Name: Modern Nonna
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 20 min
Total time: 35 min
Ingredients: 1 1/2 cups all-purpose flour; 1 teaspoon baking powder; 1/4 teaspoon baking soda; 1/4 teaspoon salt; 1/2 cup unsalted butter (softened); 3/4 cup granulated sugar; 1 large egg (at room temperature); 1 teaspoon pure vanilla extract; 1/2 cup buttermilk (at room temperature); 1/2 cup fresh blueberries (rinsed and dried)

What Makes Modern Nonna So Special

There’s something truly comforting about the way The Modern Nonna brings tradition into the modern kitchen. Growing up in my North Carolina farmhouse, I learned that the best meals are the ones made with love, not fuss. The Modern Nonna embodies this perfectly, blending timeless recipes with today’s busy lifestyles. Whether it’s a quick weeknight dinner or a Sunday feast, these dishes feel like a warm hug from Nonna herself. It’s the kind of cooking that reminds you of home, no matter where you are.

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One of my favorite things about The Modern Nonna is how approachable it is. Even if you’re not a seasoned cook, these recipes guide you step-by-step, making it feel like you’re right there in the kitchen with Nonna. I love how she takes classic dishes and gives them a fresh twist, like her cottage cheese bread, which is a staple in my house now. It’s the perfect balance of tradition and innovation, and it’s why I keep coming back to her recipes time and time again.

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Ingredients for Modern Nonna

For the muffins

All-purpose flour – The base of the batter, so make sure it’s nice and fresh.
Baking powder – This is what gives the muffins their lift.

Baking soda – Works with the buttermilk to create that perfect texture.
Salt – Just a pinch to balance the sweetness.
Unsalted butter – Softened is key here for easy mixing.

Granulated sugar – Sweetens things up, but not too much.
Egg – Room temperature blends smoothly into the batter.
Pure vanilla extract – Adds that warm, classic flavor.
Buttermilk – Room temperature is best for even mixing.
Fresh blueberries – Rinsed and dried, so they’re ready to fold in.

Cook Time for Modern Nonna

When it comes to baking, timing is everything, and The Modern Nonna makes it easy to get it just right. For these muffins, you’ll need about 15 minutes to prep and 20 minutes to bake, bringing the total time to just 35 minutes. It’s the perfect recipe for when you’re craving something homemade but don’t want to spend hours in the kitchen. If you’re looking for more quick and easy baking ideas, check out my healthy baking recipes for inspiration.

How to Make Modern Nonna Muffins

Step 1: Preheat the Oven

Start by preheating your oven to 350°F. Line a standard 12-cup muffin tin with paper liners or lightly grease each cup with butter to prevent sticking.

Step 2: Mix the Dry Ingredients

In a medium mixing bowl, whisk together 1 1/2 cups of all-purpose flour, 1 teaspoon of baking powder, 1/4 teaspoon of baking soda, and 1/4 teaspoon of salt until evenly combined.

Mixing Dry Ingredients for Modern Nonna Muffins

Step 3: Cream the Butter and Sugar

In a large mixing bowl, use an electric mixer on medium speed to beat 1/2 cup of softened unsalted butter and 3/4 cup of granulated sugar until the mixture becomes light and fluffy, which should take about 2-3 minutes.

Step 4: Add Wet Ingredients

Add 1 large egg and 1 teaspoon of pure vanilla extract to the butter mixture and beat on medium speed until fully incorporated and smooth.

Adding Wet Ingredients for Modern Nonna Muffins

Step 5: Combine Wet and Dry Ingredients

Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet ingredients, alternating with 1/2 cup of buttermilk, starting and ending with the dry ingredients. Mix on low speed until just combined; ensure not to overmix.

Step 6: Fold in Blueberries

Gently fold in 1/2 cup of rinsed and dried blueberries using a rubber spatula, being careful to maintain their shape and avoid crushing them.

Step 7: Bake and Cool

Use a spoon or an ice cream scoop to divide the batter evenly among the prepared muffin cups, filling each about 2/3 full. Bake for 18-20 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center of a muffin comes out clean. Transfer the muffins to a wire rack to cool completely before serving.

