Allspice Crumb Muffins (TWD)

Kayte, of Grandma's Kitchen Table, chose these cobblestone topped muffins for this week's Tuesdays with Dorie recipe. Even if you are not a huge fan of muffins, you really should give these a chance! They are perfectly moist and you will find the pleasure does not end at the top of the muffin. Every bite is wonderful and softly comforting, Just right for this time of year. Until now, I have never cared much for muffins. Maybe muffins should be served upside down in order to build the excitement and anticipation. They are one of the few desserts I really don't think about unless someone else buys one for me or if I can't find any other alternative. I almost always only eat the crown. I know, that is terribly wasteful. The top is usually such a flavourful, textured mix of crunchy buttery, slightly burned streusel and it sets the bar too high for the rest of the muffin. The poor stump can't compete. It just tastes dry, and sadly boring. The same feeling I get after a party when everyone has gone home.

These, however, are never dull! Dorie has the magic touch. First, I will start with the stump of these muffins. They are not at all dry thanks to the generous amount of butter in the dough. The soft crumb is mildy spicy, just enough to keep things interesting and there is no competition between the sugar and the allspice. This delicate base is topped with a crumbly crown made out of streusel so delicious that I almost wanted to eat it on it's own with a spoon. Brown sugar, butter, allspice, salt and flour. Such simple, basic ingredients that make your tongue sing with happiness. Sprinkled over the muffins and baked, this topping becomes slightly crunchy. Some of the pieces become embedded into the muffins, the rest sit on the surface and crumble off as you take a bite. You will want to pick up every last morsel! If you would like the recipe for these perfect muffins, please visit Kayte's blog. You may also visit the other Tuesdays with Dorie bakers here.