Cherry Almond Crumble Muffins Irresistible Treat

If you crave a sweet treat that combines fruit and nutty goodness, look no further! Cherry Almond Crumble Muffins are your new favorite delight. With fresh or frozen cherries, almond flour, and a crumbly topping, these muffins hit every note of flavor. I’ll guide you step-by-step to create these irresistible muffins. Let’s dive in and discover how easy it is to enjoy this delicious bake!
Ingredients
When making Cherry Almond Crumble Muffins, you need fresh ingredients that bring out the best flavors. Here’s the complete list of ingredients:
– 1 cup fresh or frozen cherries, pitted and halved
– 1 cup almond flour
– 1 cup all-purpose flour
– 1/2 cup granulated sugar
– 1/2 cup packed brown sugar
– 1/2 teaspoon salt
– 1 teaspoon baking powder
– 1/2 teaspoon baking soda
– 1/2 teaspoon almond extract
– 1/2 teaspoon vanilla extract
– 1/2 cup unsalted butter, melted
– 2 large eggs
– 1/2 cup rolled oats (for topping)
– 1/4 cup sliced almonds (for topping)
– Additional butter or cooking spray for greasing
Each ingredient plays a key role in building flavor and texture in the muffins. The cherries add a burst of sweetness and juiciness. The almond flour gives a lovely nutty taste while adding moisture. Using both sugars creates depth, with granulated sugar for sweetness and brown sugar for caramel notes. The baking powder and baking soda help the muffins rise and stay light.
Almond extract and vanilla extract enhance the overall flavor, making the muffins irresistible. The melted butter gives richness, and the eggs bind everything together. For the topping, rolled oats and sliced almonds add crunch and a nice finish.
For the full recipe, check out the detailed instructions on how to create these delightful muffins. Enjoy the process and have fun baking!
Step-by-Step Instructions
Preparing the Oven and Muffin Tin
First, preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). This ensures even baking. Next, grease your muffin tin with butter or spray. You can also line it with paper liners for easy removal later.
Mixing the Dry Ingredients
In a large bowl, combine the flours, sugars, salt, baking powder, and baking soda. Use a whisk to mix them until they are well combined. This step is key for even flavor in your muffins.
Preparing the Wet Ingredients
In a separate bowl, whisk together the melted butter, eggs, almond extract, and vanilla extract. Mix until smooth. This mixture adds richness and flavor to your muffins.
Combining Mixtures
Pour the wet mixture into the dry ingredients. Stir gently with a spatula or wooden spoon until just combined. The batter may look a bit lumpy. This is okay! Overmixing can make the muffins tough, so be gentle.
Incorporating the Cherries
Now it’s time to fold in the halved cherries. Do this carefully, so the cherries stay whole and spread evenly in the batter. Their juicy sweetness will shine in every bite.
Filling and Topping the Muffins
Spoon the batter into the muffin cups, filling each about 2/3 full. This gives them room to rise. For the crumb topping, mix rolled oats and sliced almonds in a small bowl. Add a tablespoon of the melted butter and stir until coated. Sprinkle this topping over each muffin.
Baking and Cooling
Place the muffin tin in your preheated oven and bake for 18-20 minutes. They are done when golden brown and a toothpick comes out clean. Let them cool in the pan for about 5 minutes. Then, transfer them to a wire rack to cool completely. Enjoy the warm, sweet aroma as they cool! For the full recipe, check the ingredients list above.
Tips & Tricks
Perfecting Muffin Texture
To get the best muffins, avoid overmixing your batter. When you mix too much, the muffins can turn out dense. Stir just until the dry and wet ingredients combine. This keeps your muffins light and fluffy.
After baking, let your muffins cool for about 5 minutes in the pan. Then, transfer them to a wire rack. This cooling time helps the flavors meld nicely. Warm muffins taste best, but letting them cool enhances their taste.
Serving Suggestions
Cherry almond crumble muffins pair well with coffee or yogurt. You can enjoy them as a quick breakfast or snack. For a brunch, serve these muffins on a platter. They look great and taste even better alongside fresh fruit or spreads.
Baking Equipment Recommendations
Use a standard muffin tin for even cooking. A non-stick tin makes it easier to remove the muffins. If you prefer, use paper liners for quick cleanup.
Gather these tools to make baking easier: a mixing bowl, whisk, spatula, and measuring cups. These simple tools help you prepare your muffins quickly. For the best results, use a toothpick to check if they are done.
