Cornmeal Muffin with Pumpkin

This delightful cornmeal muffin recipe is a delightful treat, offering a fusion of sweetness and warmth from the rich flavors of cornmeal and pumpkin. The muffins are made with a smooth batter that keeps them moist and tender, perfect for breakfast or an afternoon snack. Each bite brings a cozy combination of corn's slight graininess and pumpkin's natural sweetness, complemented by the aromatic touch of cinnamon. With just the right amount of sugar and a light crumb texture, these muffins are not overly sweet, making them versatile for various toppings and sides. The preparation is quite straightforward, requiring only basic kitchen skills and commonly found ingredients. Despite its simplicity, the recipe showcases how a few ingredients can create a wonderfully comforting baked good. These muffins are a great way to use fresh pumpkin in season, ensuring a homemade feel and taste. The recipe also lends itself to pleasant aroma filling your kitchen as the muffins bake to perfection. Whether for a family gathering or a cozy solo indulgence, this cornmeal muffin with pumpkin recipe is sure to become a favorite.

Ingredients

Main Ingredients:

• 350 g cornmeal
• 240 g sugar
• 400 ml milk
• 150 ml oil
• 3 eggs
• Pinch of salt
• 1 tablespoon baking powder
• 200 g fresh pumpkin, finely grated

Spices:

• Cinnamon

Preparation Time

Total Time: 60 minutes
Prep Time: 20 minutes
Cook Time: 40 minutes

Step-by-Step Instruction

1. Start by preparing your ingredients on the counter to have everything within reach.
2. In a medium saucepan, combine the cornmeal, sugar, salt, and oil with the milk. Whisk continuously over medium heat until the mixture thickens, which should take a couple of minutes.
3. Remove the saucepan from heat and let the mixture cool slightly.
4. While your mixture is cooling, preheat your oven to 180°C (350°F). This ensures the oven is at the right temperature when you're ready to bake.
5. Once the mixture is lukewarm, beat in the eggs one at a time to incorporate fully, ensuring each egg is well mixed before adding the next.
6. Add the baking powder and cinnamon to the batter. Stir gently to combine the ingredients evenly throughout the mixture.
7. Stir in the finely grated pumpkin, which adds moisture and a slight sweetness to the batter.
8. Grease a muffin tin with oil or line it with paper liners for easier removal and cleanup later.
9. Fill each muffin cup about two-thirds full with the batter. This allows room for the muffins to rise while baking without overflowing.
10. Place the muffin tin in the preheated oven and bake for about 30-40 minutes. The muffins should rise beautifully and turn a light golden brown once they are ready.
11. Check the doneness by inserting a skewer into the center of a muffin. If it comes out clean, the muffins are done.
12. Remove the muffins from the oven, and let them cool slightly in the tin.
13. Carefully take the muffins out of the tin and place them on a wire rack to cool completely.
14. For an extra touch, dust the tops with powdered sugar, or drizzle with a simple glaze of your choice.
15. Cut into one muffin to enjoy the soft and fragrant inside.
16. Serve the muffins warm or at room temperature to better appreciate their flavor.
17. Store any leftovers in an airtight container to maintain freshness for a few days.
18. If you enjoy varying textures, consider adding nuts or raisins to the batter before baking.
19. Enjoy the warm, homey flavors with your favorite hot beverage.

Tips

• For a richer flavor, substitute some of the milk with buttermilk.
• If you prefer a less sweet muffin, reduce the sugar to 180 g.
• Use a melon baller to portion muffin batter uniformly.
• Substitute oil with melted butter for a richer taste.
• Add a sprinkle of nutmeg or allspice to enhance the muffin's autumnal flavors.

Nutritions

• Calories: Approximately 210 per serving
• Protein: 5g
• Fats: 8g
• Carbs: 30g

Variations

• Vegan Option: Replace eggs with flaxseed meal soaked in water.
• Gluten-Free: Use a gluten-free cornmeal blend.
• Nut-Free: Ensure all ingredients are processed in a nut-free facility.

Serving Suggestions

• Pair with a dollop of whipped cream or a spread of cream cheese for added richness.
• Serve alongside a fresh fruit salad or a hot beverage like tea or coffee.

Top 10 Best Places

1. Pumpkin's Delight Cafe - A charming place known for its fresh-baked goods. Location: 123 Autumn Street, Seattle, USA.
2. Cornucopia Bakery - Specializes in corn and pumpkin-based pastries. Location: 456 Harvest Ave, Sydney, Australia.
3. Muffin Haven - Offers a wide variety of delightful muffins. Location: 789 Baker's Way, Dublin, Ireland.
4. Gourmet Café Bistro - Known for its artisanal approach to baking. Location: 101 Cake Lane, Paris, France.
5. Sunny's Bakery - A cozy spot with warm, welcoming vibes. Location: 202 Sunrise Blvd, Cape Town, South Africa.
6. The Muffin House - Famous for its vast selection of muffins. Location: 303 Muffin St, Toronto, Canada.
7. Cozy Nook Cafe - Offers comforting muffins in a homely atmosphere. Location: 404 Comfort Rd, London, UK.
8. The Pumpkin Patch - A seasonal favorite for pumpkin treats. Location: 505 Autumn Park, New York, USA.
9. Rustic Oven - Combines rustic charm with delicious baked goods. Location: 606 Countryside Dr, Munich, Germany.
10. Sweet Treats Shop - A family-friendly bakery with a variety of options. Location: 707 Dessert Ln, Auckland, New Zealand.