Almond Cherry Muffins are like a warm hug on a chilly morning, bursting with sweet cherry goodness and nutty flavor. Each bite offers a delightful mix of textures, from the moist muffin crumb to the crunchy almond topping, making them an irresistible treat. For more inspiration, check out this easy breakfast ideas recipe.
Remember that time your kitchen smelled so good that even the neighbors knocked on your door? That’s exactly what these muffins do! Perfect for brunches, snack times, or just because you deserve a little sweetness in your life, they bring smiles at every occasion.
Why You'll Love This Recipe
- These Almond Cherry Muffins are easy to whip up, making them perfect for busy mornings
- Their delightful flavor profile balances sweetness with nuttiness
- Visually appealing with their vibrant cherries and crunchy almonds, they stand out on any table
- Plus, they’re versatile enough to enjoy as breakfast or a dessert!
I once made these Almond Cherry Muffins for a family gathering, and my uncle declared them “life-changing.” I think he might have been joking, but hey, I’ll take it!
Essential Ingredients
Here’s what you’ll need to make this delicious dish:
- All-Purpose Flour: Use high-quality flour for the best texture; it’s the backbone of your muffin.
- Granulated Sugar: A touch of sweetness to balance the tartness of cherries; adjust to taste!
- Baking Powder: Ensure your muffins rise beautifully; fresh powder is key to fluffy results. For more inspiration, check out this delicious dessert recipes recipe.
- Salt: Just a pinch enhances all those lovely flavors; don’t skip it!
- Eggs: They provide structure and moisture; choose large eggs for best results.
- Milk: Whole milk adds richness; feel free to substitute with any non-dairy option.
- Chopped Cherries: Fresh or frozen works; they add juiciness and color to your muffins.
- Sliced Almonds: For crunch and nutty flavor; toast them lightly for extra depth.
- Vanilla Extract: A splash of vanilla enhances the overall flavor profile; pure extract is ideal.
- Cinnamon (optional): Add a sprinkle for warmth and spice; it complements the cherries wonderfully.
The full ingredients list, including measurements, is provided in the recipe card directly below.
Let’s Make it Together
Preheat Your Oven: Begin by preheating your oven to 375°F (190°C). This ensures even baking right from the start.
Prepare the Muffin Tin: Line a muffin tin with paper liners or lightly grease each cup with cooking spray. This prevents sticking and makes cleanup a breeze.
Mix Dry Ingredients Together: In a large mixing bowl, whisk together flour, sugar, baking powder, salt, and cinnamon. The aroma will instantly lift your spirits!
Combine Wet Ingredients Separately: In another bowl, beat together eggs, milk, and vanilla extract until frothy. You want this mixture to feel light and airy.
Add Cherries and Almonds to Batter: Gently fold in chopped cherries and sliced almonds into your wet mixture. Keep some almonds aside for topping later.
Fill Muffin Cups and Bake**: Spoon batter into prepared muffin cups until they are about two-thirds full. Sprinkle remaining almonds on top before placing them in the oven. Bake for 20-25 minutes until golden brown and a toothpick comes out clean!
Let these beauties cool slightly before devouring them—if you can wait that long! The aroma alone will have everyone flocking to the kitchen.
Enjoy your Almond Cherry Muffins warm with butter or as-is—either way, they’re sure to be a hit!
You Must Know
- Almond Cherry Muffins are not just delicious; they’re an experience
- The warm, nutty aroma fills the kitchen, making it feel cozy
- With a moist texture and delightful cherry burst, these muffins are perfect for breakfast or a snack
- Plus, they freeze well for later enjoyment!
Perfecting the Cooking Process
To achieve perfect Almond Cherry Muffins, mix dry ingredients first, then add wet ingredients for even distribution. Avoid overmixing; gentle folding keeps them fluffy.
Add Your Touch
Feel free to swap cherries with blueberries or cranberries for a fresh twist. You can also add chocolate chips to amp up the sweetness!
Storing & Reheating
Store muffins in an airtight container at room temperature for up to three days. For longer storage, freeze them and reheat in the oven or microwave.
Chef's Helpful Tips
- Use fresh cherries when possible for better flavor and juiciness
- Ensure your baking powder is fresh to help muffins rise perfectly
- If using frozen cherries, don’t thaw them; they keep the muffins moist while baking
There’s something magical about watching friends and family devour these muffins with glee. I once accidentally left out sugar, and everyone thought it was a new “healthy” recipe!
FAQ
How can I make gluten-free Almond Cherry Muffins?
Use almond flour or gluten-free all-purpose flour instead of regular flour.
Can I use dried cherries instead of fresh?
Yes, but reduce the quantity slightly as dried fruit is sweeter.
What’s the best way to prevent muffins from sticking?
Grease muffin tins well or use paper liners for easy removal.
Almond Cherry Muffins
- Total Time: 40 minutes
- Yield: Approximately 12 muffins 1x
Description
Indulge in the warm, comforting flavors of Almond Cherry Muffins, perfect for any occasion. Each muffin is a delicious blend of juicy cherries and crunchy almonds, creating a delightful texture that will brighten even the chilliest mornings. Whip these up for brunch, a mid-day snack, or simply to treat yourself!
Ingredients
- 1 ½ cups all-purpose flour
- ¾ cup granulated sugar
- 2 tsp baking powder
- ½ tsp salt
- 2 large eggs
- ½ cup whole milk (or non-dairy alternative)
- 1 cup chopped cherries (fresh or frozen)
- ½ cup sliced almonds (plus extra for topping)
- 1 tsp vanilla extract
- ½ tsp cinnamon (optional)
Instructions
- Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C) and prepare a muffin tin with liners or cooking spray.
- In a large bowl, whisk together flour, sugar, baking powder, salt, and cinnamon until well combined.
- In another bowl, beat eggs with milk and vanilla extract until frothy.
- Gently fold the wet mixture into the dry ingredients, then add the chopped cherries and sliced almonds, reserving some almonds for topping.
- Spoon the batter into muffin cups until two-thirds full and sprinkle remaining almonds on top.
- Bake for 20-25 minutes or until golden brown and a toothpick inserted comes out clean.
- Let cool slightly before enjoying.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 25 minutes
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 muffin (60g)
- Calories: 210
- Sugar: 10g
- Sodium: 150mg
- Fat: 8g
- Saturated Fat: 1g
- Unsaturated Fat: 6g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 30g
- Fiber: 1g
- Protein: 4g
- Cholesterol: 30mg