Cherry Muffins Recipe

Cherry Muffins Recipe

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Cherry muffins are a delightful treat that brings a burst of flavor to any breakfast or snack time. I remember the first time I tried a cherry muffin; it was at a quaint little bakery during a summer vacation. The sweet and tart cherries combined with the fluffy muffin base made for an unforgettable experience. Today, I want to share my favorite cherry muffins recipe, which I have perfected over the years.

Ingredients for Cherry Muffins Recipe

To make these scrumptious cherry muffins, you will need the following ingredients:

Muffin Ingredients:

  • 2 cups all-purpose flour
  • 1 cup granulated sugar
  • 1 tablespoon baking powder
  • 1/2 teaspoon salt
  • 1/2 cup unsalted butter, melted
  • 1 cup milk
  • 2 large eggs
  • 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
  • 1 1/2 cups fresh or frozen cherries, pitted and halved

Optional Topping:

How to Make Cherry Muffins

Making cherry muffins is straightforward and fun. Here’s how I do it:

1. Preheat the Oven

First, I preheat my oven to 375°F (190°C). This step ensures that the muffins bake evenly and rise beautifully.

2. Prepare the Muffin Tin

Next, I line a 12-cup muffin tin with paper liners. This makes for easy cleanup and helps the muffins come out smoothly after baking.

3. Mix Dry Ingredients

In a large bowl, I combine the flour, sugar, baking powder, and salt. Mixing these dry ingredients first helps ensure that everything is evenly distributed.

4. Combine Wet Ingredients

In another bowl, I whisk together the melted butter, milk, eggs, and vanilla extract. This mixture adds moisture and flavor to the muffins.

5. Combine Wet and Dry Mixtures

I pour the wet ingredients into the dry ingredients and gently fold them together. It’s important not to overmix; a few lumps are perfectly fine.

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6. Add the Cherries

After the batter is mixed, I fold in the halved cherries. This step is where the magic happens, as the cherries add a pop of color and flavor.

7. Fill the Muffin Cups

Using a spoon, I fill each muffin cup about two-thirds of the way full. This allows room for the muffins to rise without overflowing.

8. Optional Topping

If I want a little extra sweetness and crunch, I sprinkle a mixture of sugar and cinnamon on top of each muffin before baking.

9. Bake the Muffins

I place the muffin tin in the preheated oven and bake for 20 to 25 minutes. The muffins are done when a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.

10. Cool and Enjoy

Once baked, I let the muffins cool in the tin for a few minutes before transferring them to a wire rack. This step helps them finish cooling without getting soggy.

Tips for Cherry Muffins Recipe

Here are some of my best tips to ensure your cherry muffins turn out perfectly every time:

  • Use Fresh Cherries: Fresh cherries provide the best flavor and texture. If using frozen cherries, do not thaw them before adding to the batter.
  • Avoid Overmixing: Overmixing can lead to dense muffins. Mix just until combined for a light and fluffy texture.
  • Check for Doneness: Every oven is different, so keep an eye on your muffins. They should be golden brown and spring back when touched.
  • Cool Completely: Allow muffins to cool completely before storing them. This prevents them from becoming soggy.

Variations on Cherry Muffins Recipe

I love experimenting with different flavors. Here are some variations you can try:

  • Chocolate Chip Cherry Muffins: Add 1/2 cup of chocolate chips for a rich and indulgent treat.
  • Almond Cherry Muffins: Substitute almond extract for vanilla for a delightful twist.
  • Oatmeal Cherry Muffins: Add 1 cup of rolled oats for a heartier muffin.
  • Lemon Cherry Muffins: Add the zest of one lemon for a refreshing citrus flavor.
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Serving Suggestions

Cherry muffins are delicious on their own, but I enjoy serving them with a few extras:

  • Butter: A pat of butter on a warm muffin is heavenly.
  • Honey or Maple Syrup: Drizzling a bit of honey or syrup adds extra sweetness.
  • Yogurt: Serve with a side of yogurt for a balanced breakfast.
  • Coffee or Tea: These muffins pair wonderfully with a hot cup of coffee or tea.

Storing Cherry Muffins

If you have leftovers, storing them properly is key to keeping them fresh:

  • Room Temperature: Store muffins in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days.
  • Refrigerator: They can be kept in the fridge for up to a week, but they may dry out.
  • Freezer: For longer storage, freeze muffins in a freezer-safe bag for up to 3 months. Thaw them at room temperature or warm them in the microwave when ready to enjoy.

Nutritional Information (Per Muffin)

Here’s a rough estimate of the nutritional information for one cherry muffin:

  • Calories: Approximately 180 kcal
  • Total Fat: 6g
  • Saturated Fat: 3g
  • Carbohydrates: 28g
  • Protein: 3g
  • Fiber: 1g
  • Sugars: 10g

Why You’ll Love Cherry Muffins Recipe

Cherry muffins are the perfect blend of sweet and tart, making them a delightful addition to any meal. They are easy to make and can be enjoyed for breakfast, snacks, or dessert. The vibrant color of cherries adds a beautiful touch, making them visually appealing as well.

Baking cherry muffins is a wonderful way to enjoy the flavors of summer all year round. The combination of fresh cherries and a soft, fluffy muffin is simply irresistible. I hope you try this recipe and enjoy it as much as I do.

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