Baking Tips & Hacks

There are so many helpful little tips that can take your baking to the next level. Whether you're a pro baker or just starting out, these are some tips that will be game-changing.

Do Not Overmix. If you want the most delicious-tasting muffins amazing texture - then do not overmix the batter. I know it's tempting, but in order to achieve the desired outcome, it's important to refrain from over mixing your muffin batter. It's usually good to mix until it's just incorporated.

Use Buttermilk or Sour Cream. If you are looking to increase the quality of your batter texture and flavor, then try incorporating these ingredients into your batter. Buttermilk will:

• create a light and airy texture

• help the muffins rise in the oven

• enhance the flavor, creating a more balanced taste by complementing the sweetness

• add moisture

Sour Cream will:

• add moisture

• increase the density of the muffins

• enrich the flavor

DIY Your Muffin Liners. If do not have muffin liners or want to give your muffins that bakery style look, then making your own muffin liners is a great option. It is super quick and easy to make. All you need is parchment paper and a pair of scissors.

First, you should take your parchment paper and cut it into a square.

Then you fold the square into 4ths.

Cut on each line halfway.

Finally, push the square into the tin and fill it with batter.

I love using homemade muffin liners. They are so easy to make and you need very few supplies to make them. Homemaking your muffin liners is a creative alternative to buying them at the store. It is also a great alternative if you run out and are in a hurry.

Toss Your Mix-ins In Flour. If you are adding mix-ins such as blueberries, raspberries, or chocolate chips, toss them in a tablespoon or so of flour to prevent them from sinking to the bottom of the batter while they're baking in the oven.

Add A Crumb Topping. For additional texture and flavor, add a crumb topping. Most crumb toppings are simple to put together and require few ingredients. They add so much deliciousness to the muffin. The crumb topping is usually my favorite part of the muffin. It really enhances the flavor and texture, taking your muffins to the next level.

Here's a very basic recipe for a crumb topping:

• 1 Cup Flour

• 1/3 Cup Powdered Sugar

• 1/2 Cup Unsalted Butter, Melted

This is the crumb topping recipe I used for the raspberry white chocolate muffins. If you want to make those, click here to view the full recipe.

Avoid Using Frozen Fruit Without Thawing. Make sure to thaw and drain your fruit before adding it to the batter. Failing to do so may cause the fruit to release excessive juice, which can make the muffins soggy. Definitely keep that in mind when considering frozen fruit as an add in.

Use a large cookie scoop or an Ice Cream Scoop. When scooping the batter into the tins, using an ice cream scoop or large cookie scoop can allow for even distribution. The muffins will, as a result, bake evenly as well.

Avoid Over-baking. Over-baking can lead to dry crumbly muffins, but underbaking them is not a good idea either. To ensure your muffins are perfectly baked, be sure to stick a toothpick or butter knife at the center to test if the muffins are cooked through.

DIY Muffin Mix - Homemade muffin mixes are the perfect alternative to the store-bought options. They're quick to put together, customizable, and a more affordable option. Click here for the recipe.

Incorporating these hacks will not only make your baking experience easier but also more enjoyable. Don't be afraid to experiment with different hacks. You never know what will stick.