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Indulge in Autumnal Bliss: Irresistible Spice Donut Muffins with Creamy Peanut Butter Glaze

Embrace the cozy charm of crisp fall mornings with a breakfast that perfectly captures the essence of the season. These extraordinary Spice Donut Muffins, crowned with a luscious Peanut Butter Glaze, offer a symphony of flavors and textures that will make every bite a memorable experience. Imagine waking up to the comforting aroma of cinnamon and cloves mingling with the sweet richness of peanut butter – it’s more than just a meal; it’s a moment of pure, blissful indulgence.

Delicious Spice Donut Muffins with Peanut Butter Glaze on a cooling rack, ready to be enjoyed.

The Irresistible Allure of a Perfect Glaze

There’s a certain magic that glazes bring to baked goods. It’s a profound affection, one that could rouse me from the deepest slumber. The way a perfectly crafted glaze cascades over the curves of cakes, cupcakes, or, in this case, our glorious donut muffins, is nothing short of artistry. Each drip caught on a finger, each streak wiped clean from a plate, is a moment of pure, unadulterated joy. It’s an instinctive pleasure, a testament to the simple, yet profound, deliciousness that a well-made glaze adds. Forget the formalities; sometimes, the best way to savor that last sweet drop is directly, delightfully, into your mouth.

My passion for glazes runs so deep that it might even compete with my current obsession with Adele’s “Skyfall” – or, more realistically, the whimsical theme song from Sesame Street. There’s a playful spirit in baking, a joy that echoes through the simplest of pleasures, much like a beloved tune.

Crafting the Perfect Fall Muffin: A Culinary Journey

These delightful muffins have been a sweet thought simmering in my mind for quite some time. Drawing inspiration from the always-reliable King Arthur’s Flour recipe, I embarked on a mission to infuse them with a personal twist, creating something truly special for the autumn season. The secret? A generous embrace of cinnamon and, my absolute favorite, ground cloves. Oh, the sheer magic of ground cloves!

Every time I incorporate this exquisite spice into my baking, I can’t resist sharing its intoxicating aroma. I’ll pass around the container, urging everyone to take a deep whiff of its warm, rich, and slightly sweet scent. While some might simply shrug, declaring, “It’s just a spice,” those who truly understand the art of baking know it’s so much more. Cloves are the very essence of fall, the herald of holiday baking, a warming embrace that transforms ordinary ingredients into something extraordinary. Its distinctive flavor profile adds an unparalleled depth, making these muffins not just a treat, but a celebration of seasonal flavors.

The beauty of these muffins lies not just in their flavor, but also in their magnificent structure. Take a peek at the center, and you’ll immediately notice how remarkably fluffy and light they are. From their grand, domed tops, a signature of perfectly baked muffins, all the way down to the last scrumptious crumb on your plate, they are a testament to baking perfection. This airy texture is crucial, providing the ideal canvas for the rich glaze that follows.

Spice Donut Muffins with PB frosting, beautifully glazed and ready to eat.

Spice Donut Muffins with Peanut Butter Glaze

Author: Anna

Fabulous breakfast during cool Fall mornings. The peanut butter glaze is the perfect topping for these donut muffins! This recipe for donut muffins is adapted from King Arthur’s Flour site, with the peanut butter glaze being a Crunchy Creamy Sweet original creation.

Prep Time:

20 mins

Cook Time:

15 mins

Total Time:

35 mins

Course:

Breakfast

Cuisine:

American

Servings:

15 muffins

Calories:

253 kcal

Ingredients

½ c vegetable or canola oil
½ c granulated sugar
⅓ c packed brown sugar
2 large eggs
1 ½ tsp baking powder
¼ tsp baking soda
1 tsp ground cinnamon
¼ tsp ground cloves
¾ tsp salt
1 tsp vanilla extract
2 ⅔ c all-purpose flour
1 c milk
For the Peanut Butter Glaze:
4 Tbsp creamy peanut butter
2 Tbsp milk
½ c powdered sugar

