Muffin

These are some of my favorite muffins. The quinoa flour and cornmeal give them a beautiful golden color and a nice texture, a perfect combination with the juicy blueberries.

I keep a batch of these low-fat muffins in my freezer at all times. They stand in as cupcakes when my daughter, Sofia, asks, “What’s for dessert?” For a quick and easy low-fat frosting, spread a little Greek-style yogurt over the top, drizzle with agave nectar, and add a sprinkle of cinnamon. Perfect!

Cranberry and orange is a classic, tangy flavor combination. Stock up and freeze fresh cranberries when in season for baking throughout the year. For a sweet and chewy alternative, try fruit-sweetened dried cranberries, which are similar to raisins.

These muffins are another way to add fiber and nutrient-rich veggies to your day. Pack a little more nutritional punch into this recipe by using organic canned pumpkin.

A little saying around my kitchen is “If it’s white, it’s just not right.” Many white products, espcially white sugar and white flour, have been processed to the point where they’ve been stripped of both color and nutrients. Nutritionists say these foods contain empty calories, meaning calories without meaningful amounts of vitamins, minerals, and other micronutrients. Empty calories aren’t a good idea for anyone, and they’re a definite no-no for people already dealing with diminished appetites. These muffins aren’t the monsters so often seen in bakeries—they’re smaller and healthier, but no less flavorful. The basic recipe, which is delicious on its own, is built on a foundation of spelt flour, agave nectar, and almonds, which are packed with nutrients. I’ve also provided a couple of variations below, for chocolate orange muffins and ginger lemon muffins; all three versions have one thing in common: They’re little bites of powerful joy!

Buckwheat is such a great old-world flour. Its distinctive, slightly sweet, earthy flavor pairs extremely well with tart apple.

These tasty, not-too-sweet muffins are packed with protein-rich quinoa and plenty of antioxidant-rich fruit. Add a glass of calcium-enriched OJ or rice milk, and you have a complete breakfast.

Millet adds nice texture to this traditional favorite. Blueberry muffins are always a crowd pleaser. Bake up a big batch, store them in the freezer, and you’ll always have breakfast on hand.

My son Monte and I both love fresh apricots. Living in Southern California, we’re lucky to get them in abundance. I created this recipe for him. He loves the subtly sweet cornmeal muffin punctuated by bites of tart apricot. (Okay, I admit I’m paraphrasing—he is only five.)

These taste fancy but are very easy to make. Perfect for a weekend brunch! I like making them in early summer during plum season. They are delicate and pretty.

Orange and cranberries are a perfect pairing. Transport yourself to a New England bed and breakfast with these sweet and tart little gems.

Gingerbread muffins are perfect for a decadent holiday breakfast or a healthy snack all year round. These muffins get extremely hot during baking, so it’s best to let some of the steam escape before eating them. They’re moist, like banana bread or cake, and are best once they’ve cooled and set a bit. (You don’t have to wait, but they do reach peak yumminess after resting for 30 minutes.)

These muffins are scrumptious and chock-full of beta-carotene, phytonutrients, protein, and fiber, with no refined sugar. What better way to start your day than with a Morning Glory Muffin?

These hearty muffins are tasty and energy packed. I find they’re a particular favorite with the toddler set.

These highly nutritious breakfast muffins (made with nuts, seeds, and dried fruit) are a great alternative to store-bought breakfast bars and granola bars because they’re fresh, free of packaging, and costeffective. Enjoy them while they’re still warm!

Spicy chive- and pepper-flecked savory muffins are a wonderful dairy-free option to pair with soup or salad. Sliced in half and loaded with your favorite leftovers, they make a delectable sandwich.

These addictive Parmesan muffins are excellent with eggs for brunch or served as a dinner roll.

From the beloved Greek pairing of spinach and feta comes this tantalizing combination of flavors. For a fast, elegant appetizer, whip up a batch of these as mini muffins—skip the paper liners, copiously grease the pan with oil, scoop 1 tablespoon of batter into each cup, and bake at 400°F for 6 to 8 minutes, then let them cool while you are mixing drinks. The yield is approximately 40 mini muffins.

Piquant garlic and creamy cheddar make this muffin a mouthwatering appetizer or an excellent accompaniment to soup or salad.

The idea for this unique flavor combination came from our friends over at Kim and Jake’s Cakes, a fabulous bakery here in Boulder, Colorado. For a finishing touch, top with Cream Cheese Frosting (page 95), or leave them plain and serve alongside eggs and fruit salad for a delightfully wholesome, yet elegant brunch.