Pro Tips & Tasty Tweaks

Here are a few of my favorite tips to make these Modern Nonna muffins even more special. Whether you’re looking to switch up the flavors or make them a little healthier, these tweaks are sure to inspire.

Flavor Swap: Try swapping blueberries for raspberries or diced strawberries for a different fruity twist.

Diet Tweak: For a gluten-free version, use a 1:1 gluten-free flour blend. You can also use almond milk instead of buttermilk for a dairy-free option.
Prep Fix: If you’re short on time, mix the dry ingredients the night before and store them in an airtight container. This cuts down on prep time in the morning.
Storage Tip: Store leftover muffins in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 2 days, or freeze them for up to 3 months. Reheat in the microwave for 10-15 seconds for that fresh-baked taste. For more storage ideas, check out my healthy muffin recipes.

Nutrition and Health Benefits

One of the things I love most about The Modern Nonna’s recipes is how they balance indulgence with nourishment. These muffins are no exception—they’re packed with wholesome ingredients that make them a treat you can feel good about. Blueberries, for instance, are a powerhouse of antioxidants, while buttermilk adds a boost of probiotics for gut health. Plus, the use of whole ingredients like all-purpose flour and unsalted butter ensures you’re avoiding unnecessary additives. If you’re curious about other nutrient-packed recipes, check out my healthy baking recipes for more inspiration.

Here’s a quick breakdown of the nutritional highlights per muffin:

Nutrient	Amount
Calories	180
Protein	3g
Carbohydrates	25g
Fat	7g

For more tips on incorporating healthy ingredients into your meals, Learn About The Modern Nonna and her approach to balanced cooking.

A Lighter Version of Modern Nonna Muffins

If you’re looking to lighten up these muffins without sacrificing flavor, I’ve got you covered. One of my favorite swaps is using Greek yogurt instead of buttermilk—it adds creaminess while reducing the fat content. You can also replace half of the all-purpose flour with whole wheat flour for an extra fiber boost. And if you’re watching your sugar intake, try using a natural sweetener like stevia or monk fruit. For more ideas on healthier baking, take a look at my healthy muffin recipes.

Here’s a quick guide to making these muffins lighter:

Swap buttermilk for Greek yogurt: This reduces fat while keeping the muffins moist.
Use whole wheat flour: Replace half of the all-purpose flour for added fiber.

Try natural sweeteners: Stevia or monk fruit can cut down on sugar without losing sweetness.

Thoughtful Tips for Special Diets

Whether you’re managing blood sugar levels or simply looking for a sugar-conscious treat, these Modern Nonna muffins can easily be adapted to fit your needs. For a diabetic-friendly version, consider using a low-glycemic sweetener like xylitol or erythritol. You can also reduce the sugar content by half and let the natural sweetness of the blueberries shine through. If you’re gluten-free, swap the all-purpose flour for a gluten-free blend—just make sure it includes xanthan gum for the best texture. For more gluten-free inspiration, check out my gluten-free bagels.

Here are a few more tips for adapting this recipe:

Portion control: Make mini muffins for smaller, blood sugar-friendly servings.
Natural sweeteners: Experiment with stevia or monk fruit for a sugar-free option.
Low-fat swaps: Use unsweetened applesauce instead of butter for a lower-fat version.

How to Serve Modern Nonna Muffins

There’s nothing quite like enjoying a warm muffin fresh out of the oven, especially when it’s a Modern Nonna recipe. These muffins are perfect for breakfast, brunch, or even as a midday snack. I love pairing them with a dollop of Greek yogurt and a drizzle of honey for a balanced treat. If you’re hosting a brunch, serve them alongside my soft dinner rolls and a pot of freshly brewed coffee. It’s the kind of spread that feels like a hug in food form.

Here are a few more serving ideas to inspire you:

With tea: Pair these muffins with a cup of herbal tea for a cozy afternoon treat.

