Name: Sailor Jacks Spice Muffins
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 22 min
Total time: 32 min
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: 1 1/2 cups all-purpose flour; 1 teaspoon baking soda; 1/2 teaspoon salt; 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon; 1/2 teaspoon ground cloves; 1/4 teaspoon ground nutmeg; 1/2 cup molasses; 1/2 cup brown sugar; 2 large eggs; 1/3 cup vegetable oil; 1/2 cup hot water; 1/2 cup chopped dates or raisins (optional)

Moist, rich, and kissed with warm spices, Sailor Jacks Spice Muffins are a nostalgic treat that blend the deep, molasses-y sweetness of old-fashioned spice cake with the tender crumb of a perfectly baked muffin. These little domed beauties are often mistaken for mini cakes, thanks to their glossy tops and dense yet fluffy texture.

They hail from a time when baking was both simple and soulful. Named after the sticky, comforting dessert cakes popular in maritime towns, Sailor Jacks are often associated with cozy kitchens, handwritten recipe cards, and the smell of cinnamon and cloves drifting through chilly fall air.

Why You’ll Love This Sailor Jacks Spice Muffins Recipe

This recipe brings together pantry staples to create something that feels indulgent but is surprisingly easy. It’s great for meal prep, gifting, or simply treating yourself to a warm bite of comfort with your morning coffee. These muffins are:

Packed with warm spice flavor.
Easy to make in one bowl.
Naturally dairy-free.
Perfect for breakfast, snacks, or dessert.

What Makes a Muffin a “Sailor Jack”?

While the exact origin of the name is a bit foggy, what sets a Sailor Jack apart from your typical muffin is the use of molasses, a heavier spice profile (think cloves, nutmeg, cinnamon), and a dense, sticky top finish. Often, dates or raisins are added for texture, though some variations keep it simple.

Ingredients for the Sailor Jacks Spice Muffins

These ingredients work together to create the depth of flavor and moist crumb that define these iconic muffins:

All-purpose flour: The base of the muffin; creates structure.
Baking soda: Helps the muffins rise nicely.
Salt: Balances and enhances the spices and molasses.
Ground cinnamon, cloves, and nutmeg: The holy trinity of warm spices that give these muffins their signature taste.
Molasses: Brings moisture and that deep, almost smoky sweetness.
Brown sugar: Adds sweetness and soft texture.
Eggs: Binds the ingredients and adds richness.
Vegetable oil: Keeps the muffins moist and tender.
Hot water: Helps bloom the spices and smooth the batter.
Chopped dates or raisins (optional): Adds chew and a natural sweetness.

How To Make the Sailor Jacks Spice Muffins

Step 1: Prepare the Oven and Pan

Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Line a muffin tin with paper liners or grease generously.

Step 2: Mix the Dry Ingredients

In a large bowl, whisk together the flour, baking soda, salt, and spices until well combined.

Step 3: Combine the Wet Ingredients

In a separate bowl, whisk together the molasses, brown sugar, eggs, and oil until smooth. Slowly mix in the hot water.

Step 4: Create the Batter

Add the wet mixture to the dry ingredients, stirring just until combined. Fold in the dates or raisins if using.

Step 5: Fill and Bake

Spoon the batter into the muffin cups, filling each about 3/4 full. Bake for 20-22 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.

Step 6: Cool and Enjoy

Let the muffins cool in the tin for 5 minutes, then transfer to a wire rack to cool completely. Enjoy warm or at room temperature.

How to Serve and Store These Muffins

Sailor Jacks Spice Muffins are best served slightly warm with a pat of butter or a smear of cream cheese. They make a lovely breakfast treat or a snack paired with coffee or tea.

Serving size: Makes 12 muffins.
Storage: Store in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days. For longer storage, freeze for up to 3 months. Thaw overnight or microwave briefly to revive their softness.