Baked Goods - A Couple Cooks https://www.acouplecooks.com/category/recipes/baked-goods/ Recipes that make your life better! Thu, 30 Jan 2025 19:43:32 +0000 en-US hourly 1 https://wordpress.org/?v=6.6.2 https://www.acouplecooks.com/wp-content/uploads/2021/06/cropped-favicon-32x32.png Baked Goods - A Couple Cooks https://www.acouplecooks.com/category/recipes/baked-goods/ 32 32 Sandwich Bread Recipe https://www.acouplecooks.com/sandwich-bread-recipe/ https://www.acouplecooks.com/sandwich-bread-recipe/#comments Tue, 21 Jan 2025 14:00:00 +0000 https://www.acouplecooks.com/?p=168645 This sandwich bread recipe is so simple, moist and delicious, you’ll want to make on repeat! It’s easy to make at home with no special equipment, and works for sandwiches, toast, and more. It’s so moist and irresistible, it’s quickly become a reader favorite recipe.

Sandwich Bread Recipe

Looking for a simple and delicious sandwich bread recipe? Alex and I decided we were ready to stop buying that store-bought stuff (which honestly doesn’t taste that great) and start making sandwich bread on the regular. So Alex came up with this recipe that ticks all the boxes—it’s easy to make, uses simple ingredients, and comes out with a moist texture and irresistible flavor.

When we posted the recipe on Instagram, so many people were excited about the recipe and have been sending us photos of their recipes with rave reviews. So it’s not just us: we know it’s a winner! Here’s our tutorial for how to make homemade sandwich bread.

“It’s so yummy! The whole family thinks so! Perfectly fluffy and delicious! Definitely going to make this often to break up having to buy at the store.” -Amanda

“The bread turned out fabulous. I sliced it down and will freeze!” -Mary

“Ok this bread is so so so good. It holds itself wonderfully when cutting into it. And it’s got the best slightly sweet taste. 10/10 from everyone!” -Tanvee

How to make sandwich bread: overview

Before we start a recipe, we like to know how much time is involved. Here’s the basic outline of the tasks for this sandwich bread recipe. The process takes 20 to 30 minutes of hands on time, and about 3 hours total (plus 90 minutes to cool). Here’s an outline of what you’ll have to do:

Mix and shape into a boule15 minutes
Proof 11 hour (hands off)
Shape into loaf5 minutes
Proof 21 hour (hands off)
Bake35 minutes, hands off
Cool90 minutes, hands off

Tools and ingredient notes

Making sandwich bread requires only a few tools and ingredients you probably already have on hand! It’s so simple to whip up. Here’s what you’ll need:

  1. 8 or 9-inch (1 pound) loaf pan: All you need is a standard loaf pan. We used this 1 pound loaf pan from Williams Sonoma (since a few readers have asked!).
  2. Kitchen scale: The best way to make bread is weighing the dry ingredients, which makes the most accurate measurements (we use this kitchen scale).
  3. All purpose flour and whole wheat flour: Using both flours makes a robust flavor.
  4. Butter and milk: Butter and milk help to create the perfect soft texture: this is called an enriched dough. For a dairy-free dough, you can use vegan butter and oat milk.
  5. Honey: Honey adds a subtle sweetness to the flavor.
  6. Instant or active dry yeast: Yeast acts as the leavener to make the bread fluffy.
  7. Oats: Adding chopped rolled oats to the top of the bread adds texture.

Loaf shaping instructions

Shaping the loaf for sandwich bread is simple, but it’s easiest to explain through photos and videos. Make a rectangle shape that matches the width of the pan, then roll it up. You can also watch the video below to see it in action.

How to make sandwich bread step by step (shaping the loaf)

Why make homemade bread?

We love making homemade sandwich bread because it tastes so much better than purchased bread—and because it has less additives and preservatives. Because it is homemade, we consider it a healthy choice that is part of the Mediterranean diet.

Storing leftovers

Storing sandwich bread is different from store-bought bread, since it has no preservatives. It’s also different from crusty artisan bread (like sourdough or olive bread), where you want to maintain a crispy crust. For sandwich bread, here’s how to keep it moist and supple:

  • Store in plastic! Placing homemade sandwich bread in plastic helps it to retain moisture. Use a plastic bag or you can even re-use a store-bought sandwich bread bag.
  • Store at room temperature 5 days: It does become slightly drier over time, but it still tastes good (on the later days, you may want to lightly toast it).
  • Or, freeze up to 3 months: You can also freeze sandwich bread. It’s easy to cut your bread in half and freeze half of it! Let it cool to room temperature, then cut it into slices and place it into a sealed bag or container.
Homemade Sandwich Bread cut open showing texture

Dietary notes

This sandwich bread recipe is vegetarian. For a vegan sandwich bread, use vegan butter, oat milk, and maple syrup. It’s not quite the same as the dairy-based version but still very delicious.

More easy bread recipes

If you love this sandwich bread, we also recommend trying our olive bread, focaccia bread, and no knead bread recipes. For a more advanced recipe, you can also try this sourdough bread recipe.

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Sandwich Bread

Sandwich Bread Recipe
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5 Stars 4 Stars 3 Stars 2 Stars 1 Star

5 from 8 reviews

This sandwich bread recipe is so simple, moist and delicious, you’ll want to make on repeat! It’s easy to make at home with no special equipment, and works for sandwiches, toast, and more. It’s so moist and irresistible, it’s quickly become a reader favorite recipe.

  • Author: Sonja Overhiser
  • Prep Time: 30 minutes
  • Rest Time: 2 hours
  • Cook Time: 30 minutes
  • Total Time: 3 hours
  • Yield: 14 slices
  • Category: Bread
  • Method: Baked
  • Cuisine: Bread
  • Diet: Vegetarian

Ingredients

  • 3 tablespoons unsalted butter, melted (45 grams); see Notes
  • ½ cup milk (118 grams)
  • 2 tablespoons honey (40 grams)
  • 2/3 cups warm water (157 grams)
  • 2 teaspoons instant or active dry yeast (8 grams)
  • ½ cup whole wheat flour (70 grams)
  • 2 ½ cups all purpose flour (350 grams)
  • 1 ½ teaspoons kosher salt (8 grams)
  • 2 tablespoons rolled oats, roughly chopped, for topping

Instructions

  1. Mix the ingredients: In a small saucepan, melt the butter over low heat. Once melted, remove from the heat and stir in the milk so it is just warm. In the bowl of your stand mixer (or a large bowl), combine the melted butter and milk with the honey, warm water, and yeast and mix until just combined. In a separate bowl, stir together whole wheat flour, all purpose flour, and kosher salt. Add dry ingredients to the wet and stir until just combined. 
  2. Knead the dough: Attach the dough hook to a stand mixer and start the mixer on medium-low speed, then allow the mixer to knead for 8 minutes. (Alternatively: knead the dough by pushing with the base of your palm, then reforming it into a ball. Continue kneading for 8 minutes until the dough feels pillowy and has a smooth, stretchy exterior. If the dough is very sticky, add a small amount of flour while kneading.)
  3. Shape into boule: After kneading, using floured hands, gently shape into a boule (ball shape) by folding the dough under itself. 
  4. Proof 1: Place the dough ball in a clean bowl and cover with a clean dish towel. Allow the dough to stand at room temperature for 1 hour, until risen and puffy.
  5. Shape into loaf (see loaf shaping photos above): Grease an 8-inch or 9-inch loaf pan. Turn the dough onto a lightly floured counter and gently press the dough into a large rectangle about 1/2-inch thick. The short side of the rectangle should be about the width of the long edge of the loaf pan. Roll the dough into a log (the width of the loaf pan). Pinch the seams on the sides and bottom of the roll and then place it into the greased pan seam-side down. Gently press the dough to fill the shape of the pan.
  6. Proof 2: Cover the bread pan with a clean dish towel and allow to proof at room temperature for 1 hour, until risen and puffy.
  7. Preheat: Meanwhile, preheat the oven to 350°F with the rack in the lower third of the oven.
  8. Bake: After the second rise, brush the top of the loaf with water. If desired, sprinkle the chopped oats on top. Bake for 35 to 37 minutes. The bread is done when the top is golden brown and the inside of the bread reaches 190°F on an instant read thermometer. Remove the bread to a cooling rack and cool completely, at least 90 minutes. (However tempting, cutting the bread while warm will ruin its texture!)
  9. Slice: Once cooled, use a serrated knife to slice the bread and serve (if you have an electric knife, it makes it even easier!). Store the bread at room temperature for 3 to 5 days wrapped in plastic (we use an old store bought bread bag). The bread can also be frozen, sliced into pieces and wrapped in plastic, for 3 months.

Notes

For a vegan sandwich bread, use vegan butter, oat milk, and maple syrup. It’s not quite the same as the dairy-based version but still very delicious.

The bread becomes slightly drier towards the end of the storage time, so you may want to lightly toast it on days 4 to 5. 

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Olive Bread https://www.acouplecooks.com/olive-bread/ https://www.acouplecooks.com/olive-bread/#comments Tue, 10 Dec 2024 14:30:00 +0000 https://www.acouplecooks.com/?p=167443 This no knead olive bread recipe tastes like it’s from a bakery but it’s so easy to make at home! It has a deliciously crispy crust, soft and chewy interior, and developed, savory flavor. Everyone will be singing its praises (every time we make it, our family can’t stop eating it).

Olive Bread Recipe

As two professional recipe developers and cookbook authors, Alex and I always urge home cooks to learn one skill: homemade bread! There’s really nothing like pulling a golden brown loaf from the oven (the aroma in your kitchen alone is worth it!).

Here’s a bread recipe that we are head over heels for: this no knead olive bread recipe! It’s inspired by our trip to France this summer, but you can easily whip it up at home using this recipe. Every time we make this for family, everyone keeps exclaiming how good it is! Here’s everything you need to know about making olive bread at home.

“I just finished baking this bread and it was very good! I used the green olives and you could taste the olives but they were not overpowerful. It was delicious and I will bake it again!” -Mary

“I was very excited to see an easy recipe that’s manageable for even someone without a lot of bread making experience. The bread turned out amazing, everyone loved it and it was eaten without any crumbs left!” -Milena

How to make olive bread: an overview

Here’s the basic outline of the tasks for this olive bread recipe. The process takes 5 minutes the night before, and then about 2 hours the day of. While you do need to think ahead for the rest, this bread recipe is so much easier than our sourdough bread and or artisan bread recipe. In fact, it’s the quickest and easiest bread method we have. Here’s an outline of what you’ll have to do:

Mix, Rest overnight5 minutes active, 12 to 18 hours hands off
Shape & proof5 minutes active, 1 hour hands off
Bake45 minutes, hands off
Cool45 minutes, hands off

Required tools for olive bread

Making no knead bread requires a few tools. It’s easiest to make with a Dutch oven, but you can also use a pizza stone. There are several optional tools as well that make things easier, but are not required. Here’s what you need!

  1. Large Dutch oven: Baking bread in a covered Dutch oven holds in the steam that the bread releases as it cooks. This makes an extra crispy crust and perfect rise. If you don’t have a Dutch oven, you can use a pizza stone.
  2. Parchment paper: You’ll use parchment paper inside the Dutch oven to prevent sticking while baking.
  3. Lame or knife: A lame or sharp knife is used for scoring the bread.
  4. Kitchen scale: The best way to make bread is weighing the dry ingredients, which makes the most accurate measurements (we use this kitchen scale).

Dutch oven vs pizza stone

A Dutch oven is a heavy cooking pot with a lid used for braising meat and making soups and stews. You can use it on the stovetop or in the oven. All Dutch ovens are made of cast iron; some have an enamel coating that makes them easier to clean.

The Dutch oven that we use for bread is Lodge 6 Quart Cast Iron Dutch oven. Since it holds in the steam, it makes for the best crispy crust while baking. You can also use a Dutch oven for making soups, stews and more: go to our top Dutch oven recipes.

As an alternative, you can a pizza stone to bake this no knead bread! You’ll also have to create extra steam in your oven using a baking sheet and pouring boiling water onto it when you add the bread. This creates steam, which makes that crispy crust. Here’s the pizza stone we recommend. (Of course, you can also use it for our popular pizza dough recipe and all our pizza recipes!)

Olive Bread with Dutch oven in background

The flours for olive bread

For this olive bread recipe, we use a mixture of all-purpose flour (for texture) and bread flour (for strength). We find that this mix makes a moderately open crumb (those beautiful holes in the interior), a chewy crust, and tangy flavor. 

Personally, we use King Arthur brand organic flour. In testing many different flours, we find it has the best and most consistent results for homemade bread recipes.

A note on olives

You can use any olives you like in this recipe: including green, black or purple olives. We like Castelvetrano olives: they’re a green olive variety grown in Sicily with a mild and fruity flavor that doesn’t overpower the bread. But you can use any type you like: Kalamata olives, black or green olives, etc.

Castelvetrano Olives

Why the overnight rest?

This olive bread recipe requires thinking ahead 1 day: you’ll need to rest the bread dough overnight. If you’re like us, you might have trouble with thinking ahead and wonder if you can skip this step. Unfortunately, it’s essential to this recipe! Here’s why:

  • No knead bread requires only 1 proof. Proofing is letting the bread stand at room temperature while the leavener (in this case, yeast) does its magic to help the bread rise. Usually a proof is about 45 minutes to 1 hour. Both our sourdough bread and artisan bread require folding and “proofing” the bread multiple times. So doing only 1 proof for homemade bread is almost unheard of!
  • The tradeoff is resting overnight. Proofing requires a lot of time and effort to fold and proof multiple times. So to shortcut it, you can rest the bread at room temperature overnight. To us, that’s a very worthy tradeoff! You save hours of bread making time the day of baking.

How to shape the boule

The main part of making olive bread that requires technique is shaping the dough. You’ll shape it into a ball, called a boule. It’s easiest to learn how to shape the dough by watching. Here’s a video instruction for shaping the boule.

Olive Bread with slices

How to score the bread

The lines on top of a beautiful loaf of bread are called score lines. Scoring is slashing the top of the dough with a sharp knife to allow it to expand when baking. Here are a few tips for scoring no knead bread:

  • Use your sharpest knife or a lame. You’ll want the knife to be ultra sharp. We purchased a lame for this (pronounced “lahm”) since we make lots of bread recipes—but it’s totally optional.
  • Make shallow cuts into the top of the dough. You want to cut just the surface — if it’s too deep it collapses, if it’s too shallow it bursts.

Storing leftovers (important)

Storing homemade bread is different from store-bought, since it has no preservatives. There’s also an important thing to keep in mind:

  • Do not store in plastic! Placing homemade bread in plastic makes it soggy and ruins the crispy crust. Make sure to store it wrapped in cloth: a towel or a bread bag!
  • Store at room temperature 2 days: Once you’ve baked your olive bread, it is best eaten within 48 hours. We store ours wrapped in cloth at room temperature. Use a clean dish towel or a bread bag.
  • Or, freeze up to 3 months: You can also freeze olive bread. It’s easy to cut your bread in half and freeze half of it! Let it cool to room temperature, then cut it into slices and place it into a sealed bag or container.

Serving suggestions

Once your olive bread is out of the oven, it tastes incredible slathered with butter. It’s the perfect stunning appetizer recipe with a cheese board or antipasto platter, served with a compound butter or garlic herb butter. You could also make it into a gourmet grilled cheese sandwich, or serve it with soup like kale white bean soup, bean soup, or tomato soup.

Dietary notes

This olive bread recipe is vegetarian, vegan, and plant-based.

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Olive Bread (No Knead)

Olive Bread Recipe
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5 Stars 4 Stars 3 Stars 2 Stars 1 Star

5 from 3 reviews

This no knead olive bread recipe tastes like it’s from a professional bakery but it’s so easy to make at home! It has a deliciously crispy crust, soft and chewy interior, and developed, savory flavor. Everyone will be singing its praises (every time we make it, our family can’t stop eating it).

  • Author: Sonja Overhiser
  • Prep Time: 1 hour 30 minutes (plus overnight)
  • Cook Time: 45 minutes
  • Total Time: 2 hours 15 minutes
  • Yield: 12 to 14 slices
  • Category: Bread
  • Method: Baked
  • Cuisine: French
  • Diet: Vegan

Ingredients

  • 2 ½ cups bread flour (350 grams)
  • 1 cup all purpose flour (140 grams)
  • 1 teaspoon instant or active dry yeast
  • ½ tablespoon kosher salt (9 grams)
  • 1 ½ cups lukewarm water (354 grams)
  • 1 cup pitted green olives, (dry weight 5.6oz) sliced, and dried (we used Castelvetrano olives)

Instructions

  1. Mix the dough (night before): Roughly slice and pat dry the olives. In a large bowl, stir together the bread flour, all-purpose flour, yeast and salt. Add the warm water and olives. Stir with a wooden spoon or dough whisk until all flour is incorporated and olives are evenly distributed. Cover tightly and rest 12-18 hours (overnight) at room temperature.
  2. Shape the dough: When ready to bake, remove the dough from the bowl onto a clean, lightly-floured countertop. With wet hands, place your hands behind the dough and gently pull the dough towards you to increase the tension on the surface of the dough. Rotate and repeat until you have a boule shape, being careful not to tear the dough where olives are near the surface.
  3. Rest 1 hour: Place the boule on a piece of parchment paper about twice the width of the boule. Cover the dough with an inverted large bowl and rest for 60 minutes.
  4. Preheat the oven: Preheat the Dutch oven (with lid) at 450°F for 30 minutes.
  5. Score the bread: Use a sharp knife or lame to cut a shallow slit at a slight angle across the top of the dough.
  6. Bake in a Dutch oven for 17 minutes at 450°F: Working quickly and carefully with oven gloves or mitts, transfer the dough on the parchment paper to the preheated Dutch oven, then place the top on. Bake for 17 minutes.
  7. Reduce to 400°F and bake for 27 to 30 minutes on oven rack: Reduce the oven temperature to 400°F. Remove the Dutch oven, carefully take out the bread, and set the bread directly onto the oven rack (without the parchment). Bake for an additional 27 to 30 minutes, until hollow when tapped or internal temperature is at 205 to 209 Fahrenheit.
  8. Cool and enjoy: Remove the bread from the oven and allow it to cool on a cooling rack for at least 45 minutes. After cooling, the bread is ready to eat.
  9. Storage info: Store the olive bread wrapped in cloth or in a bread bag on the counter for up to 2 days (do not store in plastic or it becomes soggy!). Alternatively, you can freeze (sliced) wrapped in foil in a plastic bag for several months. This loaf is perfect for serving with cheese, as a base for bruschetta, or simply enjoyed on its own. Enjoy!

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Ginger Molasses Cookies https://www.acouplecooks.com/ginger-molasses-cookies/ https://www.acouplecooks.com/ginger-molasses-cookies/#comments Wed, 04 Dec 2024 14:00:00 +0000 https://www.acouplecooks.com/?p=137754 This ginger molasses cookies recipe makes soft and chewy cookies with warming, cozy spices and picture-perfect crinkles. Everyone loves this popular cookie: it’s a family favorite!