Variations
Flavor Adaptations
You can play with flavors in Cherry Almond Crumble Muffins. Swap cherries for other fruits. Try blueberries, raspberries, or even diced apples. Each fruit brings its own taste and texture.
You can also add different nuts. Walnuts or pecans work great. They add crunch and a rich taste. Just chop them up and mix them in.
Dietary Adjustments
For those needing gluten-free muffins, use alternative flours. Almond flour alone can work, or mix it with coconut flour. This keeps the muffins light and fluffy.
If you are vegan, you can replace eggs and butter. Use flaxseed meal mixed with water for eggs. For butter, try coconut oil or applesauce. This keeps your muffins moist and tasty.
Creative Toppings
Get creative with your crumb topping. Instead of oats and almonds, try crushed graham crackers or coconut flakes. These changes add a fun twist.
For drizzles, think outside the box. Honey or maple syrup adds sweetness. You can also use a simple glaze made from powdered sugar and milk. This gives your muffins an extra special touch.
For the full recipe, check out the detailed steps above. Enjoy your baking adventure!
Storage Info
Short-Term Storage
To keep your Cherry Almond Crumble Muffins fresh at room temperature, let them cool completely. Place them in an airtight container. This method helps lock in moisture. Store them for up to three days. If the weather is hot and humid, consider refrigerating them to maintain texture.
Long-Term Storage
For longer freshness, freezing muffins is a great option. Wrap each muffin in plastic wrap or aluminum foil. Then, place them in a freezer-safe bag or container. This helps prevent freezer burn. They can last up to three months in the freezer. When you’re ready to enjoy them, simply thaw overnight in the fridge.
Reheating Tips
To enjoy your muffins warm again, preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Place the muffins on a baking sheet. Heat them for about 10 minutes. You can also microwave them for 15-20 seconds. This method is quick but may make them slightly soft. Reheating brings back their delightful warmth and flavor.
For the full recipe, be sure to try out the Cherry Almond Crumble Muffins!
FAQs
How to make Cherry Almond Crumble Muffins from scratch?
To make Cherry Almond Crumble Muffins from scratch, follow these steps:
1. Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C) and grease your muffin tin.
2. Mix dry ingredients in a bowl: almond flour, all-purpose flour, sugars, salt, baking powder, and baking soda.
3. Whisk wet ingredients in another bowl: melted butter, eggs, almond extract, and vanilla extract.
4. Combine mixtures by pouring the wet blend into the dry mix. Stir gently until just combined.
5. Fold in cherries carefully, keeping them intact.
6. Fill muffin cups with batter, about 2/3 full.
7. Prepare the topping with oats and sliced almonds, then sprinkle it on top.
8. Bake for 18-20 minutes until golden brown.
9. Cool muffins on a wire rack after baking.
This process is simple and great for beginners. You can find the Full Recipe for detailed steps.
Can I substitute fresh cherries with frozen?
Yes, you can use frozen cherries instead of fresh cherries. Frozen cherries can save time and may be easier to find. Just remember to thaw and drain them first. This helps avoid excess moisture in your muffins. If you skip thawing, you may need to bake a bit longer.
How do I know when the muffins are done baking?
To check if your muffins are done, look for a golden brown top. Insert a toothpick in the center; it should come out clean or with a few crumbs attached. If wet batter clings to the toothpick, they need more time. Keep an eye on them to avoid overbaking.
What are the best alternatives for almond flour?
If you need a substitute for almond flour, you can use:
– Oat flour for a nut-free option.
– Coconut flour for a gluten-free alternative, but use less as it absorbs more moisture.
– All-purpose flour works if you’re not concerned about gluten.
Each option may change the flavor and texture slightly, so choose what fits your needs.
How long do these muffins last?
Cherry Almond Crumble Muffins stay fresh for about 2-3 days at room temperature. Store them in an airtight container to keep them moist. If you want them to last longer, freeze them. They can stay in the freezer for up to three months. Just reheat in the oven or microwave when you’re ready to enjoy!
These cherry almond crumble muffins are full of flavor and simple to make.
We covered everything from the right ingredients to tips for perfect texture. Remember, a light touch keeps your muffins fluffy. Don’t forget to experiment with different fruits and toppings.
With practice, you will master these muffins and wow your friends or family. Enjoy baking and tasting your delicious creations!
