Mini Chai Muffins with Vanilla Bean Glaze

Mini Chai Muffins with Vanilla Bean Glaze: A Perfectly Spiced Treat

There’s something so comforting about the warm, spicy aroma of chai, especially when it’s baked into a tender, bite-sized muffin. These Mini Chai Muffins with Vanilla Bean Glaze are the perfect treat for fall or any time you’re craving a cozy, spiced snack. They’re packed with the flavors of chai spice, lightly sweetened with maple syrup, and topped with a luscious vanilla bean glaze. Best of all, they’re made with wholesome ingredients like whole wheat pastry flour and Greek yogurt, so you can feel good about indulging in a few.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

These mini muffins are incredibly easy to make and bake up quickly, making them perfect for breakfast, brunch, or a snack on the go. The chai spice mix gives them a wonderfully warm and aromatic flavor, while the vanilla bean glaze adds just the right amount of sweetness. Plus, their small size makes them perfect for sharing—or for enjoying a couple (or more) without the guilt. Whether you’re a chai lover or just looking for a new muffin recipe to try, these mini treats are sure to become a favorite.

Ingredients

For the Mini Chai Muffins:

• 1 cup whole wheat pastry flour
• 1 teaspoon baking powder
• 1/4 teaspoon baking soda
• 1/4 teaspoon kosher salt
• 2 teaspoons chai spice mix
• 1/2 cup plain non-fat Greek yogurt
• 1/4 cup maple syrup
• 2 tablespoons low-fat milk or milk of choice
• 1 tablespoon olive oil (canola or melted coconut oil may also be used)
• 1 egg
• 1 teaspoon vanilla bean paste or vanilla extract

For the Vanilla Bean Glaze:

• 1/2 cup powdered sugar
• 1/2 teaspoon vanilla bean paste or vanilla extract
• 2-3 teaspoons low-fat milk

Directions

1. Preheat the Oven:
   Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Line a mini muffin pan with 32 liners or spray the muffin pan with cooking spray to prevent sticking.
2. Mix the Dry Ingredients:
   In a large bowl, whisk together the whole wheat pastry flour, baking powder, baking soda, kosher salt, and chai spice mix. This ensures that all the dry ingredients are evenly distributed.
3. Mix the Wet Ingredients:
   In a smaller mixing bowl, whisk together the plain Greek yogurt, low-fat milk, olive oil, maple syrup, vanilla bean paste (or vanilla extract), and egg. Make sure the mixture is smooth and well combined.
4. Combine the Wet and Dry Ingredients:
   Add the wet ingredients to the dry ingredients. Using a rubber spatula, fold the mixture together until just combined. Be careful not to overmix, as this can result in dense muffins.
5. Fill and Bake:
   Evenly fill the mini muffin pan with the batter, filling each liner about three-quarters full. Bake in the preheated oven for 10-14 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center of a muffin comes out clean. Let the muffins cool in the pan for about 5 minutes before transferring them to a wire rack to cool completely.
6. Prepare the Vanilla Bean Glaze:
   While the muffins are cooling, make the glaze by whisking together the powdered sugar, vanilla bean paste (or vanilla extract), and 2-3 teaspoons of low-fat milk in a small bowl. Adjust the consistency by adding more milk for a thinner glaze or less for a thicker glaze.
7. Glaze the Muffins:
   Once the muffins have cooled, dip the tops into the glaze or drizzle it over them using a spoon. Place the glazed muffins back on the cooling rack to allow the glaze to set and harden.

Recipe Details

• Prep Time: 15 minutes
• Cooking Time: 14 minutes
• Total Time: 29 minutes
• Servings: 32 mini muffins
• Calories: 65 kcal per muffin

Final Thoughts

These Mini Chai Muffins with Vanilla Bean Glaze are the perfect little treat to enjoy with your morning coffee or as an afternoon snack. They’re full of warm, spicy flavors, and the sweet vanilla glaze adds just the right touch of indulgence. Whether you’re making them for a fall gathering, a weekend brunch, or just because, these mini muffins are sure to delight everyone who tries them. Give them a try and enjoy the cozy flavors of chai in every bite!

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