Name: Cranberry Sauce Coffee Cake Muffins to Brighten Mornings
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 25 min
Total time: 50 min
Ingredients: 2 cups All-Purpose Flour (Can substitute with gluten-free flour); 1/2 cup Unsalted Butter (Can substitute with coconut oil); 1/2 cup White Sugar (Reduce for less sweetness); 1/2 cup Light Brown Sugar (Granulated sugar can also be used); 1 teaspoon Cinnamon (Nutmeg can be used as a substitute); 1 tablespoon Baking Powder (Ensure it's fresh); 2 large Eggs (Can substitute with flax eggs for a vegan version); 1 cup Buttermilk (Swap with almond or soy milk plus vinegar for non-dairy); 1/2 cup Sour Cream (Plain yogurt works as a substitute); 1 teaspoon Vanilla Extract (Almond extract is an intriguing alternative); 1 teaspoon Salt (Use standard table salt or sea salt); 1 cup Cranberry Sauce (Ensure it's not too runny); 1/4 teaspoon Ground Green Cardamom (Omit if unavailable or substitute with allspice); 1/2 cup All-Purpose Flour (Can be replaced with gluten-free flour); 1/2 cup Brown Sugar (Granulated sugar can be used as an alternative); 1 teaspoon Cinnamon (Nutmeg can be used as a substitute); 1/4 teaspoon Salt (Table or sea salt will work); 4 tablespoons Unsalted Butter (Can substitute with coconut oil)

As I stood in my kitchen, a half-empty jar of homemade cranberry sauce caught my eye, whispering sweet opportunities. This leftover treasure inspired me to whip up a batch of Bakery-Style Cranberry Sauce Coffee Cake Muffins, transforming Thanksgiving remnants into a delectable breakfast treat. These muffins feature a delightful combination of moist cake enveloping tangy cranberry sauce, all topped with a crumbly, buttery layer that would make any bakery proud. Not only are they a clever way to utilize those holiday leftovers, but they also make for a quick and satisfying morning pick-me-up. Whether you’re hosting family or just indulging yourself, these muffins will surely become a go-to. Curious about how to elevate your breakfast game with this scrumptious twist? Let’s dive into the recipe!

Why are these muffins a must-try?

Easy to Make: The recipe is incredibly simple, allowing even novice bakers to create impressive results with minimal effort.

Deliciously Unique: With the tangy cranberry sauce at its heart, these muffins offer a refreshing twist that sets them apart from ordinary muffins.

Versatile Base: You can customize them easily—try adding chocolate chips or experimenting with different fruit sauces for endless variations!

Perfect for Breakfast: Great for using up Thanksgiving leftovers, these muffins make a scrumptious start to your day paired with coffee or tea.

Don’t forget to check out how to make a Velvet Oreo Cheesecake for dessert later!

Crowd-Pleasing Treats: Whether you’re entertaining guests or enjoying a cozy morning at home, your friends and family will love these delightful muffins!

Cranberry Sauce Coffee Cake Muffins Ingredients

Transform that leftover cranberry sauce into something spectacular with these simple ingredients!

For the Muffin Batter

All-Purpose Flour – Provides structure to the muffins; substitute with gluten-free flour for a gluten-free option.
Light Brown Sugar – Adds sweetness with a hint of molasses flavor; granulated sugar can also be used.
Cinnamon – Enhances warmth and aroma; feel free to swap it for nutmeg if you prefer.
Ground Green Cardamom – Brings a unique flavor reminiscent of baked goods; omit if unavailable or substitute with allspice.
Salt – Balances sweetness; use standard table salt or sea salt.
Unsalted Butter – Provides richness and moisture; coconut oil is a great dairy-free substitute.
Baking Powder – Helps the muffins rise; make sure it’s fresh for best results.
White Sugar – Adds additional sweetness; reduce if you want a less sweet muffin.
Eggs – Contributes structure and moisture; for a vegan version, use flax eggs.
Vanilla Extract – Deepens flavor; almond extract offers an intriguing alternative.
Buttermilk – Adds moisture and tanginess; swap with almond or soy milk plus vinegar for a non-dairy option.
Sour Cream – Enhances moistness; plain yogurt works as a good substitute.
Cranberry Sauce – The star of the show, providing that tangy sweetness; ensure it’s not too runny to avoid leaks.

