to any day. It’s rewarding to see how a few basic ingredients turn into something truly comforting and flavorful.
Whether you’re baking for a quick breakfast or a cozy gathering, we’ve found these muffins become a go-to favorite. Give them a try and enjoy the fresh-baked joy they bring to your table.
Frequently Asked Questions
What are the main ingredients for Cinnamon and Raisin Muffins?
The key ingredients include dry components like all-purpose flour, granulated sugar, baking powder, cinnamon, salt, and raisins, plus wet ones such as a large egg, milk, vegetable oil, and vanilla extract. These simple items ensure a balanced sweetness and spice, making the recipe accessible for all skill levels.
What equipment do I need to bake these muffins?
You’ll need a 12-cup non-stick muffin tin for even baking, at least two medium mixing bowls to separate dry and wet ingredients, measuring cups and spoons for accuracy, a whisk or wooden spoon for mixing, a rubber spatula for batter transfer, and a wire cooling rack to keep muffins fresh. Preheat your oven for best results.
How do I make Cinnamon and Raisin Muffins step by step?
Start by measuring and mixing dry ingredients in one bowl and wet in another. Gently combine them until just blended, then fill a muffin tin and bake at 375°F for 18-22 minutes. Cool on a wire rack afterward. This easy process takes about 30 minutes of prep and bakes up comforting, aromatic treats.
Can I prepare the batter ahead of time?
Yes, you can mix the batter up to 24 hours in advance and refrigerate it to enhance flavors. Just cover and store in the fridge, then bake as directed. This makes it perfect for busy mornings, ensuring fresh muffins with minimal effort.
How should I store baked Cinnamon and Raisin Muffins?
Store muffins in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 2 days, in the fridge for up to a week, or freeze for up to 3 months. To reheat frozen muffins, thaw overnight and warm in the oven. This keeps them fluffy and flavorful for later enjoyment.
Are these muffins suitable for beginner bakers?
Absolutely! The recipe uses straightforward ingredients and simple steps, with clear instructions for mixing and baking. Even novices can achieve great results, as it emphasizes gentle combining for a tender texture and includes tips for common pitfalls like overmixing.