National Muffin Day

The story

National Muffin Day began in 2015, thanks to Jacob Kaufman, a San Francisco tech lawyer who started baking and sharing muffins with the homeless. What began as a simple act of kindness turned into a mission of connection and care. Writer Julia Levy shared his story, and together, they created a holiday focused on giving, not just eating.

Each year, volunteers, “Muffinteers,” bake and distribute muffins, raising awareness and funds for homelessness causes. The muffin’s history, however, goes much further back.

18th-century Wales gave us the first muffins, flatbreads cooked on griddles. The name likely comes from the French moufflet, meaning “soft bread.” By the 19th century, baking powder transformed muffins into the oven-baked delights we know today.

In England, vendors sold them door-to-door, while in America, muffins evolved into the sweet, cake-like varieties we love, blueberry, bran, and chocolate chip.

National Muffin Day brings muffins back to their roots—not just as a treat, but as a way to help others. Each year, Muffinteers bake, donate, and inspire, encouraging others to “give a dozen,” whether 12 muffins or a $12 donation.

As of 2024, over 15,000 muffins have been shared in 50+ cities, raising thousands for shelters. A simple muffin, it turns out, can spark big change.