Cherry Muffins Recipe

Cherry muffins are a delightful treat that combines the sweetness of ripe cherries with a soft and fluffy texture. This Cherry Muffins Recipe is perfect for breakfast or as a snack, making it suitable for any occasion. With a crunchy sugar topping, these muffins stand out and are sure to impress your family and friends.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Quick and Easy: This cherry muffins recipe comes together in no time, making it perfect for busy mornings.
• Deliciously Flavorful: Each bite is bursting with sweet cherries, providing a fresh and fruity flavor that everyone will enjoy.
• Versatile Snack Option: Enjoy these muffins as a breakfast treat, dessert, or afternoon snack. They fit perfectly into any meal plan.
• Perfect for Any Season: Whether you use fresh or frozen cherries, this recipe allows you to enjoy the taste of cherries year-round.
• Customizable Toppings: Add your favorite toppings like coarse sugar or even chocolate chips for an extra indulgent treat.

Tools and Preparation

To make these cherry muffins, you’ll need some essential tools to ensure your baking process goes smoothly.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Muffin pans
• Mixing bowls
• Whisk
• Cookie scoop
• Measuring cups and spoons

Importance of Each Tool

• Muffin pans: Essential for shaping your muffins; using quality pans helps achieve an even bake.
• Mixing bowls: Having multiple bowls allows you to keep wet and dry ingredients separate until ready to combine, ensuring better results.
• Cookie scoop: This tool helps portion out the batter evenly into each muffin liner, promoting consistent muffin sizes.

Ingredients

Cherry muffins are soft, moist and fluffy muffins bursting with sweet ripe cherries, topped with a crunchy sugar coating. This quick and easy cherry muffin recipe makes the best sweet summer breakfast or snack.

Ingredients:
– 2 cups (240 g) all purpose flour
– 2 teaspoons baking powder
– ½ teaspoon salt
– ½ cup (113 g) unsalted butter, melted
– 1 cup (200 g) sugar
– 2 large eggs, room temperature
– 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
– ½ cup (120 g) sour cream, room temperature
– ½ cup (120 ml) milk, room temperature
– 2 cups fresh or frozen cherries, pitted and chopped
– ¼ cup (50 g) coarse sugar for topping, optional

How to Make Cherry Muffins Recipe

Step 1: Prepare the Dry Ingredients

In a mixing bowl, whisk the flour, baking powder, and salt together until well combined. Set aside for now.

Step 2: Mix Wet Ingredients

In another bowl, whisk the melted butter, sugar, eggs, sour cream, milk, and vanilla extract until well combined. Stir the dry ingredients into the wet mixture gently. Do not overmix. Cover the bowl and transfer it to the fridge for 30 – 60 minutes or up to overnight.

Step 3: Preheat the Oven

While the muffin batter rests in the fridge, preheat your oven to 375 F (190 C). Line one or two muffin pans with cupcake liners. For taller bakery-style muffins, alternate every other cup with liners.

Step 4: Prepare Cherries

Wash, dry, and pit the fresh cherries before chopping them into pieces. When it’s time to bake, fold the cherries into the rested batter gently.

Step 5: Scoop Batter into Muffin Pans

Use a 3 tablespoon-sized cookie scoop to portion out the muffin batter into each of the muffin liners, alternating every other cup. If desired, top each muffin with coarse sugar.

Step 6: Bake

Bake the cherry muffins for about 18 – 22 minutes. The muffins are done when a toothpick inserted in the center comes out with a few moist crumbs or when gently pressed in the center bounces back quickly. Allow cooling in the pan for about five minutes before removing them to cool completely on a wire rack.

Enjoy your homemade cherry muffins!

How to Serve Cherry Muffins Recipe

Cherry muffins are delightful on their own, but they can be served in many creative ways to enhance your experience. Whether for breakfast or a snack, these muffins can be paired with various toppings and sides for added flavor.

With Fresh Fruit

• Serve alongside a bowl of mixed berries or sliced bananas for a fruity complement.
• Add a dollop of yogurt or cottage cheese topped with fresh fruit for extra protein.

Drizzled with Honey

• A light drizzle of honey enhances the sweetness of the muffins, making them even more indulgent.
• Pair with herbal tea for a relaxing afternoon treat.

Spread with Jam

• Spread your favorite fruit jam, such as raspberry or apricot, over the top for an exciting twist.
• Try pairing the muffins with a selection of different jams for a homemade brunch.