Ginger Molasses Cookies

If we’re ranking cookie recipes, this one just might be at the top of our favorites list: soft and chewy ginger molasses cookies! There’s something about this type of cookie Alex and I can’t resist, and it’s become a fast favorite in our family (especially as a Christmas cookie).

This recipe makes soft and chewy cookies with a sugar-crisp exterior and cozy, bold spices and a hint of earthy molasses. Each one is fractured into picture-perfect crinkles, and when you sink in your teeth for the first bite, it’s like being enveloped in a warm hug. OK, enough talking: let’s get to the recipe!

Ingredients in ginger molasses cookies

These ginger molasses cookies were one of the first recipes we created for this website a decade ago, and we’ve revamped this recipe so it’s even more perfect! The texture comes out pillowy soft and chewy (not cakey), coated in sugar on the outside for a textural crunch. Molasses lends a deep complexity in flavor and cements that signature chewy texture. The spices are similar to those in gingerbread: cinnamon, ginger, allspice and cloves, but the texture is lusciously chewy! Here’s what you’ll need for ginger molasses cookies:

  • All-purpose flour and baking soda
  • Ground ginger, cinnamon, allspice, cloves and salt
  • Unsalted butter
  • Light brown sugar and granulated sugar
  • Egg
  • Molasses
Ginger Molasses Cookies

Tips for baking ginger molasses cookies

It’s challenging to get cookies that look perfectly identical, and ginger molasses cookies are no different. Here are a few tips for upping your baking game:

  • Use a cookie scoop or weigh the dough. If you have a 1 ½ tablespoon cookie scoop, it’s helpful for portioning the dough perfectly. You can also weigh out the dough into equal portions (about 30 g).
  • Bake the trays of cookies separately. Baking only one tray of cookies at a time ensures the best consistency between the trays, because the oven heat is exactly the same for each. (This is even true with beautiful new ranges like this one.) If you do try to bake them together, rotate the trays halfway through.
  • Don’t refrigerate the dough in between baking the trays. We found that refrigerating the dough between batches made less crinkles, which is no good for this recipe! So you can portion out the dough while you bake the first batch.
Ginger Molasses Cookies

Storing leftovers

What’s the best way to store molasses cookies? Line a storage container with paper towels and store the cookies at room temperature. The paper towels help to preserve the moisture, keeping the cookies soft over the storage time. You can also freeze the cookies! Here’s what to know about cookie storage:

  • Store molasses cookies in a sealed container lined with paper towels at room temperature for 1 week. The texture holds up well with this method.
  • Store refrigerated for 2 weeks. Or, place the paper-towel lined container in the fridge (we’d recommend keeping it at room temp for 1 day to preserve moisture). Allow to come to room temperature before serving.
  • Store frozen for up to 3 months. Defrost and store at room temperature in a paper-towel lined container.

When to serve ginger molasses cookies

Ginger molasses cookies are some of our favorite cookies because they’re very versatile! Add them to a Christmas cookie platter, or make them as a fall dessert for the beautiful cozy spices. They even work in the summer as a deliciously soft cookie for cookouts and parties. Anything goes here!

Dietary notes

This ginger molasses cookies recipe is vegetarian.

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Ginger Molasses Cookies

Ginger Molasses Cookies
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5 Stars 4 Stars 3 Stars 2 Stars 1 Star

5 from 4 reviews

This ginger molasses cookies recipe makes soft and chewy cookies with warming, cozy spices and picture-perfect crinkles. Everyone loves this popular cookie: it’s a family favorite!

  • Author: Sonja Overhiser
  • Prep Time: 20 minutes
  • Cook Time: 10 minutes
  • Total Time: 30 minutes
  • Yield: 24 to 25 cookies
  • Category: Cookie
  • Method: Baked
  • Cuisine: Cookie
  • Diet: Vegetarian

Ingredients

  • 2 cups [280 g] all-purpose flour
  • 1 ½ teaspoons baking soda
  • 1 teaspoon ground ginger
  • 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
  • 1 teaspoon allspice
  • ½ teaspoon ground cloves
  • ½ teaspoon kosher salt
  • ¾ cup unsalted butter, room temperature
  • ¾ cup granulated light brown sugar, packed
  • 2 tablespoons granulated sugar, plus more for rolling
  • 1 large egg
  • ¼ cup molasses

Instructions

Note: Make sure to set out your butter at room temperature for 30 minutes to 1 hour before making this recipe.

  1. In a medium bowl, whisk together the flour, baking soda, ground ginger, cinnamon, allspice, cloves, and kosher salt.
  2. In the bowl of an electric mixer (or with a hand-mixer), beat the room temperature butter, brown sugar and granulated sugar on medium until light and fluffy, about 3 minutes. Add the egg and molasses and beat for 1 minute, until fully combined. Set mixer to low and slowly add dry ingredients until just combined.
  3. Form the dough into a ball and cover in plastic wrap or place in a sealed container. Refrigerate for 1 hour.
  4. When ready to bake, preheat oven to 375°F.
  5. Roll the dough into 1 ½ tablespoon balls (30 g each), then roll the balls in granulated sugar to coat the outsides. Arrange the cookies on baking sheets lined with parchment paper. (We recommend baking 1 tray at a time for the most even bake, or rotate the trays halfway through baking.) Bake until set and crinkled on top and no longer gooey, about 10 to 12 minutes. Allow the cookies to cool on the pan for 2 minutes before removing to a wire rack to cool fully.
  6. To store, line a container with paper towels (this helps to preserve moisture and keep them chewy). Store at room temperature for 1 week, refrigerated for 2 weeks (bring to room temperature before serving), or frozen for 3 months.

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Almond Thumbprint Cookies https://www.acouplecooks.com/almond-thumbprint-cookies/ https://www.acouplecooks.com/almond-thumbprint-cookies/#comments Tue, 03 Dec 2024 21:30:00 +0000 https://www.acouplecooks.com/?p=49007 These are the tastiest almond thumbprint cookies: perfectly chewy, made with almond flour and featuring a homemade jam and easy icing drizzle!

Almond thumbprint cookies

Are you a thumbprint fan? Alex and I have got a fresh spin on the classic that’s so delicious! These almond thumbprint cookies are made with almond flour, homemade berry jam, and sweetened with maple syrup.

If you’d like, add a powdered sugar glaze, which takes them from good to amazing! With just the right chewy texture from the almond flour, these cookies are a healthy spin on the traditional but taste even better.

A flavor secret: homemade berry jam

The highlight of these almond thumbprint cookies is the homemade jam. The flavor is incredible and it tastes like pure berry. You could substitute a store-bought jam, but we recommend making the homemade for the perfect sweetness and berry flavor. It takes only 15 minutes to whip up, and for easy prep you can make it in advance.

Frozen berries work well for making homemade jam: though you could use fresh if you have them! Any variety of frozen berries work, but these cookies work best with mixed berries or raspberries. Using raspberries would give them an even brighter red color, perfect for the holidays and Christmas cookie trays.

Almond thumbprint cookies

Almond flour makes the best texture

What makes for the best almond thumbprint cookies? Almond flour! Almond flour is finely ground blanched almonds: it’s often used as an alternative flour in gluten free baking. (Here are all our almond flour recipes: it’s perfect in cookies and cakes!) Be careful not to confuse it with almond meal, which is a coarser grind and contains the almond peels.

Almond flour makes for the perfectly-textured almond thumbprint cookie. It results in a chewy cookie texture, versus a crumbly shortbread. This recipe does not include almond extract so it doesn’t have an almond flavor: it’s simply made with almonds.

Gluten free and vegan variations

In these almond thumbprint cookies, we’ve used 2 cups almond flour and 1 cup all purpose flour. Using the mixture that includes all purpose flour makes for the perfect texture. Using 100% almond flour can result in a very dense, crumbly cookie.

If you’d like to make these gluten free, use your favorite 1 for 1 gluten free flour in place of the all-purpose flour. We wouldn’t recommend doing all almond flour.

For vegan, just substitute coconut oil or vegan butter for the butter. The texture is such that they’ll work the same way!

Easy almond thumbprint cookies

Powdered sugar icing⁠—in 1 minute

To take these easy almond thumbprint cookies over the top, we’ve used our favorite trick: powdered sugar icing! I grew up eating a cookie called Swedish raspberry cookies that was iced in a similar way. Once we added the icing on top, we knew we had a hit.

We made these cookies with Alex’s mother in law. I mixed up the icing and was back in 1 minute ready to drizzle it on. “Wait, you already made it?” she exclaimed. She was excited about how easy this icing was to make! All you have to do is:

  • Mix together ½ cup powdered sugar with 1 tablespoon milk.
  • Whisk until all the lumps dissolve and the icing is smooth.
  • Use a fork to drizzle on the cookies! Using a fork helps to get a thin drizzle, whereas a spoon can be too chunky.

And that’s it, the very best almond thumbprint cookies! Let us know if you try them out in the comments below. We usually make them as a Christmas dessert or for holiday cookie swaps, but they work any time of the year.

Easy thumbprint cookies

Dietary notes

This almond thumbprint cookies recipe is vegetarian. For gluten free, substitute 1-for-1 gluten-free flour for the all-purpose flour. For vegan, use vegan butter.

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Almond Thumbprint Cookies

Almond thumbprint cookies
Save Recipe

5 Stars 4 Stars 3 Stars 2 Stars 1 Star

5 from 1 review

These are the tastiest almond thumbprint cookies: perfectly chewy, made with almond flour and featuring a homemade jam and easy icing drizzle!

  • Author: Sonja Overhiser
  • Prep Time: 25 minutes
  • Cook Time: 45 minutes
  • Total Time: 1 hour 10 minutes
  • Yield: 24 cookies
  • Category: Dessert
  • Method: Baked
  • Cuisine: Cookies

Ingredients

For the jam filling

  • 1 ½ cups frozen raspberries or mixed berries
  • ½ cup pure maple syrup
  • ⅛ teaspoon cinnamon
  • 2 teaspoons cornstarch

For the almond cookies

  • 2 cups almond flour
  • 1 cup all purpose or 1-for-1 gluten free flour
  • ¼ teaspoon baking powder
  • ½ teaspoon kosher salt
  • ½ cup pure maple syrup
  • 5 tablespoons melted butter (sub coconut oil or vegan butter for vegan)

For the glaze (you’ll use about ¾ of this)

  • ½ cup powdered sugar
  • 1 tablespoon milk (or oat or almond milk for vegan)

Instructions

  1. Make the homemade jam: Add the berries, maple syrup, and cinnamon to a small saucepan. Cook on low heat for 10 to 12 minutes until the berries break down. Run the mixture through a mesh strainer into a clean bowl, mashing the berries with a spatula. Return the sauce to the same saucepan, then add the cornstarch and heat on low 2 more minutes until bubbly and thick. Remove from the heat and allow to cool while making the cookies. (This step can be made ahead and refrigerated for up to 1 week before making the cookies.)
  2. Bake the cookies: Preheat the oven to 350 degrees.
  3. In a large bowl, mix the almond flour, all purpose flour, baking powder and kosher salt in medium bowl.
  4. In a separate medium bowl, whisk together the melted butter and maple syrup. Mix in the dry ingredients and stir with a spatula until well combined.
  5. Line two baking sheets with parchment paper. Take about 1 tablespoon of the dough and roll it into small balls, about 12 for one tray, 24 in all. Start with one tray only, then refrigerate the dough for the second tray. Gently press your thumb into the center of the ball. (You can re-form the cookie with your fingers if it cracks a little.) Then add about ½ teaspoon of jam into each cookie.
  6. Bake the first tray 13 to 15 minutes until browned on the bottom. Allow to cool on the tray for 5 minutes, then place on a baking rack to cool. Meanwhile, prepare and bake the second tray and allow it to cool (baking the trays separately allows for the most even bake).
  7. Ice the cookies (optional – if freezing, add after): Once the cookies have cooled to room temperature (about 20 to 30 minutes), make the powdered sugar icing. Stir together the confectioners’ sugar and milk (start with a little less if using non-dairy milk) until a smooth sauce forms and all lumps are dissolved. Place the cookies on parchment paper, dip a fork into the glaze and drizzle in a zigzag pattern. Let the cookies sit at room temperature until the glaze is dry, about 15 minutes.
  8. Store at room temperature for 3 days or refrigerated for 1 week. To freeze, place baked cookies without icing in an airtight container and freeze for 2 to 3 minutes. Add the icing after thawing to room temperature.

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Eggless Chocolate Chip Cookies https://www.acouplecooks.com/eggless-chocolate-chip-cookies/ https://www.acouplecooks.com/eggless-chocolate-chip-cookies/#comments Tue, 03 Dec 2024 14:00:00 +0000 https://www.acouplecooks.com/?p=167089 Cookies without eggs? These eggless chocolate chip cookies are so chewy and full of flavor, no one will miss this ingredient! This recipe is perfect for special diets or if you simply don’t have eggs on hand.

Eggless Chocolate Chip Cookies

Want to bake without eggs? Alex and I love creating recipes for special diets like dairy-free and vegan: our son recently went dairy-free and we eat vegan recipes on the regular. So we created these cookies to be as a super versatile recipe, whether you need to avoid eggs or just don’t have them.

Turns out, these eggless chocolate chip cookies are so chewy and delicious, you’ll never miss the egg! They’re a spin on our popular vegan chocolate chip cookies and they are so tasty, everyone raves about them. They’re packed with sweet flavor and have a generous sprinkle of rich chocolaty chips. They’ve become a favorite in our house!

“Just whipped up these eggless cookies and I have one word: AMAZING. I love using applesauce in baking, it adds this really nice texture to cookies. The dough to chocolate chip ratio here is 2 thumbs up, chocolate pooling when you break a cookie in half? Win!” -Tanvee

Key ingredients in cookies without eggs

Just how do you make cookies without eggs? Egg is a crucial ingredient in most baked goods: it works as a binder to hold the texture together, and it also adds a richness in flavor. We tested this recipe over and over to get just the right texture and flavor: without that magic ingredient! Here are some key ingredients for eggless chocolate chip cookies:

  • Neutral oil: You can use grapeseed, canola or vegetable oil. Olive oil also works, it just has a more bold flavor.
  • Butter or refined coconut oil: For dairy-free or vegan, coconut oil is important for the dough texture since it’s a fat that is solid at room temperature, similar to butter. Refined coconut oil has a more neutral flavor than unrefined, which has a strong coconut flavor.
  • Granulated and light brown sugar: A mix of sugars is key, especially the brown sugar since it has hints of molasses in the flavor.
  • Applesauce: Here’s our secret: applesauce works surprisingly well in place of the egg to hold the dough together and add moisture!
  • Vanilla extract and almond extract: A hint of almond extract brings a toasty, complex nuance to the flavor without overpowering it. We found this was helpful for a vegan cookie since it doesn’t have the richness of egg or butter.

All purpose flour, baking soda, salt and dark chocolate chips round out the list of ingredients!

Eggless Chocolate Chip Cookies

Tips for baking eggless chocolate chip cookies

Many cookie recipes require the dough to chill, but these eggless chocolate chip cookies require no chilling at all! Because who wants to wait to make chocolate chip cookies? Not us. Here are a few tips for pulling these cookies together:

  • Use a cookie scoop. A 2 or 3 tablespoon cookie scoop is helpful for portioning the dough. You can also weigh out the batter at approximately 50 grams per cookie (or weigh the entire dough and divide by 18).
  • Non stick cookie sheets are helpful. This has become our preferred method for cookies. We recommend using two non-stick cookie sheets for the most even bake.
  • Bake each tray separately for the most even bake. There’s no need to refrigerate the cookie dough while the first tray bakes: the texture is best when stored at room temp.
  • Add a few chocolate chips and salt after baking. Adding chocolate chips to the top makes for that signature cookie look.

Storing leftovers

These eggless chocolate chip cookies are great warm after about 20 minutes of cooling, but they also hold up well over time. Here’s what to note about storage:

  • Store in a sealed container at room temperature for 1 week. The texture holds up well: no need to add anything to the container.
  • Store refrigerated for 2 weeks. Allow to come to room temperature before serving.
  • Store frozen for up to 3 months. 

Dietary notes

These eggless chocolate chip cookies are vegetarian. For dairy-free and vegan, use vegan butter.

Want more recipes without egg? Try our pancakes without eggs, which use peanut butter as a substitute!

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Eggless Chocolate Chip Cookies

Eggless Chocolate Chip Cookies
Save Recipe

5 Stars 4 Stars 3 Stars 2 Stars 1 Star

5 from 2 reviews

Cookies without eggs? These eggless chocolate chip cookies are so chewy and full of flavor, no one will miss this ingredient! This recipe is perfect for special diets or if you simply don’t have eggs on hand.

  • Author: Sonja Overhiser
  • Prep Time: 15 minutes
  • Cook Time: 25 minutes
  • Total Time: 40 minutes
  • Yield: 18 cookies
  • Category: Dessert
  • Method: Baked
  • Cuisine: American
  • Diet: Vegan

Ingredients

  • ⅓ cup neutral oil (grapeseed, canola or vegetable)
  • ¼ cup room temperature butter or refined coconut oil (or vegan butter)
  • ½ cup granulated sugar
  • ¾ cup light brown sugar, firmly packed
  • ⅓ cup unsweetened applesauce
  • ½ tablespoon vanilla extract
  • ⅛ teaspoon almond extract
  • 2 ¼ cups [315 g] all-purpose flour
  • 1 teaspoon baking soda
  • ¾ teaspoon kosher salt
  • 1 ¼ cup dark chocolate chips (we used 63% Guittard)
  • Flaky sea salt, optional

Instructions

  1. Preheat the oven to 350°F. Line two large baking sheets with parchment paper, or omit if using non-stick cookie sheets (we swear by these cookie sheets).
  2. In the bowl of a stand mixer (or a large bowl), add the neutral oil, coconut oil,  brown sugar, and granulated sugar. Mix with the paddle attachment (or an electric mixer) on Medium speed until fully combined, about 1 to 2 minutes. Add the applesauce, vanilla extract, and almond extract and mix until combined, a few seconds. 
  3. In a separate bowl, whisk the flour, baking soda and kosher salt. Turn on the mixer and gradually add the flour mixture, mixing until just incorporated. Add 1 cup plus 2 T chocolate chips and mix on low for a few seconds until mixed in. The dough will feel slightly oily, but this is as expected.
  4. Scoop nine 3-tablespoon-sized balls of dough onto the prepared cookie sheet, leaving a few inches between each cookie for spreading (using a cookie scoop is helpful; we overfilled our 2 tablespoon scoop or weigh out about 50 grams per cookie). Bake one batch for 12 to 13 minutes, or until just golden (baking one batch at a time makes the most even bake). Press 3 to 4 chocolate chips into the top of each warm cookie, then sprinkle with sea salt. Cool cookies on the baking sheet for 10 minutes before transferring them to a cooling rack to cool fully. They taste great warm after cooling on the rack for about 10 minutes, or fully cooled. 
  5. While the cookies cool, portion out and bake the second batch of dough; don’t refrigerate the dough in between. Store in a sealed container at room temperature for up to 5 days or refrigerated for 3 weeks (bring to room temperature before serving).

