National Muffin Day

National Muffin Day is a holiday for everyone who loves to bake and enjoy sweet pastries. Muffins are an American variety of small, sweet cakes with various fillings and often topped with chocolate or a sugar glaze. These treats are popular all over the world, and there are countless recipes for making muffins at home—both sweet and savory.

History

The earliest version of the muffin appeared in the UK centuries ago, as early as the 10th or 11th century, where it was a common dish for the poor. However, the name “muffin” became widely used only in the eighteenth century. By that time, muffins had arrived in America, where bakers began developing new recipes that quickly became popular.

Interesting Facts

A lot of interesting things are known about these delicious treats:

1. English muffins are made from yeast dough, while American muffins use baking powder or baking soda for leavening.
2. Originally, muffins were a snack, but by the 18th and 19th centuries, they had evolved into sweet baked goods.
3. Compared to cupcakes, muffins are flatter and their tops don’t rise as much. Muffins contain less sugar and fewer calories than cupcakes, making them a lighter choice. They pair well with a variety of sauces and drinks.

Classic muffins are usually oval or round and often baked with fruit or berry fillings. The standard muffin should be about the size of your palm.

How to Take Part

To celebrate, simply buy a few muffins and enjoy them with friends over tea or coffee. You can also try baking your own muffins at home, experimenting with different recipes. Muffins are great because they’re small yet satisfying—one or two can be enough to satisfy a craving for something sweet.

If you’re watching your diet, try making a healthier version of muffins. A perfectly baked muffin should have a yellow-brown color. If it’s too pale, it was underbaked; if it’s too dark, it was overbaked. Beautifully decorated muffins with sweet fillings can brighten up any family gathering.

When is National Muffin Day in 2026?

National Muffin Day is observed on February 20 each year.

Observations