Name: Mouthwatering Cranberry Sauce Coffee Cake Muffins to Savor
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 25 min
Total time: 50 min
Ingredients: 2 cups All-Purpose Flour; 1 cup White Sugar; 1/2 cup Light Brown Sugar; 2 teaspoons Baking Powder; 1/2 teaspoon Salt; 1 teaspoon Cinnamon; 1/4 teaspoon Ground Green Cardamom (optional); 1/2 cup Unsalted Butter (melted); 2 large Eggs; 1 teaspoon Vanilla Extract (¼ teaspoon recommended); 1/2 cup Buttermilk; 1/2 cup Sour Cream; 1 cup Cranberry Sauce; 1 cup All-Purpose Flour; 1/2 cup Light Brown Sugar; 1 teaspoon Cinnamon; 1/2 cup Unsalted Butter (melted)

The smell of freshly baked muffins fills the air, awakening memories of cozy family gatherings and warm kitchen moments. Today, I’m excited to share my Bakery-Style Cranberry Sauce Coffee Cake Muffins, the perfect delight for those Thanksgiving leftovers. These scrumptious muffins are not only quick to whip up, but they also combine moist cake with a tart cranberry sauce that will have everyone reaching for seconds. With a sweet, buttery crumb topping that adds an irresistible crunch, they make a delightful hand-held treat for breakfast or a satisfying snack any time of day. Curious how to transform those leftovers into a sweet indulgence? Let’s dive into the recipe!

Why are These Muffins a Must-Try?

Deliciously Unique: These Bakery-Style Cranberry Sauce Coffee Cake Muffins offer a delightful twist on traditional muffins, making them the ideal treat for using up Thanksgiving leftovers.

Irresistibly Moist: With the combination of buttermilk and sour cream, these muffins are guaranteed to be soft and tender, ensuring a perfect bite every time.

Quick & Easy: They come together effortlessly, requiring minimal prep—perfect for busy mornings or unexpected guests!

Crowd-Pleasing Flavor: The tartness of cranberry sauce balanced with a buttery crumb topping creates a flavor that everyone will love. Pair with your favorite mug of coffee or tea for a warm experience!

Versatile Variations: Feel free to experiment by adding orange zest or different fruit preserves to customize these treats. Want more breakfast inspiration? Try making Protein Pancakes Healthy or enjoy a slice of Lemon Velvet Cake alongside!

Cranberry Sauce Coffee Cake Muffins Ingredients

For the Muffin Batter
• All-Purpose Flour – Provides structure and texture for the muffins.
• White Sugar – Adds sweetness to the batter for a delightful taste.
• Light Brown Sugar – Offers a hint of molasses flavor and extra moisture.
• Baking Powder – Acts as a leavening agent to ensure your muffins rise.
• Salt – Balances sweetness and enhances the overall flavor.
• Cinnamon – Infuses warm spice notes, elevating the muffin flavor.
• Ground Green Cardamom – Adds a unique, aromatic depth (optional).
• Unsalted Butter – Provides richness and moisture (melted for crumb topping).
• Eggs – Bind the ingredients together, adding moisture for fluffiness.
• Vanilla Extract – Adds warmth and enhances sweetness (¼ teaspoon recommended).
• Buttermilk & Sour Cream – Ensure the muffins are moist and tender.

For the Filling and Topping
• Cranberry Sauce – The key flavor component; adds tanginess and moisture to the muffins.
• Crumb Topping Ingredients
• All-Purpose Flour – Creates the base for a sweet, crunchy topping.
• Light Brown Sugar – Adds a touch of sweetness and caramel flavor.
• Cinnamon – Enhances the crumb topping with warm spices.
• Unsalted Butter – Provides richness to the crumb topping.

Feel free to adjust your ingredients to make these Cranberry Sauce Coffee Cake Muffins your own! Enjoy the process as you transform those Thanksgiving leftovers into something scrumptious.

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

Step 1: Make Crumb Topping
In a mixing bowl, combine all-purpose flour, light brown sugar, salt, cinnamon, and optional ground cardamom. Whisk together until combined, then stir in the melted unsalted butter until crumbly. Set this mixture aside to allow the flavors to meld while you prepare the muffin batter.

Step 2: Preheat Oven
Set your oven to preheat at 375°F (190°C). While the oven heats, prepare 12 muffin cups by lining them with paper liners. This will ensure easy removal of the muffins once they’re baked and help retain their moisture.

Step 3: Combine Dry Ingredients
In a separate bowl, whisk together the remaining all-purpose flour, baking powder, and an extra pinch of cinnamon. This mixture will help ensure an even distribution of leavening agents. Set aside as you work on the wet ingredients for your Cranberry Sauce Coffee Cake Muffins.

Step 4: Prepare Batter
Using a stand mixer, cream the softened unsalted butter along with white sugar and light brown sugar until the mixture is light and fluffy, about 3-4 minutes. Add the eggs one at a time, mixing well after each addition. Then, blend in the buttermilk, sour cream, and vanilla extract until fully incorporated.