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Linzer Cookies https://www.acouplecooks.com/linzer-cookies/ https://www.acouplecooks.com/linzer-cookies/#comments Mon, 02 Dec 2024 13:50:00 +0000 https://www.acouplecooks.com/?p=137713 These traditional Austrian Linzer cookies are delicious almond cutout cookies with a jam filling! Everyone loves them and they’re perfect for special occasions. A family favorite!

Linzer Cookies

When it comes to Christmas cookies, here’s one type we can’t resist: Linzer cookies! This classic Austrian sandwich cookie stars a buttery almond shortbread with fun cutout window that shows a layer of fruity preserves.

Alex and I both grew up eating Linzer cookies at the holidays, so this classic cookie spells childhood nostalgia for us! Here we’re sharing a traditional recipe from my dear childhood friend who is Austrian herself (and some recommendations for Linzer cookie cutters!).

Ingredients in Linzer cookies

Linzer cookies are a shortbread jam-filled sandwich cookie based on the Austrian dessert Linzer torte, a tart made with ground nuts and fruit preserves. The cookie brings in those signature flavors with a shortbread made with almond flour, giving it a complex, nutty flavor. This recipe comes from my dear Austrian friend Milena’s mother: Milena currently lives in Vienna, but we grew up together in Minnesota eating Linzer cookies at the holidays. Here’s what you’ll need for classic Linzer cookies:

  • All purpose flour and almond flour: These form the base of the cookie. Make sure to buy almond flour not almond meal: it’s ground finer than meal and has a fluffier texture when baked.
  • Cinnamon and vanilla extract bring that classic cozy flavor.
  • Unsalted butter, granulated sugar, and egg: These round out the simple shortbread ingredients. Substitute vegan butter for dairy free. (A flax egg may work as a substitute for vegan, but we have not tested it!)
  • Raspberry jam: We like raspberry jam best for its bright red color, but you can use any other fruit preserves you like.
  • Powdered sugar: Confectioners sugar rounds out the look as a garnish.
Linzer cookies

Linzer cookies are a cutout cookie with a twist! Instead of cutting out just one cookie, you’ll need two: a cookie that makes a window and a solid cookie. There are special cookie cutters just for this purpose, but you can also use a alternative based on what you have at home.

  • Option 1: Use a Linzer cookie cutter. We like this Linzer cookie cutter. It comes with various cutout window shapes: hearts, stars, flowers, etc. It is worth buying if you plan to make Linzer cookies multiple times!
  • Option 2: Use a 2-inch circular cutter and a smaller shape for the window. If you happen to have both of these shapes on hand, it’s easy to make your own version of cutout cookies!
Linzer Cookies

Tips for making the cookies

Linzer cookies are a fun baking project that results in visually-stunning, sugar dusted cookies with bright shapes of jam. There are a few notes for how to put together this recipe:

  • Chill the dough 1 to 3 hours. This is important with a cutout cookie dough: you’ll want it nice and cold to get uniform shapes.
  • Gently roll the dough slightly less than 1/4-inch thick. This makes just the right thickness for the finished cookie.
  • Simple cutout window shapes (like circles and hearts) are easier to cut out. The stars were a little trickier to cut, and they became more distorted when baked. But, they still turned out great.

Storing leftovers

Once you’ve made your linzer cookies, you probably won’t be eating all 30 at once. How to store them? Here are some tips and notes about storage:

  • The cookies taste crisp the first day, then soft after storage. They’re delicious both ways, but we like the soft version best!
  • Store in a container with a few layers of parchment paper or foil between each. The powdered sugar on the bottom layer of cookies after a few days, so it’s good to protect between each layer.
  • Store at room temperature for 2 days or refrigerated up to 2 weeks. With room temperature storage, the powdered sugar can start to melt on the cookies that are stacked in layers beneath other cookies. We recommend storing them refrigerated for longer term storage. 
  • Or, freeze for up to 3 months. The powdered sugar topping is a little fragile, so keep in mind the cookies look best when they are fresh.
Linzer Cookies

Dietary notes

This Linzer cookies recipe is vegetarian. For dairy-free, use vegan butter.

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Linzer Cookies

Linzer Cookies
Save Recipe

5 Stars 4 Stars 3 Stars 2 Stars 1 Star

5 from 2 reviews

These traditional Austrian Linzer cookies are delicious almond cutout cookies with a jam filling! Everyone loves them and they’re perfect for special occasions. A family favorite!

  • Author: Sonja Overhiser
  • Prep Time: 40 minutes (plus 1 hour chill time)
  • Cook Time: 30 minutes
  • Total Time: 1 hour 10 minutes
  • Yield: 30 to 32 cookies
  • Category: Cookies
  • Method: Baked
  • Cuisine: Austrian
  • Diet: Vegetarian

Ingredients

  • 2 cups (240 g) flour, sifted
  • 1 cup (120 g) almond flour
  • 1 teaspoon cinnamon
  • ½ teaspoon fine sea salt
  • 1 cup (2 sticks) unsalted butter, softened
  • 2/3 cup granulated sugar
  • 1 egg
  • 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
  • 1 ⅓ cups raspberry jam
  • Powdered sugar, for dusting

Instructions

  1. In a medium bowl, whisk the flour, almond flour, cinnamon and salt. 
  2. In the bowl of a stand mixer add the butter and sugar. Beat with the paddle attachment on medium speed until light and fluffy, 2 to 3 minutes. Add the egg and vanilla, and mix on low speed until combined. Gradually add the flour mixture and continue mixing on low speed until just combined, about 30 seconds. Divide the dough into two disks. Wrap the disks in plastic wrap and refrigerate for 1 to 3 hours.
  3. Preheat the oven to 350°F.
  4. Take one disc of dough out of the fridge and place it on a floured surface. Using a light touch, roll the dough out until it is slightly less than 1/4-inch thick. Use plenty of flour on the counter and the rolling pin to prevent sticking. Moving quickly so the dough remains chilled, use a linzer cookie cutter (or a 2-inch round cutter and smaller heart-shaped cutter) to cut an equal number of cookies with and without a hole in the center. Place excess dough back in the refrigerator and re-roll it after it’s chilled again (after baking the first sheet). Place the cookies on a baking sheet and refrigerate the sheet for 5 minutes.
  5. Transfer the baking sheet directly to the oven and bake for 11 to 14 minutes, until lightly browned. Cool the cookies for 1 minute on the cookie sheet. Then transfer to a cooling rack.
  6. Repeat with remaining disc of dough and re-rolled scraps of dough.
  7. Cool the cookies completely, at least 15 minutes. Then sift powdered sugar the cookies with the cutout centers. On the bottom cookies, spread a layer of jam about 1/8” thick (about 2 teaspoons per cookie), not quite to the edges of a cookie. Then very gently press on the top cookie to sandwich the jam. 
  8. Repeat for all cookies to make 30 to 32 sandwiches. Store room temperature with several sheets of parchment paper between the cookies for up to 2 days*, or refrigerated for 2 weeks. You can also freeze for up to 3 months. The cookies taste crispy the first day, and become softer after storage (both delicious, but we prefer the softer version!).

Notes

*With room temperature storage, the powdered sugar can start to melt on the cookies that are stacked in layers beneath other cookies. We recommend storing them refrigerated for longer term storage. 

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Healthy Banana Muffins https://www.acouplecooks.com/healthy-banana-muffins/ https://www.acouplecooks.com/healthy-banana-muffins/#comments Mon, 11 Nov 2024 15:00:00 +0000 https://www.acouplecooks.com/?p=30812 This healthy banana muffins recipe is easy to make in a blender with oatmeal, bananas, and a few other simple ingredients! It’s a great use for ripe bananas as a healthy breakfast or snack. This is a fan favorite recipe with loads of positive reader reviews!

Healthy banana muffins with oatmeal on top and bananas in background

Here’s a fan favorite recipe that we make on the regular: healthy banana muffins with oatmeal! Years ago a reader asked us, “Could you create more healthy muffin recipes?” We took her challenge and created these blender muffins that were easy to make, healthy, and irresistibly good.

All you have to do is toss ripe bananas, rolled oats, and a few other ingredients into a blender (there’s no flour). Bake them up and they come out fluffy and delicious every time! When we have a bunch of ripe bananas, we make this recipe—by now, we’ve made it more times than we can count. It’s now a fan favorite recipe with loads of positive reader reviews!

“These are one of our go-to muffin recipes! I’ve shared the recipe with so many people! I love that I can “casually” measure the ingredients and they always turn out.” -Rachel

“I make these muffins at least once a month when I have ripe bananas that need to be used. I love them!! SO easy to freeze as well.” -Allegra

Why make this healthy banana muffins recipe

These muffins are truly the perfect use for those bananas blackening on your countertop! We make these often for our kid’s school lunches and snacks (plus, we love them too!). There are loads of recipes all over the internet, but here’s why you should add this healthy banana muffins recipe to your arsenal:

  • They’re made with mostly Old Fashioned oats and bananas: no flour! That’s right, there’s no flour at all in these muffins! It’s basically like eating oatmeal and a banana. That makes this recipe naturally gluten-free.
  • They’re lightly sweetened with maple syrup. Most muffins are like eating a cupcake for breakfast. Instead, this recipe is lightly sweetened with maple syrup.
  • It’s quick and simple in a blender! If you haven’t made blender muffins before, it’s time to start! Somehow whizzing everything together in a blender makes for less mess than a normal muffins recipe. I can usually make these in about 10 minutes while the oven is preheating, since we also made the recipe quantities easy to remember.
Healthy banana muffins with bananas and measuring spoons

Tips for making healthy banana muffins

We make these healthy banana muffins all the time and our kids gobbles them up! Several of our family and friends do the same. We love serving them since it’s basically like eating oatmeal and a banana, with a few added seasonings. Here’s how to make banana muffins, our way (or jump to the recipe below):

  • In a blender, add all ingredients: 3 ripe bananas, 2 eggs, 2 cups Old Fashioned oats, ¼ cup each neutral oil and maple syrup, 1 teaspoon each baking soda, baking powder, cinnamon and vanilla, and ¼ teaspoon salt. (You’ll notice the quantities are easy to memorize: that is intentional!)
  • Blend on high for about 1 minute until the batter is smooth. Pour into 9 muffin cups.
  • Bake: Bake 30 minutes at 350°F until fluffy and baked!

A few notes: this recipe is very forgiving! We’ve found that it even works with 2 ripe bananas. It’s not too touchy and it’s hard to mess up. Just make sure that you blend everything as much as possible since you’ll be grinding the oats into oat flour in the process. It’s the perfect go-to healthy snack or breakfast!

Variations on healthy banana muffins

There are lots of ways to mix up these healthy banana muffins with oatmeal! Here are a few ideas:

  • Allspice, ginger or cloves: If you’d like, add ½ teaspoon allspice to add even more flavor to this muffin. You can also add ½ ground ginger or ¼ teaspoon cloves for a bigger spice kick. 
  • Nuts: You can add up to ½ cup chopped pecans, walnuts or nuts of your choice to this recipe.
  • Blueberries or apples: This recipe also works with blueberries or apples: go to Healthy Blueberry Muffins or Healthy Apple Muffins.
  • Zucchini or applesauce: You can also make Healthy Zucchini Muffins or Applesauce Muffins using this concept.
Healthy banana muffins

Storage and freezing info

These healthy banana muffins store well. Place them in the refrigerator and store for up to 10 days. They’re best at room temperature, so allow them to fit for a few minutes before eating.

These muffins also freeze well: place them in a freezer safe container and freeze for up to 3 months. Take out a few and pop them into the fridge for use in lunches throughout the week.

Dietary notes

This healthy banana muffins recipe is vegetarian, gluten-free, and dairy-free. For vegan and plant-based, substitute 2 flax eggs for the eggs.

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Healthy Banana Muffins (Fan Favorite!)

Healthy banana muffins
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5 Stars 4 Stars 3 Stars 2 Stars 1 Star

5 from 26 reviews

This healthy banana muffins recipe with oatmeal is incredibly easy to make in a blender with oats, bananas, and a few other simple ingredients! It’s the best use for ripe bananas as a healthy breakfast or snack.

  • Author: Sonja
  • Prep Time: 10 minutes
  • Cook Time: 35 minutes
  • Total Time: 45 minutes
  • Yield: 9 muffins
  • Category: Breakfast
  • Method: Baked
  • Cuisine: American

Ingredients

  • 3 large very ripe bananas (about 1 ½ cups mashed*)
  • 2 large eggs
  • 2 cups rolled oats, plus more for topping
  • ¼ cup neutral oil (sunflower, vegetable or grapeseed)
  • ¼ cup pure maple syrup
  • 1 teaspoon baking soda
  • 1 teaspoon baking powder
  • 1 teaspoon cinnamon**
  • 1 teaspoon pure vanilla extract
  • ¼ teaspoon kosher salt

Instructions

  1. Preheat the oven to 350°F.
  2. Place all ingredients in a blender, breaking the bananas into pieces as you add them. Blend everything on high for a minute or two until a smooth batter forms.
  3. Place 9 muffin cups into a muffin tin and pour the batter divided evenly between the cups; the amount of muffins will depend on the size of the bananas and type of oats (we like filling them as full for a tall muffin). Sprinkle the tops with extra oats and gently press them down.
  4. Bake for about 30 to 33 minutes* until a toothpick comes out clean. Remove from the muffin tin and allow them to cool a few minutes before serving. Store refrigerated for up to 10 days or frozen for up to 3 months. 

Notes

*Note: The amount of muffins can depend on the size of the bananas and the type of oats, and it’s a forgiving recipe (it even works with 2 large bananas). With large bananas and rolled oats, we typically get 9 muffins. We’ve had readers get 10 or even up to 12. The 30 minute bake time typically works for any amount of muffins, but you may want to check them at 25 minutes if you’re baking 10 to 12 muffins.

**If you’d like, add ½ teaspoon allspice to add even more flavor to this muffin. You can also add ½ ground ginger or ¼ teaspoon cloves for a bigger spice kick. 

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More healthy muffin recipes

Over the years, we’ve found readers love the healthy banana blender muffin concept. So of course we had to create a few variations on this recipe! Here are a few different flavors using the same blender muffin idea with rolled oats:

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Sourdough Bread Recipe https://www.acouplecooks.com/sourdough-bread-recipe-simplified-guide/ https://www.acouplecooks.com/sourdough-bread-recipe-simplified-guide/#comments Wed, 30 Oct 2024 14:04:00 +0000 https://www.acouplecooks.com/?p=23246 This sourdough bread recipe is the ultimate guide! After years of research, we created these easy to follow instructions, a printable checklist, and a step-by-step video help you master that tangy flavor, chewy crust, and perfect texture.

sourdough bread recipe

Making homemade sourdough bread is one of the most satisfying, transformative things you can do. It’s tastier, healthier, and cheaper than any bread you’ll buy at the store.

As two cookbook authors with previous careers in business writing, Alex and I are passionate about making complex processes simple. So we created this Simplified Guide for Sourdough Bread! It has easy to understand steps, a video, and a printable checklist to make sure you’re able to master the process. Ready to get started?

Video: How to make sourdough bread

In this video, Alex shows you everything you need to know about making this sourdough bread recipe! So much of bread making is learning by watching, so this video is crucial to understanding how to make sourdough bread.

About this sourdough bread recipe

This sourdough bread recipe is years in the making. For the past 2 years, Alex and I have been making sourdough bread every week. In that time, we’ve learned that making sourdough bread is an involved process. But we’re also passionate making cooking pretty simple.

We wanted to simplify the process, so set out to make our best sourdough bread recipe: which to us is the most repeatable, easiest to follow recipe with bakery style results. We developed this original recipe after extensive research using the Tartine cookbook and The Perfect Loaf. And we’re happy to say: it turned out brilliantly.

It’s got a chewy crust, tangy flavor, and just enough holes in the bread to be interesting but still hold up to a slather of peanut butter. Our sourdough bread recipe is the perfect everyday bread for snacking, sandwiches, and serving with soup.

open crumb sourdough bread slices

Making sourdough bread: an overview

Making sourdough bread is a process that spans across 3 days. Here’s an outline of the tasks and approximate active time for how to make sourdough bread:

Day 1 Evening Feed the starter (5 minutes active time)
Day 2 Make bread and proof overnight (5 hours active time)
Day 3 Bake (1 hour active time)

Our instructions are thoughtfully crafted to be easy to follow—and even memorize! The traditional method of cooking the bread using steam can be hard to create at home, so our recipe uses a Dutch oven. Best of all, we’ve created a custom video series and printable checklist so that you don’t miss a step. The hardest part is waiting for the bread to cool!

Not sure you’re ready? Start with this artisan Dutch oven bread recipe instead.

materials needed for sourdough bread

Tools for sourdough bread

Making sourdough bread requires some special equipment to get the job done. Here’s a list of the required tools. We’ve linked to the exact tools that we use.

Required tools for this sourdough bread recipe

  1. Large Dutch oven for baking the bread
  2. An active sourdough starter: here’s how to make it or buy one here
  3. Plastic bag for proofing (reuse it every time you make bread)
  4. 500 gram oval banneton proofing basket where the dough has its final rest
  5. Kitchen scale for measuring
  6. Our printable Sourdough Bread Checklist
  7. Parchment paper
  8. Bench scraper for shaping the dough
  9. Dough whisk for quickly and easily stirring the dough mixture (optional)
  10. Lame or sharp knife for scoring the bread
  11. Oven gloves for easily removing the bread from the oven (optional)

The flours for sourdough bread

You can make sourdough bread with many different types of flour. For our sourdough bread recipe, we use a mixture of all-purpose flour (for texture), bread flour (for strength), and whole wheat flour (for flavor). We find that this mix makes a moderately open crumb—those beautiful holes in sourdough, a chewy crust, and tangy flavor. 

Personally, we use King Arthur brand organic flour for all three of the flours. In testing many different flours, we find it has the best and most consistent results for our sourdough bread recipe. (Some other flour brands made for a denser bread.)

beautiful loaf sourdough bread

Proofing sourdough bread

Before we start, let’s talk about proofing. Proofing is when you let bread dough rest after you’ve added yeast so that it rises. In this recipe, there are multiple steps that involve proofing, some at room temperature and some in a warm area. For best results, your sourdough bread proofing temperature should be between 80°F and 90°F.

The recipe below calls for setting up a warm proofing area where the bread can sit at this temperature. If you have it, use the proofing setting on your oven for this step. Or, you can turn on the oven to preheat for about 1 minute and then turn it off before you place the dough in the oven. You can also pour a few cups of boiling water into the oven beneath your bowl to raise the temperature. 

Whatever the case, while the bread is proofing, be careful not to accidentally turn on the oven for any other reason. We’ve had this happen before, and it’s not pretty!

sourdough bread in banneton

What’s a banneton?

For the final proofing stage in our sourdough bread recipe, the bread proofs in a basket called a banneton. The banneton helps to shape the bread and also makes for those lovely decorative lines on the top of the bread.

To ensure the bread doesn’t stick to the banneton, the inside is coated with a mix of ½ cup all purpose flour and ½ cup rice flour, a tip we learned from the Tartine cookbook. We keep a container full of this mix on hand for baking days.

