Directions
<ol class="no-list-style"><li class="MethodStepper"><h4 class="step-title">Step 1</h4>Prepare your jumbo muffin tin by lining it with 6 jumbo paper liners. Preheat your oven to 220°C (425°F). The high initial temperature is crucial for creating that beautiful domed top that bakeries are known for.</li><li class="MethodStepper"><h4 class="step-title">Step 2</h4>In a large bowl, whisk together the flour, sugar, baking powder, baking soda, and salt until well combined. Be thorough with this step as it ensures even distribution of leavening agents throughout your batter.</li><li class="MethodStepper"><h4 class="step-title">Step 3</h4>In a separate medium bowl, whisk together the milk, vegetable oil, eggs, and vanilla extract until completely combined. The oil (rather than butter) will help create an exceptionally moist muffin with a longer shelf life.</li><li class="MethodStepper"><h4 class="step-title">Step 4</h4>Make a well in the center of your dry ingredients and pour in the wet mixture. Using a spatula, gently fold the ingredients together with broad strokes, stopping when just a few streaks of flour remain visible. Over-mixing develops gluten which results in tough, dense muffins rather than tender ones.</li><li class="MethodStepper"><h4 class="step-title">Step 5</h4>Add your chosen mix-ins (blueberries, chocolate chips, etc.) and fold in with just 2-3 strokes. If using frozen berries, do not thaw them first - add them frozen to prevent bleeding color throughout the batter.</li><li class="MethodStepper"><h4 class="step-title">Step 6</h4>Allow the batter to rest at room temperature for 15-30 minutes. This resting period is a professional baker's secret - it allows the flour to fully hydrate and the baking powder to activate slightly, creating a better rise and texture.</li><li class="MethodStepper"><h4 class="step-title">Step 7</h4>Using an ice cream scoop or large spoon, divide the batter evenly among the 6 jumbo muffin cups, filling them completely to the top. Don't be afraid to mound the batter high - this helps create that signature dome. Sprinkle the tops generously with coarse sugar for a professional-looking crisp, sweet crust.</li><li class="MethodStepper"><h4 class="step-title">Step 8</h4>Bake at 220°C (425°F) for 5 minutes, then without opening the oven door, reduce the temperature to 180°C (350°F) and continue baking for an additional 20-22 minutes. This temperature shift creates the initial dramatic rise (the "pop") before allowing the muffins to cook through without over-browning.</li><li class="MethodStepper"><h4 class="step-title">Step 9</h4>The muffins are done when the tops are golden brown and a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean or with a few moist crumbs attached. If you gently press the top, it should spring back rather than staying indented.</li><li class="MethodStepper"><h4 class="step-title">Step 10</h4>Allow the muffins to cool in the pan for 5 minutes before transferring to a wire rack to cool completely. This brief rest in the pan allows them to set up properly without becoming soggy from condensation. Store in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days, or freeze for up to 3 months.</li></ol>