These Peaches and Cream Muffins are the perfect blend of fruity sweetness and creamy indulgence. The juicy peaches bring a burst of flavor, while the creamy whipped topping gives each muffin an irresistible touch.
Whether you’re making them for a family brunch, an afternoon treat, or a sweet snack, these muffins are sure to impress. They’re easy to make, and with the peaches adding a fresh, seasonal twist, they’re a delightful addition to your baking repertoire.
Full Recipe:
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2 cups all-purpose flour
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1 tablespoon baking powder
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1/2 teaspoon baking soda
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1/4 teaspoon salt
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1/2 teaspoon ground cinnamon
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1/4 cup unsalted butter, softened
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1/2 cup granulated sugar
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1 large egg
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1 teaspoon vanilla extract
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1/2 cup sour cream
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1 cup fresh peaches, peeled and diced
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1/2 cup heavy cream
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2 tablespoons powdered sugar
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1/4 teaspoon vanilla extract
Directions:
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Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C) and line a muffin tin with paper liners.
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In a medium bowl, whisk together the flour, baking powder, baking soda, salt, and cinnamon.
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In a large mixing bowl, cream together the butter and granulated sugar until light and fluffy.
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Add the egg and vanilla extract, and mix until combined.
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Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet ingredients, alternating with the sour cream, until just combined.
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Gently fold in the diced peaches.
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Spoon the batter into the muffin tin, filling each cup about 3/4 full.
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Bake for 20-25 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.
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While the muffins cool, whip the heavy cream, powdered sugar, and vanilla extract until soft peaks form.
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Once the muffins have cooled, pipe or spoon the whipped cream onto each muffin for a creamy finish.
Prep Time: 15 minutes | Cooking Time: 25 minutes | Total Time: 40 minutes
Kcal: 275 kcal | Servings: 12 muffins
Recipe Overview
Peaches and Cream Muffins combine the best of two beloved flavors: the sweet, juicy peaches of summer and the rich, velvety cream that adds a touch of indulgence. These soft, fluffy muffins are perfect for breakfast, brunch, or a sweet afternoon snack. With a delicate balance of fruity goodness and creamy decadence, each bite is a delicious reminder of the simple joys of baking. Whether you’re a novice baker or an experienced home cook, these muffins are sure to impress anyone who takes a bite.
The beauty of Peaches and Cream Muffins lies in their versatility and easy-to-follow nature. The recipe brings the wonderful essence of peach season into your kitchen, allowing you to make use of fresh peaches when they’re at their peak of sweetness. Paired with a light, whipped cream topping, this treat offers a unique combination of flavors and textures.
History and Origin
Muffins, like many baked goods, have a rich history that dates back centuries. While their exact origin is often debated, muffins can be traced back to both the United Kingdom and North America. In the UK, muffins were originally griddled flatbread-like cakes, often served with butter or jam. The American version, however, evolved into the familiar, fluffy baked goods we know today. The concept of “fruit muffins,” which is what Peaches and Cream Muffins fall under, began to emerge in the 19th century when ingredients like berries and seasonal fruits became incorporated into muffin batter.
Peaches, a fruit with origins in China, have been cultivated for thousands of years. In the West, they became a staple in summer desserts due to their sweet and aromatic flavor. The combination of peaches with cream—often in the form of whipped cream or a rich custard—is a classic pairing that has been enjoyed in various forms across European and American cuisines for centuries. Peaches and cream as a dessert duo gained popularity in both France and the United States, inspiring variations in everything from pies to tarts, and of course, muffins.
By combining peaches with cream, this muffin recipe offers a nostalgic and comforting flavor profile that brings the summer season into your kitchen. Its roots lie in the rich tradition of fruit-based pastries, with a particular nod to the delightful peach and cream pairing that has become a symbol of indulgence.
Variations and Adaptations
While Peaches and Cream Muffins are a delicious and beloved treat on their own, there are plenty of variations and adaptations to explore. The versatility of this recipe allows you to get creative depending on your preferences and dietary restrictions.
1. Vegan Version:
To make a plant-based version of these muffins, swap out the butter and sour cream for vegan alternatives such as coconut oil or vegan butter, and replace the heavy cream with a non-dairy option like coconut cream or almond milk. You can also use a flaxseed or chia egg to replace the egg, making it fully vegan.
2. Gluten-Free Version:
If you need to accommodate gluten-free eaters, use a gluten-free all-purpose flour blend. Be sure to check that all the other ingredients, such as baking powder and baking soda, are gluten-free. For extra fluffiness, you can also add a bit of xanthan gum, which helps provide structure to gluten-free baked goods.
