Deliciously Simple Basic Walnut Muffin Recipe for Any Occasion

Written by Jessica Lopez.

6 REVIEWS

| 4.5 AVERAGE

Published at 06-10-2022

Edited on 17-02-2025 | 8:34 PM

Baked-Goods Recipes

Course: Breakfast or Snack

Cuisine: American

Difficulty: Easy

Servings

10-12 muffins

Prep Time

25 minutes

Cooking Time

35 minutes

Total Time

1 hour

Fat

18g

Protein

5g

Carbohydrates

55g

Calories

450 kcal

If you're on the hunt for a delightful and easy-to-make treat, look no further than this basic walnut muffin recipe! Perfect for breakfast, brunch, or a cozy afternoon snack, these muffins are a fantastic way to enjoy the rich, nutty flavor of walnuts combined with a soft, fluffy texture. They’re not only simple to whip up but also use pantry staples, making them a go-to recipe for any occasion. Whether you’re a baking novice or a seasoned pro, these muffins will impress your family and friends alike.

Imagine waking up to the warm aroma of freshly baked muffins wafting through your kitchen. The best part? You can customize this basic walnut muffin recipe to suit your taste. Add chocolate chips for a sweet twist, or throw in some dried fruits for an extra burst of flavor.

The versatility of this recipe means you can easily adapt it to fit any dietary preferences or occasions. In just a few easy steps, you’ll have a batch of golden, nutty muffins ready to enjoy. Serve them warm with a pat of butter and a drizzle of honey, or enjoy them as is for a satisfying snack.

These muffins are not only delicious but also packed with nutrients from the walnuts, making them a guilt-free indulgence. So, preheat your oven and get ready to bake a batch of these irresistible walnut muffins that will surely become a family favorite!.

Essential Ingredients of basic walnut muffin recipe

  • All-purpose flour: 2 cups (250g)

  • Granulated sugar: 1 cup (200g)

  • Baking powder: 2 teaspoons

  • Salt: 1/2 teaspoon

  • Ground cinnamon: 1 teaspoon

  • Unsalted butter: 1/2 cup (115g), melted

  • Eggs: 2 large

  • Milk: 1 cup (240ml)

  • Vanilla extract: 1 teaspoon

  • Chopped walnuts: 1 cup (120g)

Measurement Units of basic walnut muffin recipe

  • 2 cups all-purpose flour

  • 1 cup granulated sugar

  • 1 tablespoon baking powder

  • 1/2 teaspoon salt

  • 1/2 cup unsalted butter, melted

  • 1 cup milk

  • 2 large eggs

  • 1 teaspoon vanilla extract

  • 1 cup chopped walnuts

Step by Step Instructions For basic walnut muffin recipe

  • Step - 1

    Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and prepare a muffin tin by lining it with paper liners or greasing it with cooking spray to ensure easy removal of your delicious muffins later.

  • Step - 2

    In a large mixing bowl, cream together 1/2 cup of softened unsalted butter and 1 cup of granulated sugar until the mixture is light and fluffy. This step is crucial as it incorporates air into the batter, giving your muffins a lovely rise.

  • Step - 3

    Add 2 large eggs, one at a time, to the butter and sugar mixture, mixing well after each addition. This helps to create a smooth batter and ensures that the eggs are fully incorporated for a rich flavor.

  • Step - 4

    Stir in 1 teaspoon of vanilla extract and 1 cup of buttermilk or yogurt, mixing until well combined. The acidity of the buttermilk adds moisture and tenderness, making your muffins soft and fluffy.

  • Step - 5

    In a separate bowl, whisk together 1 1/2 cups of all-purpose flour, 1 teaspoon of baking powder, 1/2 teaspoon of baking soda, and 1/4 teaspoon of salt. This step ensures that your baking powder and baking soda are evenly distributed throughout the flour, which is key for a uniform rise.

  • Step - 6

    Slowly add the dry ingredients to the wet mixture, mixing on low speed until just combined. Be careful not to overmix, as this can make your muffins dense. The batter should be thick and smooth, with a few lumps remaining.

  • Step - 7

    Fold in 1 cup of chopped walnuts gently using a spatula. This adds a delightful crunch and a nutty flavor to your muffins, making each bite a treat.

  • Step - 8

    Spoon the batter into the prepared muffin tin, filling each cup about two-thirds full. This allows room for the muffins to rise beautifully without overflowing.

  • Step - 9

    Bake in the preheated oven for 18-20 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center of a muffin comes out clean. The aroma of baking walnuts will fill your kitchen, making it hard to resist waiting.

  • Step - 10

    Once baked, remove the muffins from the oven and let them cool in the tin for about 5 minutes before transferring them to a wire rack to cool completely. This step helps maintain their fluffy texture while preventing sogginess.

Additional Notes of basic walnut muffin recipe

  • Use room-temperature ingredients for a smoother batter. This helps the butter and sugar to cream together more effectively, resulting in a lighter muffin.