For the Crisp Topping

All-Purpose Flour – Ensures a crumbly texture; can be replaced with gluten-free flour if desired.
Brown Sugar – Adds richness to the topping; feel free to use granulated sugar as an alternative.
Cinnamon – Infuses warmth into the crumb; nutmeg is a flavorful substitute option.
Unsalted Butter – Binds the topping together and adds flavor; coconut oil is a dairy-free alternative.
Salt – Balances sweetness in the topping; table salt or sea salt will work just fine.

Embrace the magic of leftover cranberry sauce with these delightful Cranberry Sauce Coffee Cake Muffins!

Step‑by‑Step Instructions for Cranberry Sauce Coffee Cake Muffins

Step 1: Prepare Crisp Topping
In a medium bowl, whisk together 1/2 cup of all-purpose flour, 1/2 cup of brown sugar, a pinch of salt, 1 teaspoon of cinnamon, and 1/4 teaspoon of cardamom. Pour in 4 tablespoons of melted unsalted butter and mix until the dry ingredients are thoroughly combined and crumbly. Set this mixture aside to allow the flavors to meld while you prepare the muffin batter.

Step 2: Preheat Oven
Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C) and line a muffin pan with cupcake liners to prevent sticking and make cleanup easier. As the oven heats up, gather your ingredients for the muffin batter, ensuring everything is measured out and ready to go for a smooth baking process.

Step 3: Make Muffin Batter
In a large mixing bowl, combine 2 cups of all-purpose flour, 2 tablespoons of baking powder, and 1 teaspoon of cinnamon. In a stand mixer, cream together 1/2 cup of unsalted butter and 1/2 cup of white sugar, then add in 1/2 cup of brown sugar until the mixture is light and fluffy. Beat in 2 large eggs, 1 cup of buttermilk, 1/2 cup of sour cream, and 1 teaspoon of vanilla extract until fully incorporated, which will create a rich and creamy muffin batter.

Step 4: Assemble Muffins
Spoon about a tablespoon of the muffin batter into each cupcake liner, just covering the bottom. Next, add a generous dollop of cranberry sauce—this will give each muffin its tangy surprise. Then, top with more batter to completely encase the sauce, followed by an extra spoonful of cranberry sauce on top. Finally, sprinkle the prepared crumb topping over each muffin, pressing down lightly to ensure it adheres well.

Step 5: Bake
Place the muffin pan in the preheated oven and bake for 20 to 25 minutes. Keep an eye on them; they are ready when the tops are golden brown and a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean. The muffins will smell heavenly as they bake, making your kitchen feel warm and inviting.

Step 6: Cool & Serve
Once baked, remove the muffins from the oven and allow them to cool in the pan for 5 to 10 minutes. This cooling period helps them set perfectly. Afterward, transfer the muffins to a wire rack to cool completely, or enjoy them warm. Whether served at breakfast or as a delightful treat throughout the day, your Cranberry Sauce Coffee Cake Muffins will surely be a hit!

Cranberry Sauce Coffee Cake Muffins Variations

Feel free to get creative and customize these muffins to suit your tastes and pantry!

Citrus Infusion: Add orange zest to the batter for a bright, refreshing flavor that pairs beautifully with the cranberry.
Berry Blitz: Swap out the cranberry sauce for your favorite berry jam—think strawberry or raspberry—for a delightful twist on the classic.
Nutty Crunch: Mix in chopped nuts like walnuts or pecans for added texture and a touch of earthy flavor, enhancing every bite.
Chocolate Delight: For a sweet surprise, incorporate chocolate chips into the batter or drizzle melted chocolate on top post-baking—pure decadence!

For a fun dessert idea later, consider making my rich and creamy Velvet Oreo Cheesecake to impress your guests!

Vegan Option: Substitute eggs with flax eggs and use almond milk for a delicious vegan-friendly muffin that everyone will love.
Spiced Up: Experiment by swapping the cinnamon for pumpkin spice or ginger for a warm, autumnal flavor.
Gluten-Free Goodness: Use a gluten-free flour blend in place of all-purpose flour to accommodate gluten-sensitive friends while keeping the muffins tasty.

With these options, you’ll not only revive your leftovers but also create irresistible treats that draw everyone to your kitchen. Enjoy!

Make Ahead Options

These Cranberry Sauce Coffee Cake Muffins are perfect for busy home cooks looking to save time in the kitchen! You can prepare the muffin batter up to 24 hours in advance by mixing all your dry ingredients and wet ingredients separately, then refrigerating them until you are ready to bake. The crumb topping can also be made ahead and stored in an airtight container for up to 3 days at room temperature. When it’s time to serve, simply preheat your oven and assemble the muffins as directed—fill the liners with batter, add the cranberry sauce, top with crumb, and bake! Your dreamy muffins will come out just as delicious, ready to impress everyone at the breakfast table while allowing you more time to enjoy your morning.

