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Festive Spiced Pear and Amaranth Mini Muffins
Original recipe: 12 servings · Prep: 15 min · Cook: 20 min · Total: 35 min
By TinyTummyTreats Editorial TeamPublished Apr 16, 2026 | Updated May 11, 2026
International
35 mins
easy-to-makewhole-grainsfruit-basedsoft-texturequick-prepfinger-food-friendlybalanced-nutritionsuitable-for-12-monthsbudget-friendlyquick & easymake-aheadlunchbox-friendlyfestiveseasonaltoddler breakfastfinger foods
Festive Spiced Pear and Amaranth Mini Muffins with measured ingredients, 35-minute timing, 12-serving yield, and step-by-step instructions for toddler meals, snacks, and family cooking guidance.
Prep
15 min
Cook
20 min
Total
35 min
Servings
12
Difficulty
easy
Cuisine
International
Ingredients
Servings
12
- 1 pear (ripe, medium-size)
- 1/2 cup amaranth grain (cooked)
- 1/2 cup whole wheat flour
- 1 teaspoon baking powder
- 1/2 teaspoon ground cinnamon
- 1/4 teaspoon ground ginger
- 1/8 teaspoon ground nutmeg
- a pinch ground cloves
- 1/3 cup unsweetened applesauce
- 1 tablespoon maple syrup
- 2 tablespoons coconut oil
- 1/3 cup unsweetened plant-based milk
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
Instructions
-
Preheat the oven to 350 degrees F (175 degrees C). Lightly grease a mini muffin pan or line it with mini muffin liners.
-
In a small bowl, whisk together the whole wheat flour, baking powder, cinnamon, ginger, nutmeg, and cloves until evenly combined.
-
In a separate large bowl, mix the cooked and cooled amaranth grain, chopped pear, unsweetened applesauce, maple syrup (if using), melted coconut oil, plant-based milk, and vanilla extract until well blended.
-
Gently fold the dry ingredients into the wet ingredients until just combined. Avoid overmixing to maintain a soft texture ideal for toddlers.
-
Spoon the batter evenly into the prepared mini muffin tin, filling each cup about three-quarters full.
-
Bake for 18 to 20 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.
-
Let muffins cool in the pan for 5 minutes, then transfer to a wire rack to cool completely before serving.
-
Store in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days or freeze for up to 1 month. These make-ahead mini muffins are perfect for quick toddler snacks and lunchbox options.
Frequently Asked Questions
- Can I make Festive Spiced Pear and Amaranth Mini Muffins ahead?
- Yes. Prepare the recipe ahead, cool it completely, and store portions airtight so they are ready for quick toddler snacks or meals.
- How do I keep the texture toddler-friendly?
- Keep pieces or spoonfuls small, avoid overcooking, and serve with a soft side if the texture feels dry or sticky for your child's chewing stage.
- Can ingredients be swapped for allergies?
- Yes. Use safe substitutes for your child's needs and check labels for common cross-contact risks before serving.
- What should I serve with it?
- Pair it with a protein, soft fruit, or cooked vegetable to make the snack or meal more balanced for little appetites.
Ingredient Replacements
- pear (ripe: Swap with a toddler-safe alternative that keeps a similar moisture level and soft bite, then adjust water or cook time a little if the mixture feels dry or loose.
- cup amaranth grain (cooked): Swap with a toddler-safe alternative that keeps a similar moisture level and soft bite, then adjust water or cook time a little if the mixture feels dry or loose.
- cup whole wheat flour: Swap with a toddler-safe alternative that keeps a similar moisture level and soft bite, then adjust water or cook time a little if the mixture feels dry or loose.
- teaspoon baking powder: Swap with a toddler-safe alternative that keeps a similar moisture level and soft bite, then adjust water or cook time a little if the mixture feels dry or loose.
- teaspoon ground cinnamon: Swap with a toddler-safe alternative that keeps a similar moisture level and soft bite, then adjust water or cook time a little if the mixture feels dry or loose.
Storage
Cool Festive Spiced Pear and Amaranth Mini Muffins completely, then store portions in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Freeze extras when practical, thaw before serving, and reheat gently only when a warmer, softer bite is helpful.
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