Festive Strawberry Muffins for Any Occasion
When spring arrives in Japan, there's a sense of anticipation in the air. When the cherry blossom trees start to blossom, hanami ( flower viewing ) season officially begins and people all over the country start planning and preparing for their individual own get-togethers. Planning usually involves deciding on a place ( usually a park ) , selecting a date as well as figuring out what kind of food to bring.
The Perfect Muffins for Any Occasion
As always, I make a fuss over what to bring to the picnic table and after some careful planning, decided on a batch of strawberry muffins. Strawberries are in season and at its peak in flavor and sweetness. I also decided to add some strawberry preserves to the top of the muffins, which adds an extra layer of sweetness and texture, while the colors of the muffins themselves compliment the beautiful flowers of the cherry trees.
Easy to make and healthy too
Grapeseed oil keeps the muffins light in texture while adding a nutritional boost, however other oils such as canola or butter, can be used instead. The strawberry preserve really make the muffins special, but the muffins are good even without it. If strawberries are not available in your area, using frozen berries work just as well.
Ingredients
- 1/4 cup grapeseed oil
- 1/2 cup milk
- 1 egg
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 2 teaspoons baking powder
- 1/2 cup sugar
- 1 3/4 cups flour
- 3/4 cup chopped strawberries
- 1/2 cup strawberry preserves ( or jam )
Instructions
- Preheat the oven to 375F degrees.
- In a small bowl, combine the oil, milk and egg. Beat lightly.
- In a large bowl, mix the flour, baking powder, sugar and salt.
- Throw in the chopped strawberries.
- Pour in the milk/egg mixture and stir to combine all ingredients.
- Fill muffin cups with mixture.
- Spoon strawberry preserves on top.
- Bake for 25 minutes. The top should bounce back if you touch it.