As dessert: Serve them warm with a scoop of vanilla ice cream for a simple dessert.
For breakfast: Add a side of scrambled eggs and fresh fruit for a complete meal.

Mistakes to Avoid

Even the simplest recipes can have their pitfalls, and these Modern Nonna muffins are no exception. One common mistake is overmixing the batter. It’s tempting to keep stirring until everything looks perfectly smooth, but overmixing can lead to dense, tough muffins. Instead, mix just until the ingredients are combined—it’s okay if there are a few lumps. Another mistake is overfilling the muffin cups. I’ve learned the hard way that filling them more than two-thirds full can cause the batter to spill over and create a mess in your oven. For perfectly portioned muffins, use an ice cream scoop or measuring cup.

Lastly, don’t skip the step of lining your muffin tin with paper liners or greasing it well. I once thought I could get away with skipping this step, and let’s just say, those muffins didn’t come out of the pan without a fight. For more tips on avoiding baking mishaps, check out my healthy baking recipes.

Here’s a quick summary of what to watch out for:

Overmixing the batter: Mix until just combined to keep muffins light and fluffy.

Overfilling the muffin cups: Fill only two-thirds full to prevent spills.
Skipping liners or greasing: Always prepare your pan to avoid sticking.

For more insights into perfecting your baking skills, Learn About The Modern Nonna and her approach to cooking.

How to Store Modern Nonna Muffins

Growing up, my mom always made a double batch of muffins so we’d have plenty to enjoy throughout the week. These Modern Nonna muffins are no different—they store beautifully and taste just as good the next day. To keep them fresh, let them cool completely, then store them in an airtight container at room temperature for up to three days. If you want to keep them longer, you can freeze them. Just wrap each muffin individually in plastic wrap and place them in a freezer-safe bag. They’ll stay fresh for up to three months.

When you’re ready to enjoy them, simply thaw them at room temperature or pop them in the microwave for a few seconds. For more storage tips and recipes, check out my cottage cheese banana bread.

Here’s a quick guide to storing these muffins:

Room temperature: Store in an airtight container for up to three days.

Freezing: Wrap individually and freeze for up to three months.
Reheating: Thaw at room temperature or microwave briefly.

Try This Modern Nonna Recipe Yourself

There’s something truly special about baking a batch of these Modern Nonna muffins. Whether it’s the aroma of blueberries and vanilla filling your kitchen or the joy of sharing them with loved ones, this recipe is a little slice of comfort. I remember the first time I made these for my family—they were gone before the coffee had even cooled. That’s the magic of these muffins—they’re simple, delicious, and made with love.

If you’re looking for more recipes to try, I’ve got plenty of inspiration for you. Check out my buttery biscuits for a savory treat or my cottage cheese bread for something a little different. And if you’re in the mood for more muffin magic, my healthy muffin recipes are always a hit.

So, what are you waiting for? Grab your apron, preheat your oven, and let’s bake something wonderful together. These Modern Nonna muffins are waiting to become a new favorite in your kitchen.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I use frozen blueberries in this recipe?

Absolutely! Frozen blueberries work just as well as fresh. Just make sure to toss them in a little flour before adding them to the batter to prevent them from sinking.

How do I make these muffins gluten-free?

You can swap the all-purpose flour for a gluten-free blend. Just make sure it includes xanthan gum for the best texture. For more gluten-free ideas, check out my gluten-free bagels.

Can I reduce the sugar in this recipe?

Yes, you can reduce the sugar by half or use a natural sweetener like stevia or monk fruit. The blueberries will still add plenty of sweetness.

How long do these muffins stay fresh?

These muffins stay fresh for up to three days when stored in an airtight container at room temperature. For longer storage, freeze them for up to three months.

Don’t Miss This Fan Favorite

These Modern Nonna muffins are more than just a recipe—they’re a reminder that the best meals are made with love and shared with those who matter most. I hope they bring as much joy to your kitchen as they have to mine. If you’re looking for more recipes to try, here are a few of my favorites:

Modern Nonna