Muffin Meaning: Definition, Examples, and Translations
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muffin
[หmสfษชn ]
Definition
baked goods
A muffin is a small, sweet bread typically baked in a cup-shaped mold. It is often served for breakfast or as a snack. Muffins can come in various flavors such as blueberry, chocolate chip, or banana nut.
Synonyms
Which Synonym Should You Choose?
| Word | Description / Examples |
|---|---|
| muffin |
Usually eaten for breakfast or as a snack. Muffins are less sweet than cupcakes and can be either sweet or savory.
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| cupcake |
Typically served as a dessert, often at celebrations like birthdays. Cupcakes are sweeter and often decorated with frosting.
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| scone |
Commonly eaten with tea, especially in the UK. Scones can be sweet or savory and are often served with clotted cream and jam.
|
| pastry |
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.
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Examples of usage
- The bakery sells freshly baked muffins every morning.
- She enjoyed a warm blueberry muffin with her coffee.
- I prefer savory muffins over sweet ones.
Translations
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Interesting Facts
Historical Origins
- Muffins originally came from England, with the first mentions dating back to the 10th century.
- The name is believed to have derived from the French word 'moufflet', which means a soft bread.
- In the 19th century, muffins became popular in America, particularly with the rise of baking powder, which made them fluffier.
Culinary Diversity
- There are two main types of muffins: English muffins, which are flat and often toasted, and American muffins, which are sweeter and taller.
- Savory muffins can include ingredients like cheese, bacon, or herbs, making them a great snack outside of breakfast.
- In different cultures, muffins can have various names and styles, such as 'madeleines' in France, which are also small baked treats.
Nutrition
- Muffins can range in nutritional value, with whole grain and fruit-filled variations offering more fiber and vitamins.
- Some store-bought muffins can be high in sugar and calories, emphasizing the importance of checking nutritional labels.
- Homemade muffins allow for healthier ingredient substitutions, such as using applesauce instead of oil.
Pop Culture
- Muffins are often featured in popular TV shows and movies as a symbol of comfort food and casual gatherings.
- They are a common offering in coffee shops, highlighting their association with socializing over a warm drink.
- The phrase 'muffin top' refers to a fashion term but also humorously ties back to the way muffins often rise above their paper cups.
Baking Science
- The texture of a muffin can vary significantly based on mixing methods; over-mixing produces a denser texture, while gentle mixing leads to a lighter muffin.
- Muffins are considered quick breads because they rely on baking soda or baking powder for leavening, rather than yeast, which requires more time.
- Adding ingredients like fruits or nuts introduces moisture and flavor, but itโs key to balance these to avoid overly wet muffins.