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Brown Butter Zucchini Muffins 50.png

Brown Butter Zucchini Muffins

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๐Ÿง Revel in the nutty, caramelized depth of brown butter paired with moist zucchini for incredibly tender, flavorful muffins that feel indulgent yet wholesome!
๐Ÿฅ’ Sneak in veggies effortlessly for a nutritious breakfast or snack, loaded with warm spices and natural sweetness you’ll make again and again.

  • Total Time: 40 minutes
  • Yield: 12 muffins

Ingredients

– 1/2 cup unsalted butter for nutty flavor base

– 1 3/4 cups all-purpose flour for tender crumb structure

– 1 tsp baking powder for light and fluffy rise

– 1/2 tsp baking soda for proper lift

– 1/2 tsp salt for balancing sweetness

– 1 tsp ground cinnamon for warm spice

– 3/4 cup granulated sugar for sweetening

– 2 large eggs for binding and moist texture

– 1 tsp vanilla extract for aroma

– 1 1/2 cups grated zucchini (about 2 medium zucchinis) for moisture, nutrients, and freshness

– 1/2 cup chopped walnuts (optional) for crunch and earthy flavor

Instructions

1-Prepare Your Mise en Place: Start by gathering all tools and ingredients for brown butter zucchini muffins. Preheat your oven to 350ยฐF and line a 12-cup muffin tin with paper liners or grease well. This setup keeps things smooth for busy schedules. Grate the zucchini ahead to save time.

2-First Step: Brown the Butter: Melt 1/2 cup unsalted butter in a light-colored saucepan over medium heat. Stir occasionally as it bubbles, about 5-7 minutes, until it turns golden and smells nutty. Watch closely to avoid burning. For detailed guidance, check this how to brown butter tutorial. Strain out solids if you prefer smooth batter, then cool slightly. This step infuses zucchini muffins with deep flavor. Vegan adaptation: Use coconut oil, though it browns differently.

3-Second Step: Prep the Zucchini: Grate 1 1/2 cups zucchini using a box grater’s large holes no peeling needed. Place in a clean kitchen towel and squeeze firmly over the sink to remove excess moisture. This prevents gummy texture in moist zucchini muffins with brown butter. Pat dry with paper towels. Firm, fresh zucchini works best. For gluten-free, this step stays the same.

4-Third Step: Mix Dry Ingredients: In a large bowl, whisk 1 3/4 cups flour, 1 tsp baking powder, 1/2 tsp baking soda, 1/2 tsp salt, and 1 tsp cinnamon. Sifting helps avoid lumps for even rise. Gluten-free flour blend substitutes directly here. Stir gently to combine, setting aside for wet mix.

5-Fourth Step: Combine Wet Ingredients: In another bowl, whisk cooled brown butter, 3/4 cup sugar, 2 eggs, 1 tsp vanilla, and squeezed zucchini. Beat until smooth, about 1-2 minutes. The mixture thickens nicely. For low-calorie, cut sugar. Eggs can swap for flax in vegan versions.

6-Fifth Step: Fold Together and Add Mix-Ins: Gently fold wet into dry with a spatula until just combined do not overmix for tender crumb. Fold in 1/2 cup chopped walnuts if using. Batter should be thick. Spoon into muffin tins, filling 3/4 full. Tap tin to release air bubbles.

7-Sixth Step: Bake and Cool: Bake at 350ยฐF for 20-25 minutes, until toothpick inserted comes out clean or with moist crumbs. Rotate halfway for even baking. Cool in tin 5 minutes, then transfer to rack. Full cooling sets texture for healthy brown butter zucchini muffins. Yields 12 muffins. Perfect for meal prep.

Last Step:

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Notes

๐Ÿฅ’ Squeeze as much moisture as possible from grated zucchini using a clean towel for best texture.
๐Ÿงˆ Watch brown butter closely to avoid burning; it happens fast after foaming subsides.
โ„๏ธ Muffins freeze beautifully โ€“ wrap individually and thaw for quick breakfasts.

  • Author: Brandi Oshea
  • Prep Time: 15 minutes
  • Cook Time: 25 minutes
  • Category: Breakfast
  • Method: Baking
  • Cuisine: American
  • Diet: Vegetarian

Nutrition

  • Serving Size: 1 muffin
  • Calories: 220 kcal
  • Sugar: 14g
  • Sodium: 210mg
  • Fat: 11g
  • Saturated Fat: 5g
  • Unsaturated Fat: 5g
  • Trans Fat: 0g
  • Carbohydrates: 28g
  • Fiber: 1.5g
  • Protein: 4g
  • Cholesterol: 55mg