Ingredients with Measurements:
- 1 cup all-purpose flour
- 1/2 cup whole wheat flour
- 1/2 cup rolled oats
- 1/2 cup packed brown sugar
- 2 tsp baking powder
- 1 tsp baking soda
- 1 tsp ground cinnamon
- 1/2 tsp ground ginger
- 1/4 tsp ground nutmeg
- 1/4 tsp salt
- 1/2 cup chopped dates
- 1/2 cup chopped dried Ningmeng (dried Chinese lemon)
- 1/2 cup unsweetened applesauce
- 1/2 cup milk
- 1/4 cup vegetable oil
- 1 egg
- 1 tsp vanilla extract
Special equipment needed:
- Muffin tin
- Muffin liners
- Mixing bowls
- Whisk
- Measuring cups and spoons
Step-by-step instructions:
1. Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C). Line a muffin tin with muffin liners.
2. In a large mixing bowl, whisk together the all-purpose flour, whole wheat flour, rolled oats, brown sugar, baking powder, baking soda, cinnamon, ginger, nutmeg, and salt.
3. Stir in the chopped dates and dried Ningmeng.
4. In a separate mixing bowl, whisk together the applesauce, milk, vegetable oil, egg, and vanilla extract.
5. Pour the wet ingredients into the dry ingredients and stir until just combined.
6. Spoon the batter into the muffin liners, filling each about 3/4 full.
7. Bake for 18-20 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center of a muffin comes out clean.
8. Remove the muffins from the oven and let cool in the muffin tin for 5 minutes before transferring to a wire rack to cool completely.
- Time:
Preparation time: 15 minutes
- Cooking time: 18-20 minutes
- Total time: 35 minutes
Temperature:
- Oven temperature: 375°F (190°C)
Serving size:
- Makes 12 muffins
Nutritional information:
- Calories: 190
- Fat: 6g
- Carbohydrates: 32g
- Fiber: 2g
- Protein: 3g
Substitutions for ingredients:
- Instead of dried Ningmeng, you can use dried lemon zest or dried orange zest.
- Instead of chopped dates, you can use chopped dried apricots or raisins.
- Instead of unsweetened applesauce, you can use mashed bananas or pureed pumpkin.
Variations:
- Add 1/2 cup of chopped nuts, such as walnuts or pecans, to the batter.
- Replace the dried Ningmeng with dried cranberries for a festive twist.
- Add 1/2 cup of shredded carrots for extra texture and nutrition.
Tips and tricks:
- Make sure to not overmix the batter, as this can result in tough muffins.
- Use a cookie scoop to evenly distribute the batter into the muffin liners.
- Store leftover muffins in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days.
Storage instructions:
- Store leftover muffins in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days.
Reheating instructions:
- To reheat muffins, place them in a 350°F (175°C) oven for 5-10 minutes, or until heated through.
Presentation ideas:
- Serve the muffins on a platter with a dusting of powdered sugar.
- Arrange the muffins on a cake stand for a more elegant presentation.
Garnishes:
- Sprinkle the muffins with chopped nuts or dried fruit.
- Top the muffins with a dollop of whipped cream or cream cheese frosting.
Pairings:
- Serve the muffins with a cup of hot tea or coffee.
- Pair the muffins with fresh fruit or a yogurt parfait for a balanced breakfast.
Suggested side dishes:
- Serve the muffins with a side of scrambled eggs or a breakfast sandwich for a heartier meal.
- Serve the muffins with a side of bacon or sausage for a savory breakfast.
Troubleshooting advice:
- If the muffins are too dry, try adding an extra tablespoon of milk to the batter.
- If the muffins are too wet, try reducing the amount of applesauce or adding an extra tablespoon of flour to the batter.
Food safety advice:
- Make sure to wash your hands and all utensils before handling food.
- Store leftover muffins in an airtight container to prevent contamination.
Food history:
- Ningmeng, or dried Chinese lemon, is a popular ingredient in Chinese cuisine and is often used in teas and desserts.
Flavor profiles:
- These muffins have a warm and spicy flavor, with notes of cinnamon, ginger, and nutmeg. The dried Ningmeng adds a tangy and citrusy flavor, while the dates add a natural sweetness.
Serving suggestions:
- These muffins are perfect for a quick breakfast or snack on-the-go.
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