# The Enchanting Blueberry Muffins: A Culinary Joy
Blueberry muffins hold a cherished spot in the hearts of many, and rightfully so. With their cake-like consistency, moist crumb, and delightful bursts of jammy blueberry richness, they make for a scrumptious breakfast or snack. Recently, I found myself overwhelmed by a muffin craving that led me to a wonderful find: the legendary Jordan Marsh blueberry muffins.
## A Muffin Crisis
While taking a stroll with my partner Mike, I faced what can only be termed a muffin crisis. We wandered into a bakery, and after some contemplation, Mike confessed that blueberry was his muffin of choice. This caught me off guard, as he once had a phase of exclusively baking blueberry muffins. He passed along his favorite recipe, and I knew I had to give it a shot.
## The Tale of Jordan Marsh
The recipe Mike provided turned out to be the renowned Jordan Marsh blueberry muffins. For those who may not know, Jordan Marsh was a famous New England department store, especially known for its flagship site in downtown Boston. The bakery on the upper floor served massive blueberry muffins that were so irresistible that people would make special trips just to grab one. The legacy of these muffins continues, and many home bakers have tried to recapture their enchantment.
## How to Create Blueberry Muffins
Crafting these enchanting blueberry muffins is surprisingly easy. Here’s a step-by-step guide to achieving muffin excellence:
1. **Cream the Butter and Sugar**: Begin by creaming together 1/4 cup of unsalted butter and 1/2 cup plus 2 tablespoons of sugar until light and fluffy. Incorporate one large egg and beat thoroughly, followed by 1/2 teaspoon of vanilla extract.
2. **Sift the Dry Ingredients**: In a separate bowl, sift together 1 cup of all-purpose flour, 1/4 teaspoon of kosher salt, and 1 teaspoon of baking powder.
3. **Combine Wet and Dry Ingredients**: Slowly add the flour mixture to the creamed mixture, alternating with 1/4 cup of milk. Start and finish with the flour mixture.
4. **Fold in Blueberries**: Gently incorporate 1 cup of washed and dried blueberries, ensuring they are spread evenly throughout the batter.
5. **Prepare the Muffin Tin**: Line a muffin tin with six liners and distribute the batter evenly among them. For an extra touch, sprinkle coarse sanding sugar over the tops for a delightful crunch.
6. **Bake**: Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C) and bake for 30-35 minutes, or until the tops are golden brown and a toothpick comes out clean.
7. **Cool and Enjoy**: Once baked, remove the muffins from the tin, let them cool slightly, and savor the heavenly aroma and flavor!
## What is Sanding Sugar?
Sanding sugar is a coarse sugar that provides a delightful crunch and additional sweetness to baked goods. While it’s not mandatory, it certainly enhances the muffin experience. Sanding sugar can typically be found at most grocery stores, craft stores, or online.
## Blueberry Season
When making blueberry muffins, it’s important to keep in mind the seasonality of blueberries. In the southern U.S., peak blueberry season spans from May to July, while in northern regions, it can last until October. If fresh blueberries are unavailable, frozen blueberries are an excellent alternative. Just make sure to thaw them and coat them in flour to prevent the batter from turning purple.
## Wild vs. Cultivated Blueberries
Most blueberries available in stores are cultivated (highbush) varieties, which are delightful. However, if you stumble upon wild blueberries (lowbush), don’t hesitate to sample them! They are smaller, richer in flavor, and loaded with antioxidants.
## Muffin Tins: A Versatile Tool
If you don’t possess a standard muffin pan, there’s no need to panic! You can use individual tins or even parchment paper to mold muffin shapes. The adaptability of muffin tins offers creative options for presentation and baking.
## Conclusion
These enchanting blueberry muffins are more than just a treat; they evoke a nostalgic journey back to the days of Jordan Marsh. With their cake-like texture, jammy blueberry pockets, and crisp sugary tops, they are destined to become a favorite in your home. So gather your ingredients, preheat your oven, and immerse yourself in the delightful realm of blueberry muffins!