Ina Garten's Easy Baking Tips Yield Perfect Muffins Every Time

Keeping things not-so-sticky

It's disheartening to see muffin remnants clinging to the top of the tin. Even if you've baked your muffins perfectly, sticking to the pan can lead to a letdown. But fear not: Ina Garten has a solution. To keep your muffins from adhering, she recommends greasing the top of the baking tin, not just the cups. This advice holds true even if you're using paper liners; in that case, you can skip greasing the cups since the paper will prevent sticking in those tricky spots. However, forgoing liners can yield a delightful crunchy crust around the edges of your muffins, so you might consider skipping the parchment paper. Additionally, using a fat like butter can add extra flavor and richness to your muffins. If you're not after that added taste, shortening is a viable alternative with a milder flavor.

To grease your pan with butter, simply melt it in the microwave and use a pastry brush to coat the entire tin. If you're looking for a more convenient method, a quick spray of non-stick spray can effectively coat your pan with minimal effort. After spraying, you can use a folded paper towel to evenly distribute the oil and remove any excess.

Scoop, sugar, and other Garten-approved tips

To prevent your muffins from sticking to the top of the tin, it's essential to avoid overflow from the start. Ina Garten has some great tips for you. The Barefoot Contessa suggests using an ice cream scoop, which is an excellent tool for portioning your muffins evenly. This method ensures that each muffin is uniform in size and helps minimize mess or spillage around the edges of your pan. For the best results, choose an ice cream scoop with a lever handle that allows for a clean transfer of batter into the tin.

When it comes to the sugar topping, consider using turbinado sugar for a delightful crunch. Its large crystals add texture, but keep in mind that it may melt slightly when baked. If you prefer your sugar to retain its texture and shine, go for sanding sugar, which also features large crystals but won’t melt in the oven.

To achieve an even bake and avoid burnt or undercooked muffins, it's crucial to monitor your oven's temperature closely. Using an oven thermometer can help ensure that the temperature is accurate, as ovens can fluctuate even after preheating. With a thermometer, you'll be able to make necessary adjustments, leading to perfectly baked muffins every time.