Mandarin Almond Spice Muffins
Recipe from the Inn at Union Pier, Union Pier MI.

Ingredients
3/4 cup all-purpose flour
3/4 cup whole wheat flour
1/2 cup granulated sugar
2 teaspoons baking powder
1/2 teaspoon salt
1/4 teaspoon ground nutmeg
1/4 teaspoon ground allspice
1/2 cup slivered California almonds, chopped
1 can (11 ounces) Mandarin oranges; drained and chopped, then drained again
1/4 cup melted butter
2/3 cup milk
1 egg, lightly beaten
1/2 teaspoon almond extract (optional)

Preheat oven to 400F. Place paper liners in 12 cups of muffin pan and spray liners with cooking spray. Set aside. Combine flours, sugar, baking powder, salt, spices and almonds in large bowl; mix well. Add chopped oranges and toss gently. Combine melted butter, milk, egg and almond extract in small bowl; mix together. Stir into dry ingredients just until moistened. Fill muffin cups to about 2/3 full. Bake for 15 to 20 minutes or until done and light golden brown.

Meanwhile, melt 2 to 3 tablespoons butter in small bowl or pan. Mix 1/4 cup granulated sugar with 1/2 teaspoon ground cinnamon in another small bowl. When muffins are done but still warm, dip in melted butter and then in sugar mixture. Serve warm.

Servings: 1 dozen 2-1/4 inch muffins