I’m a big fan of muffins, especially cute little homemade ones that you can just pop into your mouth (the small size means they have fewer calories...yeah right). I think they make the perfect addition to a brunch table offering up a yummy, sweet option that isn’t a pain to make. However, as much as I love muffins, I’m really picky about them.
First of all, I like fruity muffins. None of this chocolate-chocolate chip or stodgy bran with walnuts nonsense for me...I want fruit. As in, fruit in every bite. There is little that disappoints me more in a muffin than breaking it in half to reveal 3 blueberries. Rip off! Secondly, I don’t like weighty, heavy, dense muffins. I want light, fluffy muffins. Delicate and cake-like, but like a buttery layer cake not a pound cake.
And finally, I want them to have a balance of great flavor, and not be overwhelmed by sweetness.
This recipe is all that, and makes use of plump, juicy, sweet spring strawberries which are all over the market now (at least the farmers’ market near my house!). They are superb both on their own (even slathered with a little homemade strawberry jam) or as an addition to a special brunch spread, such as Mother’s Day. I for one would love these to be served to me on a lovely tray alongside a cuppa tea, a mimosa, and a slice of frittata. Husband, are you listening?