Prep: 15 mins | Cook: 20 mins – 25 mins | Difficulty: Medium | Serves: 6 |
kcal | fat | saturates | carbs |
265 | 12g | 7g | 36g |
sugars | fibre | protein | salt |
18g | 1g | 5g | 0.2g |
If you ask me about a recipe that captivates both my love for simplicity and my Southern culinary roots, the answer has to be Thimbleberry Muffins. Something about those vibrant, juicy berries nestled inside a fluffy, tender muffin brings back the comforting warmth of my Texan childhood. Cooking has always been a link to my roots- it’s my homage to both the hearty Tex-Mex flavors of my upbringing and the modern gourmet dishes I’ve come to appreciate.
A Flavor-packed Journey to Your Kitchen
One bite into these Thimbleberry Muffins, and you’ll be transported into a mosaic of flavors. Imagine a light, buttery crumb highlighted with a hint of pure vanilla and enriched with the fresh, tangy sweetness of thimbleberries. Each ingredient comes together in perfect harmony to transport you to a sun-drenched day in beautiful Texas.
The recipe itself is straightforward- much like a lot of good-old Southern baking- and similar to a traditional muffin recipe. But it’s the addition of fresh thimbleberries that makes it stand out. It’s a wonderful twist on staples like blueberry muffins.
Healthful Indulgence
While the muffins are a delightful treat any time of day, these Thimbleberry Muffins hold within them a multitude of health benefits, too. Thimbleberries are known to be a rich source of dietary fibers, vitamins C and K, iron and calcium. Combined with milk and eggs, you have a nutritious treat that can be savored guilt-free. A dusting of powdered sugar on top adds just the right amount of sweetness, inviting you to take a sumptuous bite.
If you’re planning a brunch or potluck, these muffins would pair perfectly with something savory, like a homemade smoky bacon or a Spanish tortilla. The recipe is versatile enough to fit into any meal, from breakfast to dessert, making it a favorite in my household.
Thimbleberry Muffins have rapidly become a favorite recipe of mine. This humble muffin has allowed me to marry my Texas culinary traditions with my passion as a gourmet cook, creating an enduring symbol of my past and my present. I hope you’ll enjoy it as much as I do.
What You’ll Need
- 1 and 1/2 cups all-purpose flour
- 2 teaspoons baking powder
- 1/4 teaspoon baking soda
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 2/3 cup granulated sugar
- 1/2 cup unsalted butter, melted
- 2 large eggs
- 1 teaspoon pure vanilla extract
- 1/2 cup whole milk
- 1 and 1/2 cups fresh thimbleberries
- 1 tablespoon powdered sugar (for topping, optional)
Method
Step One
Firstly, preheat your oven to 350 degrees Fahrenheit and line a muffin tin with liners or grease with butter.
Step Two
In a large bowl, combine 1 and 1/2 cups all-purpose flour, 2 teaspoons baking powder, 1/4 teaspoon baking soda and 1/2 teaspoon salt. Mix until all ingredients are well combined.
Step Three
In a separate bowl, whisk together 2/3 cup granulated sugar and 1/2 cup melted unsalted butter until smooth. Add 2 large eggs, one at a time, making sure each one is mixed in completely before adding the next, then stir in 1 teaspoon pure vanilla extract.
Step Four
Next, gradually blend in the dry ingredients into the wet mixture, alternating with 1/2 cup whole milk until the batter is smooth and thoroughly mixed.
Step Five
Gently fold in 1 and 1/2 cups fresh thimbleberries into the batter, trying not to break the berries. Divide the batter evenly between the prepared muffin tin.
Step Six
Bake in the preheated oven for 20-25 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the middle of the muffins comes out clean.
Step Seven
Allow the muffins to cool in the tin for about 5 minutes before transferring them to a wire rack to cool completely. Dust muffins with a 1 tablespoon of powdered sugar if desired.
Step Eight
Enjoy your freshly baked Thimbleberry Muffins!