Vegan Almond Poppy Seed Muffins

I mean, I definitely like lemon poppy seed as a flavor. There is nothing wrong with it. Really! That said, are these Vegan Almond Poppy Seed Muffins superior? Yes. In every way. Almond flavor trumps lemon. I don't make the rules. Is lemon bad? Absolutely not. Does almond reign above in all of its old-fashioned, nostalgic glory? Yes. Yes it does. Let's make them!

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Ingredients for Vegan Almond Poppy Seed Muffins

Dry Ingredients

• All Purpose Flour: All purpose flour has a moderate/average amount of protein when compared to other flours. It will give your muffins sturdiness without compromising the lightness you desire in a morning dessert.
• Sugar: Granulated sugar is great for baking because the bond that it forms with water/liquid has a moisture-locking effect. This gives us incredible texture and moistness in our baked goods. Where we rely on sugar to give delicious sweetness to our desserts, it also brings out the more delicate flavors in our bakes giving them the level of prominence we desire.
• Baking Powder: Baking powder provides the leavening power when baking muffins. Without baking powder our muffins wouldn't achieve a dome shape. Baking powder begins releasing carbon dioxide in the batter and then expands more evenly while baking.
• Baking Soda: Baking soda needs an acidic and liquid ingredient to activate. If a sour flavor is desired in a recipe, baking soda is omitted in favor of a different leavener. Here, we are using baking powder and soda together as we need more leavening than we have acid available in the recipe.
• Sea Salt: Salt is a known flavor enhancer and baked goods are no exception. This is especially true where flour and butter are concerned. In addition to amplifying their flavor, salt works to strengthen doughs/batters and provide texture.
• Poppy Seeds: The opium poppy supplies the poppy seeds we use in our baking. They are a kind of "oil seed." In baking they provide a rich, nutty flavor, crunchy texture and beautiful aroma.

Wet Ingredients

• Unsweetened, Non-Dairy Yogurt: Non-dairy yogurts resemble typical dairy yogurts in every way. The major exception is that they are made from dairy-free sources. These can include nuts, coconuts, rice and oats. These yogurts contain live-active cultures, also known as probiotics. In vegan baking, non-dairy yogurt can also act as an egg replacement as it aids in binding and leavening. Be sure to purchase unsweetened non-dairy yogurts for baking so that you are able to control the sugar levels in your desserts.
• Non-Dairy Milk: Non-dairy milks resemble traditional dairy milks except they are derived from alternative sources such as nuts, coconuts, rice, oats, etc. Any will do in baking. Unflavored and unsweetened are ideal but use what you have available.
• Vegan Butter: Vegan butter is a simple alternative to dairy butter. Non-dairy butter is made up of different vegetable oils and is solid at room temperature. The flavors are nearly identical to normal butter.
• Almond Extract: A highly concentrated liquid used to replicate the flavor of almonds in baked goods without having to use a lot of the actual nut itself.
• Vanilla Extract In baked goods, the use of vanilla extract is It adds a beautiful dimension and flavor profile to our bakes. Vanilla chemically adds more flavor to desserts without covering up the other flavors you would still like to shine through.

Tips for Making Vegan Almond Poppy Seed Muffins

By following these tips, you'll be on your way to creating delectable vegan almond poppy seed muffins that everyone can enjoy.

1. When adding poppy seeds, make sure to measure them accurately and gently fold them into the batter. Be cautious not to over-mix as it can cause the muffins to become dense and tough.
2. Allow the muffins to cool for 10-15 minutes before removing them from the pan. Vegan baked goods tend to be more delicate, and cooling helps them set properly and prevents them from falling apart.
3. To achieve the classic, dome top on your muffins, only line every other slot in the cupcake pan with a paper liner. This will allow more heat to reach each individual muffin, giving them better rise.

Frequently Asked Questions

Why do people put poppy seeds in muffins?

People often add poppy seeds to muffins for several reasons:

1. Flavor: Poppy seeds have a distinct and slightly nutty flavor that adds depth and complexity to baked goods. They provide a subtle crunch and enhance the overall taste of the muffins.
2. Texture: Poppy seeds add a pleasant texture to muffins. When baked, they create tiny specks throughout the muffin, which can be visually appealing and add a bit of crunchiness to each bite.
3. Visual appeal: The dark color of poppy seeds contrasts nicely with the muffin batter, adding visual interest to the final product. The speckled appearance can also make the muffins more visually appealing and enticing.
4. Traditional or cultural significance: Poppy seeds are commonly used in various culinary traditions around the world. In certain cultures, they hold symbolic or traditional value, and incorporating them into muffins or other baked goods helps maintain those traditions.