Instructions

Preheat your oven to 425 degrees F (220°C). Thoroughly grease your muffin tin, ensuring each cavity and the top surface in between them are well-coated. Set aside.
In the bowl of a stand mixer, combine the vegetable or canola oil with both granulated and packed brown sugars. Beat until the mixture is light and well blended, typically for 2-3 minutes.
Add the eggs, one at a time, beating thoroughly after each addition to fully incorporate them into the sugar and oil mixture.
Turn off the mixer. Add the baking powder, baking soda, ground cinnamon, ground cloves, and salt. Mix again on a low speed until all the dry ingredients are just incorporated into the wet mixture. Be careful not to overmix.
With your mixer on its lowest speed, gradually add the all-purpose flour, alternating with the milk. Begin and end with flour to ensure optimal consistency. Mix until just combined; overmixing can lead to tough muffins.
Carefully spoon the batter into the prepared muffin tin, filling each cavity nearly full. This generous filling will contribute to those coveted high tops.
Bake for 15 to 17 minutes, or until a wooden skewer inserted into the center of a muffin comes out clean. The muffins should be golden brown and springy to the touch.
Allow the muffins to cool in the pan for 2 to 3 minutes before gently removing them. Transfer the warm muffins onto a wire cooling rack to cool completely before applying the glaze.
For the Peanut Butter Glaze:
In a microwave-safe bowl, combine the creamy peanut butter and milk. Heat in 10-second increments, stirring after each, until the mixture is liquid and has a runny consistency. This usually takes about 20-30 seconds total.
Gradually whisk in the powdered sugar until the glaze thickens to a drizzling consistency. You may adjust the amount of powdered sugar or milk slightly to achieve your desired thickness.
Once the muffins are completely cooled, generously pour the prepared peanut butter glaze over each muffin. Allow the glaze to set slightly before serving.

Notes

This recipe yields approximately 15 muffins. If your muffin tin has 12 cavities, you might have enough batter for a few extra. When baking the last few muffins in a partial tin, pour a tablespoon of water into any empty cavities to prevent scorching of the pan.

Nutrition

The Sweet Conclusion: Glaze, Drips, and Pure Enjoyment

These muffins, with their magnificent, high-rising tops, were practically begging for a lavish glaze. I envisioned the perfect drip, creating those enticing arches that beckon you closer with every turn. And oh, did it deliver! The creamy peanut butter glaze flowed beautifully, coating each muffin in a rich, smooth layer that promised an explosion of flavor.

For an extra touch of whim and a hint of sparkle, I love to sprinkle a whisper of brown sugar on top of each glazed muffin. It adds a subtle crunch and another layer of autumnal sweetness that truly elevates the experience. This small detail not only enhances the visual appeal but also provides a delightful textural contrast.

Now, be honest with me. Am I truly the only one who, once the muffin is devoured, meticulously wipes the last vestiges of glaze from the empty plate with my finger? There’s an undeniable satisfaction in ensuring not a single drop of that sweet, peanut buttery goodness goes to waste. It’s a secret pleasure, a testament to just how utterly delicious these homemade treats are.

Why These Donut Muffins Are Your Go-To Fall Treat

These aren’t just any muffins; they are a celebration of autumn. The combination of warm spices like cinnamon and cloves instantly transports you to a cozy kitchen filled with the promise of holidays. They are incredibly versatile, perfect for a leisurely weekend breakfast, a quick grab-and-go snack, or even a delightful dessert. The fact that they come together in just 35 minutes means you can enjoy freshly baked goodness without the long wait. Share them with family, bring them to a potluck, or simply savor them on your own with a cup of hot coffee or tea. Each bite is a comforting reminder of the season’s bounty.

Tips for Perfect Donut Muffins Every Time

Achieving those magnificent high tops and perfectly tender crumb is easier than you think. First, ensure your ingredients are at room temperature, especially the eggs and milk, as this helps them incorporate better and creates a smoother batter. When mixing, remember the golden rule of muffin making: do not overmix! Mix just until the wet and dry ingredients are combined; a few lumps are perfectly fine. Overmixing develops gluten, leading to tough muffins. Finally, don’t skimp on greasing your muffin tin – a well-greased tin not only prevents sticking but also aids in the beautiful rise and release of your muffins.

Customize Your Comfort: Variations to Try

While the current combination of spice and peanut butter glaze is undeniably stellar, don’t hesitate to experiment! For a different fall flavor profile, consider adding a pinch of nutmeg or allspice to the muffin batter. If peanut butter isn’t your preference, a classic cinnamon-sugar glaze (powdered sugar, milk, and a dash of cinnamon) or a simple vanilla glaze would also be fantastic. You could even fold in some finely chopped apples or pears into the batter for an extra fruity touch. These donut muffins are wonderfully adaptable, allowing you to tailor them to your unique taste and mood.

Whether it’s the comforting spices, the fluffy texture, or the heavenly peanut butter glaze, these Spice Donut Muffins are truly an experience to be savored. They encapsulate the warmth and joy of the fall season in every single bite. I hope you enjoy baking and devouring them as much as I do.

xoxo,

Anna