Why You’ll Love this Sweet Potato Muffins Recipe
If you’re looking for a delicious and nutritious treat, you’ll absolutely love this sweet potato muffins recipe. I can’t get enough of these muffins! They’re not only packed with flavor but also loaded with nutrients from the sweet potatoes.
When you bite into one, you’ll experience a delightful mix of spices like cinnamon and nutmeg, which make every muffin feel like a warm hug. Plus, the addition of walnuts gives a satisfying crunch that I find irresistible.
I love how easy they’re to make, too! Whether for breakfast, a snack, or dessert, these muffins never disappoint. Trust me, once you try them, you’ll want to bake a batch every week. They’re truly a treat you can feel good about!
Ingredients of Sweet Potato Muffins
When it comes to whipping up a batch of sweet potato muffins, the ingredients are both simple and wholesome. You’ll find that these ingredients come together beautifully, creating that perfect blend of sweet and spiced goodness. Trust me, it’s hard to resist the allure of freshly baked muffins wafting through the kitchen.
So, let’s gather what we need and get ready for some baking fun!
Here’s what you’ll need to make these scrumptious sweet potato muffins:
- 1 1/8 cups packed brown sugar
- 1/2 cup oil
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 2 eggs
- 2 cups all-purpose flour
- 4 cups sweet potatoes, peeled and shredded
- 1/2 cup golden raisins
- 2 teaspoons baking powder
- 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
- 1 teaspoon ground nutmeg
- 1/2 teaspoon allspice
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1 cup walnuts, finely chopped
Now, let’s chat about some of these ingredients. Sweet potatoes are the star of the show here, and they bring a natural sweetness and moisture that makes these muffins so delightful.
If you’ve never shredded sweet potatoes before, don’t worry—it’s easier than it sounds. Just peel them, grab a box grater, and go to town. You might even get a little workout in, or at least feel like you did.
And while I love the crunch that walnuts add, feel free to swap them out for pecans or leave them out altogether if you’re not a fan. Golden raisins are a must because they provide bursts of sweetness that complement the spices beautifully.
How to Make Sweet Potato Muffins
Now that we’ve our ingredients all lined up and ready to go, let’s plunge into the fun part—making those delicious sweet potato muffins. First things first, you’ll want to preheat your oven to a cozy 350 degrees Fahrenheit. This is the magic number where the muffins will rise and bake to perfection.
While that’s warming up, grab your muffin tin and either line it with paper liners or give it a good grease with some oil. Trust me, you don’t want your muffins to stick like that one time I tried to impress my friends with a cake that didn’t want to leave the pan.
In a large mixing bowl, combine 1 1/8 cups packed brown sugar, 1/2 cup oil, and 1 teaspoon vanilla extract. Mix those together until they’re nice and smooth—think of it as giving them a little spa treatment. Then, toss in 2 eggs, and beat them in until everything is well-combined.
Now, in another bowl, whisk together 2 cups all-purpose flour, 2 teaspoons baking powder, 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon, 1 teaspoon ground nutmeg, 1/2 teaspoon allspice, and 1/2 teaspoon salt. Oh, the aroma of those spices! It’s like an invitation to the holiday season.
Next, fold in your 4 cups of shredded sweet potatoes into the dry ingredients, making sure they’re evenly coated. Then, make a little well in the center of your flour mixture and pour in the egg mixture. Gently blend it all together—don’t overmix, or you’ll end up with rubbery muffins, and nobody wants that.
Finally, stir in 1/2 cup golden raisins and 1 cup finely chopped walnuts to add that delightful chew and crunch. Now, spoon the batter into your prepared muffin tin, filling each cup about two-thirds full.
Bake them in the oven for 25 to 30 minutes, or until a toothpick comes out clean. While they bake, you might find yourself pacing around the kitchen, excitedly awaiting the sweet aroma that signals your muffins are ready. And trust me, the anticipation is half the fun.
Enjoy the process, and soon you’ll have a batch of warm, spiced sweet potato muffins to share—or keep all to yourself. No judgment here.
Sweet Potato Muffins Substitutions & Variations
Baking sweet potato muffins opens up a world of delicious possibilities with substitutions and variations that can elevate your creation.
If you’re out of brown sugar, feel free to use white sugar or even maple syrup for a unique twist. For a healthier option, substitute half the oil with unsweetened applesauce.
Want to switch up the nuts? Pecans or almonds work beautifully too. You can also add spices like ginger or cardamom for extra warmth.
If you’re not a fan of raisins, try cranberries or even chocolate chips for a sweeter touch.
Finally, consider adding a scoop of protein powder for a nutritious boost. The options are endless, so get creative and enjoy experimenting!
What to Serve with Sweet Potato Muffins
Ever wondered what pairs perfectly with sweet potato muffins? I’ve found that a dollop of cream cheese or a smear of butter elevates their flavor beautifully.
If you’re looking for something lighter, a drizzle of honey adds a lovely sweetness. For a more substantial pairing, I love serving them alongside a warm bowl of oatmeal or a fresh fruit salad; the contrast is delightful!
If you enjoy a warm beverage, a cup of spiced chai or freshly brewed coffee complements the muffins’ spices perfectly.
For a more festive touch, consider offering some cranberry sauce on the side. These options not only enhance the muffins but also turn your meal into a cozy experience you’ll want to share with friends and family!
Additional Tips & Notes
While making sweet potato muffins, I’ve discovered a few tips that can elevate your baking experience. First, make sure to use freshly shredded sweet potatoes for the best flavor and texture. If you’re short on time, canned sweet potatoes can work, but drain them well.
I also recommend toasting the walnuts before adding them to the batter; it really brings out their natural oils and enhances the flavor. Don’t skip the spices—cinnamon, nutmeg, and allspice add warmth and depth.
If you want to reduce sugar, you can substitute some with applesauce or mashed bananas. Finally, for a touch of sweetness, sprinkle some cinnamon sugar on top before baking. Happy baking!