Sailor Jacks Spice Muffins

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Moist, deeply spiced, and crowned with a glossy molasses center, Sailor Jacks Spice Muffins are the epitome of comfort in bite-sized form. These rich, dark muffins blend old-fashioned flavor with tender texture, making them perfect for breakfast, snack, or a nostalgic dessert treat.

With a hint of molasses and warming spices, Sailor Jacks taste like something pulled from a vintage seaside bakery. A moist crumb surrounds a soft center, creating a contrast that makes each bite uniquely satisfying. Whether you grew up with them or are tasting them for the first time, these muffins bring timeless charm and cozy vibes.

Why You’ll Love This Sailor Jacks Spice Muffins Recipe

These muffins are effortlessly cozy and fuss-free. They come together with pantry staples but taste like they belong in a bakery. The rich brown sugar, cinnamon, nutmeg, and ginger combination will fill your kitchen with warmth. Plus, they’re portable, easy to freeze, and stay moist for days.

What Makes Sailor Jacks Muffins So Unique?

It’s the signature molten center—a glossy, slightly chewy molasses plug that sets these apart from other spice muffins. The texture contrast between the dark caramelized edge and soft, rich middle creates a bite that’s both chewy and tender. A muffin pan gives each one its distinct shape and crusty outer layer.

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Ingredients for the Sailor Jacks Spice Muffins

Brown Sugar – Adds deep molasses-like sweetness and keeps the muffins moist.

All-Purpose Flour – The base structure that holds the muffins together without making them too dense.

Baking Soda – For lift and tender texture.

Ground Cinnamon – The primary spice note; warm and aromatic.

Ground Nutmeg – Adds complexity and nostalgic flavor.

Ground Ginger – Provides a subtle peppery kick to balance the sweetness.

Salt – Enhances the overall flavor and balances the sweetness.

Milk – Brings moisture and helps bind the ingredients.

Molasses – The star ingredient—rich, sticky, and essential to the classic taste.

Unsalted Butter – Melted for easy mixing and moisture.

Vanilla Extract – Rounds out the spice and adds depth.

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How To Make the Sailor Jacks Spice Muffins

Step 1: Preheat and Prep

Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease a standard muffin tin or use non-stick spray to coat each well.

Step 2: Mix the Dry Ingredients

In a large bowl, whisk together 2 cups of all-purpose flour, 1 tsp baking soda, 1 tsp ground cinnamon, 1/2 tsp ground nutmeg, 1/2 tsp ground ginger, and 1/4 tsp salt. Set aside.

Step 3: Blend the Wet Ingredients

In another bowl, whisk 1 cup packed brown sugar with 1/2 cup melted unsalted butter. Stir in 1/2 cup milk, 1/3 cup molasses, and 1 tsp vanilla extract until smooth.

Step 4: Combine and Stir

Add the wet ingredients into the bowl of dry ingredients. Stir gently until just combined. Don’t overmix—a few lumps are okay.

Step 5: Fill the Muffin Tin

Spoon the batter evenly into 12 muffin cups, filling each about 3/4 full.

Step 6: Bake

Bake for 18-20 minutes or until a toothpick inserted into the edge (not center) comes out clean. The centers will remain gooey and soft—that’s part of the charm.

Step 7: Cool and Enjoy

Let the muffins cool in the tin for about 10 minutes before removing. Serve warm or at room temp to fully enjoy the gooey center.

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How to Serve These Sailor Jacks Muffins

These muffins are best served slightly warm to enjoy the contrast of textures—a soft center and chewy crust. Pair them with coffee or chai for a comforting breakfast. Each batch makes 12 muffins, feeding 6 to 8 people depending on appetite.

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How to Store the Muffins

Store cooled muffins in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days. To keep them longer, refrigerate for up to a week. Reheat in the microwave for about 10 seconds to bring back the warm center. For freezing, wrap each muffin individually in plastic wrap and store in a freezer-safe bag for up to 2 months.

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Frequently Asked Questions

1. Can I use dark brown sugar instead of light brown?
Yes! Dark brown sugar adds even deeper molasses notes and works beautifully in this recipe.

2. Why is the center of the muffin gooey?
That’s the signature of a Sailor Jack. The gooey middle is intentional and created by the molasses, which doesn’t fully set during baking.

3. Can I double the recipe?
Absolutely. Just be sure to bake in batches or use two muffin tins.

4. Do I need muffin liners?
Nope! In fact, it’s better without. Greasing the pan helps achieve those crisp edges that make Sailor Jacks so irresistible.

5. Can I make them gluten-free?
Yes, use a 1:1 gluten-free flour substitute. Just be sure it includes xanthan gum or a binder for structure.

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Want More Muffin Ideas with Cozy Flavor?

If you loved these nostalgic Sailor Jacks Spice Muffins, you might also enjoy these warming favorites:

• Moist Pumpkin White Chocolate Chip Muffins
• Apple Brownies – Simple Autumn Treat
• Gingerbread Cake
• Oatmeal Bars – Buttery, Fruity, and Comfortingly Crumbly
• Butterscotch Bars – Soft, Saucy, and Southern Sweet

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📌 Save this recipe to your Pinterest dessert board so you can come back to it any time: Mad For Meals Pinterest

And let me know in the comments how yours turned out. Did you use dark molasses or add extra ginger? I’d love to hear your twist. Baking questions are always welcome too!

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