When it’s not in use, you can store the banneton at room temperature. There’s no need to clean the banneton; simply let it dry out after baking. After every few bakes, we scrape out any excess flour with a spoon so that you can still get those nice decorative lines in the top of the dough.

sourdough starter in a jar with flour

Feeding and maintaining a sourdough starter

Sourdough bread is a naturally leavened bread, meaning that instead of using active dry yeast to rise, it uses a sourdough starter. The first step in our sourdough bread recipe is to feed the sourdough starter. The night before you decide to make bread, feed the sourdough starter following the instructions in the recipe below.

Learning how to care for your sourdough starter is an important part of any sourdough bread recipe. To learn more, see How to Feed Sourdough Starter (it includes a helpful video).

If you don’t have a sourdough starter yet, you can learn how to make sourdough starter at home. See How to Make Sourdough Starter—out of thin air! You can also buy a sourdough starter online: here’s a live sourdough starter.

What is baker’s percentage?

If you’ve read up on sourdough bread, you may have heard of the terms “baker’s percentage” or “hydration level”. These terms refer to the amount of water in the recipe, as compared to the amount of flour.

This sourdough bread recipe is a high hydration bread. The baker’s percentage for this bread is 78% hydration (350 grams of water / 450 grams of flour).

open crumb on sourdough bread

How to store homemade bread

Equally as important as making sourdough bread is learning how to store it! Once you’ve baked your homemade bread, it is best eaten within 48 hours.

We store ours wrapped in cloth at room temperature. You can use a clean dish towel; or, made a special bread bag for storage out of a large napkin. Do not store it in plastic, or it becomes soggy.

If you don’t think you’ll eat the entire loaf in 48 hours, you can freeze whatever you don’t think you’ll eat! Let the sourdough bread cool fully to room temperature, then cut it into slices and place it into a sealed bag or container.

sourdough bread checklist

Printable checklist for sourdough bread

As we’ve honed this recipe through the years, we found that the hardest part of making sourdough bread was keeping track of which step we were on! To solve that problem, we created a printable checklist so that you don’t miss a beat.

Filling in the circles also adds satisfaction to each step! You can reuse the checklist five times—after that, print a new checklist and you’re good to go.

✅ Printable checklist: Download our Sourdough Bread Checklist.

Best sourdough bread recipe

This post is one of three in our series on how to make sourdough at home:

Frequently asked questions

How do I get larger holes in my bread (a more open crumb)?

We created this recipe to have a medium-sized crumb. To get holes in the bread like you see in our picture, make sure you are very gently during the folding and shaping steps so that you don’t press out the air.

Why is my dough very wet and hard to shape?

If you are using a different brand of flour (we use King Arthur) then you may need to increase the bread flour a little bit! Otherwise, just keep practicing your folding technique so that the dough can build strength.

How do I know if my bread has risen too much or not enough?

We like this How to Troubleshoot Bad Bread chart from Serious Eats to determine whether your bread was over-proofed or under-proofed. Over-proofed bread has a more dense crumb, while under-proofed bread will have large holes around the edges

Can I use a round banneton or bowl instead of the oval banneton?

Yes! We prefer the oval shape for slicing, but any banneton will work!

Can I make the sourdough at different times or change the rise times?

Yes, we recommend trying our timing once and seeing how your dough behaves. After that, you can try adjusting the timing to fit your lifestyle.

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Sourdough Bread Recipe (with Checklist!)

sourdough starter | sourdough bread recipe | how to make sourdough starter | how to make sourdough bread | is sourdough bread healthy | sourdough bread recipe with starter | sourdough bread proofing temperature | how to store homemade bread | naturally leavened bread
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4.9 from 21 reviews

This sourdough bread recipe is the ultimate guide to making your own sourdough bread! You’ll be amazed by the tangy flavor, beautiful chewy crust, and perfect texture. And don’t forget the printable checklist! Also, see our FAQ if you are having any problems.

  • Author: Sonja Overhiser
  • Prep Time: 6 hours
  • Cook Time: 40 minutes
  • Total Time: 6 hours 40 minutes
  • Yield: 10 slices
  • Category: Bread
  • Method: Baked
  • Cuisine: French

Ingredients

  • 200 grams all purpose flour
  • 200 grams bread flour
  • 50 grams whole wheat flour
  • 350 grams purified water, room temperature
  • 80 grams active sourdough starter (make your own or buy one here)
  • 10 grams kosher salt
  • 50/50 blend of rice flour and all purpose flour, for dusting the banneton

Instructions

Day 1: Preparing the Starter

On Day 1, you’ll feed your sourdough starter the night before you prepare the dough.

Feed the starter: Remove the active starter from the refrigerator around 9:00 pm. Discard all but 1 tablespoon of the starter. Add 50 grams of purified water and 50 grams of all purpose flour. Stir, cover, and leave at room temperature overnight. The starter should be bubbly and about doubled in size between 9:00 am and 11:00 am the following day. (More about feeding your starter is at How to Feed Sourdough Starter.)

Print the printable checklist: Print off our Sourdough Bread Checklist to use when preparing the dough tomorrow!

Day 2: Preparing the Dough

On Day 2, you’ll make and proof the dough. This is the most labor intensive day; the entire process will take around 5 hours. The step numbers correspond to the printable checklist; make sure you have it printed and ready to go!

1 Mix flour and water; rest for 1 hour at room temp (“autolyse”): In a small mixing bowl, combine the all purpose flour, bread flour and whole wheat flour with the purified water. Use a spoon or dough whisk to stir until all dry flour has been incorporated into a raggy dough. Cover the bowl with plastic wrap or place the bowl in a large Ziploc bag and place leave room temperature. Set a timer for 1 hour.

2a Prepare the proofing area: Prepare a warm area for proofing before starting next step. For best results, the proofing should be in a warm location, between 80° and 90° degrees. (For more on creating a proofing area, see the section above, “Proofing sourdough bread.”)

2b Stir in the starter and proof for 30 minutes: Add the starter to the dough and stir until loosely incorporated; it does not need to be perfectly stirred in. Cover the bowl and place it in the warm area for proofing. Set a timer for 30 minutes. Watch the video instructions for about folding for the next few steps.

3 Add salt, mix with your hands, and proof for 30 minutes: Add the kosher salt evenly across the dough and mix the dough with your hands until the salt is incorporated. See the video above to watch how to mix the dough. Return the covered dough to the proofing area and set timer for 30 minutes.

4 Fold and proof for 30 minutes: Fold the dough: with wet hands, lift one side of the dough straight up so that it stretches and fold it across the center; turn the bowl a quarter turn and repeat 4 times. Lift up the dough and wrap it onto itself until you have a smooth surface, then flip it over and place it in the bowl seam side down. See the video above to watch how to fold the dough. Return the covered dough to the proofing area and set timer for 30 minutes.

5 Fold and proof for 45 minutes: Fold the dough again in the same way as Step 4, wrapping it as much as possible without tearing the dough. Return the covered dough to a warm area and set a timer for 45 minutes.

6 Gently fold and proof for 1 hour 30 minutes: Gently fold the dough in the same way as Step 4, being careful not to deflate built up air in the dough. Return the covered dough to a warm area and set timer for 1 hour 30 minutes. Before you start Step 7, watch the video for instructions on pre-shaping and shaping the dough.

7 Pre-shape the dough and rest for 30 minutes at room temp: At this point the dough should appear bubbly on top and wiggle when shaken. (If it is not ready, proof for a few more minutes; the timing can vary depending on the temperature of your proofing and variations in the starter.) Turn the dough onto an unfloured countertop. Lightly flour the top of the dough and then use a bench scraper to gently scrape the dough into a ball, creating tension on top. Do not go so far that you tear the dough. Place an inverted bowl over the top of the dough. Set a timer and rest the dough for 30 minutes.

8 Shape the dough, place it in the banneton, and rest for 30 minutes at room temp: Prepare the banneton by rubbing the 50/50 rice flour mixture into all of the grooves of the banneton. Remove the bowl from over the dough; the dough should be formed into a gently rounded shape. Rub just enough flour onto the top of the dough so that it isn’t tacky. Use the bench scraper to flip the dough so that the floured side is down. Gently stretch the dough into a rectangle. Moving quickly, fold the top third of the dough down, and the bottom third up to create a packet. Rotate the dough 90 degrees and gently roll it into a log shape. Be careful to not press the dough or deflate it. Use your hands to gently pull the dough tight and pinch off the seams at the end of the dough. Rub a little more flour onto the top of the dough so that it isn’t tacky. Gently flip the dough into the banneton and pinch off the bottom seam. Place the banneton into the proofing bag and set timer for 30 minutes.

9 Refrigerate overnight: Place the banneton in a bag and refrigerate until the following morning.

Day 3: Baking the Dough

10 Preheat the Dutch oven at 515°F for 30 minutes: The following morning, place a covered Dutch oven on the center rack in your oven. Preheat to 515°F for at least 30 minutes. If your oven only reaches to 500°F, the recipe will still work, but you won’t get quite as much rise out of the bread.

11 Place on parchment, score, and bake for 17 minutes in Dutch oven:

  • After preheating, cut a piece of parchment paper the width of your banneton. Remove the banneton from the refrigerator and pull back slightly around the edge of the dough to release it from the banneton. Gently invert the banneton onto the parchment paper and reach your hand into the basket to release it from the banneton. Try not to deflate the dough. 
  • Using a lame or sharp knife, cut a shallow slit at angle across the top of the dough. You can also add additional small shallow cuts for decoration. 
  • As quickly as possible, remove the lid from the Dutch oven and carefully place the parchment paper with dough into the Dutch oven. Cover it and set the timer for 17 minutes.

12 Place the bread on the oven rack, reduce to 400°F and bake for 23 minutes: After 17 minutes, reduce the oven temperature to 400°F. Remove the Dutch oven, carefully take out the bread, and set the bread directly onto the oven rack. Bake for an additional 23 minutes. Remove the bread from the oven and allow it to cool on a cooling rack for at least 45 minutes. After cooling, the bread is ready to eat. Store the bread wrapped in cloth or in a bread bag on the counter for up to 2 days, or freeze wrapped in foil in a plastic bag for several months.

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Pumpkin Banana Muffins https://www.acouplecooks.com/pumpkin-banana-muffins/ https://www.acouplecooks.com/pumpkin-banana-muffins/#comments Fri, 25 Oct 2024 15:06:33 +0000 https://www.acouplecooks.com/?p=165591 These pumpkin banana muffins are so moist and flavorful, you’ll be making them on repeat! Infused with pumpkin spices and topped with crunchy sugar, they’re easy to whip up as a baking project with friends or family.

Pumpkin Banana Muffins with pumpkin puree in measuring cup

Ready for your next fall baking project? We’ve got three words for you: pumpkin banana muffins! Alex and I are all about cooking with friends and family (we even wrote a book about it). For this season, we created this muffins recipe for doing just that. Though of course, you can bake them solo too.

These muffins come out beautifully moist from both pumpkin and banana, infused with cozy pumpkin spices. They’re just sweet enough and topped with crunchy sugar. Our family can’t get enough of these—and we promise everyone who tastes them will beg for the recipe!

Ingredient notes for pumpkin banana muffins

Turns out, pumpkin and banana go hand in hand in these pumpkin banana muffins! The banana adds a nice natural sweetness and additional moisture. Here are a few notes on ingredients:

  • Very ripe bananas: The riper the bananas, the better: very dark brown or black bananas are best.
  • Pumpkin puree: Make sure to use puree, not pumpkin pie filling (which has added sugar and spices).
  • Neutral oil: This recipe uses oil as the fat, like organic grapeseed or vegetable oil. You can also substitute melted butter or even use olive oil.
  • Brown and granulated sugar: This recipe is sweetened using traditional sugar. You can use a solid sweetener substitute, but we recommend not using maple syrup or honey here because it can alter the texture.
  • Eggs: For vegan, you can try substituting a flax egg.
  • Baking soda, salt, vanilla extract, and pumpkin pie spice: These ingredients round out the flavoring in the bread.
  • All purpose flour: If desired, you can substitute in up to ¼ of the all purpose flour with whole wheat flour.
Pumpkin Banana Muffins on baking rack

Variations and mix-ins

There are so many ways to dress up pumpkin banana muffins. We almost made them with our favorite maple glaze, but wanted to keep them basic and let you add your desired mix-ins or toppings. Here are a few other ideas:

  • Mix-ins: Add ½ to ¾ cup dark chocolate chips, chopped walnuts, or chopped pecans.
  • Pumpkin seed topping: Top each muffin with a sprinkle of pepitas (we like roasted salted best).
  • Streusel topping: Combine ¼ cup rolled oats, 2 tablespoons flour, 1 teaspoon pumpkin pie spice, ¼ cup turbinado sugar and ¼ cup salted butter cut into pieces. Cut in the butter using a pastry cutter or fork until a crumbly streusel forms. Sprinkle on top before baking.
  • Glaze topping: Make 1 recipe of this Maple Glaze and drizzle it over the muffins with a fork. Or, use the Salted Caramel Glaze from this Brown Butter Banana Bread recipe.

Storing leftovers

These pumpkin banana muffins store well. They last 4 days at room temperature in a sealed container, refrigerated for 10 days, or frozen for up to 3 months.

Dietary notes

These pumpkin banana muffins are vegetarian. For vegan, substitute flax eggs.

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Pumpkin Banana Muffins

Pumpkin Banana Muffin
Save Recipe

5 Stars 4 Stars 3 Stars 2 Stars 1 Star

No reviews

These pumpkin banana muffins are so moist and flavorful, you’ll be making them on repeat! Infused with pumpkin spices and topped with crunchy sugar, they’re easy to whip up as a baking project with friends or family.

  • Author: Sonja Overhiser
  • Prep Time: 20 minutes
  • Cook Time: 30 minutes
  • Total Time: 50 minutes
  • Yield: 12
  • Category: Muffin
  • Method: Baked
  • Cuisine: Pumpkin
  • Diet: Vegetarian

Ingredients

  • 3⁄4 cup mashed very ripe bananas (2 large very ripe bananas)
  • 1 cup pumpkin puree
  • 1⁄2 cup neutral oil (vegetable, canola or
    grapeseed)
  • 1⁄2 cup light brown sugar
  • 1⁄2 cup granulated sugar
  • 2 large eggs
  • 2 teaspoons vanilla extract
  • 1 teaspoon baking soda
  • 1 1⁄2 tablespoons pumpkin pie spice
  • 1⁄2 teaspoon kosher salt
  • 1 1⁄2 cups [210 g] all-purpose flour
  • Turbinado sugar, for sprinkling (optional)

Instructions

  1. Preheat: Preheat the oven to 350°F. Add 12 muffin cups to a muffin tin (or spray it with cooking spray).
  2. Make the batter: Mash the bananas in the bottom of a large bowl and measure them out. Whisk in the pumpkin puree, oil, brown sugar, granulated sugar, eggs, and
    vanilla extract. In a separate bowl, whisk the baking soda, pumpkin pie spice, kosher salt, and all-purpose flour. Then stir the dry ingredients into the batter with a
    spoon.
  3. Bake: Fill the muffin cups evenly with the batter. Sprinkle the tops of the muffins with turbinado sugar. Place the muffin tin in the oven and bake for about 25 minutes,
    until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean. Allow the muffins to cool in the pan for 5 minutes, then remove them from the tin and place them on a cooling
    rack to fully cool. Store up to 4 days in a sealed container, refrigerated up to 10 days, or frozen up to 3 months.

Notes

Mix-in ideas: Add ½ to ¾ cup dark chocolate chips, chopped walnuts, or chopped pecans into the batter before baking.

Streusel topping variation: Combine ¼ cup rolled oats, 2 tablespoons flour, 1 teaspoon pumpkin pie spice, ¼ cup turbinado sugar and ¼ cup salted butter cut into pieces. Cut in the butter using a pastry cutter or fork until a crumbly streusel forms. Sprinkle on top before baking.

Glaze topping variation: Make 1 recipe of this Maple Glaze and drizzle it over the muffins with a fork. Or, use the Salted Caramel Glaze from this Brown Butter Banana Bread recipe.

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A few more pumpkin recipes

Every fall we make it our goal to make all the pumpkin recipes! Here are a few favorites:

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Pumpkin Bars https://www.acouplecooks.com/pumpkin-bars/ https://www.acouplecooks.com/pumpkin-bars/#comments Thu, 24 Oct 2024 13:30:00 +0000 https://www.acouplecooks.com/?p=136703 These pumpkin bars with cream cheese frosting are a fall favorite! The soft and cakey bars are packed with pumpkin spice flavor and finished with a lusciously creamy frosting. Every time we serve them, someone asks for the recipe!

Pumpkin Bars with cream cheese frosting

What’s the best pumpkin dessert? For some people it’s pumpkin pie or pumpkin bread, but for us it’s these pumpkin bars with cream cheese frosting! These have become a fan and family favorite over the years because they are just that good.

This pumpkin bars recipe is ideal for any fall occasion. Every time we make them, we cannot stop sneaking bites! All our friends and family adore these, and here’s why:

  • These bars are perfectly moist and cakey, with just the right warm-spiced interior from cinnamon, ginger and nutmeg.
  • The lusciously cream cheese frosting is to-die-for. It adds a gooey tang: and it’s the right amount (not too much, not too little).They’re topped off with a lusciously creamy layer of cream cheese frosting that gives a tangy lift to each bite.
  • It makes a big sheet pan. It’s great for fall gatherings and entertaining, like Thanksgiving, Halloween, dinner parties, or to pass out to neighbors to spread fall cheer.
Pumpkin Bars recipe

Tips for making pumpkin bars

This pumpkin bars recipe is simply a matter of mixing the dry ingredients, the wet ingredients, combining them and baking! Here are a few notes on the overall process:

  • Use a 10 x 15-inch jelly roll pan. This is a non-negotiable! It gets just the right height so they work as bars, not fluffy cake.
  • Bake until a toothpick comes out clean. This should take 25 to 30 minutes. Make sure not to overbake, or the bars will not be as moist.
  • Allow to cool fully before frosting. Otherwise, the frosting will melt when you apply it. If you want to go right into frosting after its cool, set out the cream cheese and butter on the counter in advance.
Pumpkin Bars

Notes the cream cheese frosting

These pumpkin bars with cream cheese frosting are nothing without that sweet, creamy layer of goodness on top. If you’ve never made cream cheese frosting, it’s simple but requires a few tricks:

  • Allow the butter and cream cheese to come to room temperature for 1 hour. You can also try microwaving for a few seconds, but that risks melting the frosting and destroying the texture. If you’re planning to frost the bars right away, you may want to set out the butter and cream cheese while you’re in the middle of baking.
  • Sift the powdered sugar. This helps to eliminate any lumps in the frosting.
  • If desired, make the frosting in advance. You can save it for up to 1 week. Make sure to set it out at room temperature for about 30 minutes before icing the bars.

Storing leftovers

The last thing to know about these pumpkin bars with cream cheese frosting? They’re best stored refrigerated! While you can store them at room temperature, the frosting holds up best in the fridge. Store the bars refrigerated for up to 5 days.

Pumpkin Bars

More pumpkin recipes

In the fall, it’s all about that cozy orange squash. Here are a few more pumpkin recipes and pumpkin desserts you’ll love:

Dietary notes

These pumpkin bars are vegetarian. For vegan, substitute flax eggs and this vegan cream cheese frosting.

