Jordan Marsh Blueberry Muffins (Copycat)

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Jordan Marsh Blueberry Muffins (Copycat)

Blueberry muffins are timeless, but the Jordan Marsh blueberry muffin claims a special place in New England’s heart. This classic recipe yields large, bakery-style muffins with tender crumbs, bursts of fresh blueberries, and a signature sugary topping that sparkles. Whether you’re seeking nostalgia or simply a reliable muffin recipe, these tick every box.

The Story Behind Jordan Marsh Blueberry Muffins

Jordan Marsh was once a beloved department store chain across New England. While customers browsed clothes and home goods, many made a beeline for the in-store bakery. The blueberry muffins became legendary—fluffy interiors, crunchy caps, and berries in every bite. Though the stores are gone, the recipe survives, cherished for its rich taste and comforting texture.

Ingredients

Every ingredient in this recipe contributes to its distinct character. Here’s what you’ll need and why each element matters:

• Unsalted Butter – Softened, for a creamy base and tender crumb.
• Granulated Sugar – Sweetens and creates that crackly sugar dome on top.
• Large Eggs – Bind the batter and give structure; use room temperature eggs for the best rise.
• Pure Vanilla Extract – Adds warmth and rounds out the flavors.
• Milk – Whole milk brings moisture and richness.
• All-Purpose Flour – Provides structure; unbleached flour yields a slightly heartier texture but either kind works.
• Baking Powder – Leavens the muffins for a lift.
• Salt – Balances the sweetness and brightens flavor.
• Fresh Blueberries – Plump and juicy; fresh is best, but frozen can be substituted if needed.
• Extra Sugar for Topping – Creates a sparkling, crunchy finish.

Consider using the following quantities for a dozen muffins:

Step-By-Step Instructions

1. Prepare the Muffin Pan and Oven

Heat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Grease a 12-cup muffin tin with butter or nonstick spray, or line with paper liners. Butter yields a golden, crispier edge.

2. Cream Butter and Sugar

In a large mixing bowl, beat the softened butter with 1 cup of sugar until the mixture looks pale and fluffy. Proper creaming aerates the batter and sets the foundation for tender muffins.

3. Add Eggs and Vanilla

Beat in the eggs, one at a time, mixing well after each addition. Stir in the vanilla extract. This makes the batter smooth and aromatic.

4. Sift Dry Ingredients

In a separate bowl, whisk together flour, baking powder, and salt. This step evenly distributes the leavening, so your muffins rise evenly.

5. Combine Wet and Dry Mixtures

Add about one-third of the flour mixture to the wet ingredients, followed by half the milk. Continue alternating, ending with the flour. Mix only until just combined—overmixing makes muffins tough.

6. Fold in Blueberries

Mash about ½ cup of blueberries with a fork and fold them into the batter to create a streaked, fruity base. Gently that mix in the remaining whole berries so every bite contains fruit.

Tip: If you’re using frozen berries, toss them with a teaspoon of flour before adding. This helps prevent them from sinking and reduces color streaking.

7. Fill Muffin Tin and Add Topping

Scoop the batter generously into the muffin cups, filling them almost to the top. Sprinkle each muffin with a teaspoon of the remaining sugar for that signature sparkling crust.

8. Bake

Bake for 28–30 minutes, until the tops are golden and a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean or with only a few moist crumbs. Rotate the pan halfway through for even browning.

9. Cool and Enjoy

Let the muffins cool in the pan for 5 minutes. Then, gently release them and transfer to a wire rack. These are best served slightly warm, but they’re delightful at any temperature.

Tips & Techniques for Perfect Muffins

• Avoid Overmixing: Gently fold ingredients to avoid a dense crumb.
• Sugar Topping: Coarse turbinado sugar gives added crunch, but standard granulated sugar is classic.
• Room Temperature Ingredients: Soft butter and room-temperature eggs make for a smoother batter.
• Fruit Options: Try folding in lemon zest or swap some blueberries for blackberries or raspberries for a flavor twist.

Serving Ideas

While they shine on their own, blueberry muffins pair well with many breakfast and snack-time favorites:

• Creamy Whipped Butter – For spreading on warm muffin halves.
• Scrambled Eggs – For a savory contrast to the sweet muffin.
• Greek Yogurt and Fresh Fruit – To round out breakfast with extra protein and freshness.
• Hot Chocolate or Iced Coffee – Whether you want warmth or a refreshing buzz, both drinks balance the sweet-tart muffin nicely.

Storing, Freezing, and Reheating

Muffins are best the day they’re made but keep well for several days.

• Storing: Place cooled muffins in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days. Add a paper towel beneath and above the muffins to catch condensation and keep them from getting soggy.
• Freezing: Wrap each muffin in plastic wrap and freeze in a zip-top bag for up to 3 months. Thaw on the counter for a few hours or overnight in the fridge.
• Reheating: Warm muffins in the microwave for 10-15 seconds or in a 300°F oven for 5-7 minutes to bring back their freshness.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I use frozen blueberries?
Yes. Add them straight from the freezer—don’t thaw—or they’ll release too much juice and tint the batter purple. Toss them with flour first.

Why mash some of the berries?
This trick distributes blueberry flavor throughout the muffin, evoking the soft, jammy pockets that make these muffins special.

How can I make jumbo bakery-style muffins?
Use a 6-cup jumbo muffin tin and bake slightly longer, 38–42 minutes, until deeply golden on top.

Troubleshooting

• Flat Muffins: Fresh, active baking powder is key. Expired leavening won’t give enough lift.
• Tough Texture: Overmixing develops too much gluten. Mix gently and just until the flour disappears.
• Soggy Bottoms: Cool muffins on a wire rack to prevent moisture buildup.

More Variations

• Lemon Blueberry: Add the zest of one lemon for a citrusy lift.
• Nutty Muffins: Fold in ½ cup chopped walnuts or pecans.
• Streusel Topping: Mix 2 tablespoons each butter, flour, and sugar to crumble over tops before baking for an extra treat.

Jordan Marsh blueberry muffins capture the spirit of a bygone era, combining simple ingredients into something greater than the sum of their parts. The scent of buttery batter and roasting berries fills the kitchen, and the first bite delivers nostalgia—and satisfaction—in equal measure. Try these once, and you might find them becoming a permanent part of your baking rotation.