Sweet, tart, and fluffy are just a few words to describe these Sugared Cranberry Muffins. Perfect for brunch or an afternoon snack, they capture the essence of fall and winter with every bite.
Baking has always been one of my favorite pastimes, and what better way to enjoy the colder months than with a warm muffin that bursts with seasonal flavors? These Sugared Cranberry Muffins bring together that delightful combination of tartness from the fresh cranberries and sweetness from the sugar. The moment you bite into one, you’re greeted with a fluffy texture that just melts in your mouth. I can already imagine the smiles around the breakfast table! With just a few simple ingredients and some quick prep, these muffins are a hassle-free way to indulge. Dive into this comforting recipe that makes any day feel special!
Table of Contents
Why Try Sugared Cranberry Muffins This Season?
These muffins are a seasonal delight that not only taste great but also brighten up any table. The vibrant cranberries add a festive touch and a burst of flavor that complements the sweet muffin base. Whether you serve them at a holiday gathering or enjoy them on a leisurely morning, these muffins truly bring joy. Their ease of preparation and the delightful aroma that fills your kitchen while they bake make them irresistible.
Craving something fresh and fruity? These muffins not only satisfy that sweet tooth but also provide a nutritional punch. With fresh cranberries packed with vitamins, these muffins are a perfect choice for a family-friendly breakfast treat or snack. For an even healthier option, consider using whole wheat flour instead of all-purpose flour. Take a look at this delightful Pumpkin Coffee Cake for another autumn treat!
What Makes These Muffins Unique?
This recipe shines with the use of fresh cranberries and a sugar coating that adds an extra crunch. Unlike other muffin recipes that may require additional fruit or spices, the star here is undoubtedly the cranberry. Their natural tartness requires only a sprinkle of sugar, creating a balanced flavor profile.
Fresh Ingredients
Utilizing fresh, tart cranberries is what sets this muffin apart. They provide a juicy explosion of flavor that pairs perfectly with the sweet batter. You can also opt for frozen cranberries, but make sure to thaw and drain them before using.
Simple Technique
The technique here is straightforward. By folding the sugared cranberries into the batter, you ensure that every muffin is studded with juicy bits, providing a taste explosion in every bite. This method also keeps the muffins light and fluffy!
Versatile Enjoyment
These muffins can also be transformed slightly for different occasions. Drizzle a light glaze on top for an added touch during festivities, or serve them warm with butter for a more indulgent breakfast experience. Try these Cranberry Cream Cheese Crescent Bites for a quick holiday appetizer!
Ingredients You’ll Need to Make Sugared Cranberry Muffins
Gathering the essentials for these muffins is simple. Below is a breakdown of what you’ll need:
| Ingredient | Quantity |
|---|---|
| Fresh Cranberries | 1 cup |
| Sugar | 1/2 cup |
| Butter, softened | 1/2 cup |
| Milk | 1/2 cup |
| Eggs | 2 |
| All-purpose flour | 1 cup |
| Baking powder | 1 teaspoon |
| Baking soda | 1/2 teaspoon |
| Salt | 1/4 teaspoon |
Important ingredients include the fresh cranberries, which pack a punch of vitamin C, and the butter, which contributes to the muffins’ rich flavor and moist texture. If you’re looking for a lighter option, consider substituting unsweetened applesauce for half of the butter. This swap can give you a healthier muffin while still keeping it delicious and tender.
Step-by-Step Guide to Making Sugared Cranberry Muffins
With such a simple recipe, making these muffins is easy peasy. Let’s break it down step-by-step!
Step 1: Preheat the Oven
Start by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C) and lining a muffin tin with paper liners. This ensures your muffins don’t stick, and cleanup is easier!
Step 2: Prep the Cranberries
In a small bowl, coat the fresh cranberries with 1/4 cup of the sugar. Set this aside – these will add a perfect touch of sweetness and a bit of texture to the muffins.
Step 3: Cream the Butter and Sugar
In a mixing bowl, cream together the softened butter and remaining sugar until it’s smooth and fluffy. This step is key to getting those light, airy muffins!
| Prep Time | Cook Time | Storage |
|---|---|---|
| 10 minutes | 18-20 minutes | 3 days at room temp / 1 week in the fridge |
Next, add in your eggs and milk, mixing well until everything is well incorporated. In a separate bowl, combine the all-purpose flour, baking powder, baking soda, and salt. Gradually add the dry ingredients to the butter mixture, stirring just until everything comes together. There’s no need to overmix!
