Muffin: meaning, definitions and examples

Usually eaten for breakfast or as a snack. Muffins are less sweet than cupcakes and can be either sweet or savory.

• I grabbed a blueberry muffin on my way to work
• They enjoyed spinach and cheese muffins during brunch

Typically served as a dessert, often at celebrations like birthdays. Cupcakes are sweeter and often decorated with frosting.

• She baked a dozen chocolate cupcakes for the party
• The kids loved decorating their own cupcakes

Commonly eaten with tea, especially in the UK. Scones can be sweet or savory and are often served with clotted cream and jam.

• They had scones with clotted cream during afternoon tea
• She served cheese scones at the brunch

General term used for baked goods made from dough, including tarts, pies, and croissants. Often found in bakeries and served as a treat or with tea/coffee.

• He bought a variety of pastries from the bakery for breakfast
• The pastry was flaky and filled with chocolate