We've been experiencing the first crisp mornings of fall lately — foggy mornings turn to soft sunlight and the air feels just a little cozier. I can finally justify turning on the oven again! Saturday mornings become slower this time of year, and that’s exactly how I like them. A warm cup of tea, a favorite playlist, and a simple baking project are all I need to begin the day.
That’s where these Hidden Gem Muffins – Fall’s Sweetest Apricot Surprise! come in. They’re soft and golden with a cozy sweetness that’s perfectly at home on a cool autumn morning. Each one hides a spoonful of apricot jam in the center — a small burst of sunshine tucked inside. Theses muffins remind you fall isn’t just a season; it’s a feeling.
Whether you’re baking just for yourself or sharing a batch with someone you love, this small batch of muffins bring a touch of sweetness to even the laziest weekend mornings. And the best part? Change the jam, and you’ve got a new “hidden gem” for every season ahead.
Enjoy!
Ingredients You’ll Need
- Egg – Adds structure and helps the muffins rise beautifully.
- 2% Milk – Keeps the texture soft and moist.
- Canola Oil – Brings a light, tender crumb without heaviness.
- Vanilla Extract – Enhances the sweetness and warmth of the muffins.
- All-Purpose Flour – The base for that classic muffin texture.
- Brown Sugar – Adds depth and a touch of caramel flavor.
- Baking Powder – Ensures a lovely lift.
- Salt – Balances the sweetness and rounds out the flavors.
- Apricot Jam – The sweet surprise tucked inside every muffin.
Substitutions and Variations
One of the best things about these muffins is how easy they are to adapt for the season or your pantry. Swap the apricot jam for any fruit preserve to match the flavor you’re craving:
- Raspberry or Strawberry Jam: Brings a bright, slightly tangy sweetness — perfect for spring mornings.
- Peach or Plum Jam: Adds a rich, juicy warmth that feels summery or late summer.
- Apple Butter, Pumpkin Butter or Fig Jam: Cozy and autumnal, ideal for crisp fall days.
- Lemon Curd or Orange Marmalade: Light and zesty for a cheerful winter or spring twist.
You can also experiment with the batter: try adding a teaspoon of cinnamon or pumpkin spice for an extra layer of seasonal flavor, or fold in a handful of chopped nuts for crunch. Each variation gives the muffins a new personality while keeping that golden, tender base we love.
Kitchen Notes and Tips
- Don’t overmix the batter: Stir just until the flour disappears — a few lumps are fine. Overmixing makes muffins dense.
- Check muffin size: Using a 6-cup muffin tin works best. For smaller muffins, reduce baking time by a few minutes.
- Jam placement: Spoon the jam carefully in the center and cover fully with batter to avoid sinking or spilling during baking.
- Storage: Muffins taste best fresh, but store leftovers in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 2 days, or freeze for up to 1 month. Rewarm gently in the oven or microwave.
- Serving suggestion: Pair with tea or coffee, or enjoy plain with a little butter. These muffins are cozy on their own or part of a larger breakfast spread.
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RECIPE IS DOWN BELOW👇
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