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Pumpkin Bars with Cream Cheese Frosting

Pumpkin Bars
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5 Stars 4 Stars 3 Stars 2 Stars 1 Star

5 from 2 reviews

These pumpkin bars with cream cheese frosting are a fall favorite! These soft, cozy bars are packed with pumpkin spice flavor and finished with a lusciously creamy frosting. Every time we serve them, someone asks for the recipe!

  • Author: Sonja Overhiser
  • Prep Time: 1 hour
  • Cook Time: 30 minutes
  • Total Time: 1 hour 30 minutes
  • Yield: 24 bars
  • Category: Dessert
  • Method: Baked
  • Cuisine: Fall
  • Diet: Vegetarian

Ingredients

For the pumpkin bars

  • 2 cups [280 g] all-purpose flour
  • ½ tablespoon cinnamon
  • 1 tablespoon pumpkin pie spice
  • 1 teaspoon baking soda
  • 1 teaspoon baking powder
  • ½ teaspoon kosher salt
  • 2 large eggs
  • ¾ cup light brown sugar
  • ½ cup granulated sugar
  • 15-ounce can pumpkin puree
  • ¾ cup neutral oil

For the cream cheese frosting

  • 4 tablespoons unsalted butter, room temperature
  • 1 8-ounce package cream cheese, room temperature
  • 2 ½ cups powdered sugar, sifted
  • ½ teaspoon vanilla extract

Instructions

  1. Preheat the oven to 350°F. Grease a 10 x 15-inch jelly roll pan.
  2. In a large bowl, stir together the flour, cinnamon, pumpkin pie spice, baking soda, baking powder and kosher salt. In a separate bowl, whisk together the eggs, then whisk in the brown sugar, granulated sugar, pumpkin puree, and oil. Pour the dry ingredients into the wet mixture and stir with a spatula until just combined. Pour the batter into the prepared pan and use a spatula to smooth it into an even layer. 
  3. Bake for 25 to 30 minutes, until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean. Allow to cool for 30 minutes, then refrigerate about 15 minutes until it comes to room temperature. (Or allow to cool and refrigerate it, then frost before serving.) 
  4. Meanwhile, make the cream cheese frosting: Let the butter and cream cheese sit on the counter for 1 hour to come to room temperature. Use a fine mesh sieve to sift the powdered sugar into a bowl. Beat the butter and cream cheese with a stand mixer or hand mixer on medium speed for 2 to 3 minutes until completely smooth, scraping once. Reduce the speed to low, then add the vanilla. Slowly add the powdered sugar until it comes together into a thick icing. Use immediately or refrigerate until using (stores refrigerated for up to 1 week; allow to stand at room temperature for 30 minutes and stir before using). 
  5. Spread the frosting on top of the bars. If desired, dust with cinnamon. Serve immediately or store refrigerated. Stores refrigerated for up to 5 days. Freeze the completely cooled unfrosted bars tightly wrapped for up to 3 months. 

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Easy Pumpkin Bread https://www.acouplecooks.com/pumpkin-bread-recipe/ https://www.acouplecooks.com/pumpkin-bread-recipe/#comments Wed, 23 Oct 2024 12:00:00 +0000 https://www.acouplecooks.com/?p=136366 This easy pumpkin bread recipe is made in just one bowl and bakes up into the best moist, cozy-spiced slices. Top it with a simple maple glaze to take it over the top! This is our family favorite recipe we use every fall.

Pumpkin Bread Recipe

A good pumpkin bread recipe is an essential for any home cook. As cookbook authors and passionate home cooks, we’ve made more pumpkin bread recipes than we can count. Here’s our spin: we wanted to create a loaf that was easy to make and full of flavor.

This one comes out cozy-spiced, tender, and moist, with a texture not too fluffy or too dense. It’s simple to whip up: one bowl, no special equipment; just dump and stir! Top it with a sweet maple glaze to take it over the top. It’s the quick bread to make in fall!

Ingredient notes for this pumpkin bread recipe

There are many ways to make a great pumpkin bread. Alex and I created this one to be ultra moist, with the perfect sweet, cozy spiced flavor and soft, tender crumb. Why is it easy? There’s no need for a mixer or waiting for butter to come to room temperature: you can mix it all up in one bowl! Here are a few ingredient notes for this recipe:

  • Pumpkin puree: Use canned or homemade; the most consistent brand we’ve found is Libby’s (we’re not affiliated).
  • Eggs: These bind the bread together. For egg-free, go to our Vegan Pumpkin Bread.
  • Granulated sugar: You can substitute the solid sweetener of your choice; we don’t recommend using maple syrup here.
  • Neutral oil: Oil makes a moister quick bread than butter; it also allows the recipe to be made in a bowl with no stand mixer.
  • Cinnamon and pumpkin pie spice (or ginger, allspice, and nutmeg): Individual spices make the boldest flavor, but you can also use pumpkin pie spice.
  • All purpose flour: You can substitute up to ¼ of the flour with whole wheat flour. For a gluten-free option, go to our Gluten Free Pumpkin Bread.
Pumpkin Bread

Tips for baking pumpkin bread

This pumpkin bread recipe is easier than most: no need for a stand mixer or two loaf pans. It’s straightforward and made in one bowl! There are a few things to keep in mind for baking success:

  • Use an aluminum baking pan for best results (9 x 5-inch). Ceramic and glass pans don’t cook as evenly. This recipe is optimized for a 9 x 5 inch pan, but also works in a 8 x 4 inch pan.
  • Don’t overmix. Overmixing a quick bread can lead to holes in the texture of the crumb.
  • Let it cool fully before serving. This bread has an even more developed flavor once it is fully cooled: eating it after 2 hours is ideal.

Try it with a maple glaze

This easy pumpkin bread is delicious plain, but we like it best with a glaze! This maple glaze is simple to whip up and has a sweet, maple-forward flavor.

  • Using maple glaze adds a pop of maple-forward flavor. It’s easy to find at the grocery store and it’s worth buying. However, the glaze tastes delicious without it!
  • Butter is helpful for storage. One advantage of the maple glaze is that the butter helps to make for a more solidified glaze that holds up better over time.
  • Use our even simpler variations. You can also use this 1-Minute Powdered Sugar Icing or Vanilla Glaze for topping.

Tip

Want a solid glaze? Make double the glaze recipe below and glaze the cooled bread in the pan, so the glaze doesn’t run down the sides.

Glaze for pumpkin bread

Variations and mix-ins

OF course, there are lots of ways to riff on a pumpkin bread recipe. Here are a few ideas for adding to the top or inside this bread:

Pumpkin Bread Recipe

Storing leftovers

This pumpkin bread recipe tastes even better the next day, because it picks up moisture during storage. Here are a few tips for storage of this quick bread:

  • Stores at room temperature for 4 days, wrapped tightly in aluminum foil.
  • Stores refrigerated for 10 days. Cold temperatures can make it taste dryer, so bring to room temperature before serving.
  • Stores frozen for up to 3 months. Slice the bread and freeze it in slices for up to 3 months.
Pumpkin Bread recipe

More pumpkin recipes

When it’s pumpkin season, you’ve got to taste test them all! Here are a few tasty pumpkin recipes you might enjoy:

Dietary notes

This easy pumpkin bread recipe is vegetarian. For vegan, go to Vegan Pumpkin Bread. For gluten-free, go to Gluten Free Pumpkin Bread

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Easy Pumpkin Bread

Pumpkin Bread
Save Recipe

5 Stars 4 Stars 3 Stars 2 Stars 1 Star

5 from 6 reviews

This easy pumpkin bread recipe is made in just one bowl and bakes up into the best moist, cozy-spiced slices. Top it with a simple maple glaze to take it over the top! This is our family favorite recipe we use every fall.

  • Author: Sonja Overhiser
  • Prep Time: 15 minutes
  • Cook Time: 50 minutes
  • Total Time: 1 hour 5 minutes
  • Yield: 12 slices
  • Category: Bread
  • Method: Baked
  • Cuisine: Baked
  • Diet: Vegetarian

Ingredients

For the pumpkin bread

  • 3 eggs
  • 1 cup pumpkin puree
  • 1 ¼ cups granulated sugar
  • ¾ cup neutral oil
  • 2 teaspoons vanilla extract
  • 1 tablespoon cinnamon
  • 2 teaspoons pumpkin pie spice (or 1 teaspoon ground ginger, 1 teaspoon allspice, and ½ teaspoon nutmeg)
  • ¾ teaspoon kosher salt
  • 1 ½ teaspoons baking powder
  • ½ teaspoon baking soda
  • 1 ½ cups [210 g] all-purpose flour

For the glaze (optional*)

  • ½ cup powdered sugar
  • 1 tablespoon melted butter
  • 2 tablespoons maple syrup
  • 1 pinch salt
  • 3 drops maple extract (optional)
  • 1 tablespoon milk, plus more if needed

Instructions

  1. Preheat the oven to 350°F. Grease a 9 x 5 inch aluminum bread pan, then add parchment paper cut so that it fits the width and extends on both long sides, to easily remove the bread once its baked. 
  2. In a bowl, whisk the eggs. Then whisk in the pumpkin puree, sugar, oil, and vanilla.
  3. Whisk in the cinnamon, ginger, allspice, nutmeg, and kosher salt. Then whisk in the baking powder and baking soda. Sprinkle in the flour, half at a time, and mix with a spatula until just combined and there are no more dry bits (don’t over-stir). 
  4. Pour the batter into the bread pan.
  5. Bake 60 to 65 minutes, until the top is set and a toothpick comes out with a few clinging crumbs. Allow to cool in the pan for 30 minutes, then run a knife around the edges and pull up on the parchment paper to remove the bread. Allow to cool to room temperature if glazing.
  6. If making the glaze, heat the butter and maple syrup in a small saucepan until the butter melts. In a medium bowl, slowly whisk the powdered sugar, butter and maple syrup, salt and maple extract until a thick glaze forms. Gradually add the milk to make a smooth, pourable glaze. If the glaze is too sticky, add a teaspoon more milk until it comes to a smooth, thick consistency. Use a fork to drizzle across the bread. 
  7. Slice into pieces and serve. Stores for 4 days at room temperature wrapped in foil, 10 days in the refrigerator (bring to room temperature before serving), or freeze in slices for a few months (freezing works best without the glaze).

Notes

*You can also use this 1-Minute Powdered Sugar Icing or Vanilla Glaze for topping.

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Pumpkin Cookies https://www.acouplecooks.com/pumpkin-cookies/ https://www.acouplecooks.com/pumpkin-cookies/#comments Tue, 22 Oct 2024 13:00:00 +0000 https://www.acouplecooks.com/?p=136279 Everyone goes crazy for this pumpkin cookies recipe! They come out ultra soft, chewy, and cozy-spiced, drizzled with a sweet and simple icing. In our opinion, it’s the perfect fall cookie!

Pumpkin cookies with powdered sugar icing

When it comes to favorite pumpkin recipes, here’s one at the very top for us: these chewy iced pumpkin cookies! Whenever we make these for someone, they rave (recently, our son’s teacher couldn’t say enough about them).

These sweet morsels are lusciously pillowy and chewy, scented with a burst of fall spices and a hint of molasses. The exterior has a subtle sugar crunch and a drizzle of simple sweet icing. Even better, the soft texture holds up for days. They really are the best: great for fall desserts, Halloween, Thanksgiving and everything in between.

Ingredients in this pumpkin cookies recipe

We’re not huge fans of cakey pumpkin cookies. You know, the kind that are basically like little round pumpkin cakes? To us they’re not really cookies, more like cake bites. So with this recipe, we created pumpkin cookies that are soft and chewy, with the texture of a molasses ginger cookie but with pumpkin and pumpkin spices. The key here? Don’t use too much pumpkin puree: it adds lots of moisture which leads to cakey cookies. Here are the ingredients you’ll need for this pumpkin cookie recipe:

  • Pumpkin puree: Too much pumpkin makes for cakey cookies. This recipe uses just enough pumpkin.
  • Unsalted butter: Heat the butter until it starts to turn brown and smells nutty, then immediately remove from the heat. Using brown butter adds a deep nuance in flavor (and smells incredible).
  • Egg yolk and molasses: Egg yolk and a bit of molasses helps to make the perfect chewy texture.
  • All-purpose flour and granulated sugar: We don’t recommend using substitutes in this recipe because it significantly alters the texture.
  • Cinnamon, ginger, allspice, nutmeg, baking soda, vanilla extract and salt: These baking ingredients bring together the spiced pumpkin flavor.
Pumpkin Cookies on baking rack

Tips for baking pumpkin cookies

Cookies can be temperamental, and pumpkin cookies are no different. It’s challenging to get cookies that look perfectly identical. Here are a few tips for upping your baking game:

  • Use a cookie scoop. If you have a 1 ½ tablespoon cookie scoop, it’s helpful for portioning the dough perfectly.
  • Bake the trays separately. This is one of our biggest baking tips: bake only one tray of cookies at a time! This ensures the best consistency between the trays because the oven heat is the same for each. (This is even true with new ranges like ours.)
  • Refrigerate the dough in between baking the trays. It’s not required, but it also yields the most consistency. When you don’t chill in between baking, the cookies have slightly more crinkles—while it looks nice, it’s appears slightly different from the first batch. If you’d like you can chill the dough longer than it takes to bake the first tray, but let it come to roughly room temperature before making the balls.

Tip for pumpkin puree brands

There’s a fair amount of variation between pumpkin puree brands. Some are rather dry, and others are very wet.

We’ve found from experimentation that Libby brand of canned pumpkin has the best dry texture for baking. We’re not affiliated with the brand; we’ve just noticed that other brands can be very wet. If you have access to this brand, we’ve found it yields the most consistent results.

Iced Pumpkin Cookies

Storing leftovers

These pumpkin cookies hold up well over time. This is a must for cookies in our opinion, since you’re making them in such a big batch. Here’s what to note about storing these cookies:

  • Store in a sealed container at room temperature for 1 week. The texture holds up well: no need to add anything to the container.
  • Store refrigerated for 2 weeks. Allow to come to room temperature before serving.
  • Store frozen for up to 3 months. If you can, freeze the cookies un-iced: it doesn’t hold up as well frozen.
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Iced Pumpkin Cookies

Pumpkin cookies
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5 Stars 4 Stars 3 Stars 2 Stars 1 Star

5 from 1 review

Everyone goes crazy for this pumpkin cookies recipe! They come out ultra soft, chewy, and cozy-spiced, drizzled with a sweet and simple icing. In our opinion, it’s the perfect fall cookie!

  • Author: Sonja Overhiser
  • Prep Time: 30 minutes
  • Cook Time: 25 minutes
  • Total Time: 55 minutes
  • Yield: 26 cookies
  • Category: Dessert
  • Method: Baked
  • Cuisine: Fall
  • Diet: Vegetarian

Ingredients

For the cookies

  • 10 tablespoons unsalted butter
  • 2 cups all-purpose flour (280 g)
  • 1 teaspoon baking soda
  • 1 tablespoon cinnamon
  • 2 teaspoons ground ginger
  • 1 teaspoon ground allspice
  • ½ teaspoon nutmeg
  • ½ teaspoon kosher salt
  • 1 cup granulated sugar, plus more for rolling
  • 1 egg yolk
  • 1 tablespoon molasses
  • 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
  • ½ cup pumpkin puree (Libby brand is most consistent for baked goods*)

For the glaze (or Maple Glaze)

  • 1 cup powdered sugar
  • 2 tablespoons milk
  • ½ tablespoons unsalted butter, melted

Instructions

  1. Preheat the oven to 350°F.
  2. Place the butter (sliced into pieces) in a skillet over medium heat. Heat for about 5 minutes until it melts, turns foamy, and then becomes golden brown in color and smells nutty. Immediately remove from the heat and transfer to a bowl. Transfer to the freezer for 15 minutes to cool (you can also do this in advance and cool it to room temperature).
  3. In a medium bowl, whisk the flour, baking soda, cinnamon, ginger, allspice, nutmeg, and salt.
  4. Add the cooled browned butter to the bowl of a stand mixer. Add the sugar and mix on High speed for 1 minute, until light and fluffy. Add the egg yolk, molasses and vanilla extract, and beat on High speed for 1 minute. Add the pumpkin puree and mix just until incorporated, scraping once. Pour in the bowl of dry ingredients and mix on Low speed until just combined.
  5. Line a baking sheet with parchment paper. Place ¼ cup granulated sugar on a plate. Roll the dough in 1 ½ tablespoon balls, using a cookie scoop if possible, then roll the ball into the plate of sugar. Repeat for a tray of 12 cookies. Add a single tray to the oven and bake 12 to 13 minutes, until puffed. Chill the remaining dough while baking (recommended but not required; without it the second batch comes out with slightly more crinkles**). Allow to cool on the pan 5 minutes before removing to a baking rack.
  6. Repeat for the second batch of cookies (baking the trays separately yields more even results).
  7. Allow the cookies to cool to room temperature, about 30 minutes. For the glaze, mix the powdered sugar, milk and melted butter in a small bowl until a thick icing forms (add slightly more sugar if it’s too runny or a hint more milk if too thick). Use a fork to drizzle the icing over the cookies. Wait for about 20 minutes for the icing to dry before serving.
  8. Store at room temperature for about 1 week, refrigerated for 2 weeks (bring to room temperature before serving), or frozen for 3 months (un-iced cookies freeze best).

Notes

*Don’t use pumpkin pie filling! Canned pumpkin can vary in moisture level, and too much moisture makes cakey pumpkin cookies. We’ve found Libby brand canned pumpkin has the best dry texture for baking, while other brands can have more moisture than others.

**You can also chill the dough longer than it takes to bake the first tray, but let it come to roughly room temperature before making the balls. (Baking the dough right from chilled yields different results.)

Variation: Try this Maple Glaze for topping the cookies. 

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Pumpkin Muffins https://www.acouplecooks.com/pumpkin-muffins/ https://www.acouplecooks.com/pumpkin-muffins/#comments Sun, 06 Oct 2024 14:00:00 +0000 https://www.acouplecooks.com/?p=115053 This pumpkin muffins recipe is a fall go-to! Each batch comes out moist and perfectly seasoned with pumpkin spice.

Pumpkin muffins

Looking for a cozy fall muffin? Have we got one for you: this easy Pumpkin Muffins recipe! These muffins are the perfect level of sweetness, moist and cozy scented with pumpkin spice: cinnamon, ginger, allspice, nutmeg and cloves.

We made them for a crowd and everyone agreed: these are fantastic! The flavor of fall is encapsulated in each bite. This is the recipe to try if you have a load of pumpkin puree in your pantry or fridge (and we do).

Ingredients in this pumpkin muffins recipe

These pumpkin spice muffins are a straightforward spin on the classic muffin, using a hefty dose of pumpkin spice. They’re not overly sweetened or rich, relying on pumpkin and applesauce for much of the moistness. Here are the ingredients you’ll use:

  • All purpose flour
  • Pumpkin pie spices
  • Baking soda, baking powder and salt
  • Brown sugar
  • Pumpkin puree
  • Eggs
  • Neutral oil
  • Applesauce

There’s not much to this pumpkin spice muffins recipe: it’s made like a classic baked good. Mix the wets, mix the dries, combine, and bake! It takes just 25 minutes and these bake up like a charm: they come out moist and cozy scented.

