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Writer's pictureHigh Altitude Baker

Why do my Blueberry MUFFINS turn Grey/Green When I BAKE them in my High ALTITUDE Kitchen?

Updated: Dec 12, 2023


If your muffins are turning grey/green when you use frozen blueberries, it's likely due to a chemical reaction that occurs between the blueberries and the batter.


This phenomenon is known as "blueberry leaching" or "blueberry bleed" and is caused by the release of pigments from the blueberries when they come into contact with the baking soda in the batter.

Blueberries contain natural pigments called anthocyanins, which are responsible for their blue color. These pigments are sensitive to changes in pH, and when they come into contact with an alkaline ingredient like baking soda, they can turn green. The green color is caused by a reaction between the anthocyanins and the alkaline environment of the batter.

To prevent your muffins from turning green when using frozen blueberries, you can try the following tips:

  1. Thaw the blueberries before using them in your muffin batter. This can help reduce the chances of the blueberries coming into direct contact with the baking soda, thus minimizing the potential for the color change.

  2. Toss the frozen blueberries in a little flour before adding them to the batter. The flour can help absorb excess moisture from the blueberries and create a barrier between them and the batter, reducing the likelihood of the color change.

  3. Use aluminum-free baking powder. Some baking powders contain aluminum, which can react with the anthocyanins in the blueberries and cause the color change. Using an aluminum-free baking powder can help minimize this reaction.

  4. Consider using fresh blueberries instead of frozen. Fresh blueberries are less likely to release excess moisture and pigments into the batter, reducing the chances of the color change.

Remember that the green color change is harmless and does not affect the taste or safety of the muffins. However, if you prefer to avoid the color change, you can try these tips to minimize the likelihood of it occurring. Happy baking!


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  • Ensuring your oven's temperature is accurate is essential for successful baking and cooking.

  • An oven thermometer is key to achieving this accuracy.

  • For baked goods and meats, checking internal temperature with a food thermometer is crucial.

  • Investing in a reliable thermometer is a wise choice for precision in cooking and baking.

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