Savory Pumpernickel Muffins 🌾🥯

These delightful Pumpernickel Muffins are a hearty and wholesome treat, perfect for breakfast or as an accompaniment to your favorite soup or salad. The deep, rich flavors of whole grain rye flour combined with molasses and spices create a unique taste experience that’s both satisfying and nutritious.

Serve them warm with a pat of butter or a spread of cream cheese for an extra special touch! 🧈🥰

Ingredients

For the muffins

• 1 cup pumpernickel flour
• 1 cup all-purpose flour
• 1/2 cup brown sugar
• 2 teaspoons baking powder
• 1/2 teaspoon baking soda
• 1/2 teaspoon salt
• 1 teaspoon ground caraway seeds (optional for added flavor)
• 1 cup buttermilk (or milk with 1 tablespoon of vinegar)
• 1/4 cup vegetable oil
• 2 large eggs
• 1/4 cup molasses

For the topping (optional)

• 1/4 cup sunflower seeds
• 1 tablespoon sesame seeds

Instructions

1. Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C) and line a muffin tin with paper liners or grease it lightly.

2. In a large bowl, mix the pumpernickel flour, all-purpose flour, brown sugar, baking powder, baking soda, salt, and caraway seeds together until well combined.

   🌿 Caraway seeds add a nice aromatic touch, but they're optional if you prefer a milder flavor.

3. In a separate bowl, whisk together the buttermilk, vegetable oil, eggs, and molasses until well blended.

4. Pour the wet ingredients into the dry ingredients and stir until just combined. Be careful not to overmix; a few lumps are perfectly okay!

5. Spoon the muffin batter into the prepared muffin tin, filling each cup about 2/3 full.

6. If using, sprinkle sunflower and sesame seeds on top for an added crunch and visual appeal.

7. Bake in the preheated oven for 18-20 minutes or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean.

8. Allow the muffins to cool slightly in the pan before transferring them to a wire rack to cool completely.

Variations

• Savory Additions: Stir in some chopped cooked bacon, sautéed onions, or grated cheese for an extra savory boost.
• Sweet Spin: Add chocolate chips or dried fruits like raisins or cranberries for a sweeter version.
• Gluten-free: Substitute both flours with a gluten-free all-purpose flour blend, but note that texture may change slightly.
• Herbal Twist: Incorporate fresh herbs like dill or thyme for an aromatic and flavorful lift.

Serving Suggestions

• Enjoy these tasty muffins warm with cream cheese or homemade herb butter.
• They also pair wonderfully with rich soups or stews, making them great for chilly evenings! 🍲🌧️

Embrace the unique flavors of pumpernickel in these customizable muffins for a delightful twist at your next meal!