Irene's Famous Buttertart Muffins

Ingredients:

1½ cups raisins

¾ cup white sugar

½ cup butter, cut into chunks

2 eggs, beaten

½ cup milk

1 teaspoon vanilla, rum, or butterscotch flavoring

1½ cups all-purpose flour

2 teaspoons baking powder

1 teaspoon baking soda

1 pinch salt

½ cup chopped walnuts

¼ cup maple syrup

Directions:

1. Place raisins, sugar, butter, eggs, milk, and vanilla in a large heavy-bottomed saucepan. Cook over medium heat, stirring frequently until mixture is hot, slightly thickened, and just beginning to bubble, about 4 to 5 minutes. Cool slightly, uncovered, in the refrigerator, while continuing with recipe.

2. Preheat oven to 375 degrees F (190 degrees C). Grease 12 muffin cups or coat with cooking spray.

3. Stir flour with baking powder, soda, and salt in a large mixing bowl. Make a well in center and pour in warm raisin mixture, stirring just until combined. Stir in nuts until evenly mixed. Spoon batter into muffin cups.

4. Bake at 375°F (190°C) in center of oven until golden and a cake tester inserted into center of a muffin comes out clean, about 15 to 17 minutes. Remove from oven and immediately pour about 1 teaspoon syrup over each muffin. Cool muffins in cups for 10 minutes, then remove to a rack. Serve warm.