Sweet Potato Muffins are a delicious and nutritious treat that combines the natural sweetness of sweet potatoes with comforting spices and hearty ingredients. These muffins are perfect for breakfast, a snack, or even as a dessert. Making them at home allows you to control the ingredients and ensure that they are as healthy and delicious as possible. With their moist texture and rich flavor, Sweet Potato Muffins can easily become a family favorite.
Why make this recipe
There are several reasons to make Sweet Potato Muffins at home. First, they offer a healthier option compared to traditional muffins, as they incorporate nutritious sweet potatoes. Sweet potatoes are rich in vitamins, minerals, and fiber. They provide a natural sweetness that allows you to use less sugar in the recipe.
Second, these muffins are very versatile. You can enjoy them plain or customize them with nuts and spices. They are also an excellent way to use leftover sweet potatoes, minimizing food waste.
Lastly, baking these muffins fills your home with a warm and inviting aroma. The combination of cinnamon and sweet potatoes creates a comforting atmosphere, making them perfect for cozy mornings or family gatherings.
How to make Sweet Potato Muffins
Making Sweet Potato Muffins is straightforward and fun. In just a little over 30 minutes, you can create a batch of muffins that everyone will love. Follow these simple steps to make your muffins from scratch.
Ingredients in USA and Europe metrics:
- 1 cup mashed sweet potatoes (cooked and cooled) (approximately 240g)
- 2 eggs
- 1/2 cup plain Greek yogurt (120g)
- 1/4 cup olive oil or melted coconut oil (60ml)
- 1/4 cup maple syrup (60ml)
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1 1/2 cups white whole wheat flour (180g)
- 1 teaspoon baking powder
- 1/2 teaspoon baking soda
- 1 teaspoon cinnamon
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
- 1/3 cup chopped walnuts (about 40g)
Directions:
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Start by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). While your oven heats up, prepare a 12-cup muffin tin by lining it with muffin liners or greasing it lightly with oil.
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In a large mixing bowl, take your cooked and cooled mashed sweet potatoes. Add the eggs, Greek yogurt, maple syrup, olive oil or melted coconut oil, and vanilla extract. Whisk these ingredients together until you have a smooth and well-combined mixture.
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Next, add the flour to the bowl. On top of the flour, sprinkle the baking powder, baking soda, cinnamon, and salt. This helps to ensure even distribution of the leavening agents and spices throughout your batter.
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Gently stir the mixture together. Be careful not to overmix; it’s okay if there are a few lumps. This will keep your muffins tender and fluffy.
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Once combined, fold in the chopped walnuts. They add a nice crunch and nutty flavor to the muffins.
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Divide the batter evenly among the muffin cups. Fill each cup about three-quarters full to allow space for the muffins to rise.
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Place the muffin tin in your preheated oven and bake for 18-20 minutes. To check for doneness, insert a toothpick into the center of one muffin. If it comes out clean or with a few moist crumbs, the muffins are ready.
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Let the muffins cool for a few minutes in the tin, then transfer them to a wire rack to cool completely. Enjoy them warm or store them for later.
How to serve Sweet Potato Muffins
Sweet Potato Muffins are versatile in how you can serve them. They are delightful on their own, but you can also enhance their flavor by adding toppings. Consider spreading a little butter or cream cheese over a warm muffin. For a sweeter touch, drizzle some more maple syrup on top. They also pair well with a hot beverage like coffee or tea, making them a comforting choice for breakfast or an afternoon snack.
How to store Sweet Potato Muffins
To keep your Sweet Potato Muffins fresh, store them in an airtight container at room temperature for up to three days. If you want to keep them longer, you can refrigerate them for about a week. To freeze, wrap the muffins individually in plastic wrap and store them in a freezer-safe bag. They can last for up to three months in the freezer. When you’re ready to eat them, simply thaw overnight in the refrigerator or warm them in the microwave for a quick snack.
Tips to make Sweet Potato Muffins
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Use Fresh Sweet Potatoes: For the best flavor, use fresh sweet potatoes. Roast or steam them until soft, then mash them for the recipe.
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Don’t Overmix: Overmixing your batter can lead to dense muffins. Mix just enough to combine the ingredients.
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Spice It Up: Experiment with spices. You can add nutmeg or ginger for an extra kick of flavor.
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Add Other Ingredients: Try adding dried fruits like cranberries or raisins for more texture and sweetness.
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Check Doneness: Use a toothpick to check if the muffins are done. It’s better to check too early than too late to avoid overbaking.
Variation (if any)
Sweet Potato Muffins can be varied in several ways. You can replace walnuts with pecans or almonds for different flavors. Adding chocolate chips can provide a sweet surprise for those who enjoy a sweeter treat. You might also consider a version with shredded coconut or spices like ginger for added depth. Play around with these variations to create your perfect recipe!
FAQs
Can I use canned sweet potatoes?
Yes, you can use canned mashed sweet potatoes, but check for added sugars or preservatives.
Are Sweet Potato Muffins gluten-free?
To make gluten-free muffins, substitute white whole wheat flour with a gluten-free flour blend.
Can I make these muffins vegan?
Yes, you can replace eggs with flaxseed meal or applesauce and use a plant-based yogurt.
How can I make these muffins less sweet?
Reduce the amount of maple syrup slightly, or omit it altogether if you prefer a less sweet muffin.
Nutritional Information (per muffin, makes 12 muffins)
- Calories: 150
- Protein: 4g
- Fat: 6g
- Carbohydrates: 22g
- Fiber: 2g
- Sugar: 5g
Enjoy your Sweet Potato Muffins warm or cold, knowing you have made a nutritious snack that everyone will love!