Pumpkin muffins recipe

Pumpkin pie spice: use purchased or homemade

Fall is not complete without a big bottle of pumpkin pie spice! But did you know you can also make it at home? It’s fun to do and works as a DIY gift as well. Here’s what you need for homemade pumpkin pie spice:

  • 2 tablespoons cinnamon
  • 2 teaspoons ground ginger
  • 2 teaspoons ground allspice
  • 1 teaspoon ground cloves
  • 1 teaspoon ground nutmeg

Variations and mix-ins

There are several ways to mix up these best pumpkin muffins! Our recipe uses a bit of granulated sugar and pumpkin spice as the topping, but you can vary that or add a few mix-ins to the batter. Here are some ideas:

Pumpkin spice muffins

Storing leftovers

What’s the best way to store these pumpkin spice muffins? The sugar adds a little crunch to the topping, so here’s the best way for it to hold up:

  • Up to 4 days: Place a paper towel in the bottom of a sealed container, then place the muffins in and place a paper towel on top. The paper towels absorb the moisture that rises to the top of the muffins.
  • 1 week or more: These muffins store well in the refrigerator as well! Let them sit out at room temperature for a few minutes before eating.
  • 3 months: Freeze in a sealable container and store up to 3 months.

Dietary notes

This easy pumpkin muffins recipe is vegetarian.

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Pumpkin Muffins

Pumpkin spice muffins
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5 Stars 4 Stars 3 Stars 2 Stars 1 Star

3.8 from 4 reviews

This pumpkin muffins recipe is a fall go-to! Each batch comes out moist and perfectly seasoned with pumpkin spice.

  • Author: Sonja Overhiser
  • Prep Time: 15 minutes
  • Cook Time: 25 minutes
  • Total Time: 40 minutes
  • Yield: 12
  • Category: Muffin
  • Method: Baked
  • Cuisine: American
  • Diet: Vegetarian

Ingredients

  • 2 cups all purpose flour
  • 1 ½ tablespoons pumpkin pie spices, divided
  • 1 teaspoon baking soda
  • 1 teaspoon baking powder
  • ½ teaspoon kosher salt
  • ¾ cup brown sugar
  • 1 cup pumpkin puree
  • 2 large eggs
  • ⅓ cup neutral oil
  • ½ cup unsweetened applesauce
  • Granulated sugar, for the topping

Instructions

  1. Preheat the oven to 350 degrees Fahrenheit. Add 12 muffin cups to a muffin tin.
  2. In a large bowl, stir together the flour, 1 tablespoon plus 1 teaspoon of the pumpkin pie spices, baking soda, baking powder and kosher salt. In a separate bowl, whisk together the brown sugar, pumpkin puree, eggs, oil and applesauce. Pour the wet mixture into the dry ingredients and stir until combined. Fill the muffin cups evenly, mounding the batter in the center with a spatula.
  3. In a small bowl, mix 1 ½ tablespoons granulated sugar with the remaining ½ teaspoon pumpkin pie spices. Sprinkle the mixture evenly over the tops of the muffins.
  4. Place the tray in the oven and bake for about 25 minutes, until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean. Allow to cool in the pan for 5 minutes, then remove the muffins and place them on a cooling rack to fully cool. Store up to 4 days in a sealed container with a paper towel on the bottom and top, refrigerated up to 1 week or more, or frozen up to 3 months.

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Healthy Apple Muffins https://www.acouplecooks.com/healthy-apple-muffins/ https://www.acouplecooks.com/healthy-apple-muffins/#comments Wed, 25 Sep 2024 13:30:00 +0000 https://www.acouplecooks.com/?p=165178 These healthy apple muffins use oatmeal and maple syrup to make a deliciously wholesome muffin! They’re made in a blender with no flour, and make a great breakfast or snack slathered with almond butter.

Healthy Apple Muffins

Why we love this recipe

If there’s a favorite fruit in our family, it’s the apple (especially in the fall!). Here’s a fun way we created to blend them into a tasty breakfast or snack: healthy apple muffins! Ever since we made this popular healthy banana muffins recipe using oatmeal in a blender, we’ve been making them over and over. But we don’t always have ripe bananas on hand—hence, the apple variation!

These muffins are hearty and wholesome, starring oatmeal blended with maple syrup, eggs, cinnamon and allspice. They taste so good and most people are surprised to know they have no flour at all. We love them with a slather of almond butter as a breakfast or snack—and our kids gobble them up! We hope you love this variation as much as we do.

Note: The term healthy is subjective. Here, the term healthy means there is less sugar than the standard muffin. The basis for the recipe is also whole grain oats, instead of all purpose flour and granulated sugar. However, healthy eating can include a balance of foods and may look different for everyone. Contact your doctor for more information on what is right for you!

Ingredients notes for healthy apple muffins

Alex and I made these healthy apple muffins after a trip to the apple orchard, and they’ve since become a family favorite. They follow the concept of blender muffins: all you have to do is throw the ingredients in a blender! Here are a few notes on what you need:

  • Apples: Any type of apple works here. We’re partial to a crisp tart apple like Pink Lady or Jonathon, but you can use any apple you like.
  • Eggs, oats, and neutral oil: The basis for this muffin is eggs and oats, which blend together into a sort of fluffy batter that mimics the traditional muffin consistency. For the oil, use organic grapeseed or canola oil; you can also swap in olive oil if you like.
  • Pure maple syrup: We find maple syrup brings the best subtle sweetness to this recipe. You can also use a combination of maple and brown sugar for a slightly sweeter muffin.
  • Cinnamon, allspice and vanilla: These spices make the flavor shine. You can also substitute ground ginger for the allspice, or even pumpkin pie spice.
  • Turbinado sugar: We like topping with a little turbinado sugar to add a bit of extra sweetness and a crunch. You could also use a sprinkle of brown sugar.
Healthy Apple Muffins

Tip

The maple syrup grading system changed in 2015 to remove Grade B. We like using maple syrup marked “Grade A: Dark Color and Robust Taste,” which we find has the best flavor. We generally avoid maple syrup labeled Amber or Golden, since it is much lighter in flavor.

Flavor variations

There are lots of ways to mix up these healthy apple muffins! Here are a few ideas:

  • Walnuts or pecans: Add up to ½ cup chopped walnuts or pecans for an additional hit of protein.
  • Sweeter muffins: Swap in brown sugar and increase to 2/3 cup.
  • Icing: Add a drizzle of maple glaze.

Storing leftovers

These healthy apple muffins store very well over time. Here’s what to know about storage:

  • Refrigerator: Place them in the refrigerator and store for up to 10 days. They’re best at room temperature, so allow them to fit for a few minutes before eating.
  • Freezer: Place them in a freezer safe container and freeze for up to 3 months. Take out a few and pop them into the fridge for use in lunches throughout the week.

More ways to use apples

Try our apple dip, a healthy way to make caramel using peanut butter and maple syrup. Go for a crisp apple slaw, a cozy apple cranberry crisp or apple bread, or start the day with apple cinnamon oatmeal.

Dietary notes

These healthy apple muffins are vegetarian and gluten-free. For vegan, go to Vegan Apple Muffins.

Frequently asked questions

Are these muffins really flourless?

Yes, these muffins are completely flourless! They get their structure from oats and eggs, making them a great option for those with gluten sensitivities or those looking for a healthier alternative to traditional muffins.

Can I use quick oats or do I need rolled oats?

Rolled oats are preferred for this recipe as they provide a chewier texture. However, you can use quick oats in a pinch. The texture of the muffins may be slightly different.

Can I substitute the maple syrup?

You can try substituting the maple syrup with honey or agave nectar, but keep in mind that this may alter the flavor and sweetness of the muffins.

Can I make these muffins vegan?

Unfortunately, this specific recipe relies on eggs for binding and structure, making it difficult to veganize. However, you may be able to find vegan oat muffin recipes online that use flax eggs or other substitutes.

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Healthy Apple Muffins

Healthy Apple Muffins
Save Recipe

5 Stars 4 Stars 3 Stars 2 Stars 1 Star

4.5 from 2 reviews

These healthy apple muffins use oatmeal and maple syrup to make a deliciously wholesome muffin! They’re made in a blender with no flour, and make a great breakfast or snack slathered with almond butter.

  • Author: Sonja Overhiser
  • Prep Time: 20 minutes
  • Cook Time: 30 minutes
  • Total Time: 50 minutes
  • Yield: 10
  • Category: Muffin
  • Method: Baked
  • Cuisine: Muffin
  • Diet: Vegetarian

Ingredients

  • 3 cups apples, finely diced (about 3 large or 5 small)
  • 2 large eggs
  • 2 cups Old Fashioned rolled oats, plus more for topping
  • ¼ cup neutral oil (sunflower, vegetable or grapeseed)
  • 1/2 cup pure maple syrup (see Notes)
  • 1 teaspoon baking soda
  • 1 teaspoon baking powder
  • 1 ½ teaspoons cinnamon
  • ½ teaspoon allspice (optional; see Notes)
  • 1 teaspoon pure vanilla extract
  • ¼ teaspoon kosher salt
  • Turbinado sugar (or brown sugar; optional)

Instructions

  1. Preheat the oven to 350°F.
  2. Finely dice 2 cups apples (unpeeled) and place them in a blender. Peel and dice 1 cup apples and set aside for the topping.
  3. To the blender, add the eggs, oats, oil, maple syrup, baking soda, baking powder, cinnamon, allspice (optional), vanilla, and kosher salt. Blend everything on high for a minute or two until a smooth batter forms.
  4. Place 10 muffin cups into a muffin tin and pour the batter divided evenly between the cups. Sprinkle tops with the peeled diced apples and then turbinado sugar if desired. (This adds a nice subtle sweetness and crunch to the top.)
  5. Bake for 30 to 33 minutes* until a toothpick comes out clean. Remove from the muffin tin and allow them to cool a few minutes before serving. Store refrigerated for up to 10 days or frozen for up to 3 months. 

Notes

If you like a sweeter muffin, use ¼ cup maple syrup and ⅓ cup brown sugar or 2/3 cup maple syrup. We like using maple syrup marked “Grade A: Dark Color and Robust Taste,” which we find has the best flavor. We generally avoid maple syrup labeled Amber or Golden, since it is much lighter in flavor.

If desired, you can omit the allspice, or substitute ground ginger or even pumpkin pie spice for the allspice. 

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Brown Butter Banana Bread https://www.acouplecooks.com/brown-butter-banana-bread/ https://www.acouplecooks.com/brown-butter-banana-bread/#comments Thu, 05 Sep 2024 13:30:00 +0000 https://www.acouplecooks.com/?p=164441 This brown butter banana bread will have everyone talking—it stars the nutty richness of brown butter and a luscious salted caramel glaze. It’s a family favorite that everyone goes crazy for!

Brown Butter Banana Bread with salted caramel glaze

Why we love this recipe

There’s banana bread—and then there’s this brown butter banana bread recipe. There’s just something about the sultry nutty richness of brown butter that keeps us coming back for more. This moist, sweet scented banana bread is delightful on its own, but add the salted caramel glaze on top for pure banana bread decadence.

We first made this banana bread inspired by the browning bananas on our counter and a friend recovering from surgery. It turned out so delicious that we’ve been making it ever since. I mean, what’s not to love about brown butter, salted caramel and banana bread all in one bite? It’s transcendental.

I absolutely love this banana bread. The glaze is that little extra something that puts it over the top and makes it a little different from all the other bazillion of banana bread recipes out there. I bet it would be really really good with some whipped cream or a scoop of vanilla ice cream. That would be quite the dessert! -Annika

Ingredient notes for brown butter banana bread

The main requirement for banana bread is the ripest bananas you can find! This is the perfect use for those bananas blackening on the counter. Here’s what you’ll need here:

  • Very ripe bananas: The riper the bananas, the better: very dark brown or black bananas are best.
  • Unsalted butter: Using unsalted butter allows the salt content to be controlled by the amount specified in the recipe. You can substitute salted butter; just use slightly salt than specified in the recipe below (¼ teaspoon).
  • Granulated sugar: If you’re planning to omit the glaze, use 1 cup granulated sugar instead of ¾ cup.
  • Eggs: For vegan, you can try substituting a flax egg.
  • Baking soda, salt, vanilla extract, and cinnamon: These ingredients round out the flavoring in the bread.
  • All purpose flour and whole wheat flour: A small amount of whole wheat flour enhances the nutty flavor of the butter. You can use 100% all purpose flour if desired.
  • Salted caramel glaze: The glaze is optional, but it really takes this banana bread over the top! We’d recommend it if at all possible. You’ll need brown sugar, powdered sugar, more unsalted butter, heavy cream, and salt.

How to make brown butter

This star in this recipe is brown butter: which is simply standard butter cooked a bit longer until the milk solids toast and turn golden brown. This gives the butter a nutty and caramelized flavor that adds depth and richness to dishes. You’ll want it to become very brown, then remove it from the heat right before it burns. Here are the steps for how to brown butter:

Step 1: Heat until the butter starts to foam.

Step 1: Place the butter in a large skillet, cut into pieces. Heat over medium heat, stirring occasionally. First the butter melts, then it starts to foam (around 1 ½ minutes if browning 1 stick of butter).

Step 2: Continue to stir until it starts to bubble.

Step 2: Continue to stir occasionally until the foaming stops and the butter starts to bubble, typically around 4 to 5 minutes.

Step 3: Cook until the butter turns brown.

Step 3: Continue to stir occasionally until the butter becomes brown in color and starts to smell nutty, around 5 to 7 minutes. Immediately remove the butter from the heat and pour it into a bowl to cool.

Storing leftovers

This brown butter banana bread stores well. The bread lasts 4 to 5 days at room temperature wrapped in aluminum foil, refrigerated for 10 days, or frozen for 3 months.

If you’re planning to freeze the bread, it’s best to freeze it without the icing. Slice it into pieces and wrap it in plastic wrap then a freezer-safe bag or container.

Dietary notes

This brown butter banana bread recipe is vegetarian. For vegan, use flax eggs and coconut milk for the caramel.

Frequently asked questions

Can I skip browning the butter?

Actually yes! This recipe is still delicious with normal butter; just melt it first.

How do I know when the butter is browned enough?

The butter will start to foam and sizzle, then turn a golden brown color and release a nutty aroma. Be careful not to burn it!

Can I add other mix-ins to this recipe?

Absolutely! Chopped walnuts, pecans, chocolate chips, caramel chips, or peanut butter chips would all make delicious additions.

Can I substitute the heavy cream in the glaze?

You can try using whole milk or coconut milk, but the glaze may not be as thick or rich.

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Brown Butter Banana Bread

Brown Butter Banana Bread
Save Recipe

5 Stars 4 Stars 3 Stars 2 Stars 1 Star

5 from 2 reviews

This brown butter banana bread will have everyone talking—it stars the nutty richness of brown butter and a luscious salted caramel glaze. It’s a family favorite that everyone goes crazy for!

  • Author: Sonja and Alex Overhiser
  • Prep Time: 30 minutes
  • Cook Time: 60 minutes
  • Total Time: 1 hour 30 minutes
  • Yield: 12 pieces
  • Category: Quick bread
  • Method: Baked
  • Cuisine: American
  • Diet: Vegetarian

Ingredients

For the brown butter banana bread

  • 1 ½ cups mashed very ripe bananas (4 medium bananas)
  • ½ cup unsalted butter
  • ¾ cup granulated sugar (see Notes), plus more for topping 
  • 2 large eggs
  • 1 tablespoon vanilla extract
  • 1 teaspoon baking soda
  • 1 teaspoon cinnamon, plus more for topping 
  • ½ teaspoon kosher salt
  • 1 cup [140 g] all-purpose flour
  • ½ cup [70 g] whole wheat flour

For the salted caramel glaze (optional)

  • ¼ cup brown sugar
  • 2 tablespoons unsalted butter
  • 2 tablespoons heavy whipping cream
  • 6 tablespoons powdered sugar
  • 1/4 plus ⅛ teaspoon kosher salt

Instructions

  1. Preheat: Preheat oven to 350 °F. Butter a 9 x 5 inch loaf pan (or 8 x 4 inch loaf pan).
  2. Brown the butter: Place the butter (sliced into pieces) in a skillet over medium heat. Heat for a few minutes until it melts, turns foamy, and then starts to become golden brown in color and smells nutty. Immediately remove from the heat and transfer to a bowl to cool for a minute before adding to the batter.
  3. Make the batter: Mash the bananas in the bottom of a large bowl, enough for 1 ½ cups. Whisk in the sugar, eggs, and vanilla extract. Add the browned butter once it’s ready.
  4. Add the baking soda, cinnamon, kosher salt, all-purpose flour, and whole wheat flour to another bowl and mix. Add to the bowl with the wet ingredients and stir together with a spoon.
  5. Bake: Pour the batter into the loaf pan. In a small bowl, mix together 2 tablespoons granulated sugar and ½ teaspoon cinnamon. Sprinkle over the top. Bake 55 to 60 minutes until a toothpick inserted into the center of the loaf comes out clean (or the internal temperature is 200°F): the exact timing will depend on the size of the pan. 
  6. Cool: Cool in the pan for 15 minutes. Then run a knife around the edge and invert the loaf onto a cooling rack. 
  7. Add the Salted Caramel Glaze (optional): If desired, when the bread is room temperature, place the brown sugar and butter in a saucepan and heat over medium heat. Whisking constantly, cook 1 minute until the sugar is dissolved. Remove from the heat and stir in the whipping cream. Whisk in the powdered sugar and salt and stir until smooth. Taste and add additional salt if desired. Drizzle over the bread. Allow the glaze to dry for 15 to 20 minutes. 
  8. Serve: Slice into pieces and serve. The bread lasts 4 to 5 days at room temperature wrapped in aluminum foil, refrigerated for 10 days, or frozen for 3 months. For freezing, omit the icing, slice it into pieces and wrap it in plastic wrap then a freezer-safe bag or container.

Notes

*If not making the glaze, consider using 1 cup sugar in the banana bread.

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Blueberry Crumble https://www.acouplecooks.com/blueberry-crumble/ https://www.acouplecooks.com/blueberry-crumble/#comments Fri, 30 Aug 2024 13:30:00 +0000 https://www.acouplecooks.com/?p=135104 This blueberry crumble recipe is a favorite! The nostalgic summer dessert stars a sweet tart fruit filling topped with buttery crumbles.

Blueberry Crumble

Looking for a fun blueberry dessert idea? This blueberry crumble recipe is our top pick! Move on over, blueberry cobbler—this crumble has you beat.

It’s got a juicy, fruity berry filling seasoned with cinnamon, allspice and lemon zest. Then it’s topped with buttery, crisp crumbles scented with cinnamon. Serve it with melty vanilla ice cream, and it’s truly sublime. We can’t get enough of it, and we’d pick it over a cobbler or crisp any day!

Ingredients in this blueberry crumble recipe

This blueberry crumble recipe is our favorite alternative to a crisp, though we love both nearly equally. The difference between a crumble and a crisp? Technically, a crisp has oats or nuts in the topping and a crumble does not: it’s essentially butter, flour and sugar.

