We love whipping up our Cinnamon Raisin Muffin recipe on lazy weekends—it’s the ultimate comfort bake that fills the kitchen with warm cinnamon aromas. Originating from simple American baking traditions these muffins offer a delightful mix of spicy sweetness and chewy raisins making them a breakfast favorite.
They’re incredibly easy to prepare yet pack a flavorful punch that keeps everyone coming back for more. We’re sharing our tried-and-true version to help you create bakery-style treats at home so you can enjoy fresh baked goods whenever the craving hits.
Ingredients
In our Cinnamon Raisin Muffins recipe, we start with a simple yet flavorful list of ingredients that bring together the warm spice of cinnamon and the sweet chewiness of raisins. We’ve ordered them based on how they’re typically used in preparation, from dry to wet components, to make your baking process seamless.
Dry Ingredients
- 2 cups all-purpose flour: Sifted for a light texture.
- 1/2 cup granulated sugar: Provides sweetness and helps with browning.
- 1 tablespoon baking powder: Ensures the muffins rise perfectly.
- 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon: Key spice that infuses the warm, aromatic flavor we love.
- 1/2 teaspoon salt: Balances the sweetness and enhances overall taste.
- 1 cup raisins: Plumped in warm water for 5 minutes if they’re dry, for better moisture.
Wet Ingredients
- 1 large egg: Beaten lightly before adding.
- 1 cup milk: Whole milk for richness, or any milk alternative.
- 1/4 cup vegetable oil: Or melted unsalted butter for a tender crumb.
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract: Pure extract for authentic flavor depth.
These measurements yield about 12 muffins, making it easy to scale up for larger gatherings. We suggest using fresh, high-quality ingredients to achieve that bakery-style result at home.
Instructions
Now that we have our ingredients gathered, let’s transform them into irresistible Cinnamon Raisin Muffins that fill our kitchen with the warm, spicy aroma of cinnamon and sweet raisins. We’ll walk you through each step with precision for bakery-quality results.
Prep
Before we begin mixing, we’ll prepare our workspace and tools to ensure everything runs smoothly. Start by preheating the oven to 400°F (200°C)—this guarantees the muffins rise perfectly and develop a golden crust. Next, line a standard 12-cup muffin tin with paper liners or lightly grease it with vegetable oil to prevent sticking. If our raisins feel dry, we can plump them up by soaking 1 cup in warm water for 5 minutes, then drain and pat dry with a paper towel for added juiciness.
Mix Batter
With our prep complete, we’ll combine the ingredients to create a fluffy, flavorful batter. First, in a large mixing bowl, whisk together the dry ingredients: 2 cups of all-purpose flour, 1/2 cup granulated sugar, 1 tablespoon baking powder, 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon, 1/2 teaspoon salt, and the 1 cup of prepared raisins until evenly distributed. In a separate bowl, blend the wet ingredients: 1 beaten egg, 1 cup milk, 1/4 cup vegetable oil or melted butter, and 1 teaspoon vanilla extract, stirring vigorously to create a smooth mixture. Now, gently fold the wet ingredients into the dry ones using a spatula, mixing just until combined—overmixing can make our muffins tough, so aim for a batter with a few lumps for that tender, mouthwatering texture.
Bake
It’s time to bake and let the magic happen as the scents of cinnamon and raisins waft through the air. Spoon the batter evenly into the prepared muffin tin, filling each cup about two-thirds full to allow for rising. Place the tin in the preheated oven and bake for 18-22 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center of a muffin comes out clean and the tops turn a beautiful golden brown. During this time, we’ll enjoy the irresistible aroma that promises a cozy, comforting treat straight from our oven.
Cool
Once baked, we’ll cool the muffins to set their structure and enhance their flavors. Remove the tin from the oven and let it sit on a wire rack for 5 minutes to allow the muffins to firm up slightly. Then, carefully transfer them to the rack to cool completely for another 10-15 minutes before serving—this step prevents sogginess and lets the warm, spicy notes of cinnamon shine through in every bite.
Required Tools
Before we dive into baking our delicious Cinnamon Raisin Muffins, having the right tools on hand ensures a smooth and efficient process. We always recommend gathering these essentials to make preparation straightforward and enjoyable, building directly on our step-by-step instructions for preheating the oven and mixing ingredients.
To organize this, we’ve categorized the tools by their primary use in the recipe:
- Oven: A standard oven preheated to 400°F (200°C) is crucial for achieving that perfect golden-brown bake. We emphasize using an oven thermometer for accuracy, as consistent temperature directly impacts the muffins’ rise and texture.
- Muffin Tin: Opt for a 12-cup standard muffin tin to yield about 12 muffins. This tool is key for shaping the batter and promoting even baking, ensuring each muffin has that classic domed top.
- Mixing Bowls: You’ll need at least two medium-sized bowls—one for dry ingredients and one for wet. In our experience, glass or stainless steel bowls work best for easy mixing and cleaning.
- Measuring Cups and Spoons: Accurate measurements are vital for our recipe’s success. Use a set of dry measuring cups (for flour and sugar) and liquid measuring cups (for milk and oil), along with spoons for smaller quantities like baking powder and cinnamon.
- Whisk and Wooden Spoon: A whisk helps blend dry ingredients smoothly, while a wooden spoon or spatula is ideal for gently folding in wet components without overmixing. Avoiding overmixing preserves the muffins’ tender crumb, a hallmark of our Cinnamon Raisin Muffins.
