Eggnog Muffin Recipe

Imagine the warm, golden-brown tops of freshly baked eggnog muffins, their delicate, nutmeg-infused aroma filling your kitchen. The soft, moist texture melts in your mouth, offering a comforting embrace on chilly mornings.

These muffins are my go-to during the holiday season when the hustle and bustle can be overwhelming.

Just last December, a batch of these delightful treats saved our family breakfast when unexpected guests arrived early. Their festive flavor and quick preparation make them perfect for busy weeknights or leisurely Sunday brunches.

Whether you’re looking to impress visitors or simply treat yourself, these eggnog muffins are a deliciously easy option. Ready? Let’s cook!

Why You’ll Love It

• Delivers bold flavor with a festive eggnog and spice blend.
• Uses pantry staples, making it convenient and easy to prepare.
• Freezes beautifully, allowing for make-ahead holiday breakfasts.
• Offers versatile enjoyment for breakfast or a holiday treat.
• Requires minimal prep, perfect for busy holiday mornings.

Ingredients

• 2 cups all-purpose flour — sift for best texture.
• 1/2 cup granulated sugar — white sugar works best.
• 1 tablespoon baking powder — verify it’s fresh for ideal rise.
• 1/2 teaspoon salt — regular table salt is fine.
• 1 teaspoon ground nutmeg — freshly ground adds more flavor.
• 1 cup eggnog — use full-fat for richer muffins.
• 1/2 cup unsalted butter, melted — cool slightly before using.
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract — pure extract preferred.
• 2 large eggs — at room temperature.
• 1/4 teaspoon ground cinnamon — optional for extra spice.

Step-by-Step Method

Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C). Line a muffin tin with muffin liners to guarantee easy removal of the muffins after baking. This step sets the stage for a smooth baking process and prevents sticking.

Mix Dry Ingredients

In a mixing bowl, whisk together the flour, sugar, baking powder, salt, and nutmeg. Confirm the ingredients are evenly combined to create a uniform base for your batter. This mixture provides structure and sweetness to your muffins.

Combine Wet Ingredients

In a separate bowl, combine the eggnog, melted butter, vanilla extract, and eggs. Whisk these ingredients until they’re fully integrated, confirming a smooth and consistent mixture. This will add moisture and richness to the muffins.

Blend Wet & Dry

Pour the wet ingredients into the dry ingredients. Stir the mixture until just combined, taking care not to overmix. Overmixing can lead to dense muffins, so aim for a slightly lumpy batter.

Fill the Muffin Cups

Divide the batter evenly among the muffin cups in the prepared tin. Filling each cup about two-thirds full will allow the muffins to rise without overflowing. This guarantees uniformity in size and shape.

Bake Muffins

Place the muffin tin in the preheated oven. Bake for 18-20 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center of a muffin comes out clean. This baking time guarantees the muffins are cooked through and have a golden-brown top.

Cool & Transfer

Allow the muffins to cool in the tin for 5 minutes. This brief cooling period helps set their structure.

Then, transfer the muffins to a cooling rack to cool completely for an additional 5 minutes, which prevents them from becoming soggy.

Serve & Enjoy

Sprinkle a little powdered sugar or a cinnamon-sugar mix on top of the muffins before serving for a festive touch.

Enjoy these eggnog muffins as a delightful breakfast treat or snack. The combination of spices and eggnog creates a warm, seasonal flavor profile.

Ingredient Swaps

• For a dairy-free version, substitute the eggnog with a non-dairy alternative like almond or soy nog, and replace the butter with a plant-based margarine or coconut oil.
• To make the muffins gluten-free, use a gluten-free all-purpose flour blend instead of regular flour.
• For a lower-sugar option, replace granulated sugar with a sugar substitute like stevia or monk fruit sweetener.

You Must Know

1. Preheat Oven Right: Confirm your oven is preheated to 375°F (190°C) before you start mixing ingredients to help the muffins rise properly.
2. Measure Accurately: Use a measuring cup and measuring spoons set for precise measurements of the flour, sugar, and other ingredients to confirm the perfect muffin texture.
3. Don’t Overmix: Stir the wet and dry ingredients until just combined. Overmixing can result in dense, tough muffins instead of light and fluffy ones.
4. Use Room Temperature Ingredients: Allow the eggnog, eggs, and melted butter to reach room temperature before mixing; this helps them blend better and leads to a more even texture.
5. Cool Properly: After baking, let the muffins cool in the tin for 5 minutes before transferring to a cooling rack.

This prevents them from becoming soggy and confirms they maintain their structure.

Serving Tips

• Serve warm with a pat of butter or a drizzle of honey.
• Pair with a cup of hot coffee or spiced tea.
• Add a sprinkle of powdered sugar for a festive touch.
• Serve alongside a fruit salad for a balanced breakfast.
• Enjoy with a glass of chilled eggnog for a delightful holiday treat.

Storage & Make-Ahead

Eggnog muffins can be stored in the fridge for up to 4 days.

For make-ahead convenience, they can be frozen for up to 3 months.

To freeze, wrap muffins individually in plastic wrap. Place them in an airtight container.

Thaw at room temperature before serving.

Reheating

To gently reheat eggnog muffins, use a microwave for 15-20 seconds.

An oven at 300°F for 5-10 minutes.

Or a stovetop steamer for a few minutes until warm.

Traditional Holiday Treat

As the holiday season approaches, there’s something about the aroma of freshly baked eggnog muffins that instantly evokes the warmth and joy of festive gatherings.

The delightful scent of nutmeg and cinnamon wafts through the kitchen, wrapping me in nostalgia and cheer. Every bite of these muffins brings memories of family traditions and cozy winter mornings spent by the fire, sipping hot cocoa.

The rich, creamy flavor of eggnog is a quintessential holiday treat, transforming an ordinary muffin into a seasonal delight.

Baking them is a cherished ritual, a way to infuse my home with holiday spirit. As I share these muffins with loved ones, they become more than just a treat—they’re a symbol of celebration and togetherness.

Final Thoughts

Why not give these delightful eggnog muffins a try for a cozy breakfast treat?

Feel free to tweak the spice levels to suit your taste or add a festive sprinkle of cinnamon-sugar on top for an extra special touch.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can These Muffins Be Made Gluten-Free?

Absolutely, you can make these muffins gluten-free! I’d suggest substituting the all-purpose flour with a good gluten-free blend. Confirm it contains xanthan gum for better texture. The flavors will still evoke that cozy, festive feeling.

Can I Use a Dairy-Free Substitute for Eggnog?

Absolutely, you can use a dairy-free substitute for eggnog! I’ve tried almond and oat milk-based eggnogs, and they work wonderfully. The muffins stay moist and flavorful, capturing that festive essence without any dairy. Give it a whirl!

How Can I Make These Muffins Vegan?

To make these muffins vegan, I’d swap eggnog with a dairy-free alternative, use flax eggs instead of regular eggs, and replace butter with coconut oil. Trust me, they’ll still capture that festive, comforting aroma you love!

What Is the Nutritional Information per Muffin?

I can’t provide exact nutritional information without analyzing the specific ingredients, but typically, a muffin like this might contain around 200-250 calories, with a mix of carbs, fats, and minimal protein. Adjust ingredients for healthier options!

Can I Add Mix-Ins Like Nuts or Dried Fruit?

Absolutely, you can add mix-ins like chopped nuts or dried fruit to your muffins. I love tossing in a handful of pecans or cranberries for extra texture and flavor. Just fold them in gently before baking.