Leftover Cranberry Sauce Coffee Cake Muffins

Stuck with a ton of leftover cranberry sauce from Thanksgiving Day dinner? Make these scrumptious bakery-style Leftover Cranberry Sauce Coffee Cake Muffins with layers of cranberry sauce! They’re topped with a sweet buttery crumb, making them a perfect breakfast treat served alongside your morning coffee. Ideal for any occasion, these muffins bring together the deliciousness of leftover cranberry sauce and the comforting taste of coffee cake.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Easy to Prepare: With simple ingredients and straightforward steps, these muffins come together quickly, making them perfect even for beginner bakers.
• Delicious Flavor: The combination of sweet cranberry and warm spices creates a delightful flavor profile that will please everyone.
• Versatile Treat: Enjoy these muffins for breakfast, brunch, or as an afternoon snack. They pair wonderfully with coffee or tea.
• Great Way to Use Leftovers: Transforming leftover cranberry sauce into something delightful helps reduce food waste while creating a tasty treat.

Tools and Preparation

Before diving into the baking process, gather your essential kitchen tools. Having everything ready will help streamline your preparation and ensure a smooth baking experience.

Essential Kitchen Tools

• Mixing bowls
• Measuring cups and spoons
• Whisk
• Muffin tin
• Muffin liners (optional)

Why These Tools Matter

• Mixing bowls: Ideal for combining dry and wet ingredients without spilling.
• Muffin tin: Ensures uniform shape and size for perfectly baked muffins.
• Whisk: Helps mix ingredients thoroughly for a light and fluffy batter.

Ingredients

For the Crumb Topping

• 1/2 cup all-purpose flour
• 1/3 cup light brown sugar
• 1/2 tsp cinnamon
• 1/4 tsp ground green cardamom
• pinch of salt
• 1/3 cup unsalted butter (melted)

For the Muffins

• 3 cups all-purpose flour
• 1 tbsp baking powder
• 1/2 tsp cinnamon
• 1/2 cup unsalted butter
• 1 cup white sugar
• 1/3 cup light brown sugar
• 2 eggs
• 1/4 tsp vanilla extract
• 1/2 cup buttermilk
• 1/2 cup sour cream
• 1 cup cranberry sauce

How to Make Leftover Cranberry Sauce Coffee Cake Muffins

Step 1: Prepare the Oven and Muffin Tin

Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Line a muffin tin with muffin liners or lightly grease it to prevent sticking.

Step 2: Make the Crumb Topping

In a mixing bowl, combine:
1. 1/2 cup all-purpose flour,
2. 1/3 cup light brown sugar,
3. 1/2 tsp cinnamon,
4. 1/4 tsp ground green cardamom,
5. A pinch of salt.

Add in the melted unsalted butter and mix until crumbly. Set aside.

Step 3: Mix Dry Ingredients for Muffins

In another bowl, whisk together:
1. 3 cups all-purpose flour,
2. 1 tbsp baking powder,
3. 1/2 tsp cinnamon.

Set this mixture aside as well.

Step 4: Cream Butter and Sugars

In a large mixing bowl, beat together:
1. 1/2 cup unsalted butter (softened),
2. 1 cup white sugar,
3. 1/3 cup light brown sugar.

Cream until light and fluffy.

Step 5: Add Eggs and Flavorings

To the creamed mixture, add:
1. 2 eggs (one at a time),
2. 1/4 tsp vanilla extract.
Mix until well combined.

Step 6: Incorporate Wet Ingredients

Stir in:
1. 1/2 cup buttermilk,
2. 1/2 cup sour cream.

Mix until smooth.

Step 7: Combine Dry Ingredients with Wet Mixture

Gradually add the dry ingredient mixture to the wet ingredients, stirring gently until just combined. Do not overmix!

Step 8: Layer with Cranberry Sauce

Spoon half of the muffin batter into each muffin tin well. Add about one tablespoon of cranberry sauce on top of each portion before adding the remaining batter on top.

Step 9: Top with Crumb Mixture

Sprinkle the crumb topping generously over each muffin before placing them in the oven.

Step 10: Bake the Muffins

Bake in your preheated oven for about 25 minutes or until golden brown and a toothpick inserted comes out clean. Let cool before serving!

How to Serve Leftover Cranberry Sauce Coffee Cake Muffins

These delightful Leftover Cranberry Sauce Coffee Cake Muffins are perfect for any occasion. Whether you’re enjoying them at breakfast or as a snack, here are some creative serving suggestions to elevate your experience.

