FOOD NEWS
The 2-Step Temperature Technique For Baking Tender Muffins
BY MOLLY HARRIS
Baking the perfect muffin that's tall yet tender, and golden yet moist, can be a very difficult task. A two-temperature baking method can make things much easier.
Instead of baking your muffins at one temperature the whole time, start with the oven at a higher temperature for an initial burst of heat, then lower it for a more gradual finish.
The higher starting temperature will cause the water in the batter to turn into steam quickly, making the muffins puff up and rise higher for a pronounced dome.
The lower temperature then allows the muffins to bake to completion more evenly and gently, ensuring that the middles are cooked through without drying out.
To ensure maximum tenderness, mix your batter until just combined to avoid dense muffins. Check for doneness by poking one with a toothpick to see if it comes out clean.