Bartlett Pear Muffins

Ingredients:

• 2 cups all-purpose flour
• 1/2 cup granulated sugar
• 3 teaspoons baking powder
• 1/2 teaspoon salt
• 1 cup milk
• 1 egg, beaten
• 1/4 cup melted butter, cooled
• Zest of 1 lemon
• 1 cup diced Bartlett USA pears (about 2 medium pears)
• 1/2 cup chopped walnuts or pecans  

Optional additions:

• 1/4 teaspoon ground cinnamon
• 1/4 teaspoon ground nutmeg
• 1/4 cup chopped dried cranberries

Instructions:

1. Preheat oven: Preheat oven to 425°F (220°C). Spray muffin pans with nonstick spray.
2. Combine dry ingredients: Sift together flour, sugar, baking powder, and salt.
3. Combine wet ingredients: In a separate bowl, beat together milk, beaten egg, butter, and lemon zest.
4. Combine wet and dry ingredients: Mix pears and nuts into flour mixture. Gently stir milk mixture into dry ingredients. Batter should be lumpy, not smooth.
5. Bake: Spoon batter evenly into muffin cups. Bake for 20-25 minutes, or until a toothpick comes out clean from the center of a muffin.
6. Serve: Remove from oven immediately and serve warm.

Optional additions:

• For extra flavor: Add chopped dried cranberries, ground cinnamon, or ground nutmeg.
• For a richer texture: Use brown sugar instead of granulated sugar.
• For a spicier kick: Add a pinch of red pepper flakes or cayenne pepper.

Enjoy your delicious Pear Muffins!