Triple Berry Muffins

Triple Berry Muffins

Ingredients:

• 1 1/2 cups all-purpose flour
• 1/2 cup whole wheat flour (optional for extra texture)
• 1 cup granulated sugar
• 1/2 cup unsalted butter, melted
• 1/2 cup milk (whole or 2%)
• 2 large eggs
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
• 2 teaspoons baking powder
• 1/2 teaspoon baking soda
• 1/4 teaspoon salt
• 1 cup fresh or frozen mixed berries (blueberries, raspberries, strawberries, etc.)
• 1 tablespoon all-purpose flour (to toss with berries)

For the Streusel Topping (optional):

• 1/4 cup all-purpose flour
• 1/4 cup granulated sugar
• 2 tablespoons unsalted butter, cold and cut into small pieces
• 1/4 teaspoon ground cinnamon

Instructions:

1. Preheat Oven and Prepare Pan: Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Line a muffin tin with paper liners or lightly grease it.
2. Prepare the Berries: If using frozen berries, do not thaw them. Toss the berries with 1 tablespoon of flour. This will help prevent them from sinking to the bottom of the muffins.
3. Mix Dry Ingredients: In a large bowl, whisk together the all-purpose flour, whole wheat flour (if using), sugar, baking powder, baking soda, and salt.
4. Mix Wet Ingredients: In another bowl, beat together the melted butter, milk, eggs, and vanilla extract.
5. Combine Ingredients: Add the wet ingredients to the dry ingredients and stir until just combined. Be careful not to overmix.
6. Fold in Berries: Gently fold in the floured berries.
7. Fill Muffin Cups: Divide the batter evenly among the muffin cups, filling each about 2/3 full.
8. Prepare Streusel Topping (if using): In a small bowl, mix together the flour, sugar, and cinnamon. Cut in the cold butter using a pastry cutter or your fingers until the mixture resembles coarse crumbs. Sprinkle the streusel mixture on top of each muffin.
9. Bake: Bake for 18-22 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center of a muffin comes out clean.
10. Cool: Let the muffins cool in the pan for 5 minutes, then transfer them to a wire rack to cool completely.

Enjoy your homemade Triple Berry Muffins!