
Muffins, with their delightful variety and appeal, have long been cherished as the perfect snack for breakfast, dessert, or just a sweet treat. Their versatility allows for endless creativity, whether you're into the classic blueberry or the more adventurous savory kinds. However, the joy of baking muffins can sometimes be dampened by the challenge of them sticking to their liners or the baking tin, leading to a loss of their beautiful appearance and delicious edges. In celebration of National Muffin Day, let's dive into the secrets of ensuring your muffins come out perfectly every time, keeping them whole and your spirits high.
How to Ensure Muffins Don't Stick to Baking Tins
The key to non-stick muffins begins with the pan preparation. Here are methods to keep your muffins from becoming too attached to their baking tins:
- Grease the Pan Properly: Even if you're using liners, lightly greasing the top of the muffin tin can prevent the muffin tops from sticking. Use butter, oil, or non-stick spray, ensuring you cover every surface.
- Use Quality Bakeware: Investing in high-quality, non-stick muffin tins can drastically reduce sticking. Silicone muffin trays are also an excellent option for easy removal without the grease.
- Preheat the Oven: A properly preheated oven ensures even baking, which can help prevent sticking. Muffins baked at too low a temperature may stick more as they don't form a crust quickly enough to pull away from the tin.

How to Choose and Use Liners Effectively
Muffin liners can be a baker's best friend, but choosing the right type and using them correctly is crucial. Opt for high-quality, non-stick liners. Silicone liners are reusable and offer excellent non-stick properties, while some paper liners come with a silicone coating that reduces sticking. Even non-stick liners can benefit from a light greasing: a quick spray or brush with oil can make a big difference in how easily the muffins release after baking.
How to Un-stick Muffins That Stick Anyway
Sometimes, despite our best efforts, muffins decide to stick. Here's what to do:
let the muffins cool in the tin for a few minutes after baking; this resting period can help them set and pull away from the edges of the tin or liner. Gently run a butter knife or a thin spatula around the edge of the muffins to loosen them without breaking. Lastly, if muffins have cooled and are still stuck, placing them back in a warm oven for a few minutes can help loosen them by melting any hardened sugars.