The lines have blurred in modern definitions of these recipes, so often you’ll see crumbles with oats. As much as we love oats, we went with the classic definition of a crumble here: and it was well worth it. Here’s what you’ll need for this blueberry crumble:

  • Blueberries
  • Granulated sugar
  • Cornstarch
  • Lemon zest
  • Unsalted butter
  • All purpose flour
  • Cinnamon and allspice
  • Baking powder
  • Salt
Blueberry

Use fresh or frozen blueberries

Don’t feel like you have to have a load of fresh blueberries for this one! This recipe calls for 4 cups fresh blueberries: which we had on hand from blueberry picking in Michigan. Don’t have access to that many blueberries? You can use frozen too! Add them to the recipe frozen: no need to defrost. Keep in mind that store-bought frozen berries can be a little more tart than fresh berries, so you may want to add a hint more sugar to the filling.

There are special precautions to take for baking with blueberries in cobbler, muffins and scones (the berries can bleed and dye the baked goods purple!). But with a crumble, there’s no risk: the berries don’t mix with the dry goods. This crumble is also a great place to use fresh blueberries that you froze to preserve them: just throw them into the pan frozen.

Blueberry crumble recipe

A note on the butter

This recipe calls for 7 tablespoons butter. If you bake a lot, you’ll notice most crumble and crisp recipes call for either 6 tablespoons of butter or 8 tablespoons. But trust us! Seven is the magic number here, and it makes for absolutely perfect crumbles.

Want to make this blueberry crumble vegan? Just use vegan butter in place of standard butter: it works like a charm.

How to serve blueberry crumble

Once you’ve got your beautiful blueberry crumble, you’ll find it tastes great right out of the pan. But like most crumble recipes, it tastes even better topped with vanilla ice cream! The contrast of rich cream against the tart berries is perfection. Here are a few of our favorite toppings for this stunning dessert:

Blueberry Crumble

Storing leftovers

Want to save this blueberry crumble? This dessert saves well at room temperature, refrigerated or frozen.

  • Keep the crumble for 1 day loosely covered at room temperature. This helps to maintain the crumble texture.
  • Refrigerate for up to 3 days. It holds up pretty well in the fridge, and tastes even better when reheated.
  • Freeze up to 3 months. Freeze for up to 3 months in a sealed container. Reheat it in a 350 degree oven until bubbly.

Dietary notes

This blueberry crumble recipe is vegetarian. For vegan and plant-based, use vegan butter.

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Blueberry Crumble

Blueberry Crumble
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5 Stars 4 Stars 3 Stars 2 Stars 1 Star

5 from 2 reviews

This blueberry crumble recipe is a favorite! The nostalgic summer dessert stars a sweet tart fruit filling topped with buttery crumbles.

  • Author: Sonja Overhiser
  • Prep Time: 20 minutes
  • Cook Time: 45 minutes
  • Total Time: 1 hour 5 minutes
  • Yield: 8
  • Category: Dessert
  • Method: Baked
  • Cuisine: Dessert
  • Diet: Vegetarian

Ingredients

  • 4 cups blueberries (fresh or frozen*)
  • 1 cup granulated sugar, divided
  • 2 tablespoons cornstarch
  • 1 teaspoon cinnamon, divided
  • ¼ teaspoon allspice
  • ½ teaspoon lemon zest
  • 1 cup all-purpose flour
  • ¼ teaspoon baking powder
  • ¼ teaspoon kosher salt
  • 7 tablespoons unsalted butter, melted (or vegan butter)

Instructions

  1. Preheat the oven to 375 degrees Fahrenheit.
  2. Make the filling: In a medium bowl, mix the blueberries, ½ cup sugar, cornstarch, ½ teaspoon cinnamon, allspice, and lemon zest. Pour into a round 9-inch pie pan, 9 x 9 inch baking dish or 7 x 11 baking dish.
  3. Make the topping: In a medium bowl, add the remaining ½ cup sugar, ½ teaspoon cinnamon, flour, baking powder and kosher salt. Mix together with a fork. Pour in the melted butter while mixing with the fork until a crumbly mixture forms. Use your fingers to sprinkle the crumbles evenly over the filling.
  4. Bake: Bake for 45 to 50 minutes until the top is evenly golden brown and the filling is bubbly. Cool for 1 hour, then serve. You can leave it out on the counter for up to 1 day (covered, at night) so the topping can stay crisp. After 1 day, refrigerate any leftovers. It also freezes well for several months in a sealed container; reheat it in a 350 degree oven until bubbly.

Notes

*No need to defrost frozen berries before using. Note that storebought frozen berries can be a little more tart than fresh berries; if desired, add a hint more sugar to the filling (to taste). 

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More blueberry desserts

This blueberry crumble is a favorite of our top blueberry desserts. Here are a few more to try:

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Vegan Oatmeal Raisin Cookies https://www.acouplecooks.com/vegan-oatmeal-raisin-cookies/ https://www.acouplecooks.com/vegan-oatmeal-raisin-cookies/#comments Wed, 28 Aug 2024 13:30:00 +0000 https://www.acouplecooks.com/?p=164314 These vegan oatmeal raisin cookies are beyond delicious—soft, chewy, and infused with comforting cinnamon! They’re easy to make and please any type of eater (or are perfect if you’re out of eggs). Of all our vegan cookies, this recipe is a favorite!

Vegan Oatmeal Raisin Cookies

Why we love this recipe

We’re big chocolate people around here. When it comes to cookies, our vegan chocolate chip cookies or brown butter chocolate chip cookies recipes reign supreme. Usually we pass up oatmeal raisin—except in the case of these vegan oatmeal raisin cookies!

These cookies are pure goodness: soft and chewy, with just the right scent of cinnamon and chewy pops of sweet raisin in every bite. The key to the flavor? Just the right hint of almond extract seals the deal. Eaters of all kinds love these, and I personally could not believe how delicious they are! They’re great if you’re out of eggs, and perfect for vegan baking. You will swoon! (We hope.)

Ingredient notes for vegan oatmeal raisin cookies

These vegan oatmeal raisin cookies are easy to put together with simple, regular ingredients that are easy to find at a normal grocery store. Applesauce helps bind the dough together instead of egg. Here are a few ingredient and substitution notes:

  • Refined coconut oil: Refined coconut oil has a neutral flavor; unrefined has more of a coconut-y flavor. Using coconut oil is important for the dough texture, since it is solid at room temperature, similar to butter. Do not substitute vegan butter, since it changes the texture.
  • Neutral oil: You can use grapeseed, canola or vegetable oil; we like to use grapeseed. We have had a few recipe testers that used avocado oil for the neutral oil with good results.
  • Granulated and light brown sugar: A mix of sugars is key for the flavor; the brown sugar adds hints of molasses to the flavor. Do not substitute liquid sweetener; using agave or maple syrup add too much moisture and the texture becomes cake-like.
  • Unsweetened applesauce: Applesauce works instead of egg to hold the dough together and add moisture. Substitute sweetened applesauce if desired.
  • Vanilla extract and almond extract: Vanilla extract is key to cookie dough. Another essential is almond extract, which brings a toasty, complex nuance to the flavor without overpowering it. In our recipe testing, we found this was helpful for a vegan cookie since it doesn’t have the richness of egg or butter.
  • All purpose flour, baking soda, cinnamon, and salt: These are the traditional baking characters. The salt is important since there is no butter or egg to add flavor.
  • Raisins: You can use any type of raisins, even golden raisins. You can also add ¼ cup finely chopped nuts like walnuts or pecans.
Raisins in measuring cup

Tips for baking

These vegan oatmeal raisin cookies don’t require chilling the dough, which makes them quick and simple to mix up! There are just a few tips to watch out for when baking:

  • Use a cookie scoop. A 2 or 3 tablespoon cookie scoop is helpful for portioning the dough: just overfill it slightly. You can also weigh out the batter at approximately 50 grams per cookie (or weigh the entire dough and divide by 18).
  • Non stick cookie sheets are helpful. We recommend using two of these non-stick cookie sheets for the most even bake.
  • Bake each tray separately for the most even bake. Do not refrigerate the cookie dough while the first tray bakes (the dough texture is best non-refrigerated).
Vegan Oatmeal Raisin Cookies in stack

Storing leftovers

These vegan chocolate chip cookies are delicious warm from the oven, after cooling about 20 minutes. The cookies also hold up well over time. This is a must for cookies in our opinion, since you’re making them in a big batch. Here’s what to note about storing these cookies:

  • Store in a sealed container at room temperature for 1 week. The texture holds up well: no need to add anything to the container.
  • Store refrigerated for 2 weeks. Allow to come to room temperature before serving.
  • Store frozen for up to 3 months. 

More vegan cookies

This vegan oatmeal raisin cookies recipe is one in our hall of fame of vegan cookies! If you love these, make sure to try our Vegan Chocolate Chip Cookies, Vegan Oatmeal Cookies, Vegan Peanut Butter Cookies, Eggless Chocolate Chip Cookies, and Vegan Cookie Dough.

Dietary notes

These vegan oatmeal raisin cookies are vegan and dairy-free.

Frequently asked questions

Can I use a different type of flour?

While all-purpose flour works well, you can experiment with using up to ¼ of the volume with whole wheat flour. We have not tested this recipe with gluten-free flour.

Can I use a different sweetener?

We have not tested with other types of sweeteners. We do not recommend using maple syrup or agave syrup since they add moisture and the texture becomes more cake-like.

Can I add other mix-ins?

Absolutely! Chopped nuts, chocolate chips, or dried cranberries would all make delicious additions.

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Vegan Oatmeal Raisin Cookies

Vegan Oatmeal Raisin Cookies
Save Recipe

5 Stars 4 Stars 3 Stars 2 Stars 1 Star

No reviews

These vegan oatmeal raisin cookies are beyond delicious—soft, chewy, and infused with comforting cinnamon! They’re easy to make and please any type of eater (or are perfect if you’re out of eggs). Of all our vegan cookies, this recipe is a favorite!

  • Author: Sonja Overhiser
  • Prep Time: 15 minutes
  • Cook Time: 25 minutes
  • Total Time: 40 minutes
  • Yield: 18 to 19 cookies
  • Category: Dessert
  • Method: Baked
  • Cuisine: American
  • Diet: Vegan

Ingredients

  • ⅓ cup neutral oil (grapeseed, canola or vegetable)
  • ¼ cup refined coconut oil (at room temperature)
  • ½ cup granulated sugar
  • ¾ cup light brown sugar, firmly packed
  • 1/2 cup unsweetened applesauce
  • ½ tablespoon vanilla extract
  • 1/16 teaspoon almond extract*
  • 2 cups [280 g] all-purpose flour
  • 1 teaspoon baking soda
  • 2 teaspoons ground cinnamon
  • ¾ teaspoon kosher salt
  • 1 ¼ cups Old Fashioned oats
  • ½ cup raisins

Instructions

  1. Preheat the oven to 350°F. Line two large baking sheets with parchment paper, or omit if using non-stick cookie sheets (we swear by these).
  2. In the bowl of a stand mixer (or a large bowl), add the neutral oil, coconut oil, brown sugar, and granulated sugar. Mix with the paddle attachment (or an electric mixer) on Medium speed until fully combined, about 1 to 2 minutes. Add the applesauce, vanilla extract, and almond extract and mix until combined, a few seconds. 
  3. In a separate bowl, whisk the flour, baking soda, cinnamon, kosher salt, and Old Fashioned Oats. Turn on the mixer and gradually add the flour and oats mixture, mixing until just incorporated. Add the raisins and mix on low for a few seconds until mixed in. The dough will feel slightly oily, but this is as expected.
  4. Scoop nine 3-tablespoon-sized balls of dough onto the prepared cookie sheet, leaving a few inches between each cookie for spreading (using a cookie scoop is helpful; we overfilled our 2 tablespoon scoop or weigh out 50 grams each). Bake one batch for 12 to 13 minutes, or until just golden (baking one batch at a time makes the most even bake). Cool the cookies on the baking sheet for 5 to 10 minutes before transferring them to a cooling rack to cool fully. They taste great warm after cooling on the rack for about 10 minutes, or fully cooled. 
  5. While the cookies cool, portion out and bake the second batch of dough; don’t refrigerate the dough in between. Store in a sealed container at room temperature for up to 5 days or refrigerated for 3 weeks (bring to room temperature before serving).

Notes

*We highly recommend using the almond extract for the best flavor! 1/16 teaspoon equates to 1 to 2 drops, just enough to give it a nuance in flavor but not enough that it is strongly perceptible. We use a ⅛ teaspoon measure and fill it halfway; if you don’t have one, you can approximate using a ¼ teaspoon.

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Peach Cobbler Muffins https://www.acouplecooks.com/peach-cobbler-muffins/ https://www.acouplecooks.com/peach-cobbler-muffins/#comments Tue, 13 Aug 2024 13:30:00 +0000 https://www.acouplecooks.com/?p=163787 These peach cobbler muffins are a delicious mashup of a muffin with everyone’s favorite summer dessert! Each fluffy bite is packed with juicy peaches and a sweet vanilla glaze, with the warm, comforting flavors of cobbler in every bite.

Peach Cobbler Muffins

Why we love this recipe

Here’s everyone’s favorite summer dessert turned into a muffin: peach cobbler muffins! As cookbook authors and recipe developers, we’ve found that mashup recipes are always fun. Take two great things and put them together—greatness is born!

These muffins are light and fluffy, with the perfect springy crumb from buttermilk. The peaches add a juicy hit to each bite, and the top is drizzled with a simple vanilla icing to mimic the vanilla ice cream traditionally served with peach cobbler. We created these inspired by some ripe peaches on our counter, and our friends and family were head over heels!

These peach muffins are so moist and soft and light! I seriously think we could have each eaten 2 to 3 in one go. The only noises the kids made while eating them were “Mmm yum, yuuummmm!” I also got, “These are the best muffins you’ve ever made mama!” -Tanvee

Ingredient notes for peach cobbler muffins

These peach cobbler muffins come together simply, but you’ve got to have two star ingredients: ripe peaches and buttermilk. (They can still be good without it, but not as good.) We’ve formulated this recipe to make very tall, soft, and fluffy muffins. Here’s a rundown:

  • Peaches: Make sure your peaches are ripe, sweet and juicy. You can’t make up for it with sugar!
  • Buttermilk: Buttermilk makes the most consistent texture and rise! A buttermilk substitute can work, but it’s much better with the real thing and is worth a trip to the store (we promise).
  • Butter and oil. Butter and oil work uniquely in baked goods. We like using a combination, which makes the best
  • Vanilla extract and cinnamon: These add a cozy nuance to the flavor that is reminiscent of peach cobbler.
  • All-purpose flourgranulated sugareggsbaking powder, baking soda, and salt: These common baking ingredients round out the recipe.
Peaches

Tips for baking peach muffins

This peach muffins recipe is a riff on our rhubarb muffins, which makes a very tall, fluffy muffin with a large muffin top (which is key with muffins, we think!). Here are a few tricks to this recipe:

  • Oil or grease the top of the muffin tins. Because the tops of these muffins are very large, they can extend over the tops of the cups. This makes sure that they don’t stick to the pan.
  • Fill the muffin cups up to the top. Here you’ll muffin cups very full up to the top, which makes for beautifully tall and fluffy muffins. You can discard extra batter once all the muffin cups are filled.
  • Baking at 375°F makes a taller muffin. A slightly hotter oven makes a taller and fluffier muffin, versus the standard 350°F.
  • Use a butter knife to help loosen the muffin tops from the pan when removing them, if necessary.

Vanilla icing and other topping ideas

This vanilla icing adds a nice hit of sweetness to these peach cobbler muffins, and is reminiscent of the peach ice cream you’d use to traditionally top a cobbler. It’s a spin on our 1 minute powdered sugar icing. Here are a few notes about the icing and some other topping ideas:

  • Use more or less liquid to get the desired consistency. Add just enough liquid until it is easy to drizzle. We used heavy cream for this recipe, but you can also use milk like in our standard powdered sugar icing.
  • Use a fork to drizzle the icing. This helps to make nice thin lines, versus using a spoon (which is harder to control).
  • For a different topping, try streusel or cream cheese glaze. Use the streusel topping in these rhubarb muffins, or this cream cheese glaze.

Storing leftovers

These peach cobbler muffins taste great the day of, and they’re best eaten the day of baking. You can store at room temperature covered with a towel about 2 days if iced or refrigerated for up to 1 week (allow to come to room temperature before serving). You can also store frozen without glaze for up to 3 months.

Peach Muffins with Vanilla Drizzle.

Dietary notes

These peach cobbler muffins are vegetarian. For vegan, use Vegan Blueberry Muffins and substitute peaches, or use a flax egg and non-dairy milk of your choice in the recipe below.

More peach recipes

Got peaches? You’ll love these peach recipes: try peaches and cream oatmeal to start the day, or simple peach burrata salad. Bake up a peach crisp, peach crumble, or fresh peach pie, or try our tasty peach salsa.

Frequently asked questions

Can I use frozen peaches instead of fresh?

You can substitute frozen or canned peaches (no sugar added). For frozen, allow them to thaw until you can dice them, then discard any extra liquid. 

The icing is too thick/thin. What can I do?

If the icing is too thick, add a teaspoon of milk at a time until you reach the desired consistency. If it’s too thin, add a tablespoon of powdered sugar at a time until it thickens up.

Can I use a different liquid for the icing?

Yes, you can use any type of milk you prefer, such as almond milk, oat milk, or skim milk. Start with slightly less than the recipe specifies and add more as necessary.

Can I add other ingredients to the muffins, like nuts or spices?

Absolutely! Chopped pecans, walnuts, or a pinch of cinnamon or nutmeg would all be delicious additions.

I don’t have muffin liners. Can I still make these?

Yes, you can grease the muffin tin well with butter or cooking spray to prevent sticking.

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Peach Cobbler Muffins

Peach Cobbler Muffins
Save Recipe

5 Stars 4 Stars 3 Stars 2 Stars 1 Star

5 from 2 reviews

These peach cobbler muffins are a delicious mashup of a muffin with everyone’s favorite summer dessert! Each fluffy bite is packed with juicy peaches and a sweet vanilla glaze, with the warm, comforting flavors of cobbler in every bite.