  • Do not overmix to avoid a dense cake. Mix just until the dry ingredients are incorporated; a few lumps are perfectly fine.

  • Consider toasting the walnuts lightly before adding them to the batter. This enhances their flavor and adds a delightful crunch to your muffins.

  • For added moisture, you can substitute half of the milk with yogurt or sour cream. This will give your muffins a tender crumb.

  • If you prefer sweeter muffins, feel free to increase the sugar by 1/4 cup. Alternatively, you can add chocolate chips or dried fruits for a twist.

  • Always preheat your oven to ensure even baking. An oven thermometer can help you verify the temperature.

  • Let the muffins cool in the pan for about 5 minutes before transferring them to a wire rack. This prevents them from becoming soggy.

Special Equipment of basic walnut muffin recipe

  • Electric mixer (hand or stand)

  • Mixing bowls

  • Muffin tin

  • Measuring cups

  • Measuring spoons

  • Cooling rack

Expert Chef Tips of basic walnut muffin recipe

  • To ensure your walnut muffins are light and fluffy, avoid overmixing the batter. Mix just until combined for the best texture.

  • For an extra nutty flavor, toast the walnuts in a dry skillet for a few minutes before adding them to the batter.

  • If you prefer a sweeter muffin, consider adding a bit of cinnamon or nutmeg to the dry ingredients.

  • Make sure all your ingredients are at room temperature; this helps the batter mix evenly and rise better.

  • Experiment with different mix-ins like chocolate chips or dried fruit to keep this recipe exciting.

Ingredient Sourcing and Quality Tips of basic walnut muffin recipe

  • Flour: Choose unbleached all-purpose flour for a richer texture and better flavor.

  • Walnuts: Look for fresh, high-quality walnuts. Check for a nutty aroma and avoid any that are overly bitter.

  • Sugar: Use organic granulated sugar for a cleaner taste and better quality.

  • Eggs: Select organic eggs for better flavor and to support humane farming practices.

  • Butter: Opt for European-style butter, which has a higher fat content, resulting in richer muffins.

Dietary Considerations of basic walnut muffin recipe

  • Walnut muffins are a great source of healthy fats due to the walnuts, making them heart-friendly.

  • These muffins can be easily adapted for those following a gluten-free diet by using almond flour or gluten-free all-purpose flour.

  • For those watching their sugar intake, consider substituting sugar with natural sweeteners like honey or maple syrup.

  • Walnuts are rich in omega-3 fatty acids, which are essential for brain health and can help reduce inflammation.

  • If you're following a vegan diet, you can replace eggs with flaxseed meal mixed with water or applesauce for moisture.

  • This recipe can be made dairy-free by using almond milk or coconut milk in place of regular milk.

  • Walnuts are also a good source of protein, making these muffins a satisfying snack or breakfast option.

  • For those with nut allergies, consider using seeds like pumpkin or sunflower seeds for a similar crunch without the allergens.

  • These muffins can be made lower in calories by reducing the amount of oil or butter used in the recipe.

  • Adding fruits like banana or applesauce to the batter can enhance flavor and provide additional moisture without extra fat.

  • If you're looking to add fiber to your diet, consider incorporating whole wheat flour into your muffin mix.

  • These muffins can be enjoyed in moderation as part of a balanced diet, making them a versatile snack option.

  • For those tracking carbohydrates, using almond flour can lower the carb content significantly compared to traditional flour.

  • You can boost the nutritional profile by adding ingredients like chia seeds or flaxseeds to the batter.

  • Walnut muffins are suitable for meal prep, allowing you to have healthy snacks on hand throughout the week.

My Review On basic walnut muffin recipe

If you’re looking for a simple yet delicious treat, the basic walnut muffin recipe is a game changer! These muffins are moist, fluffy, and packed with the satisfying crunch of walnuts. They make for a perfect breakfast option or a delightful snack anytime. The beauty of this recipe lies in its simplicity; with just a few ingredients like flour, sugar, eggs, and, of course, walnuts, you can whip up a batch in no time. The rich, nutty flavor of the walnuts complements the sweet muffin base beautifully, making each bite a joy. Plus, these muffins are incredibly versatile—you can add chocolate chips or dried fruits for an extra twist! Whether enjoyed warm from the oven or stored for later, these walnut muffins are sure to impress family and friends. Baking them fills your kitchen with a warm, inviting aroma that’s hard to resist. Give this recipe a try, and you’ll have a delightful treat that’s perfect for any occasion!

Related Dishes of basic walnut muffin recipe

  • Carrot Cake: A spiced, moist cake topped with cream cheese frosting that complements the nutty flavor of walnut muffins.

  • Classic Pound Cake: Dense, buttery, and perfect with fruit toppings, it makes a delightful pairing with the rich taste of walnuts.

  • Banana Bread: This sweet, moist bread with ripe bananas creates a wonderful contrast to the crunchy walnuts in your muffins.

