How do I know when it is done?

Use the timing as a guide, then check the center with the recipe's doneness cue, such as a clean toothpick, set edges, bubbling filling, or a gently springy top.

Can I change the flavor?

Yes. Keep changes small the first time, such as adding citrus zest, spice, chocolate, nuts, or a simple glaze that matches the recipe.

What should beginners watch most closely?

Measure carefully, avoid overmixing batters or doughs, and let the bake cool long enough before slicing, glazing, or storing.

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Muffins

Winter-Spiced Pear and Walnut Muffins with Maple Glaze Recipe

Name: Winter-Spiced Pear and Walnut Muffins with Maple Glaze Recipe
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 20 min
Total time: 35 min
Yield: 12 servings
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: 2 cups all-purpose flour; 1 teaspoon baking powder; 1/2 teaspoon baking soda; 1/2 teaspoon salt; 1 1/2 teaspoons ground cinnamon; 1/2 teaspoon ground nutmeg; 1/4 teaspoon ground ginger; 1/4 teaspoon ground cloves; 1/3 cup brown sugar, packed; 1/4 cup chopped walnuts; 1 large ripe pear, peeled, cored and diced (about 1 cup); 1 cup plain Greek yogurt (or dairy-free yogurt for a dairy-free option); 1/4 cup vegetable oil; 1 large egg; 1 teaspoon vanilla extract; For the Maple Glaze:; 1/2 cup powdered sugar, sifted; 2 tablespoons pure maple syrup; 1-2 teaspoons milk or dairy-free milk alternative

By Beginnerbakes Test KitchenReviewed by Beginnerbakes Editorial TeamPublished Apr 10, 2026 · Updated Jul 11, 2026

American 35 mins beginner-friendlyeasystep-by-stepwinter-bakingspicedlow-sugarfrostingmorning-bakeminimal-ingredientskid-friendlysnack

Discover this beginner-friendly recipe for winter-spiced pear and walnut muffins, low in sugar and rich in warm spices. Finished with a simple maple glaze, these muffins are perfect for kid-friendly snacks or a cozy breakfast on chilly days.

Winter-Spiced Pear and Walnut Muffins with Maple Glaze Recipe

Prep 15 min

Cook 20 min

Total 35 min

Servings 12

Difficulty easy

Cuisine American

Ingredients

Servings 12

2 cups all-purpose flour
1 teaspoon baking powder
1/2 teaspoon baking soda
1/2 teaspoon salt
1 1/2 teaspoons ground cinnamon
1/2 teaspoon ground nutmeg
1/4 teaspoon ground ginger
1/4 teaspoon ground cloves
1/3 cup brown sugar, packed
1/4 cup chopped walnuts
1 large ripe pear, peeled, cored and diced (about 1 cup)
1 cup plain Greek yogurt (or dairy-free yogurt for a dairy-free option)
1/4 cup vegetable oil
1 large egg
1 teaspoon vanilla extract
For the Maple Glaze
1/2 cup powdered sugar, sifted
2 tablespoons pure maple syrup
1-2 teaspoons milk or dairy-free milk alternative

BeginnerBakes winter spiced pear walnut muffin ingredients

Instructions

Preheat your oven to 375 degrees F (190 degrees C). Line a 12-cup muffin tin with paper liners or lightly grease it.
In a large bowl, whisk together the flour, baking powder, baking soda, salt, cinnamon, nutmeg, ginger, cloves, and brown sugar until well combined.
Add the chopped walnuts and diced pear to the dry ingredients, tossing gently to coat them evenly.
In a separate medium bowl, whisk together the yogurt, vegetable oil, egg, and vanilla extract until smooth.
Pour the wet ingredients into the dry ingredients and gently fold together with a spatula or wooden spoon until just combined. The batter should be slightly lumpy and no dry flour should remain-avoid overmixing.
Divide the batter evenly among the 12 muffin cups, filling each about two-thirds full.
Bake for 18-20 minutes, until a toothpick inserted into a muffin center comes out clean or with a few moist crumbs.
Let the muffins cool in the tin for 5 minutes, then transfer to a wire rack to cool completely.
While cooling, prepare the maple glaze by whisking the sifted powdered sugar, maple syrup, and 1 teaspoon of milk together in a small bowl. Add more milk as needed to achieve a smooth, drizzle-able consistency.
Once muffins are fully cooled, drizzle the maple glaze generously over the tops.
Serve immediately, or store muffins in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days. These muffins freeze well for up to 2 months.

BeginnerBakes raw pear walnut muffin batter portioned into liners

Tips

Equipment Needed

Essential beginner-friendly baking tools for making these winter-spiced pear and walnut muffins with a maple glaze include: 12-cup Muffin Tin: For evenly baking and shaping muffins. Paper liners recommended for easy removal and cleanup. Mixing Bowls: Two bowls: one large for dry ingredients, one medium for wet ingredients.

Ingredient Prep Notes

Tips for Preparing Ingredients: Pear: Choose a ripe yet firm pear. Peel, core, and dice into small, even pieces for consistent texture. Toss diced pear lightly in lemon juice to prevent browning before adding to batter.

Oven Note

Oven Tips for Perfect Winter-Spiced Pear and Walnut Muffins Preheat oven fully to 375 degrees F (190 degrees C) to ensure even baking and good rise. Place muffins on the middle rack for balanced heat distribution. Avoid opening the oven door during baking to prevent temperature drops that cause muffin collapse.

Easy Upgrade Ideas

Beginner-Friendly Upgrades to Enhance Your Winter-Spiced Muffins Nut Variations: Swap walnuts with pecans, almonds, or toasted pumpkin or sunflower seeds for new textures and flavors. Extra Fruits: Add fresh or dried cranberries, chopped apples, or blueberries alongside pears for juicy bursts of sweetness. Spice Boost: Increase cinnamon or add a pinch of cardamom or allspice to deepen warm, cozy flavors.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I make Winter-Spiced Pear and Walnut Muffins with Maple Glaze Recipe ahead?: Yes. Bake it ahead, cool it fully, and store it as directed so the texture stays as close to fresh as possible.
How do I know when it is done?: Use the timing as a guide, then check the center with the recipe's doneness cue, such as a clean toothpick, set edges, bubbling filling, or a gently springy top.
Can I change the flavor?: Yes. Keep changes small the first time, such as adding citrus zest, spice, chocolate, nuts, or a simple glaze that matches the recipe.
What should beginners watch most closely?: Measure carefully, avoid overmixing batters or doughs, and let the bake cool long enough before slicing, glazing, or storing.

Ingredient Replacements

all-purpose flour: Use whole wheat pastry flour for a nuttier bake or a 1:1 gluten-free baking blend if needed, checking texture before baking.
baking powder: Use a similar baking ingredient and adjust moisture gradually so the batter or dough keeps the same texture.
baking soda: Use a similar baking ingredient and adjust moisture gradually so the batter or dough keeps the same texture.
salt: Use a similar baking ingredient and adjust moisture gradually so the batter or dough keeps the same texture.
ground cinnamon: Use a similar baking ingredient and adjust moisture gradually so the batter or dough keeps the same texture.

Storage and Reheating

Cool leftovers before storing. Refrigerate in an airtight container for up to 4 days, or freeze when the ingredients are freezer-friendly.

Read related air fryer guides and cooking tips.

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Winter-Spiced Pear and Walnut Muffins with Maple Glaze Recipe

Recipe Details

Ingredients

Instructions