Breakfast

Pear and Walnut Muffins

Name: Pear and Walnut Muffins
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 25 min
Total time: 40 min
Yield: 12
Ingredients: 2 cups all-purpose flour; 1/2 cup granulated sugar; 1/4 cup brown sugar; 2 tsp baking powder; 1/2 tsp baking soda; 1/2 tsp salt; 1 tsp ground cinnamon; 1/4 tsp ground nutmeg; 2 large ripe pears, peeled, cored, and diced; 3/4 cup walnuts, chopped; 2 large eggs; 1/2 cup vegetable oil; 1/2 cup milk; 1 tsp vanilla extract

Servings: 12 Total Time: 40 mins Difficulty: Beginner

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Introduction

Pear and Walnut Muffins are a delightful treat that bring together the natural sweetness of ripe pears with the earthy crunch of toasted walnuts. They’re soft, moist, and lightly spiced, making them the perfect companion to your morning coffee or afternoon tea. The pears lend a juicy tenderness that keeps the muffins moist, while the walnuts add texture and a nutty depth of flavor.

This recipe is the kind of comforting bake that instantly makes your kitchen smell heavenly, filling it with the warm aromas of cinnamon, nutmeg, and baked fruit. These muffins strike the perfect balance between indulgence and wholesome goodness, offering a bite that is satisfying yet not overly sweet.

Why I Love This Recipe

I love these muffins because they feel like a warm hug in baked form. The pear gives them a natural fruity sweetness that pairs beautifully with the crunchy walnuts. They’re moist without being heavy and flavorful without being overwhelming. What makes me adore this recipe is its versatility—perfect for breakfast, a snack, or even dessert with a little cream or butter. It’s simple, cozy, and delicious.

Why It’s a Must-Try Dish

Moist and Flavorful: Pears make the crumb soft and naturally sweet.
Nutty Crunch: Walnuts add texture and nutrition.
Warmly Spiced: The gentle spices give it a bakery-style feel.
Quick & Easy: No complicated steps—ready in under an hour.
Wholesome: Made with fresh fruit and nuts, it feels indulgent yet nourishing.

Preparation & Cooking Time

Prep Time: 15 minutes
Cook Time: 20–25 minutes
Total Time: 40 minutes
Servings: 12 muffins
Calories: ~210 calories per muffin

Cuisine & Course

Cuisine: Western / American-inspired
Course: Breakfast, Snack, Dessert

Ingredients

2 cups all-purpose flour
1/2 cup granulated sugar
1/4 cup brown sugar (packed)
2 tsp baking powder
1/2 tsp baking soda
1/2 tsp salt
1 tsp ground cinnamon
1/4 tsp ground nutmeg
2 large ripe pears, peeled, cored, and diced (about 1 1/2 cups)
3/4 cup walnuts, chopped (lightly toasted for best flavor)
2 large eggs
1/2 cup vegetable oil (or melted butter)
1/2 cup milk (dairy or non-dairy)
1 tsp vanilla extract

Simple Cooking Directions

Mix dry ingredients.
Mix wet ingredients.
Combine the two, then fold in pears and walnuts.
Fill muffin tin and bake until golden.
Cool and enjoy.

Step-by-Step Preparation Method

Preheat Oven: Heat oven to 350°F (175°C). Line a 12-cup muffin tin with paper liners or grease lightly.
Mix Dry Ingredients: In a large bowl, whisk together flour, baking powder, baking soda, salt, cinnamon, and nutmeg.
Prepare Wet Ingredients: In another bowl, whisk eggs, sugars, oil, milk, and vanilla until smooth.
Combine Mixtures: Pour the wet mixture into the dry ingredients. Stir gently until just combined (do not overmix).
Fold in Pears & Walnuts: Add diced pears and chopped walnuts, folding gently to distribute evenly.
Fill Muffin Tin: Divide batter evenly among muffin cups, filling about 2/3 full.
Bake: Bake for 20–25 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.
Cool: Let muffins cool in the pan for 5 minutes, then transfer to a wire rack.

How to Serve

Serve warm with a pat of butter or cream cheese.
Pair with a hot cup of coffee, tea, or chai.
Dust lightly with powdered sugar for a bakery-style touch.
Split and toast leftover muffins for a crisp texture.

Additional Recipe Tips

Don’t overmix the batter, or the muffins may become dense.
Use ripe but firm pears—overly soft pears may make the muffins soggy.
Toast walnuts beforehand for a richer flavor.
Add a sprinkle of coarse sugar on top before baking for a sweet crunch.

Variations

Nut-Free: Replace walnuts with pumpkin or sunflower seeds.
Extra Fruity: Add raisins, dried cranberries, or chopped dates.
Healthy Twist: Swap half the flour with whole wheat flour and reduce sugar slightly.
Spiced-Up: Add ground ginger or cardamom for a unique twist.
Topping Idea: Make a streusel topping with butter, flour, sugar, and cinnamon for extra indulgence.

Freezing & Storage

Storage: Store in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days.
Refrigeration: Keep in the fridge for up to 1 week.
Freezing: Wrap muffins individually in plastic wrap and store in a freezer bag for up to 3 months. Thaw overnight at room temperature or reheat in the microwave.

Special Equipment Needed

Muffin tin (12-cup)
Paper liners or nonstick spray
Mixing bowls (large & medium)
Whisk and spatula
Wire cooling rack

Conclusion

Pear and Walnut Muffins are a warm, comforting, and flavorful bake that beautifully balance sweetness, spice, and crunch. They’re easy to make, versatile enough for any time of day, and a wonderful way to use seasonal pears. Moist, tender, and perfectly nutty—these muffins will quickly become a favorite in your kitchen.

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