Blueberry Banana Cinnamon Muffins
What’s in a Blueberry Banana Cinnamon Muffin? Apart from the obvious, there are many things. Let me list a few. It might give you reason enough to bake some.
A way to begin a new day
There are plenty of breakfast choices. But choosing a well-built muffin can pack a loaded punch to begin your day with. You can add chocolate chips, dried fruits, fresh fruits, nuts, grains, cereals, and a variety of spices. Pretty much anything you like can be added to the batter to wake up those taste buds right before heading out. Choosing the right ingredients can start you off with a nicely fortified breakfast in one compact, easy to travel, loaded with favor, bundle of energy to get you off with a smile.
Begin a conversation
My wife is an adamant critic. For most people it may be too much to handle, a nagging ringing in the ears that would drive any sane man mad. But who ever said I was sane. Fortunately for our relationship, her constant comments are like music to my ears. It makes me think about what she tastes as opposed to what I might taste. Either confirming what I sought out to achieve or having to swallow some pride and make some ever so slight adjustments to the mix. It is all objective, but a way to understanding, development, and appreciation for each other through taste. In essence, she is making me a better chef. Maybe that’s why I chose her to edit my blog. This is my 5th rewrite. Oh what fun!
Easy to make
Muffins are one of the easiest things to make that require little effort, simple ingredients, and minimal tools. All that is required is a basic recipe and your imagination to produce a smile-producing creation.
It also makes you look good at home, office, or play. That’s if you’re willing to share with your friends. And enemies? Who knows perhaps one unpretentious muffin can become a life changing catalyst in your life.
Below are two basic recipes for muffins that are adapted from Wayne Gisslen’s, Professional Baking Fourth Edition. One uses the muffin mixing method the other the muffin creaming method. Try them both out and check see how they compare. It’s a good away to hone your skills and taste experiences.
The original basic muffin method recipe calls for pastry flour. You can use all purpose (AP) flour just remember not to over mix or you will start to develop the gluten making them tougher.
Formula
Method: Muffin
Quantity: Approximately 8 Large Muffins – 12 Small Muffins
Oven Temperature and Cooking Time: 400ºF - about 20-30 minutes
Equipment
Scale
Timer
Whisk - to blend dry ingredients and beat liquid ingredients
Measuring spoons, cups, and liquid measuring cup
Mixing bowl with paddle attachment
Muffin Tins and liners
Cooling Rack
Basic Muffin Formula
Ingredients U.S. Volume
AP Flour 10 oz. 2 cups
Sugar 5 oz. ¾ cups
Baking Powder 5/8 oz. 1 tbsp.
Salt .125 oz. 1 tsp.
Eggs (beaten) 3 oz. 2
Milk 7 oz. 7 oz.
Vanilla Extract ¼ oz. 1 tsp.
Butter (melted) 4 oz. 1 stick
Total weight 1 lbs. 14 oz.
Additions
Cinnamon 1 tbsp.
Maple Syrup 2 tbsp.
Blueberries 1 cup
Banana 1
Oatmeal just to top-off muffins
Procedure:
Macerate blueberries in maple syrup until ready to add to final batter.
Mash up banana and add to final batter.
Add all dry ingredients including cinnamon to a bowl and mix well.
Add the liquid ingredients to a bowl. Then add it to the dry ingredients and mix until all the dry ingredients are moistened.
Add the blueberries, maple syrup, and the mashed banana to the batter and mix until just incorporated.
Fill each muffin tin ¾ full.
Sprinkle some oatmeal and sugar on top of each muffin and bake at 400ºF for about 20-30 minutes.
