Are you craving a taste of summer sunshine? These corn muffins, inspired by the legendary Ina Garten, are the perfect answer! Forget dry, crumbly disappointments; this recipe delivers moist, tender muffins bursting with sweet corn flavor. They're incredibly versatile – perfect alongside a hearty breakfast, a light lunch, or as a comforting side to any dinner. Get ready for a simple, delicious recipe that'll become a new family favorite, proving that homemade cooking can be both easy and incredibly rewarding. This is one of those easy recipes that even beginner cooks can master, resulting in a healthy meal the whole family will love.
Ingredients: You'll Need These Simple Staples
- 1 1/2 cups all-purpose flour
- 1/2 cup yellow cornmeal
- 1/2 cup granulated sugar
- 2 teaspoons baking powder
- 1/2 teaspoon baking soda
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
- 1 cup buttermilk
- 1/4 cup vegetable oil
- 1 large egg
- 1 cup fresh or frozen corn kernels (thawed if frozen)
Step-by-Step Instructions: Baking Bliss
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Preheat & Prep: Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). Line a 12-cup muffin tin with paper liners or grease it well. This simple step ensures your muffins release easily.
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Dry Ingredients: In a large bowl, whisk together the flour, cornmeal, sugar, baking powder, baking soda, and salt. Thorough mixing is key for even baking.
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Wet Ingredients: In a separate bowl, whisk together the buttermilk, oil, and egg.
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Combine: Gently pour the wet ingredients into the dry ingredients. Stir until just combined; don't overmix! A few lumps are okay. Overmixing develops gluten, leading to tough muffins.
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Add the Corn: Fold in the corn kernels.
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Fill the Cups: Fill each muffin cup about 2/3 full.
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Bake: Bake for 18-20 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.
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Cool & Serve: Let the muffins cool in the tin for a few minutes before transferring them to a wire rack to cool completely. Serve warm or at room temperature.
Tips & Tricks for Perfect Corn Muffins
- Fresh Corn is Best: If possible, use fresh corn for the best flavor. Cut the kernels off the cob for optimal results.
- Don't Overmix: Overmixing leads to tough muffins. Mix just until the dry and wet ingredients are combined.
- Check for Doneness: Start checking for doneness at 18 minutes. Ovens can vary, so it's important to ensure they're fully baked.
- Variations: Feel free to add additions like shredded cheddar cheese, chopped chives, or jalapeños for a flavorful twist.
Nutritional Information (per muffin, approximate):
- Calories: Approximately 150-180
- Fat: 6-8g
- Protein: 3-4g
- Carbohydrates: 25-30g
- Fiber: 2-3g
This delicious corn muffin recipe is perfect for a quick dinner idea, a healthy breakfast option, or even a delightful snack. The ease of preparation and the incredible taste make these muffins a true winner! Enjoy this taste of summer any time of year. These are truly some of the best recipes for delicious and easy homemade cooking. They are also a great example of quick dinner ideas for a healthy meal.