Plum and Pecan Muffins Recipe

Cook Time: 20 minutes

Ingredients

This recipe was developed at its original yield. Ingredient amounts are automatically adjusted, but cooking times and steps remain unchanged. Note that not all recipes scale perfectly.

Original recipe (1X) yields 12 servings.

• 2 cups all-purpose flour
• 1/2 cup white sugar
• 2 teaspoons baking powder
• 1 teaspoon ground ginger
• 1/2 teaspoon baking soda
• 1 pinch salt
• 1 cup plain Greek yogurt (such as Fage 2%)
• 1/2 cup orange juice
• 2 large eggs
• 1/4 cup melted unsalted butter
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
• 2 cups diced pitted plums
• 1/2 cup chopped pecans

Directions

Step 1: Preheat the oven to 350F (180C). Lightly spray a 12-cup standard muffin tin with cooking spray or line it with paper liners.

Step 2: In a large bowl, mix together the flour, sugar, baking powder, ground ginger, baking soda, and salt until well combined.

Step 3: In a separate bowl, whisk together the yogurt, orange juice, eggs, melted butter, and vanilla extract until smooth and fully combined.

Step 4: Make a well in the center of the dry ingredients. Pour the yogurt mixture into the well and stir just until the batter is combined. Be careful not to overmix.

Step 5: Gently fold in the diced plums and chopped pecans until evenly distributed throughout the batter.

Step 6: Evenly spoon the batter into the prepared muffin tin, filling each cup about 3/4 full.

Step 7: Bake in the preheated oven for 20 to 25 minutes, or until the muffins are golden brown and a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.

Step 8: Allow the muffins to cool in the pan for 5 minutes. Then, transfer them to a wire rack to cool completely.

Cook's Note

If your plums are very sweet, consider reducing the amount of sugar in the recipe to suit your taste.

Nutrition Facts (per serving)

• Calories: 216
• Total Fat: 8g (11% Daily Value)
• Saturated Fat: 3g (15% Daily Value)
• Cholesterol: 42mg (14% Daily Value)
• Sodium: 165mg (7% Daily Value)
• Total Carbohydrate: 30g (11% Daily Value)
• Dietary Fiber: 1g (5% Daily Value)
• Total Sugars: 13g
• Protein: 6g (12% Daily Value)
• Vitamin C: 8mg (9% Daily Value)
• Calcium: 81mg (6% Daily Value)
• Iron: 1mg (8% Daily Value)
• Potassium: 147mg (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.

Nutrition information is not available for all ingredients. The values are based on available nutrient data.

Plum and Pecan Muffins are a delightful blend of sweet and savory, offering a refreshing departure from traditional muffin recipes. The unique combination of ripe plums and crunchy pecans, paired with the warm, aromatic flavor of ground ginger, makes this treat a perfect choice for breakfast, brunch, or an afternoon snack. But how did this mouthwatering recipe come to be, and what sets it apart from other similar baked goods? Let's explore the origins, regional variations, and interesting facts about these delectable muffins.

History of Plum and Pecan Muffins

The origins of muffins date back to early English and American baking traditions, with recipes evolving over time. While traditional muffins often focused on simple ingredients like flour, sugar, and eggs, the addition of fruits and nuts became a popular way to enhance flavor and texture. In the case of Plum and Pecan Muffins, this recipe likely emerged in the late 20th century when creative bakers began experimenting with incorporating seasonal fruits and local nuts into their baked goods. The plum, a fruit with deep historical roots in various cultures, combined with pecansa staple nut in North Americagives this muffin a distinctive taste profile that stands out in the world of quick breads.

Regional Variations

Although Plum and Pecan Muffins are popular in many parts of the United States, the use of plums and pecans in baked goods is particularly common in the southern regions. Pecans, native to the southeastern United States, have been a beloved ingredient in Southern cooking for centuries. Plums, on the other hand, are grown in various climates across the country, making them a versatile fruit that can be used in both sweet and savory dishes. In some regional variations, bakers may swap out the pecans for other nuts, like walnuts or almonds, depending on whats locally available. Similarly, the plums could be substituted with other fruits like peaches or berries, giving the muffins a personal touch while still maintaining their seasonal charm.

How Plum and Pecan Muffins Differ from Similar Dishes

At first glance, Plum and Pecan Muffins might seem similar to other fruit-based muffins, such as blueberry or banana nut muffins. However, what sets them apart is the specific flavor combination of the tart plum and the rich, buttery pecans. The plums bring a juicy sweetness with a slight tang, while the pecans provide a crunchy contrast that complements the soft muffin texture. Additionally, the inclusion of ground ginger adds a subtle warmth that elevates the overall flavor profile, making these muffins more complex than your average fruit muffin. The use of Greek yogurt and orange juice as base ingredients also contributes to a moist texture and a delicate citrus undertone that distinguishes this recipe from others.

Where to Serve Plum and Pecan Muffins

Plum and Pecan Muffins are incredibly versatile and can be served in a variety of settings. They make an excellent addition to a breakfast spread or a brunch buffet, where their colorful appearance and unique flavor will impress guests. The muffins are also perfect as an afternoon snack with a cup of tea or coffee, offering a satisfying balance of sweetness and nuttiness. For a more festive occasion, such as a holiday gathering or a family celebration, these muffins can be served as part of a larger assortment of baked goods. The seasonal nature of plums makes them particularly popular during late summer and early fall when plums are at their peak ripeness.

Interesting Facts about Plum and Pecan Muffins

Here are some fun and intriguing facts about these muffins:

• The combination of plums and pecans is not only delicious but also nutritious. Plums are a great source of vitamins C and K, while pecans provide healthy fats and protein.
• Plums belong to the stone fruit family, which also includes cherries, apricots, and peaches. These fruits have been cultivated for thousands of years and are known for their sweet and tangy flavor.
• Pecans are native to North America and have been used in Native American cooking for centuries. They are one of the few nuts native to the U.S. and have become a symbol of Southern cuisine.
• Plum and Pecan Muffins can be made in advance and stored in an airtight container for up to three days, making them a convenient option for meal prepping or taking on the go.

Whether you're a fan of fruit-based treats or simply looking for a new muffin recipe to try, Plum and Pecan Muffins are sure to be a hit. The blend of tart plums, crunchy pecans, and warm spices creates a delightful snack that is as enjoyable to make as it is to eat. Try them out, and you might just discover a new favorite!

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