What to Serve with Cranberry Sauce Coffee Cake Muffins

Elevate your breakfast experience with these delightful muffins, perfect for pairing with a variety of delicious sides!

Warm Beverages: Cozy up with a cup of steaming coffee or spiced chai, enhancing the sweet-tart flavors of the muffins. A rich latte also complements the crumb topping beautifully.
Fresh Fruit Salad: A vibrant assortment of seasonal fruits provides a refreshing contrast, balancing the richness of the muffins while adding a burst of natural sweetness.
Yogurt Parfait: Layer creamy Greek yogurt with fresh berries and granola for a satisfying treat. This mix adds creaminess and crunch, making breakfast more exciting and complete.
Savory Breakfast Sausage: The savory and slightly spicy notes of sausage make for an excellent counterbalance to the sweet muffins, perfect for a hearty morning meal.
Honey Butter Spread: Create a delicious honey butter to slather on top of warm muffins for an extra touch of sweetness and indulgence that feels like a treat.
Spiced Hot Chocolate: For a festive twist, serve with a cup of rich spiced hot chocolate, making the morning treat feel extra special during the holiday season.

Create a delightful breakfast experience with these pairings, ensuring each bite of your Cranberry Sauce Coffee Cake Muffins is memorable and delicious!

Storage Tips for Cranberry Sauce Coffee Cake Muffins

Room Temperature: Store muffins in an airtight container for up to 3 days at room temperature to maintain their fresh and fluffy texture.

Fridge: If you want to keep your muffins for a longer period, refrigerate them in an airtight container for up to a week. This helps preserve their moisture and flavor.

Freezer: Muffins can be frozen for up to 3 months. Wrap each muffin individually in plastic wrap and place them in a freezer bag to prevent freezer burn.

Reheating: To enjoy your Cranberry Sauce Coffee Cake Muffins, simply pop them in the microwave for 15-20 seconds or reheat in a toaster oven until warmed through.

Expert Tips for Cranberry Sauce Coffee Cake Muffins

Thick Sauce Matters: Ensure your cranberry sauce is thick enough; if it’s runny, simmer it down to avoid muffin leakage.
Press the Topping: When applying the crumb topping, press down slightly to ensure it sticks well and forms a nice crisp layer.
Adjust Baking Time: For a loaf version, bake at a lower temperature (350°F) for about 55 minutes, checking doneness with a toothpick.
Storage Tips: Store muffins in an airtight container for up to 3 days at room temperature or a week in the fridge to keep them fresh.
Personalize It: Feel free to add ingredients like orange zest or chocolate chips to your batch of cranberry sauce coffee cake muffins for a delightful twist!

Cranberry Sauce Coffee Cake Muffins Recipe FAQs

What kind of cranberry sauce should I use?
Absolutely! For these muffins, I recommend using a thick cranberry sauce. If your sauce is too runny, simmer it down over low heat until it thickens. This will help prevent leakage during baking and ensure each muffin has that delightful tangy surprise.

How should I store the muffins after baking?
For the best flavor and texture, store your Cranberry Sauce Coffee Cake Muffins in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days. If you’d like to keep them fresh longer, transfer them to the refrigerator, where they can last for up to a week.

Can I freeze the muffins?
Yes, you can freeze baked muffins for up to 3 months! To do this, allow the muffins to cool completely, then wrap each one individually in plastic wrap. Place the wrapped muffins in a freezer bag to prevent freezer burn. When you’re ready to enjoy them, simply thaw at room temperature or warm them in the microwave.

What if my muffins are too dry?
If your muffins turn out dry, this could be due to overmixing the batter or baking for too long. To remedy this next time, mix the batter just until combined to avoid incorporating too much air. And remember that every oven is different; keep an eye on the muffins, and check for doneness a few minutes early if you’re unsure.

Can I make these muffins gluten-free?
Very! You can easily substitute all-purpose flour with a gluten-free baking blend that measures cup-for-cup. Just be sure that your baking powder and any other ingredients you use are certified gluten-free to keep everything safe for those with gluten sensitivities.

Are these muffins suitable for kids or those with allergies?
Definitely! You can adapt the recipe to suit dietary needs. For dairy-free options, swap butter with coconut oil and use almond or soy milk instead of buttermilk. For egg allergies, consider using flax eggs (1 tablespoon of ground flaxseed mixed with 3 tablespoons of water for each egg) to maintain the muffins’ moisture and structure. Always double-check ingredient labels for any allergy concerns.