- Cooling Rack: Essential for the cooling step, this allows air to circulate around the muffins, setting their structure and enhancing flavors.
| Tool | Quantity Needed | Primary Role |
|---|---|---|
| Oven | 1 | Baking to golden perfection |
| Muffin Tin | 1 (12-cup) | Shaping and even heat distribution |
| Mixing Bowls | 2 (medium) | Separating and combining ingredients |
| Measuring Cups | 1 set | Ensuring precise measurements |
| Measuring Spoons | 1 set | Accurate dosing of spices and leavening agents |
| Whisk | 1 | Blending dry ingredients |
| Wooden Spoon/Spatula | 1 | Gentle mixing to avoid tough muffins |
| Cooling Rack | 1 | Proper cooling for best texture |
Make-Ahead and Storage
We understand that busy schedules make make-ahead options for our Cinnamon Raisin Muffins a game-changer, allowing you to enjoy fresh-baked goodness without the rush. Below, we break down simple, effective strategies to prepare and preserve these muffins for optimal flavor and texture.
Make-Ahead Tips
To streamline your baking process, we recommend preparing Cinnamon Raisin Muffins ahead of time while maintaining their signature moist crumb and warm cinnamon aroma:
- Prepare the batter in advance: Mix the dry and wet ingredients as outlined in our recipe, but stop before combining them. Store the separate mixtures in airtight containers in the refrigerator for up to 24 hours. This prevents overmixing and keeps the raisins plump.
- Assemble and refrigerate unbaked muffins: Fill the muffin tin with batter, cover it tightly with plastic wrap, and chill for up to 12 hours. When ready, bake directly from the fridge, adding 2-3 minutes to the original baking time for even rising.
- Bake and freeze for later: After baking and cooling the muffins completely on a rack, flash-freeze them on a baking sheet for 1 hour. This step ensures they don’t stick together before transferring to a freezer-safe bag.
Storage Guidelines
Proper storage helps preserve the fresh, comforting scent and tender texture of our Cinnamon Raisin Muffins. Here’s how to store them based on your needs:
For quick reference, we’ve compiled storage methods and durations in the table below:
| Storage Method | Duration | Tips for Best Results |
|---|---|---|
| Room Temperature | Up to 2 days | Store in an airtight container to maintain moisture and prevent staleness; ideal for short-term enjoyment. |
| Refrigerator | Up to 5 days | Wrap muffins individually in plastic wrap or place in a sealed bag; reheat in the microwave for 15-20 seconds to restore warmth and softness. |
| Freezer | Up to 3 months | Use freezer-safe bags or containers; thaw overnight in the refrigerator or at room temperature for 1-2 hours, then warm in a 350°F oven for 5-7 minutes to refresh the cinnamon flavor. |
Always check for signs of spoilage, such as mold or off odors, before consuming to ensure safety and quality.
Conclusion
We’ve loved crafting this cinnamon raisin muffin recipe and know it’ll become a staple in your kitchen too. It’s all about that warm, inviting bake that brings comfort to any morning.
Remember, with a few fresh ingredients and easy steps, we’re confident you’ll whip up bakery-quality treats that delight family and friends. Enjoy every bite and happy baking!
Frequently Asked Questions
What ingredients are needed for Cinnamon Raisin Muffins?
The main ingredients include dry components like all-purpose flour, granulated sugar, baking powder, ground cinnamon, salt, and raisins, plus wet ones such as a beaten egg, milk, vegetable oil or melted butter, and vanilla extract. This recipe yields about 12 muffins and works best with fresh, high-quality items for optimal flavor and texture.
How do I make Cinnamon Raisin Muffins step by step?
Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C) and prepare a muffin tin. Soak raisins for juiciness, then mix dry ingredients in one bowl and wet in another. Combine gently to avoid overmixing, fill the tin, and bake for 15-20 minutes until golden. Cool on a rack to set the structure and enhance flavors.
What tools are required to bake these muffins?
You’ll need a preheated oven, a 12-cup muffin tin, mixing bowls, measuring cups and spoons, a whisk, a wooden spoon or spatula, and a cooling rack. These tools ensure accurate measurements, even mixing, and proper baking for a tender crumb and great texture.
Can I prepare the batter ahead of time for Cinnamon Raisin Muffins?
Yes, you can make the batter in advance by storing dry and wet ingredients separately in the refrigerator for up to 24 hours. Alternatively, assemble unbaked muffins and refrigerate them, or bake and freeze for later. This helps with busy schedules while keeping flavors fresh.
How should I store Cinnamon Raisin Muffins?
Store muffins at room temperature for up to 2 days in an airtight container. For longer, refrigerate for up to 5 days or freeze for up to 3 months. Thaw frozen muffins in the fridge or at room temperature, and always check for spoilage like mold before eating to maintain freshness.
How long do Cinnamon Raisin Muffins last and what are storage tips?
These muffins last 2 days at room temperature, 5 days in the fridge, or 3 months in the freezer. Use airtight containers to prevent staleness, and for freezing, wrap individually. Reheat in the oven for best texture, and inspect for signs of spoilage to ensure they’re safe to eat.
What tips can help me get the best results with this recipe?
Use fresh ingredients for superior flavor, soak raisins for extra juiciness, and mix batter gently to avoid tough muffins. Preheat the oven properly and don’t overfill the tin. Allow full cooling on a rack to set the structure, enhancing taste and texture for that perfect bakery-style result.