Sailor Jacks Spice Muffins

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Warm, cozy, and bursting with nostalgic flavor, Sailor Jacks Spice Muffins are a comforting treat that feel like a hug from the past. These muffins combine molasses, cinnamon, and cloves to deliver a rich spiced bite that’s tender on the inside with a slightly crisp top. Whether you grew up eating something like them or are just discovering this classic, their old-fashioned charm makes them timeless.

Perfect for breakfast with a cup of coffee or as an afternoon pick-me-up, these muffins are as easy to whip up as they are satisfying. With simple pantry staples and a one-bowl mixing method, you’ll want to keep this recipe in your back pocket for chilly mornings or anytime you’re craving something a little special.

Why You’ll Love This Sailor Jacks Spice Muffins Recipe

These muffins are a celebration of spice and simplicity. They have a soft crumb and just enough sweetness to let the warm spices shine through. The use of molasses gives them depth, while brown sugar adds a touch of caramelized flavor. Plus, they freeze beautifully, making them a great make-ahead option for meal prep or gifting.

What Kind of Spices Should I Use?

You want warm, aromatic spices that carry the nostalgic, cozy feel. Ground cinnamon and cloves are traditional, but you can also add a dash of nutmeg or ginger for a deeper spice profile. Fresh spices (check those expiration dates!) will give you the most fragrant result. And if you like a little twist, try pumpkin pie spice for a shortcut blend.

Ingredients for the Sailor Jacks Spice Muffins

These muffins call for simple ingredients, but each one plays a key role in delivering that distinct old-school flavor.

• All-purpose flour
• Baking soda
• Salt
• Ground cinnamon
• Ground cloves
• Brown sugar
• Molasses
• Egg
• Vegetable oil
• Buttermilk
• Vanilla extract

Flour gives the muffins structure, while baking soda helps them rise beautifully. The spices create the signature warmth. Brown sugar and molasses bring moisture and flavor complexity. The buttermilk reacts with the baking soda for a tender crumb, and oil keeps the muffins soft.

How To Make the Sailor Jacks Spice Muffins

Step 1: Prep Your Oven and Muffin Tin

Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and line a muffin tin with paper liners or lightly grease each cup.

Step 2: Mix Dry Ingredients

In a large mixing bowl, whisk together the flour, baking soda, salt, cinnamon, and cloves until evenly combined.

Step 3: Combine Wet Ingredients

In a separate bowl, whisk together the brown sugar, molasses, egg, oil, buttermilk, and vanilla extract until smooth.

Step 4: Bring It All Together

Pour the wet ingredients into the dry and mix until just combined. Avoid over-mixing so the muffins stay tender.

Step 5: Fill and Bake

Divide the batter evenly among the muffin cups, filling each about 3/4 full. Bake for 18 to 20 minutes or until a toothpick comes out clean from the center.

Step 6: Cool and Enjoy

Let the muffins cool in the pan for 5 minutes, then transfer to a wire rack to cool completely. Enjoy warm or at room temperature.

Storing and Serving Sailor Jacks Spice Muffins

These muffins serve 12 and are best enjoyed fresh, but they store like a dream. Once cooled, keep them in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days. For longer storage, freeze them in a zip-top bag for up to 2 months. Simply reheat in the microwave or oven for that fresh-baked taste.

They’re lovely plain, but a swipe of butter or drizzle of honey makes them even more indulgent. Warm them up slightly before serving to revive that just-baked aroma.

What to Serve With Sailor Jacks Spice Muffins?

Coffee or Chai Latte

The warm spices pair beautifully with a steaming cup of coffee or spiced chai.

Fresh Fruit Salad

Add a refreshing contrast with something juicy and sweet like berries or citrus segments.

Greek Yogurt and Honey

A creamy side like yogurt adds protein and makes a balanced breakfast.

Scrambled Eggs

If you’re going savory, a plate of eggs complements the sweet and spicy muffin.

Apple Butter or Fig Jam

Spread on a spoonful of seasonal jam for a cozy twist.

Maple Glazed Bacon

A few strips of sweet-savory bacon elevate this to brunch-worthy.

Cinnamon Cream Cheese Spread

Mix cream cheese with a pinch of cinnamon and sugar for a delicious topping.

Want More Muffin Ideas?

If you loved these Sailor Jacks Spice Muffins, here are some other muffin and baked treats to try from the blog:

• Pumpkin Bread With Maple Cream Cheese Filling for an autumn-inspired loaf.
• Blueberry Cottage Cheese Breakfast Bake for a protein-rich morning treat.
• Oatmeal Raisin Cookie Bars for that chewy classic in bar form.
• Big Soft Ginger Cookies for even more warm spice.
• Carrot Pound Cake if you want rich, spiced cake in sliceable form.

Save This Recipe For Later

📌 Save this recipe to your Pinterest dessert board so you can come back to it any time.

And let me know in the comments how yours turned out. Did you tweak the spices or stick to the classic? Add-ins like raisins or walnuts are always welcome. I love seeing your spins on these nostalgic bakes.

Explore beautifully curated health-boosting drinks and cozy bakes on Zoe Recipes on Pinterest and discover your next favorite!

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