Jordan Marsh’s famous blueberry muffins are a beloved treat that has stood the test of time. Originating from the Jordan Marsh department store in Boston, these muffins are known for their rich, buttery flavor and massive, bakery-style size. Their signature sweetness comes from a combination of fresh blueberries, a touch of lemon zest, and a sprinkle of sugar on top, making each bite irresistible.
Ingredients:
- 2 1/2 cups all-purpose flour
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 2 teaspoons baking powder
- 1/2 teaspoon baking soda
- 1 cup sugar
- 2 large eggs
- 1/2 cup butter, melted
- 1 cup buttermilk (or milk with a splash of lemon juice)
- 2 cups fresh blueberries (or frozen, if fresh isn’t available)
- Zest of 1 lemon
- 2 tablespoons sugar (for topping)
Instructions:
1. Preheat the Oven:
Begin by preheating your oven to 375°F (190°C) and lining a muffin tin with paper liners. This will ensure that your muffins cook evenly and are easy to remove once baked.
2. Prepare the Dry Ingredients:
In a large mixing bowl, whisk together the flour, salt, baking powder, and baking soda. Set the bowl aside while you prepare the wet ingredients.
3. Mix the Wet Ingredients:
In a separate bowl, combine the sugar, eggs, melted butter, buttermilk, and lemon zest. Use a whisk or electric mixer to blend everything together until smooth and well incorporated.
4. Combine the Wet and Dry Ingredients:
Gradually add the wet mixture into the dry ingredients. Stir gently with a spatula or spoon until just combined. Be careful not to overmix, as this can result in dense muffins.
5. Fold in the Blueberries:
Once the batter is almost fully mixed, gently fold in the blueberries. If you’re using frozen blueberries, do not thaw them beforehand to prevent the batter from turning purple.
6. Scoop the Batter:
Scoop generous portions of batter into each muffin cup, filling them about 3/4 of the way. The larger the scoop, the bigger the muffins will be, which is characteristic of Jordan Marsh’s original recipe.
7. Add Sugar Topping:
Sprinkle the tops of the unbaked muffins with a tablespoon of sugar for an extra sweet, crunchy finish.
8. Bake:
Place the muffin tin in the oven and bake for about 25 to 30 minutes, or until the tops are golden brown and a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean.
9. Cool and Serve:
Allow the muffins to cool in the tin for a few minutes before transferring them to a wire rack. Enjoy warm or at room temperature with a cup of coffee or tea.
Why Jordan Marsh’s Muffins Are Special:
What makes Jordan Marsh’s blueberry muffins stand out is their size and texture. They’re larger than the average muffin, with a soft, moist interior and slightly crispy exterior. The key is to not overmix the batter and to use fresh or frozen blueberries that burst during baking, releasing their natural sweetness. The addition of lemon zest enhances the flavor profile, giving the muffins a fresh, vibrant note.
Tips for the Perfect Muffin:
- Don’t Overmix the Batter: Overmixing can lead to dense muffins. Stir until just combined for a light, fluffy texture.
- Fresh vs. Frozen Blueberries: If using frozen blueberries, don’t thaw them to avoid turning the batter purple. They can be added directly to the batter.
- Make Them Larger: For those classic bakery-style muffins, don’t be afraid to fill the muffin cups generously. Larger muffins are a signature of Jordan Marsh’s famous recipe.
These muffins are perfect for breakfast, brunch, or a delightful snack, capturing the essence of what makes bakery treats special. Whether you’re reminiscing about the days of Jordan Marsh or trying this recipe for the first time, these blueberry muffins are sure to become a family favorite.