3. Adding Nuts:
For some extra crunch and texture, consider folding in some chopped nuts like walnuts or pecans into the muffin batter. These nuts not only add a satisfying crunch but also complement the sweetness of the peaches.
4. Spice Variations:
The recipe calls for a touch of cinnamon, but you could easily swap in other warm spices like nutmeg, allspice, or cardamom. These spices will add a unique depth of flavor to the muffins, perfect for those who enjoy a bit of complexity in their desserts.
5. Peach and Berry Combo:
If peaches are out of season, or if you just want to add more fruity goodness, feel free to substitute fresh berries such as raspberries or blueberries along with the peaches. A mix of peaches and berries creates a colorful and vibrant muffin with an added burst of flavor.
Nutritional Information
Peaches and Cream Muffins are a delightful indulgence, but like all treats, they’re best enjoyed in moderation. A typical muffin from this recipe contains about 275 calories, depending on the size and specific ingredients used.
Each muffin is a great source of carbohydrates, making them a filling breakfast or snack. The natural sugars from the peaches add sweetness, while the cream adds richness. The muffins also provide a moderate amount of fat, mostly from the butter and cream, which is important for adding flavor and moisture. However, if you’re looking to reduce the fat content, you could replace some of the cream with a lighter alternative like Greek yogurt.
In terms of macronutrients, a typical muffin offers:
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Carbohydrates: 34g
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Protein: 3g
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Fat: 16g
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Fiber: 1g
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Sugars: 18g (natural sugars from peaches and added sugar)
Additionally, peaches are a great source of vitamin C, providing a healthy dose of antioxidants and immune-boosting nutrients. The muffins also contain small amounts of potassium, calcium, and iron, all of which are important for overall health.
Serving Suggestions and Pairings
Peaches and Cream Muffins are perfect for a variety of occasions. Here are some creative serving suggestions to elevate your muffin experience:
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For Breakfast: Serve these muffins with a side of fresh fruit or a cup of yogurt for a balanced breakfast. A drizzle of honey over the muffin would complement the sweetness of the peaches and cream.
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As a Snack: These muffins make a delicious mid-afternoon snack, especially when paired with a hot cup of coffee, tea, or even an iced latte. The richness of the cream and peaches pairs wonderfully with the bitterness of coffee.
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For Brunch or Gatherings: If you’re hosting a brunch or a casual get-together, these muffins will be the star of the spread. Pair them with fresh mint leaves and a light citrus salad to balance out the richness of the muffins.
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Pairing with Wine: For those who enjoy wine, consider serving these muffins with a glass of sparkling wine or a light, fruity white wine like a Riesling. The subtle sweetness of the wine pairs beautifully with the peaches.
Tips and Tricks for Success
To make sure your Peaches and Cream Muffins come out perfectly, here are a few helpful tips:
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Don’t Overmix the Batter: When you add the dry ingredients to the wet ingredients, mix until just combined. Overmixing can result in dense muffins, so be gentle and don’t overwork the batter.
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Use Fresh Peaches: Fresh peaches give the best flavor, but if they’re not in season, you can use canned peaches packed in their own juice or frozen peaches that have been thawed and drained.
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Check Muffins Early: Oven temperatures can vary, so it’s a good idea to check your muffins a few minutes before the suggested cooking time is up. Insert a toothpick into the center, and if it comes out clean, they’re done.
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Cool Before Topping: Allow the muffins to cool for a few minutes before adding the whipped cream topping. This helps the cream stay in place without melting into the warm muffin.
Potential Health Benefits
While Peaches and Cream Muffins are more of an indulgent treat, they do have some health benefits thanks to the peaches. Peaches are a great source of vitamin C, which is essential for immune health, skin health, and collagen production. They also contain fiber, which aids digestion and promotes gut health.
Additionally, the cream used in the muffins can provide some calcium and healthy fats, which are important for bone and heart health. However, if you’re concerned about the fat content, consider swapping the heavy cream for a lighter version, like whipped coconut cream, to reduce saturated fat.
Conclusion
Peaches and Cream Muffins are a delicious, comforting treat that combines the best of fresh summer peaches with the luxurious creaminess of whipped topping. Whether you’re looking for a sweet breakfast or a decadent dessert, these muffins are sure to satisfy. Their easy preparation and delightful flavor make them a perfect recipe to share with friends and family, and they’re versatile enough to be enjoyed year-round. So, why not give them a try and bring a little sweetness into your day?