6 Ways to Troubleshoot Your Delicious Muffins

Why won't my muffins cook on the inside?

Last Updated: February 28, 2023 References

Ugh! Your muffins definitely aren't going to be winning any awards—but where exactly did they go wrong? We're here to help you solve the mystery. After taking a close look at your muffin, use our guide below to figure out what you can do better in the future.

1

Rose Too High

The muffins were overmixed or baked in an oven that was too hot. If the muffins had peaks like Everest with too much color, this is known as "peaked.^{[1]
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2

Overflowed

The muffin cavities in the pan were overfilled. Don't fill the holes more than two-thirds full in the future.^{[2]
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3

Undercooked

The oven wasn't hot enough or the muffins weren't baked for long enough. An undercooked muffin will have a center that is too moist and it doesn't peak enough.^{[3]
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4

Flat Surface

The raising agent wasn't effective or the muffins weren't missing an ingredient or two. Poorly risen muffins with a heavy, dense texture usually means that the raising agent was insufficient or ineffective (stale) or that the muffins were missing ingredients. If you've made substitutions to the muffin, this may also be another reason for poor rising.^{[4]
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5

Burned

The oven temperature was too high or the muffins baked for too long. Use a timer if you're forgetful.

6

Good Muffin

Good muffins have an even texture and rise evenly in the center. Overall, the colour will appear golden. When looked at in the pan, the muffins will be starting to come away from the sides of the pan holes of their own accord.^{[5]
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Community Q&A

Question

What would happen if the holes in the muffin tin were filled more than two-thirds?

Community Answer

The muffins would rise higher. It's not bad; it's how commercial bakeries get such big muffin tops.
Question

Half of my muffins came out fine, the other half are underdone. What do I do?

Amy273

Community Answer

Turn the baking tray around in the oven so that the muffins facing the oven door are facing the direct heat. This will ensure consistency in your muffins.
Question

I have a new oven. My muffins aren't rising like in my old oven. Is it a problem with the temperature?

Community Answer

If your muffins aren't baked through, the problem could be that the oven temperature could have been to low, the batter could have been overmixed, and/or the wrong amount of leavener was used.