Plum Muffins Recipe

Cook Time: 25 minutes

This recipe yields 12 servings and can be enjoyed fresh or stored for later. It combines the sweet tartness of plums with the crunch of toasted almonds, making it a perfect treat for any time of day.

Ingredients

• 2 cups all-purpose flour
• 1 cup white sugar
• 2 teaspoons baking powder
• 1 teaspoon baking soda
• 1/4 teaspoon ground nutmeg
• 1/2 teaspoon ground ginger
• 1/2 teaspoon salt
• 2 large eggs
• 1/2 cup milk
• 1/4 teaspoon almond extract
• 1/2 cup melted unsalted butter
• 2 cups chopped plums
• 1/3 cup lightly toasted chopped almonds
• 3 tablespoons minced candied ginger (optional)

Directions

1. Preheat your oven to 400F (200C) and line a 12-cup muffin tin with paper liners.
2. In a medium bowl, whisk together the flour, sugar, baking powder, baking soda, nutmeg, ground ginger, and salt. Set aside.
3. In another bowl or measuring cup, whisk the eggs, milk, and almond extract until combined. Gradually add the melted butter, continuing to whisk until fully incorporated.
4. Pour the egg mixture into the flour mixture. Stir gently until the dry ingredients are just moistened. Be careful not to overmix.
5. Fold in the chopped plums and toasted almonds.
6. Divide the batter evenly among the 12 muffin cups. If using, sprinkle the candied ginger on top of each muffin.
7. Bake the muffins for 23 to 25 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean and the tops spring back when lightly pressed.
8. Remove the muffins from the oven and let them cool in the tin for 5 to 10 minutes. Transfer them to a wire rack to cool completely.
9. Serve the muffins warm or at room temperature. Store any leftovers in an airtight for up to 2-3 days, or freeze for longer storage.

Nutrition Facts (per serving)

• Calories: 259
• Total Fat: 11g (14% Daily Value)
• Saturated Fat: 5g (27% Daily Value)
• Cholesterol: 52mg (17% Daily Value)
• Sodium: 309mg (13% Daily Value)
• Total Carbohydrate: 37g (14% Daily Value)
• Dietary Fiber: 1g (5% Daily Value)
• Total Sugars: 20g
• Protein: 5g (9% Daily Value)
• Vitamin C: 3mg (3% Daily Value)
• Calcium: 78mg (6% Daily Value)
• Iron: 1mg (8% Daily Value)
• Potassium: 118mg (3% Daily Value)

* Percent Daily Values are based on a 2,000 calorie diet. Your daily values may be higher or lower depending on your calorie needs.

The Story Behind Plum Muffins

Plum muffins have a rich history that traces back to the broader tradition of fruit-based baked goods in Europe and North America. The use of fresh plums in pastries dates to the 18th century, when plums were a seasonal delicacy prized for their sweet-tart flavor. Early European bakers incorporated plums into cakes and muffins, pairing them with almonds or spices to create a balance of textures and tastes. Over time, this practice migrated to the United States, where seasonal plum harvests inspired home bakers to develop their own muffin recipes, culminating in the moist, fruit-filled versions popular today.

Regional Variations

Plum muffins exhibit subtle regional differences depending on local ingredients and traditions. In the United States, they often feature almonds and candied ginger for a slightly spicy, nutty flavor. In Central and Eastern Europe, recipes may lean more heavily on spices like nutmeg or cinnamon and occasionally use plum preserves instead of fresh fruit. Some regions in Germany and Poland enjoy denser, bread-like plum muffins, while American-style versions tend to be lighter, fluffier, and sweeter, reflecting regional preferences for texture and sweetness.

How Plum Muffins Differ from Similar Treats

While plum muffins may resemble other fruit muffins, such as blueberry or apple varieties, they stand out due to their unique sweet-tart balance and slightly soft, juicy texture. The addition of almonds and optional candied ginger provides extra complexity that differentiates them from simpler fruit muffins. Unlike traditional pound cakes or plum tarts, plum muffins offer an individual serving size and a portable, casual way to enjoy seasonal plums, making them a versatile snack or breakfast option.

Where Plum Muffins Are Typically Served

Plum muffins are commonly enjoyed as a breakfast treat, afternoon snack, or accompaniment to tea or coffee. Cafs and bakeries often feature them during late summer and early fall when fresh plums are in season. They are also popular at brunch tables, potlucks, and holiday gatherings, offering a colorful and flavorful alternative to standard muffins or sweet breads.

Interesting Facts

• Plums used in muffins not only add natural sweetness but also provide moisture, which reduces the need for excessive butter or sugar.
• Adding a small amount of candied ginger enhances the flavor profile and helps preserve the muffin slightly longer.
• Plum muffins are a great way to use overripe plums, which might otherwise go to waste, turning them into a deliciously soft and flavorful treat.
• Almonds paired with plums reflect a centuries-old European baking tradition, where nuts were used to complement the natural tartness of fruits.
• Plum muffins can be adapted with different types of plums, from dark red to yellow varieties, each offering a slightly different sweetness and color.

FAQ about Plum Muffins Recipe