Ingredients

For the Muffins:

• Medium eggs: 2
• Cane sugar: 125g
• Sunflower seed oil: 80ml
• Vanilla extract: 1 tablespoon
• Salt: A pinch
• Milk: 100ml
• All-purpose flour: Approximately 400g
• Baking powder: 7g

For the Glaze:

• Water: Equal parts with sugar
• Sugar: Equal parts with water

Preparation Details

• Prep Time: 15 minutes
• Cooking Time: 20 minutes
• Total Time: 35 minutes
• Servings: 12 muffins
• Calories (per muffin): Approximately 180 kcal

Step-by-Step Instructions

Step 1: Preheat the Oven

1. Preheat your oven to 180°C (350°F).
2. Line a muffin tin with paper liners or lightly grease the tin with butter or sunflower seed oil to ensure the muffins don’t stick.

Step 2: Prepare the Wet Ingredients

1. Whisk the Eggs and Sugar:
   In a large mixing bowl, crack the two eggs and whisk them lightly. Add the cane sugar and continue whisking until the mixture turns pale and fluffy, indicating the sugar has dissolved into the eggs.
2. Add Oil and Vanilla:
   Gradually pour in the sunflower seed oil while whisking. This step helps create a smooth, emulsified mixture. Add the vanilla extract and mix well to infuse the batter with a fragrant, aromatic flavor.
3. Incorporate the Milk:
   Slowly pour in the milk while whisking continuously. This step ensures the wet ingredients are fully combined, creating a silky base for the batter.

Step 3: Mix the Dry Ingredients

1. Sift the Flour and Baking Powder:
   In a separate bowl, sift together the all-purpose flour, baking powder, and a pinch of salt. Sifting aerates the flour, ensuring lighter muffins and removing any lumps.

Step 4: Combine Wet and Dry Ingredients

1. Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet mixture, folding gently with a spatula or wooden spoon. Be careful not to overmix—stop stirring as soon as there are no visible streaks of flour. Overmixing can result in dense muffins.
2. The batter should be thick but smooth. If it feels too thick, add a splash of milk to loosen it slightly.

Step 5: Fill the Muffin Tin

1. Using a spoon or an ice cream scoop, evenly distribute the batter into the prepared muffin tin. Fill each cup about two-thirds full to leave room for the muffins to rise as they bake.

Step 6: Bake the Muffins

1. Place the muffin tin in the preheated oven and bake for 15-20 minutes.
2. Check for doneness around the 15-minute mark by inserting a toothpick into the center of a muffin. If it comes out clean or with a few crumbs, the muffins are ready. They should have a light golden color on top.

Step 7: Prepare the Glaze

1. While the muffins are baking, prepare a simple glaze by mixing equal parts water and sugar in a small saucepan.
2. Heat the mixture gently, stirring until the sugar dissolves completely. Remove from heat and let cool slightly.

Step 8: Cool and Glaze

1. Once the muffins are baked, remove them from the oven and allow them to cool in the tin for about 5 minutes.
2. Transfer the muffins to a wire rack. While they are still warm, brush the tops with the sugar glaze using a pastry brush. This step adds a glossy shine and a hint of sweetness to the muffins.

Why This Recipe is Timeless

Fluffy Vanilla Muffins with a Simple Sugar Glaze are timeless because of their versatility, simplicity, and universal appeal. Muffins have long been a staple in kitchens around the world, beloved for their ability to transform simple ingredients into a satisfying treat.

This recipe, with its emphasis on vanilla and a light glaze, offers a classic flavor profile that never goes out of style. The muffins are quick to make, adaptable to various add-ins, and perfect for any occasion. Whether served warm out of the oven or packed for a picnic, they always deliver on flavor and texture.

Nutrition Facts (Per Muffin)

• Calories: 180 kcal
• Protein: 3g
• Fat: 8g
• Carbohydrates: 25g
• Sugar: 12g
• Fiber: 1g

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

1. Can I substitute the sunflower seed oil?
Yes, you can use vegetable oil, canola oil, or melted butter as alternatives.

2. What if I don’t have cane sugar?
Granulated white sugar or light brown sugar can be used as substitutes.

3. Can I make these muffins dairy-free?
Absolutely! Replace the milk with almond milk, oat milk, or any plant-based alternative.

4. How can I add variety to this recipe?
You can mix in chocolate chips, blueberries, chopped nuts, or a sprinkle of cinnamon for extra flavor.

Tips for Success

1. Room Temperature Ingredients:
   Ensure all wet ingredients, like eggs and milk, are at room temperature. This helps create a smoother batter.
2. Don’t Overmix:
   Overmixing the batter can develop gluten, leading to dense muffins. Mix just until the ingredients are combined.
3. Even Baking:
   Rotate the muffin tin halfway through baking to ensure the muffins cook evenly.
4. Glazing While Warm:
   Brushing the muffins with glaze while they’re still warm helps the glaze seep in slightly, enhancing the flavor and texture.

Storage Tips

• Room Temperature: Store the muffins in an airtight container for up to 2 days.
• Refrigerator: Extend their shelf life by refrigerating them for up to 5 days. Warm them slightly before serving.
• Freezer: Freeze the muffins in a zip-top bag or airtight container for up to 3 months. Thaw at room temperature or reheat in the oven.

Conclusion

Fluffy Vanilla Muffins with a Simple Sugar Glaze are the kind of recipe that makes baking feel magical. With minimal effort, you can create a treat that is light, tender, and bursting with flavor. The warm aroma of vanilla as the muffins bake will fill your kitchen, creating a comforting and inviting atmosphere.

This recipe is timeless because it embraces the beauty of simplicity. The muffins are versatile enough to be a blank canvas for your creativity, while the classic vanilla flavor ensures they’re loved by everyone. The sugar glaze adds a touch of sweetness and elegance, making these muffins suitable for both casual mornings and special celebrations.

So, gather your ingredients, preheat your oven, and get ready to enjoy the satisfaction of baking these delightful muffins. Each bite is a reminder of why home baking is such a cherished tradition. Bon appétit!