Muffins vs Cupcakes: A Sweet Debate

Something we’ve all dabbled a thought on before, are cupcakes and muffins the long-lost siblings of the baking world, or are they simply distant cousins with very little relation to one another? Join me as we explore whether these two tasteful pastries are one in the same.

Starting off, what is the difference between cupcakes and muffins? Many would like to argue that there are zero, and that these two objects are twins. Though, that isn’t exactly the case.

You see, something can’t really be the exact same thing if it isn’t made with the exact same ingredients. 

Firstly, flour. Both recipes call for it, but not exactly the same kinds. Both can use all-purpose flour, but it’s not recommended. Cupcakes call for cake flour, and muffins are much better with whole wheat flour. Muffins are supposed to be a lot denser and crumbly, contrasting the light and fluffy.

Another difference between their components is the sweetness. Cupcakes are typically used with granulated sugar, whilst muffins are made with applesauce, yogurts, and even substitute sweeteners.

It’s said that muffins are closer related to bread rather than cake, while cupcakes definitely live up to their name. The ratio in ingredients, the process of making them, and even the way they’re filled into the liners are what differentiate these two pastries.