  • Chocolate Chip Cookies: These classic treats offer a chewy texture and sweetness that balances the nuttiness of walnut muffins.

  • Zucchini Bread: A moist, subtly sweet bread that pairs well with the earthy flavor of walnuts, making a perfect breakfast combo.

  • Blueberry Scones: Flaky and bursting with juicy blueberries, these scones make an excellent addition to a muffin spread.

  • Lemon Drizzle Cake: Bright and zesty, this cake adds a refreshing contrast to the rich flavor of walnut muffins.

Authoritative Cookbooks or Chefs of basic walnut muffin recipe

The Muffin Book

by M. J. McGowan

Baked: New Frontiers in Baking

by Matt Lewis and Renato Poliafito

Cultural and Historical Context of basic walnut muffin recipe

Walnut muffins have a rich history that reflects the evolution of baking in American kitchens. Originating from early European baking traditions, muffins were initially considered a breakfast food in the 18th century. As American settlers embraced these versatile treats, they began experimenting with local ingredients, leading to the incorporation of nuts like walnuts. By the 19th century, the muffin gained popularity in American households, especially as home baking became a beloved pastime. Today, walnut muffins are cherished for their delightful flavor and texture, making them a staple in many homes across the country.

Frequently Asked Questions About basic walnut muffin recipe

What ingredients do I need for basic walnut muffins?

You will need all-purpose flour, sugar, baking powder, salt, milk, eggs, vegetable oil, and chopped walnuts. Optional ingredients include vanilla extract and cinnamon for added flavor.

Can I use unsalted butter instead of oil in walnut muffins?

Yes, you can substitute unsalted butter for vegetable oil. Melt the butter and let it cool slightly before mixing it with the other wet ingredients for a rich flavor.

How do I store leftover walnut muffins?

Store leftover walnut muffins in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days. For longer storage, freeze them in a freezer-safe bag for up to 3 months.

Can I add chocolate chips to walnut muffins?

Absolutely! Adding chocolate chips can enhance the flavor. Fold in about 1/2 cup of semi-sweet or dark chocolate chips along with the walnuts for a delicious twist.

What can I substitute for eggs in walnut muffins?

You can use applesauce, mashed bananas, or flaxseed meal mixed with water as egg substitutes. Use 1/4 cup of applesauce or 1/4 cup of mashed banana per egg.

How do I know when my walnut muffins are done baking?

Insert a toothpick into the center of a muffin; if it comes out clean or with a few crumbs, they are done. Baking usually takes about 18-20 minutes at 350°F (175°C).

Can I make walnut muffins gluten-free?

Yes, you can use a gluten-free all-purpose flour blend in place of regular flour. Ensure that the blend contains xanthan gum for proper texture.

What is the best way to chop walnuts for muffins?

Chop walnuts using a sharp knife or a food processor. Aim for small, even pieces to distribute them evenly throughout the batter without overpowering the muffins.

How can I make my walnut muffins more moist?

To make muffins more moist, consider adding a bit of sour cream or yogurt to the batter. Additionally, avoid overmixing to prevent dense muffins.

Can I use other nuts instead of walnuts?

Yes, you can substitute walnuts with pecans, almonds, or hazelnuts. Each nut will bring its unique flavor and texture to the muffins.

Reviews of basic walnut muffin recipe

Emily Johnson

These walnut muffins turned out perfectly! The texture was light and fluffy, and the walnuts added a lovely crunch. I enjoyed them fresh out of the oven. Will definitely make again for my weekend brunch!

★★★★★

Michael Smith

I found this recipe easy to follow. The muffins rose beautifully and had a delightful nutty flavor. I added a sprinkle of cinnamon for extra warmth. Overall, a solid recipe that I’ll keep in my rotation.

★★★★

Sarah Brown

These muffins were a hit with my family! They loved the walnut pieces and the moistness of the muffins. I did reduce the sugar slightly, and they still tasted great. Perfect for breakfast or a snack!

★★★★★

David Wilson

I was a bit disappointed with the texture; they came out a little dense for my liking. However, the flavor was spot on! Next time, I might try adding some banana for moisture. Overall, a decent recipe.

★★★

Jessica Taylor

Absolutely loved these walnut muffins! They were easy to whip up and made my kitchen smell amazing. I added chocolate chips for a twist, and they were a delicious treat. Will definitely bake again!

★★★★★

Robert Martinez

The muffins were good, but I found them a bit too sweet for my taste. I think I’ll cut back on the sugar next time. The walnuts were a nice touch, though, and the recipe was straightforward to follow.

★★★★
Hi! I’m Jessica Lopez

Jessica Lopez is a passionate home cook, food enthusiast, and storyteller who believes that food is more than just nourishment—it’s an experience. Through her blog, she shares recipes, culinary adventures, and inspiration to help others explore new flavors and embrace the joy of cooking. Whether experimenting with ingredients, recreating family favorites, or discovering global cuisines, Jessica’s mission is to connect people through the art of food, one delicious dish at a time.