Accompanied by Whipped Cream

• Serve warm cherry muffins topped with whipped cream for a decadent dessert option.
• This combination works well for special occasions or gatherings.

How to Perfect Cherry Muffins Recipe

To make the best cherry muffins possible, consider these helpful tips. They will ensure your muffins turn out fluffy and full of flavor.

• Use room temperature ingredients: Bringing eggs, milk, and sour cream to room temperature helps create a smoother batter and better texture.
• Don’t overmix the batter: Gently fold in the dry ingredients to avoid dense muffins. Overmixing can lead to tough texture.
• Let the batter rest: Chilling the muffin batter allows flavors to meld and improves texture. Aim for at least 30 minutes in the fridge.
• Alternate muffin liners: For taller bakery-style muffins, alternate every other cup with liners in your muffin pan. This helps them rise beautifully.
• Check doneness carefully: Use a toothpick to test if they’re done. A few moist crumbs should stick when they come out clean.

Best Side Dishes for Cherry Muffins Recipe

Pairing cherry muffins with side dishes can elevate your meal experience. Here are some great options that complement these sweet treats perfectly.

1. Greek Yogurt: A bowl of creamy Greek yogurt adds protein and tanginess that balances out the sweetness.
2. Fruit Salad: A refreshing mix of seasonal fruits can brighten up your breakfast table and provide additional nutrients.
3. Smoothie: Blend up a fruit smoothie using berries and banana for a nutritious drink that pairs well with muffins.
4. Scrambled Eggs: Lightly seasoned scrambled eggs offer a savory contrast and boost your morning protein intake.
5. Chia Seed Pudding: This healthful pudding can be flavored with vanilla or almond extract, providing a nutritious side option.
6. Oatmeal: A warm bowl of oatmeal topped with nuts or seeds provides wholesome energy alongside your cherry muffins.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Avoiding common mistakes can help you achieve the perfect cherry muffins. Here are some pitfalls to steer clear of:

• Skipping the Resting Period: Not letting the batter rest can lead to denser muffins. Allow your batter to chill in the fridge for at least 30 minutes for fluffier results.
• Overmixing the Batter: Mixing too much can make your muffins tough. Stir until just combined; a few lumps are okay.
• Using Cold Ingredients: Cold eggs and dairy can affect how well your muffins rise. Make sure all ingredients are at room temperature before mixing.
• Not Measuring Flour Correctly: Using too much flour can make your muffins dry. Use the spoon-and-level method for accurate measurement.
• Ignoring Oven Temperature: Baking at the wrong temperature can result in uneven baking. Preheat your oven and use an oven thermometer for accuracy.

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store cherry muffins in an airtight container.
• They will last up to 3 days in the refrigerator.

Freezing Cherry Muffins Recipe

• Wrap each muffin individually in plastic wrap or foil.
• Freeze for up to 3 months for best quality.

Reheating Cherry Muffins Recipe

• Oven: Preheat to 350°F (175°C) and heat for about 5-10 minutes until warmed through.
• Microwave: Heat one muffin at a time on high for about 15-20 seconds, checking to avoid overheating.
• Stovetop: Place muffins in a skillet over low heat, covering with a lid, for about 5 minutes until warm.

Frequently Asked Questions

Here are some common questions about our Cherry Muffins Recipe that might help you:

How do I make my Cherry Muffins Recipe more flavorful?

You can add spices like cinnamon or almond extract to enhance flavor. Consider adding lemon zest for a refreshing twist.

Can I use frozen cherries in this Cherry Muffins Recipe?

Yes! Frozen cherries work well; just ensure they are pitted and chopped before mixing into the batter.

What is the best way to store Cherry Muffins?

Store them in an airtight container at room temperature for up to three days or freeze them for longer storage.

Can I substitute other fruits in this Cherry Muffins Recipe?

Absolutely! Feel free to experiment with other berries like blueberries or raspberries, or even diced peaches.

How long does it take to bake Cherry Muffins?

Cherry muffins typically bake in about 18-22 minutes at 375°F (190°C).

Final Thoughts

These cherry muffins are not only delightful but also versatile, making them perfect for breakfast or a snack. You can customize them by adding nuts or swapping in different fruits. Try out this recipe today and enjoy the sweet burst of cherries in every bite!