It's worth noting that poppy seeds are also a good source of nutrients like dietary fiber, healthy fats, and minerals such as calcium and magnesium, though the amount used in muffin recipes is relatively small. Overall, adding poppy seeds to muffins is a way to introduce unique flavor, texture, and visual interest to the baked goods.

Do poppy seeds need to be soaked before baking?

No, poppy seeds do not need to be soaked before baking. In most recipes poppy seeds are used directly without any pre-soaking. They can be added to the batter along with the other dry ingredients. The moisture from the other ingredients and the baking process will sufficiently hydrate the poppy seeds, allowing them to soften during baking and blend seamlessly into the muffins.

FAQ's Continued

Do poppy seeds need to be washed?

Poppy seeds do not necessarily need to be washed before using them in baking. Commercially sold poppy seeds are typically cleaned and processed, so they are generally safe to use without washing. However, some people choose to rinse poppy seeds to remove any surface dirt or debris that may be present.

If you prefer to rinse them, you can place the poppy seeds in a fine-mesh sieve or strainer and rinse them under cold water, gently agitating them with your fingers. After rinsing, make sure to drain them well before using them in your recipe. Keep in mind that rinsing may slightly affect the texture and may require a bit of extra drying time before incorporating them into your recipe.

Is almond poppy seed better than lemon poppy seed?

The choice between almond poppy seed and lemon poppy seed largely comes down to personal preference and the flavor profile you desire in your muffins. Here are a few reasons why someone might choose almond poppy seed over lemon poppy seed:

1. Nutty flavor: Almond poppy seed muffins have a distinct nutty flavor from the addition of almond extract or almond flour. If you enjoy the taste of almonds and want a muffin with a subtle, slightly sweet nuttiness, almond poppy seed would be a great choice.
2. Variety: Lemon poppy seed muffins are more commonly known and widely available. Opting for almond poppy seed can provide a unique twist and something a little different from the traditional lemon flavor.
3. Complementary flavors: Almonds and poppy seeds have a natural affinity for each other, creating a delightful combination of flavors. The nuttiness of almonds also pairs well with the mild, slightly sweet taste of poppy seeds, resulting in a harmonious blend.
4. Allergy considerations: Some individuals may have allergies or sensitivities to citrus fruits, including lemons. In such cases, almond poppy seed muffins provide an alternative option that avoids citrus flavors.

Ultimately, both almond poppy seed and lemon poppy seed muffins are delicious choices, and the decision depends on personal taste preferences. Feel free to experiment with both flavors to find your favorite!

How to Serve/Store Vegan Almond Poppy Seed Muffins

There are various ways to serve vegan almond poppy seed muffins. Here are a few ideas:

1. Plain and simple: Serve the muffins as they are, allowing the flavors of almonds and poppy seeds to shine. Place them on a serving platter or in a muffin basket and let people enjoy them as a delightful grab-and-go snack or breakfast treat.
2. Spread with vegan butter or almond butter: Enhance the richness and nuttiness by spreading a layer of vegan butter or almond butter on top of the muffins. It adds a creamy and savory element that complements the flavors of almond and poppy seed.
3. Drizzle with glaze: Prepare a simple glaze using powdered sugar and plant-based milk. Mix until you achieve a smooth consistency and then drizzle it over the cooled muffins. This adds a touch of sweetness and makes them even more visually appealing.
4. Pair with fresh fruit: Serve the almond poppy seed muffins with a side of fresh fruits such as berries, sliced peaches, or oranges. The vibrant colors and refreshing flavors of the fruits also provide a nice contrast to the muffins and create a balanced breakfast or snack.
5. Serve with a hot beverage: Pair the muffins with a cup of coffee, tea, or a plant-based latte. The warmth and aromatic flavors of the beverage complement the nutty taste of the muffins, making for a cozy and satisfying combination.
6. Customize with toppings: Get creative and customize the muffins with toppings like slivered almonds, a sprinkle of powdered sugar, or even a dollop of vegan whipped cream. These extra touches can add visual appeal and additional flavors to the muffins.

Storing Muffins

Before storing the muffins, make sure they have completely cooled down. Warm muffins can create condensation, which can make them soggy. To this end, place the cooled muffins in an airtight container to prevent them from drying out and to protect them from moisture. A plastic container with a tight-fitting lid or a sealable freezer bag works well. If you plan to consume the muffins within a few days, storing them at room temperature is sufficient. Find a cool, dry spot away from direct sunlight and heat sources.

If you want to store the muffins for an extended period, freezing is a great option. Wrap each muffin tightly in plastic wrap or place them in a freezer-safe bag. They will keep like this for up to 1 month.

Please remember if you make this recipe to snap a pic and share with @censoredbaker on instagram!

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