Mostly Muffins

Janet Arnett is the former campus manager of adult education at Ontario’s Georgian College. She is the author of Antiques and Collectibles: Starting Small, The Grange at Knock, and 673 Ways to Save Money.

Canadians are mad about muffins. Company’s Coming’s first book on muffins was an outstanding bestseller, meriting this second book featuring all new recipes designed for life in the 21st century.

In recognition of today’s emphasis on healthy eating, a comprehensive nutritional analysis is given for each of the more than 120 recipes and the collection includes many low-fat and no-sugar selections. There’s also help for those with allergies, in the form of gluten-, egg-, wheat-, and milk-free recipes.

Preparation and baking speed are also lifestyle factors today, which are addressed by the work’s emphasis on a quick-and-easy approach. Today’s wide variety of available ingredients and the influence of international flavours in our diet are also recognized with many innovative recipes, such as Chai Pumpkin Loaf, Pesto Pine Nut Biscuits, and Masa Taco Muffins.

Although muffins are usually thought of as staples in the breakfast-brunch-snack arenas—and there are lots of those included—Paré’s collection goes beyond this with many savoury choices ideal for light suppers or as a supporting role at dinner. Here’s a chance to think beyond the traditional and experience muffins made with spinach, salmon, shrimp, lentils, garlic, jalapenos, and even asparagus.

The book has recipes for muffins’ “cousins”—quick breads, loaves, coffee cakes, biscuits, and scones. All share quick preparation and fill a similar role at the table.

Lots of glowing, professional-quality full-page colour photos make the urge to start baking irresistible.