  • Author: Sonja Overhiser
  • Prep Time: 30 minutes
  • Cook Time: 20 minutes
  • Total Time: 50 minutes
  • Yield: 12
  • Category: Muffins
  • Method: Baked
  • Cuisine: Muffins
  • Diet: Vegetarian

Ingredients

For the peach muffins

  • 2 cups peaches, peeled and finely chopped (2 large peaches; about 1 pound; see notes)
  • 2 cups [280 g] all purpose flour
  • 2 teaspoons baking powder
  • ¼ teaspoon baking soda
  • ½ teaspoon cinnamon
  • ¾ teaspoon kosher salt
  • 1 cup granulated sugar, plus 1 tablespoon
  • ¾ cup buttermilk (see Notes)
  • 5 tablespoons melted unsalted butter
  • ⅓ cup neutral oil (grapeseed, canola, or vegetable oil)
  • 2 eggs
  • ½ tablespoon vanilla extract
  • Turbinado sugar for topping (or additional granulated sugar)

For the vanilla icing

  • ¾ cup powdered sugar
  • ½ teaspoon vanilla extract
  • 1 ½ tablespoons heavy cream or milk (plus more as desired)

Instructions

  1. Preheat the oven to 375°F.
  2. Peel and chop the peaches (if the peaches are very ripe you can pull of with your fingers, or go to How to Peel Peaches for our easy method). Save out 1 handful of peaches for a topping. In a small bowl, mix the remaining peaches with 1 tablespoon granulated sugar. 
  3. Place muffin wrappers in 12-cup muffin tins (see Notes). Spray or rub the top of the pan with oil (so the tops don’t stick after baking).
  4. In a large bowl, whisk the flour, baking powder, baking soda, cinnamon, and salt. Make a well in the center.
  5. In a medium bowl, whisk the granulated sugar, buttermilk, melted butter, neutral oil, eggs, and vanilla extract.
  6. Pour the wet ingredients for the batter into the well in the dry ingredients. Mix gently until just combined and there are no longer streaks of flour.
  7. Add the bowl of peaches and fold them in with a spatula, taking care not to overwork the batter. Scoop the batter into the muffin papers using a dough scoop: it should fill to the top of the muffin papers. (You may have some batter left over, which you can discard or make very tall muffins.) Sprinkle the tops with the handful of peaches, then add a sprinkle of turbinado sugar (or more granulated sugar). 
  8. Bake until the tops are golden brown and a toothpick in the center comes out with a few crumbs, about 20 to 26 minutes total (rotate the pans halfway through baking). Allow to cool for 5 minutes, then transfer to a baking rack to fully cool, about 30 minutes to 1 hour. If necessary, when removing the muffins use a butter knife to slide under any bits of the muffins tops that stick to the muffin pan.  
  9. When ready to glaze, in a medium bowl mix together the vanilla, cream or milk, and the powdered sugar until a thick icing forms. If the texture is not drizzle-able, add a few more drops liquid and continue stirring until it comes together (if you add too much liquid, even it out by adding a little more powdered sugar). Drizzle a small amount with a fork over each of the muffins. Allow to dry for 10 minutes. 
  10. The muffins taste great the day of, or store at room temperature covered with a towel about 2 days if iced or refrigerated for up to 1 week (allow to come to room temperature before serving). You can also store frozen without glaze for up to 3 months.

Notes

You can also substitute frozen or canned peaches (no sugar added). For frozen, allow them to thaw until you can dice them, then discard any extra liquid. 

For the most even baking, you can place the muffin wrappers into every other hole in 2 12-cup muffin tins.

Buttermilk is the magic ingredient which makes the most consistent texture and rise! A buttermilk substitute can work, but it’s much better with the real thing and is worth a trip to the store (we promise).

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Fougasse Bread https://www.acouplecooks.com/fougasse-bread/ https://www.acouplecooks.com/fougasse-bread/#comments Thu, 08 Aug 2024 13:30:00 +0000 https://www.acouplecooks.com/?p=163698 Fougasse bread is a traditional French bread with a leaf-like shape and a delightful crispy crust! Here’s our step-by-step guide for how to bake this delicious and impressive flatbread at home.

Fougasse bread

Why we love this recipe

When visiting the South of France recently, Alex and I spotted a French flatbread we had to try: fougasse bread. The beautiful leaf shape is what enticed us first, but after the first bite we became fast fans. It’s crispy on the outside, fluffy on the inside, and perfectly salty and savory (it’s like a French version of focaccia). “So good!” would mumble to each other with stuffed mouths.

As cookbook authors, we knew just what to do when we returned from France: find out how to our own fougasse! After lots of research and many recipe tests, here’s our best fougasse bread: fluffy, savory, and flavored with Parmesan, rosemary, and flaky salt. It’s the perfect appetizer or side dish: everyone who’s tried it has raved—and then asked us for the recipe!

A few readers helped us to test out this fougasse bread: here’s what they had to say:

  • “This is such a simple recipe but the end result looks quite fancy. It’s perfectly chewy and springy. I feel like I have travelled to France and am sitting at a little outdoor table at a cafe!” -Tanvee
  • “This recipe was easy to follow and my family loved it. We all commented that the texture and chew was really good. I liked that I could make this delicious bread in one day and have it easy for dinner!” -Lisa

How to make fougasse bread: an overview

Here’s the basic outline of the process to make fougasse bread. Fougasse takes about 4 ½ hours total, with about 30 minutes hands on time. It’s best to make on a weekend or day off when you have time to intersperse the steps into your daily rhythm. Here’s an outline on the steps required:

Mix and rest (autolyse)5 minutes active, 1 hour hands off
Knead the dough10 minutes active
First rise1 ½ to 2 hours, hands off
Shape the dough5 minutes active
Second rise30 minutes, hands off
Bake5 minutes active, 15 minutes hands off
Cool15 minutes hands off
Fougasse Bread on towel with knife.

What is fougasse?

Fougasse is a rustic bread from the French region of Provence, known for its leaf-like shape and crispy crust. It often has decorative slashes that create its unique appearance.

It’s typically made with simple ingredients like flour, water, yeast, olive oil, and salt, and can be flavored with toppings like herbs, olives, cheese, or cured meats. Fougasse is very versatile: it can be enjoyed on its own, dipped in olive oil, or served as an accompaniment to soups, salads, or other dishes.

Ingredient notes for fougasse

You’ll need a handful of ingredients make fougasse bread: try to stick to these ingredients! We tested this recipe with all purpose flour and the texture was noticeably not as springy. Here’s what you’ll need:

  • Bread flour: Bread flour is important because it has higher protein content, making the bread texture more chewy versus crumbly. Do not substitute all-purpose flour.
  • Whole wheat flour: Whole wheat flour adds a nutty, complex flavor to this bread.
  • Active dry yeast: Look for active dry yeast (not instant yeast). Yeast should be stored in the freezer.
  • Water and salt: Water and salt round out the ingredients in bread.
  • Olive oil, grated Parmesan cheese, fresh rosemary, and sea salt: These topping ingredients add a savory pop to the bread and are required. Make sure to use grated Parmesan (with a powdery texture), not shredded Parmesan (with a shred texture).

Troubleshooting tips

Here are a few questions and troubleshooting tips for making homemade fougasse:

  • Do I need a stand mixer for this recipe? It is not required, but it is much easier to make fougasse with a stand mixer. If not, you can knead the bread by hand, but it is a bit harder to work with (see the recipe below).
  • Why doesn’t my bread have the same leaf shape? You’ll need to make sure to separate the bread slashes before baking so that the shape is differentiated after baking.

Topping ideas

Fougasse works well with toppings: the fougasse we ate in France had different types of cheeses and meats! Try adding sliced black olives, other types of cheese, sun dried tomatoes, roasted garlic, or even cured meats.

Storing leftovers

Store the fougasse bread wrapped in cloth or in a bread bag on the counter for up to 2 days; this allows the bread to “breathe.” Avoid storing in plastic since it becomes soft and moist. You can also freeze the bread wrapped in foil in a plastic bag for several months.

More homemade bread recipes

Love to bake? Some of our top homemade bread recipes are our olive bread, focaccia bread, easy no knead bread, and our popular sourdough bread. You might also enjoy this baguette recipe.

Dietary notes

This fougasse bread recipe is vegetarian. For vegan, omit the Parmesan cheese or use vegan Parmesan.

Frequently asked questions

Is fougasse similar to focaccia?

Yes, fougasse and focaccia share similarities in their flatbread shape and use of olive oil. However, fougasse has a crispier texture and a distinct leaf-like shape with decorative slashes.

What kind of flour is best for fougasse?

Bread flour is best for a slightly chewier texture.

How do I achieve the signature leaf-like shape of fougasse?

After shaping the dough into an oval, use a sharp knife or a lame (a baker’s scoring tool) to make diagonal slashes across the surface, resembling a leaf’s veins.

How do I store leftover fougasse?

Store fougasse at room temperature in an airtight container for up to 2 days. Reheat it briefly in the oven for the best texture.

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Fougasse Bread

Fougasse bread
Save Recipe

5 Stars 4 Stars 3 Stars 2 Stars 1 Star

5 from 1 review

Fougasse bread is a traditional French bread with a leaf-like shape and a delightful crispy crust! Here’s our step-by-step guide for how to bake this tasty bread at home and impress your friends and family with your baking skills.

  • Author: Sonja Overhiser
  • Prep Time: 4 hours 15 minutes
  • Cook Time: 15 minutes
  • Total Time: 4 hours 30 minutes
  • Yield: 1 large loaf
  • Category: Bread
  • Method: Baked
  • Cuisine: French
  • Diet: Vegetarian

Ingredients

Ingredients:

  • 280 grams (2 cups) bread flour 
  • 46 grams (⅓ cup) whole wheat flour 
  • 1 teaspoon (7 grams) kosher salt
  • 1 teaspoon (4 grams) active dry yeast
  • 1 cup (236 g) lukewarm water

Topping:

  • 1 tablespoon olive oil
  • Sea salt
  • Fresh grated Parmesan cheese
  • 1 tablespoon chopped fresh rosemary

Instructions

  1. Prepare and rest ingredients (1 hour): In a medium bowl, combine the bread flour, whole wheat flour, and water and stir until ragged dough forms. Cover with a damp towel or plastic wrap. Rest 1 hour (this is called autolyse).
  2. Knead the dough (10 minutes): After the rest, flatten the dough and sprinkle with the kosher salt and yeast. Wet your fingers to prevent sticking and knead a few times to incorporate the ingredients into the dough.
  3. Transfer the dough to the bowl of your stand mixer with the dough hook attached. Knead on medium low speed for 8 minutes. The dough should form a ball, but remain rather sticky. If a ball does not form, add a sprinkle of flour. Alternatively, knead by hand for 8 minutes on a lightly-floured counter. You may need to add a sprinkle of flour to get the dough to form a ball, but resist the urge to add too much flour.
  4. First rise (1 ½ to 2 hours): Place the kneaded dough in a lightly oiled bowl, cover with a damp towel or plastic wrap and allow to rise in a warm location until doubled in size and very bubbly, 1 ½ to 2 hours.
  5. Shape the fougasse (5 minutes): Lay a piece of parchment paper on a countertop. Scrape the dough onto the parchment paper and use your fingers to press the dough into a large, slightly pointed oval about 1/2” thick (see photo). Use a pizza roller or pastry cutter to cut a line down the middle to mimic the leaf stem shape, then use wet fingers to gently open the slice (this helps to form the separation of each leaf). Repeat with 3 cuts on each side to finish the leaf design, opening each slightly.
  6. Second rise (30 minutes): Moisten the top of the dough with water, then cover with a damp towel or plastic wrap. Rest 30 minutes, until slightly puffy.
  7. Meanwhile, place a pizza stone in the middle rack of the oven. Place an empty, rimmed baking sheet on the rack below. Preheat the oven to 450°F.
  8. Garnish and bake (20 minutes): After the rest, brush the top of the dough with the olive oil. Sprinkle generously with sea salt, Parmesan cheese, and chopped rosemary.
  9. Slide an un-rimmed cookie sheet under the parchment and use it like a pizza peel to transfer the dough on the parchment paper to the pizza stone.
  10. Carefully add 2 cups of hot tap water to the hot baking sheet below, being very careful not to let the steam burn your hands. (The steam helps the bread to have a better rise and texture.) 
  11. Bake in the oven for 13 to 16 minutes or until golden brown and crisp, rotating the bread (by moving the parchment paper) after 10 minutes for even browning.
  12. Cool and serve: Remove the bread from the oven and allow it to cool on a wire rack at least 15 minutes before serving. Store the bread wrapped in cloth or in a bread bag on the counter for up to 2 days, or freeze wrapped in foil in a plastic bag for several months.

Notes

This dough is easiest to make in a stand mixer, but if you don’t have one you can hand knead!

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Snickerdoodle Zucchini Bread https://www.acouplecooks.com/snickerdoodle-zucchini-bread/ https://www.acouplecooks.com/snickerdoodle-zucchini-bread/#comments Tue, 30 Jul 2024 13:00:00 +0000 https://www.acouplecooks.com/?p=163003 This snickerdoodle zucchini bread combines two cozy baked goods into the perfect blend of sweet and spice! The moist zucchini bread gets a warm, cinnamon-sugar twist so it tastes a bit like your favorite cookie—but better.

Snickerdoodle Zucchini Bread

Why we love this recipe

If you love snickerdoodles and zucchini bread: why not enjoy both at once? Welcome to the magic of snickerdoodle zucchini bread, which became an instant favorite in our house! This loaf is moist and sweet, swirled with cinnamon and topped with crunchy cinnamon sugar so it tastes like that cozy cookie.

We created this recipe to use up a bunch zucchini our neighbor gave us from her garden. Since we already have recipes for zucchini bread, lemon zucchini bread, and chocolate zucchini bread, we were looking for something a little different. This sweetly spiced spin won us over.

“This is a delicious zucchini bread and lends itself quite nicely to the snickerdoodle flavor profile! And it’s even better on day 2 – I had some with breakfast this morning 😍.” -Valerie

Ingredient notes for snickerdoodle zucchini bread

Snickerdoodle zucchini bread is a simple spin on the classic zucchini bread recipe. It’s a quick bread, meaning it’s baked without yeast (like pumpkin bread, banana bread, apple bread, and others). If you love to make baked goods, it’s a fun thing to bake that feels fancier than it is! Here’s what you’ll need:

  • Butter and neutral oil: The combination of the two makes an ultra-moist bread. Use organic grapeseed or vegetable oil. If desired, you can substitute olive oil, though it may add a slightly bitter undertone.
  • Zucchini: Use a large grater to grate the zucchini. Do not squeeze out the water: you’ll need all the moisture for the bread.
  • Eggs, milk, flour, sugar, salt, baking powder, and baking soda: These are all the classic baking ingredients that you might already have on hand. Milk can be any type.
  • Cinnamon: The cinnamon here is used both in the bread and a cinnamon sugar swirl. It makes a lovely ribbon through the bread!
  • Cream of tartar: This is optional, but cream of tartar is classically used in snickerdoodles. If you have it on hand, it’s fun to add here: but the difference it adds is minor.

How to make a cinnamon swirl

This snickerdoodle zucchini bread is special because it has a cinnamon swirl through the middle. You’ll add half the batter to the pan, top with cinnamon sugar, then add the other half of batter and more cinnamon sugar. Here’s how to make the swirl:

  • Insert a butter knife in the top corner of the pan so it just touches the bottom.
  • Draw a large S shapes across the entire pan.
snickerdoodle zucchini bread cinnamon swirl

Tips for baking snickerdoodle zucchini bread

Here are a few more tips for making sure this bread comes out perfectly moist:

  • This recipe works in a 9 x 5 inch or 8 x 4 inch loaf pan. If baking in an 8 x 4 inch pan, you may need to increase the baking time slightly.
  • Avoid draining or squeezing out the zucchini. This recipe is optimized to use all the liquid content in the zucchini.
  • Brushing with butter after baking and adding more cinnamon sugar seals the deal. This makes for the most cinnamon sugary flavor and crunchy topping.
Snickerdoodle Zucchini Bread slices.

Storing leftovers

This snickerdoodle zucchini bread stores well. Keep it up to 3 days at room temperature wrapped in aluminum foil, 1 week refrigerated, or up to 3 months frozen. 

More zucchini recipes

There are so many zucchini recipes to use this versatile vegetable. Make it into a main dish with zucchini lasagna or stuffed zucchini boats, or try it as an appetizer with zucchini fritters. Bake it into zucchini bread, zucchini muffins, or zucchini brownies.

There are also so many tasty zucchini bread variations: our top four are lemon, chocolate, banana, and chocolate chip.

Dietary notes

This snickerdoodle zucchini bread recipe is vegetarian. For vegan, substitute a flax egg and use vegan butter.

Frequently asked questions

Can I make this bread without cream of tartar?

Yes, you can omit the cream of tartar if you don’t have it on hand.

Do I need to peel the zucchini?

No, you don’t need to peel the zucchini. Just wash it thoroughly, trim the ends, and grate it.

Can I add other ingredients to the bread?

You can get creative with add-ins. Chopped nuts (like walnuts or pecans) or cinnamon chips would be delicious additions.

Print

Snickerdoodle Zucchini Bread

Snickerdoodle Zucchini Bread
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5 Stars 4 Stars 3 Stars 2 Stars 1 Star

5 from 5 reviews

This snickerdoodle zucchini bread combines two cozy baked goods into the perfect blend of sweet and spice! The moist zucchini bread gets a warm, cinnamon-sugar twist so it tastes a bit like your favorite cookie—but better.

  • Author: Sonja Overhiser
  • Prep Time: 20 minutes
  • Cook Time: 1 hour
  • Total Time: 1 hour 20 minutes
  • Yield: 12 slices
  • Category: Bread
  • Method: Baked
  • Cuisine: Quick Bread
  • Diet: Vegetarian

Ingredients

For the zucchini bread

  • ¼ cup unsalted butter, melted
  • ⅓ cup neutral oil (like grapeseed or vegetable oil)
  • 1 cup granulated sugar
  • 2 large eggs
  • 1 tablespoon milk
  • 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
  • 1 teaspoon baking powder
  • ½ teaspoon baking soda
  • ¼ teaspoon cream of tartar, optional
  • 2 teaspoons cinnamon
  • ½ teaspoon kosher salt
  • 2 cups [280 g] all-purpose flour
  • 2 cups shredded zucchini, packed (about 3/4 pound or 2 medium zucchini), grated with large grater

For the cinnamon sugar and topping

  • ½ cup granulated sugar
  • 1 teaspoon cinnamon
  • 1 tablespoon butter

Instructions

  1. Preheat the oven to 350°F. Butter or oil a 9 x 5-inch loaf pan.
  2. Melt the butter, then whisk in the oil, granulated sugar, eggs, milk, vanilla, baking powder, baking soda, cream of tartar, cinnamon, and salt. 
  3. Use a spatula to mix in the flour and zucchini until just combined, mixing just until there are no longer streaks of dry ingredients. 
  4. In a small bowl, mix the 1 tsp cinnamon and ½ cup sugar for the cinnamon sugar (reserve the butter for after baking). Pour half the batter into the prepared loaf pan, then sprinkle ⅓ of the sugar mixture evenly on top. Add the other half of the batter, smoothing it with a spatula. Top with another ⅓ of the mixture. Insert a butter knife into the batter in the top corner of the pan and draw an S shapes through the pan to swirl. Reserve the remaining cinnamon sugar. 
  5. Bake 55 to 65 minutes until golden brown and the top springs back when touched (insert a toothpick into the center of the loaf: if it comes out with a few clinging crumbs, it’s done!). While the bread is still warm, melt the 1 tablespoon butter and brush it into the top of the loaf, then sprinkle on the remaining ⅓ cinnamon sugar. 
  6. Cool in the pan for 1 hour. Then run a knife around the edge and invert the loaf onto a cooling rack. Serve warm or at room temperature. The bread keeps up to 3 days at room temperature wrapped in aluminum foil, 1 week refrigerated, or up to 3 months frozen. 

Notes

Use all the moisture from the zucchini in this recipe, since its liquid quantity is required for the bread (do not drain). 

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