A wide variety of fruits can be used in recipes for baked goods, including cakes, breads, and muffins. The most common types of fruit used in muffins include blueberries, cranberries, and bananas. Other types of fruit muffins combine the flavors offered by various fruits with those traditionally found in other baked goods, such as cinnamon, vanilla, and chocolate.
The foundation for almost any fruit muffin recipe includes some ingredients common to a wide range of baked goods. For instance, most muffin recipes will call for flour, baking powder, and sugar. Other common ingredients found in most recipes include shortening, milk, and salt. Muffins are traditionally baked in muffin pans which have been either greased to prevent sticking or lined with paper cupcake liners. In addition to the typical muffin pan size, mini-muffin pans are also available for those looking to make snack-sized baked goods.
Various berries represent the most common options for making fruit muffins. Blueberries and cranberries top the list, however, strawberries and raspberries are also commonly found in muffins. For those who have trouble deciding on their favorite berry, including multiple types of berries is also an option for added flavor and color.
Whether for breakfast or a snack, fruit muffins featuring bananas are another popular option in bakeries and cafes. This kind of baked good is simply a smaller, more portable version of the ever-popular banana bread. Typically, fruit muffins made with bananas also feature nuts as an added touch. Nuts often paired with bananas include walnuts and almonds.
Beyond the traditional options, muffins can also be made from other fruits. For instance, cherries and apricots work well as ingredients, either alone or combined with other fruits. Other options include adding chunks of peaches or pears to the recipe. In addition, dried fruits, such as raisins, are often mixed in with fresh fruits to help vary the texture of the final product.
Combining fruit with other flavorings and ingredients is another common tactic of bakers and homemakers. Complementary ingredients often used in muffin recipes include oatmeal, bran, and honey. Flavorings commonly added include vanilla, cinnamon, and nutmeg. Even vegetables, such as zucchini and carrots, can be shredded and combined with fruit in muffin batter.
When discussing the various types of fruit muffins available for consumption, it is important to address the inclusion of other ingredients and toppings commonly found in bakery products. For instance, blueberries are often combined with cheesecake to make blueberry-cheesecake muffins. Popular muffin toppings include streusel, powdered sugar, and some kind of icing.