I love making muffins, but I am not that keen on cleaning muffin tins… and I don’t do a great job of keeping muffin papers on hand. Instead of skipping the recipe or running to the store, I started making my own muffin papers out of parchment paper—and let me tell you, it’s a total game-changer!
Not only does this DIY solution save money, but it also gives my muffins a rustic, homemade look that I absolutely love. Plus, it’s easy, fun, and even a great activity to do with kids.
Why Make Your Own Muffin Paper?
Let’s talk about the cost-saving aspect. A roll of parchment paper (unbleached, because I love the rustic feel) lasts way longer than a package of muffin papers. If you are into math at all….
The least expensive pack of muffin papers I found at Walmart is $1.12 for 100 liners.
Now, let’s compare that to our homemade muffin papers:
- A 50-square-foot roll of parchment paper from Walmart costs $2.78.
- You can make 450 muffin papers from that roll.
- That means each homemade muffin paper costs about $0.006 (less than a cent per liner).
Comparing the two:
- Store-bought muffin papers cost about $0.011 per liner ($1.12 ÷ 100).
- Homemade muffin papers cost about $0.006 per liner ($2.78 ÷ 450).
When I cut my own muffin paper, I get way more value out of that single roll than buying a small pack of pre-made liners. Because, not only is it half the price, but parchment paper is versatile. I use it for baking sheets, wrapping food, and other kitchen hacks, whereas muffin papers are only good for muffins. Keeping parchment paper on hand makes so much more sense because it serves multiple purposes!
How to Make DIY Muffin Paper
It’s incredibly simple. Here’s how I do it:
Step 1: Cut the Parchment Paper
I cut 4-inch wide strips (I don’t measure exactly—just estimate) and then cut those strips into 4-inch squares, making enough for however many muffins I plan to bake.
Step 2: Mold the Muffin Papers
I grab a cup that fits into the muffin tin and press each square of parchment paper over the bottom of the cup to fold and mold it into the perfect shape. The uneven edges? That’s my favorite part. It makes every muffin look artisanal and homemade, like something you’d see in a cozy bakery.
Step 3: Place in Muffin Tin & Bake
Once molded, I simply place each parchment liner into the muffin tin and pour in the batter. They hold up beautifully and work just like store-bought muffin papers—just better because they’re homemade!
A Fun Baking Activity for Kids
Making muffin papers is one of those small kitchen tasks that kids love to help with! My little one enjoys pressing the parchment squares over the cup and watching the papers take shape. It’s an easy way to include kids in baking while giving them a fun, hands-on activity that isn’t messy or complicated.
Favorite Muffin Recipes to Try
Now that you have your homemade muffin paper, let’s talk about what to bake! Here are some of my absolute favorite muffin recipes:
- Banana Nut Muffins – Perfectly moist with crunchy walnuts.
- Blueberry Muffins – Juicy blueberries bursting in every bite!
- Poppyseed Muffins – Light, delicate, and always a favorite.
- Brownie Muffins – Because who doesn’t love chocolate?
- Cinnamon Swirl Muffins – Sweet and cozy with cinnamon sugar goodness.
- Breakfast Egg Muffins – A savory option packed with protein!
These recipes shine with homemade parchment liners, adding a special touch to every muffin you make.
Final Thoughts: Why DIY Muffin Paper is the Way to Go
Between the cost savings, the versatility of parchment paper, and the fun of making homemade liners, this kitchen hack is totally worth it! Whether you’re baking breakfast muffins or sweet treats, these DIY muffin papers give you the look and function of store-bought liners without the extra expense.
So next time you’re out of muffin papers—don’t worry. Grab that roll of parchment paper, make your own, and enjoy a little extra homemade charm in your baking!