Mmmmm muffins. I love making muffins. They can be healthy (or not), are quick to make and perfect for giving away or packing in lunches. What first caught my eye about these Pear Streusel muffins was that I thought they'd be great for using up ripe pears but, upon further reading, I realized the recipe called for dried pears. I thought that was really interesting as I've never used them before. Another bonus was that the recipe called for Brazil nuts which I've eaten but not baked with.The nuts I bought were whole so I had to slice/chop them the best I could. The pears were chewy and have the texture similar to a dried apricot. After grinding fresh cardamom, I made the beautifully creamy batter, sprinkled with a brown sugar streusel and popped them in the oven.
The muffins turned out great and made the house smell amazing. If you love cardamom you'll love these muffins because its flavour takes centre stage. With a cakey crumb, chewy fruit and crunchy nuts, these muffins are anything but boring. They are assertive and great with hot tea. Try them if you're looking to experiment with new ingredients or different spices. They're very lively.
Update: I've submitted this muffin for Muffin Monday hosted by Elena at Experiments. The deadline for submissions is today (March 2, 2007) so you still have some time to participate! Thanks to Elena for hosting a fun and creative event.
Recipe: Pear Streusel Muffins
These muffins are just perfect!
ReplyDeleteI've never had dried pears but I'm sure they're wonderful. And Brazil nuts are delicious - I know it may sound a little biased coming from a Brazilian person, but it's true. ;)
these muffins are yummy! The cardamon wonderful and the pears delicious!
ReplyDeletePatricia - I agree - Brazil nuts are great! I'm glad I gave them a try. :)
ReplyDeleteMiltonMama - Thank you thank you. :) I'm glad you liked the pears!
These look absolutely delicious! I bet they teasted great. I put them on my list to try!
ReplyDeleteI love dried pears...they have such an unusual texture.
ReplyDeleteYou should definetely use these for Muffin Monday one-off event.
ReplyDeleteHelene - Thanks for the tip! Muffin Monday sounds like fun.
ReplyDeleteHey Jen,
ReplyDeletePear muffins? So clever! I can already smell the aroma of spice and fruit! Mmmm!! Bet they were a hit! Thank you for your contribution to Muffin Monday!
I only have one other recipe for Brazil Nuts, Cardamom seems to be my new favorite spice and Streusel is absolutely my "thing", so I just can't wait to give these a try!
ReplyDeleteCardamom, pears and Brazil nuts? Sounds like a great combo I need to try...
ReplyDeletej