Finally, fold the sugared cranberries into your batter. Spoon it into the muffin tin, filling each cup about 2/3 full to allow them to rise beautifully. Bake in the preheated oven for 18 to 20 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean. Let them cool before serving, and enjoy the delightful scent wafting through your kitchen! Give these Coffee Cake Muffins a try next!
Variations and Serving Suggestions
Feel free to get creative with these muffins! There are multiple ways to tailor them to your taste.
Diet Swap
If you’re following specific dietary guidelines, these muffins can easily be adapted. Using gluten-free flour instead of regular flour can help accommodate gluten-sensitive individuals while maintaining great taste.
Flavor Variation
Looking to change things up? Try adding spices like cinnamon or nutmeg for a warm, cozy flavor. You could also substitute diced apples or pears instead of cranberries for a different fruity twist. An added creamy layer of cream cheese or lemon glaze would work wonderfully as well. Pair these with crisp Broccoli Cheddar Soup for an exceptional meal!
Serving Idea
These muffins are fantastic for breakfast, but they also make a perfect afternoon snack or dessert. Pair them with a hot beverage like coffee or tea for a cozy afternoon break. You could even serve them warm with a dab of butter or a bit of cream cheese for an extra indulgent touch.
| Suggested Pairings | Tips |
|---|---|
| Hot coffee | Warm the muffins before serving for added taste. |
| Herbal tea | Add an additional sprinkle of sugar on top before baking. |
| Fruit smoothie | Store leftovers in an airtight container to keep them fresh. |
Final Thoughts on Sugared Cranberry Muffins
These Sugared Cranberry Muffins bring together sweet and tart in a perfectly fluffy package. They are a lovely addition to any holiday table or a comforting snack for yourself. I recommend making a double batch so you can share with friends or tuck some away in the freezer for later.
Don’t forget to store them properly; they stay fresh in an airtight container for a few days, or you can refrigerate them to enjoy them longer. Ideal for the season, these muffins are a must-try that will surely delight. If you find this recipe helpful, feel free to save it to your Pinterest board and share it with your friends! Follow me for more delicious recipes!
FAQ
Can I use frozen cranberries in this recipe?
Yes, you can use frozen cranberries! Just make sure to thaw and drain them before adding them to the muffin batter. This will help to ensure that your muffins don’t get too soggy.
What can I substitute for butter?
If you are looking for a healthier alternative, you can substitute applesauce for half of the butter in the recipe. This will still keep the muffins moist while reducing the fat content.
How should I store leftover muffins?
Store leftover muffins in an airtight container at room temperature for up to three days. You can also refrigerate them to extend their shelf life for about a week.
Can I make these muffins gluten-free?
Absolutely! You can substitute all-purpose flour with a gluten-free flour blend in this recipe. Just be mindful of the measurements, as different blends can have varied absorption rates.
How do I ensure my muffins rise properly?
Make sure your baking powder and baking soda are fresh to ensure proper leavening. Also, do not overmix the batter, as this can lead to dense muffins. Fold the ingredients just until combined.
Sugared Cranberry Muffins
Delicious and easy muffins bursting with tart cranberries and a hint of sweetness, perfect for brunch or as a snack.
- Total Time: 30 minutes
- Yield: 12 servings 1x
Ingredients
- 1 cup Fresh Cranberries
- 1/2 cup Sugar
- 1/2 cup Butter, softened
- 1/2 cup Milk
- 2 Eggs
- 1 cup All-purpose flour
- 1 teaspoon Baking powder
- 1/2 teaspoon Baking soda
- 1/4 teaspoon Salt
Instructions
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and line a muffin tin with paper liners.
- In a small bowl, coat the fresh cranberries with 1/4 cup of the sugar and set aside.
- Cream together the softened butter and remaining sugar until smooth and fluffy.
- Add eggs and milk to the butter mixture, mixing well.
- In a separate bowl, combine the flour, baking powder, baking soda, and salt. Gradually add to the wet mixture, stirring until just combined.
- Fold the sugared cranberries into the batter.
- Spoon the batter into muffin cups, filling each about 2/3 full.
- Bake for 18 to 20 minutes or until a toothpick comes out clean.
- Let them cool before serving.
Notes
For a lighter version, substitute unsweetened applesauce for half the butter. Store in an airtight container for up to 3 days at room temperature or 1 week in the fridge.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Category: Breakfast
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
- Diet: Vegetarian
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 muffin
- Calories: 220
- Sugar: 10g
- Sodium: 200mg
- Fat: 9g
- Saturated Fat: 5g
- Unsaturated Fat: 3g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 30g
- Fiber: 1g
- Protein: 3g
- Cholesterol: 40mg
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