Never Suffer Dry Muffins Again With One Extra Step

Is there a greater disappointment than biting into a dry, crumbly muffin? Probably, but eating an underwhelming muffin is still a pretty unpleasant experience. Fortunately, there's an easy and effective way to rescue lackluster baked goods by infusing them with moisture and sweetness. Simple syrup can be a godsend for overmixed or overbaked muffins; it transforms them into a moist, cakey treat perfect for breakfast or dessert.

Simple syrups are also a great way to add another layer of flavor to muffins and other pastries. Though a basic sugar-and-water syrup will add flavor in the form of sweetness, it's very easy to infuse this recipe with a limitless array of herbs, spices, and fruits. Think lemon zest for a citrusy boost for blueberry muffins, vanilla to round out the flavors of pumpkin spice, or a basil-infused syrup to give raspberry muffins a sophisticated flare.

The best way to add just the right amount of simple syrup to your muffins is with a pastry brush. Once your muffins have cooled, gently brush a little simple syrup on top of each one. Allow the first application to soak in for a few moments, then add one or two more applications to ensure they're moist all the way through. After the soak is completely absorbed, your muffins may develop a lightly crunchy, sweet crust on top as a textural bonus.

Though you can purchase simple syrup in a variety of flavors, it's fairly quick, easy, and inexpensive to make yourself. All you need is plain old white sugar, water, and whatever flavorings you'd like to use (if any). For basic homemade simple syrup, simply combine equal parts sugar and water in a saucepan over medium heat. Once the sugar is completely dissolved, your simple syrup is ready to cool and store. If it looks a little thin, don't worry; it'll thicken a bit as it cools.

Unflavored simple syrup will certainly produce sweet, moist muffins, but this basic recipe is also the perfect foundation for creating unique infusions to complement your favorite muffin recipes. Lightly crush or chop fruit or herbs before adding them to the syrup for a unique flavor. Whole spices are easier to strain from your simple syrup, while citrus zest may be added with the juice for extra brightness.

Leftover simple syrup can be stored in a glass container in the fridge for a little over a month, and there are plenty of ways to use it up. Aside from rescuing dry, crumbly muffins, these syrups are also a fun way to spice up a pancake breakfast, sweeten a latte, or elevate plain vanilla ice cream. They're also an excellent way to elevate traditional cocktails, like a lavender old fashioned or a pumpkin spice martini.