Maple Sausage Fluffins

Follow our step-by-step guide on how to make Maple Sausage Fluffins.

1. Step 1

   Start by reheating the sausage links according to the package instructions. This step is crucial as it helps to remove any excess moisture, ensuring your fluffins are perfectly fluffy. Once heated, let them cool on paper towels for about 5 minutes, then pat them dry. Slice the sausages into very thin pieces and set them aside for later.

2. Step 2

   In a large mixing bowl, combine 1-1/2 cups of flour, the undissolved yeast, sugar, and salt. This mixture forms the base of your dough. Next, add the warm milk, corn oil, egg, and vanilla extract. Beat this mixture on medium speed for about 2 minutes until well combined. Gradually incorporate the remaining 1-1/4 cups of flour to create a stiff yet sticky dough. Gently fold in the sliced sausage, making sure it's evenly distributed throughout the dough.

3. Step 3

   Cover the bowl with a clean kitchen towel and let the dough rest for 10 minutes. This short resting period allows the yeast to activate and the dough to rise slightly, enhancing the fluffiness of your fluffins.

4. Step 4

   Now, it’s time to portion the dough. Generously grease 12 muffin cups (2-1/2 inches in size) and use a scoop or two spoons to fill each cup with the dough. Don’t worry about using paper liners; the fluffins will come out beautifully without them. Cover the muffin pan and let the dough rise for 35 to 45 minutes. While it won’t double in size, you’ll notice it puffing up nicely.

5. Step 5

   While the dough is rising, prepare a delightful cinnamon sugar topping by mixing sugar and cinnamon in a small bowl. Set this aside for later use.

6. Step 6

   Preheat your oven to 375 degrees F. Once the dough has risen, bake the fluffins in the preheated oven for 20 to 25 minutes, or until they are golden brown and fragrant. The aroma will be irresistible!

7. Step 7

   After baking, allow the fluffins to cool in the pan for about 2 minutes. For an extra touch of indulgence, brush them with melted butter and sprinkle the cinnamon sugar mixture on top. To remove the fluffins from the pan, run a knife around the edges of each one gently. Serve them warm, perhaps with a drizzle of pancake syrup for that extra sweetness! If you have any leftovers, simply refrigerate them for a tasty treat later.