If you’ve ever wished for perfectly moist, tender muffins without heating up the oven, then this Instant Pot Steamed Muffins Recipe is going to become your new favorite way to bake. Steaming the muffins in the Instant Pot locks in moisture, creating a soft crumb that feels so light and fresh. It’s a game-changer for busy mornings or when you want a quick snack that’s both comforting and a little bit special. Plus, who doesn’t love the idea of muffins that are ready in under 30 minutes with minimal fuss? Let me walk you through how easy and satisfying this recipe is to make.
Ingredients You’ll Need
The beauty of this recipe lies in its simplicity. Each ingredient plays a key role in creating that wonderful texture and flavor we crave in muffins, while optional add-ins let you personalize each batch to suit your taste.
- 1 1/2 cups muffin mix or homemade batter: The base that gives your muffins structure and flavor.
- 2 eggs: Bind the ingredients together and add richness.
- 1/3 cup milk: Adds moisture for a tender crumb.
- 1/4 cup oil: Keeps muffins soft and extends freshness.
- Optional berries, chocolate chips, nuts: Customize with mix-ins for bursts of flavor and texture.
How to Make Instant Pot Steamed Muffins Recipe
Step 1: Prepare Your Batter
Start by mixing your muffin mix or homemade batter until smooth. This base is where your muffins begin to come alive, so be sure to blend everything evenly. If you want, fold in your favorite optional mix-ins like blueberries or chocolate chips now to spread those delicious surprises throughout the muffins.
Step 2: Fill the Silicone Molds
Use silicone muffin molds for this recipe—the flexibility makes removing the muffins a breeze once they’re cooked. Spoon the batter into each mold, filling them only halfway to allow the muffins to rise without overflowing.
Step 3: Set Up the Instant Pot
Pour 1 cup of water into the base of your Instant Pot and place the trivet inside. This water will create the steam needed to gently cook the muffins without drying them out.
Step 4: Arrange and Cover
Place your filled silicone molds on the trivet. Cover the entire surface tightly with aluminum foil. This prevents condensation from dripping onto the muffins and keeps the texture just right.
Step 5: Pressure Cook
Seal the Instant Pot lid and set it to pressure cook on High for 10 minutes. After the cooking time is up, allow a natural pressure release for 5 minutes. This gradual release helps the muffins finish cooking gently and stay perfectly moist.
Step 6: Cool and Unmold
Once pressure has fully released, carefully remove the molds from the Instant Pot. Let the muffins cool a bit before trying to pop them out of the molds—this step ensures they hold their shape beautifully and don’t break apart.
How to Serve Instant Pot Steamed Muffins Recipe
Garnishes
Fresh muffins deserve simple, delicious garnishes. A light dusting of powdered sugar, a brushing of melted butter, or a smear of cream cheese frosting can elevate the experience. You can even add a sprinkle of cinnamon or a drizzle of honey for extra warmth and sweetness.
Side Dishes
These steamed muffins go wonderfully with a hot cup of coffee or tea, making them ideal for breakfast or an afternoon pick-me-up. For a heartier snack, serve alongside a bowl of fresh fruit or a dollop of yogurt for balance and added nutrition.
Creative Ways to Present
Want to bring a little wow factor? Stack a few muffins into a mini tower drizzled with berry compote or spread with different flavored nut butters. You can also hollow out the center of a muffin and fill it with cream or jam for a surprising and delightful treat.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
If you have any muffins left over, store them in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 2 days. This keeps them soft and fresh without drying out. For longer storage, consider refrigerating them, but be sure to bring them back to room temperature before serving.
Freezing
Steamed muffins freeze beautifully. Wrap each muffin individually in plastic wrap and then place them in a freezer-safe bag. They can be frozen for up to 2 months. When you’re ready for a treat, thaw overnight in the fridge or at room temperature.
Reheating
To enjoy your Instant Pot steamed muffins after storing or freezing, warm them gently in the microwave for 15 to 20 seconds or until soft. You can also steam them again using the Instant Pot for a few minutes to refresh that tender texture.
FAQs
Can I use regular muffin tins instead of silicone molds in the Instant Pot?
The best results come from using silicone molds because they’re flexible and can handle the steam without rusting or damaging the Instant Pot. Metal tins may trap condensation, making muffins soggy, so silicone is highly recommended.
Can I add other flavors like cinnamon or lemon zest?
Absolutely! Adding cinnamon, lemon zest, or vanilla extract to the batter is a wonderful way to customize these muffins. These flavors blend beautifully with the steamed texture for a delightful twist.
How do I know when the muffins are fully cooked?
After the pressure cooking and natural release, let the muffins cool slightly, then check for doneness with a toothpick inserted in the center. It should come out clean or with just a few moist crumbs attached.
Is it safe to cover silicone molds with foil in the Instant Pot?
Yes, covering the molds tightly with foil prevents condensation from dripping onto the muffins and helps maintain moisture. Just be sure the foil doesn’t touch the sealing ring or any steam valves to keep things safe.
Can I make this recipe dairy-free?
Definitely! Use a plant-based milk like almond or oat milk and swap the oil with a dairy-free alternative such as coconut oil. The muffins will still be tender and delicious, perfect for dairy-free diets.
Final Thoughts
This Instant Pot Steamed Muffins Recipe is a brilliant shortcut to fresh, tender muffins that never dry out or take forever to bake. Whether you’re rushing through a busy morning or craving an easy sweet snack, these muffins deliver comfort and delight in every bite. So go ahead, grab your Instant Pot and silicone molds—your next batch of muffins is just minutes away!
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Instant Pot Steamed Muffins Recipe
- Total Time: 25 minutes
- Yield: 8–10 muffins
- Diet: Kid-Friendly
Description
These Instant Pot Muffins are moist and tender, perfect for when you want fresh, warm muffins without heating up your oven. Steamed to perfection using your Instant Pot, this quick recipe is simple to prepare and customizable with your favorite mix-ins like berries, chocolate chips, or nuts.
Ingredients
Basic Muffin Batter
- 1 1/2 cups muffin mix or homemade batter
- 2 eggs
- 1/3 cup milk
- 1/4 cup oil
Optional Add-ins
- Berries (such as blueberries or raspberries), chocolate chips, or nuts, as desired
Instructions
- Prepare the Batter: In a mixing bowl, combine the muffin mix, eggs, milk, and oil. Stir until just combined. Fold in your choice of optional add-ins like berries, chocolate chips, or nuts, ensuring an even distribution.
- Fill the Molds: Using silicone muffin molds, fill each mold halfway with the batter. This prevents overflow and ensures even cooking.
- Set Up the Instant Pot: Pour 1 cup of water into the Instant Pot insert. Place the metal trivet inside the pot to elevate the molds above the water.
- Pressure Cook: Arrange the filled silicone molds on the trivet carefully. Cover the molds tightly with aluminum foil to prevent water condensation from dripping onto the batter.
- Cook the Muffins: Close the Instant Pot lid, set the valve to sealing, and pressure cook on High for 10 minutes. Allow a natural pressure release of 5 minutes before opening the lid to avoid sudden collapsing.
- Cool and Serve: Remove the molds carefully and let the muffins cool slightly before popping them out of the molds. Serve warm or at room temperature.
Notes
- Use only silicone molds designed for steaming to prevent sticking and for easy removal.
- For added flavor, try incorporating cinnamon or lemon zest into the batter.
- Make sure the silicone molds are placed securely on the trivet to avoid tipping during cooking.
- Do not overfill the molds to prevent batter spills inside the Instant Pot.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 10 minutes
- Category: Breakfast, Snack
- Method: Instant Pot
- Cuisine: American