Pair with Fresh Fruit

• Sliced Apples: Crisp, juicy apple slices provide a refreshing contrast to the sweet muffins.
• Berries: A mix of strawberries, blueberries, and raspberries adds a burst of tartness that complements the muffins.

Enjoy with Beverages

• Coffee: The classic pairing! A warm cup of coffee enhances the flavors of the muffins perfectly.
• Herbal Tea: A soothing herbal tea can balance the sweetness while offering a calming experience.

Add a Sweet Drizzle

• Maple Syrup: Drizzle some maple syrup over the muffins for an extra layer of sweetness.
• Honey: A light touch of honey can enhance the flavors without overpowering them.

How to Perfect Leftover Cranberry Sauce Coffee Cake Muffins

To ensure your muffins come out perfectly every time, consider these helpful tips.

• Bold flour measurement: Measure your flour accurately by spooning it into the cup and leveling it off for consistent results.
• Bold room temperature ingredients: Use eggs and butter at room temperature to help create a smoother batter and better rise.
• Bold don’t overmix: Mix until just combined to avoid dense muffins; some lumps are okay!
• Bold check for doneness: Insert a toothpick into the center; it should come out clean when they are baked perfectly.

Best Side Dishes for Leftover Cranberry Sauce Coffee Cake Muffins

When serving Leftover Cranberry Sauce Coffee Cake Muffins, consider pairing them with these delicious side dishes for a well-rounded meal.

1. Greek Yogurt: Creamy yogurt adds protein and pairs wonderfully with muffins.
2. Granola Parfait: Layer granola with yogurt and fresh fruits for a crunchy texture alongside your muffins.
3. Cheese Platter: A selection of cheeses offers a savory contrast that balances the sweetness of the muffins.
4. Smoothie Bowl: Blend your favorite fruits with yogurt for a nutritious smoothie bowl that complements the muffins.
5. Mixed Nuts: A handful of nuts provides healthy fats and crunch to enhance your muffin experience.
6. Cottage Cheese: Serve cottage cheese on the side for added protein and creaminess.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Making Leftover Cranberry Sauce Coffee Cake Muffins can be delightful, but there are a few common pitfalls to watch out for.

• Skipping the butter: Not using melted butter can lead to dry muffins. Always melt your butter for a moist texture.
• Ignoring measurement precision: Inaccurate measurements can ruin the recipe. Use measuring cups and spoons for accuracy.
• Overmixing the batter: Mixing too much can make the muffins tough. Stir until just combined for light and fluffy results.
• Neglecting oven preheating: Baking in an unheated oven affects rising. Preheat your oven to ensure even baking.
• Using old cranberry sauce: Freshness matters! Ensure your cranberry sauce is still good for the best flavor.

Storage and Reheating

Refrigerator Storage

• Store muffins in an airtight container.
• They will last up to 3 days in the fridge.

Freezing Leftover Cranberry Sauce Coffee Cake Muffins

• Wrap each muffin individually in plastic wrap or foil.
• Place them in a freezer bag; they can be stored for up to 3 months.

Reheating Leftover Cranberry Sauce Coffee Cake Muffins

• Oven: Preheat to 350°F (175°C). Bake muffins for about 10-15 minutes until warmed through.
• Microwave: Heat each muffin on medium power for about 30 seconds or until warm.
• Stovetop: Use a skillet on low heat, cover it, and warm muffins for about 5 minutes, turning occasionally.

Frequently Asked Questions

How can I customize Leftover Cranberry Sauce Coffee Cake Muffins?

You can add nuts, chocolate chips, or spices like nutmeg to enhance flavor and texture.

Can I use frozen cranberry sauce?

Yes! Just thaw it completely before using it in the recipe for best results.

What if I don’t have buttermilk?

You can substitute buttermilk with regular milk mixed with a teaspoon of lemon juice or vinegar. Let it sit for a few minutes before using.

How do I know when my muffins are done baking?

Insert a toothpick into the center of a muffin; if it comes out clean or with a few crumbs, they’re ready!

Conclusion

Leftover Cranberry Sauce Coffee Cake Muffins are not only delicious but also versatile. They make a perfect breakfast treat or snack that’s easy to customize based on your preferences. Don’t hesitate to try this delightful recipe and enjoy all its flavors!

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