New Jersey Blueberry Muffins

Blueberry muffins are one of the most common dessert staples found in the United States. This sweet and soft cake is a variety of the plain muffin, a baked product originating from the United Kingdom, which became popular in the 18th century. Even though it is not clear when the now-famous blueberry muffin originated, it is probable it was a product of adaptation, when the plain muffin was combined with the authentic North American wild blueberries. Further development of the blueberry muffin continued in 1916 when the tangy wild blueberries were cultivated. The first cultivated crop was grown in New Jersey, by Elisabeth White and Fredric Coville, who managed to produce plump and sweet blueberries, which then continued their path in becoming the American favorite. Even though blueberry muffins are considered to be the national muffins of the state of Minnesota, they are also traditionally associated with New Jersey, which is believed to be the home of the freshest and tastiest blueberries in the country. Blueberry muffins can be found everywhere, in delis, supermarkets, or bakeries. The Americans prefer to eat them for breakfast, dinner, or as a light snack. They come in numerous sizes, and are commonly covered with a crumbly, usually cinnamon-based topping. There is also a National Blueberry Muffin Day, celebrated annually on 11 July.