Step 5: Mix Wet and Dry
Gradually fold the dry mixture into the wet batter, mixing only until combined. Be cautious not to overmix; you want the batter to remain tender for perfect Cranberry Sauce Coffee Cake Muffins. The batter should be thick but well-blended, resembling a typical muffin batter.

Step 6: Assemble Muffins
Spoon a generous amount of batter into each prepared muffin cup, filling them about halfway. Add a spoonful of cranberry sauce into the center of each muffin, then cover the sauce with a bit more batter until each cup is nearly full, ensuring the sauce is tucked inside.

Step 7: Top with Crumb
Evenly sprinkle the prepared crumb topping over each muffin, making sure to press it down gently to ensure it adheres during baking. This will create a deliciously crunchy layer atop the soft muffins, enhancing their bakery-quality appeal.

Step 8: Bake
Place the muffin pan in the preheated oven, baking for 20-25 minutes. Keep an eye on them; they should turn golden brown on top, and a toothpick inserted into the center should come out clean when they are ready.

Step 9: Cool
Once baked, remove the muffin pan from the oven and let it cool for 5-10 minutes before transferring the muffins to a wire rack. This allows them to set properly, ensuring you have beautifully moist Cranberry Sauce Coffee Cake Muffins ready to enjoy!

What to Serve with Cranberry Sauce Coffee Cake Muffins

Transform your breakfast routine into a culinary delight by pairing these scrumptious muffins with flavors that complement their tangy sweetness.

Fresh Orange Juice: A bright, citrusy drink that enhances the muffin’s cranberry flavor while adding a refreshing twist to your morning.
Scrambled Eggs: Light and fluffy eggs provide a savory contrast to the sweet muffins, making for a well-rounded and hearty breakfast.
Greek Yogurt with Honey: Creamy and rich, yogurt adds a luscious texture that beautifully balances the tartness of the cranberry sauce in the muffins.
Spiced Chai Latte: The warm spices in this comforting drink harmonize with the cinnamon and cardamom notes of the muffins, creating a cozy experience.
Mixed Berry Salad: A vibrant medley of fresh berries adds a burst of color to your plate while offering delicious fruity notes that pair deliciously with the muffins.
Maple-Glazed Bacon: The sweet and savory flavors of crispy bacon bring a delightful crunch and richness that complements the moist muffins.
Hot Chocolate: For a sweet indulgence, enjoy the muffins with a cup of rich hot chocolate that will satisfy your cravings for warmth and comfort.
Vanilla Ice Cream: Serving the muffins warm alongside a scoop of creamy vanilla ice cream creates a delightful dessert experience, perfect for any time of day!

How to Store and Freeze Cranberry Sauce Coffee Cake Muffins

Room Temperature: Store muffins in an airtight container for up to 3 days. This keeps them fresh and moist without drying out.

Fridge: For longer storage, place muffins in the refrigerator where they can last up to a week. Ensure they are well-wrapped to preserve their texture.

Freezer: Freeze individually wrapped muffins for up to 3 months. To enjoy, simply thaw and reheat in the microwave for a few seconds until warm.

Reheating: For optimal taste, warm muffins in a toaster oven at 350°F for 5-10 minutes to restore their freshly baked flavor before serving.

Make Ahead Options

These Bakery-Style Cranberry Sauce Coffee Cake Muffins are perfect for meal prep enthusiasts looking to save time on busy mornings! You can prepare the muffin batter up to 24 hours ahead of time—simply mix the wet and dry ingredients together, cover, and refrigerate. Additionally, the crumb topping can be made in advance and stored in an airtight container for up to 3 days at room temperature. When you’re ready to bake, just assemble the muffins by filling the cups, adding cranberry sauce, topping with crumb, and popping them in the oven. This way, you’ll enjoy fresh, moist muffins that are just as delicious as if you baked them right away!

Expert Tips for Cranberry Sauce Coffee Cake Muffins

Use Thick Sauce: Ensure your cranberry sauce isn’t too runny; simmer it beforehand if needed to achieve the right consistency for moist muffins.
Don’t Overmix: Mix the wet and dry ingredients just until combined to avoid tough muffins. Gentle folding is key for perfect Cranberry Sauce Coffee Cake Muffins.
Fill Properly: Spoon batter to the edges of the muffin liners for a full look and to prevent leaks during baking—watch them rise beautifully!
Adjust Baking Time: If opting for a loaf pan, lower the oven temperature slightly and bake for about 55 minutes for a well-cooked center.
Enhance Flavor: Consider adding a teaspoon of orange zest to the batter for a zesty kick that will complement the cranberry sauce beautifully.

Cranberry Sauce Coffee Cake Muffins Variations

Customize your Cranberry Sauce Coffee Cake Muffins with these delicious adjustments, and let your creativity shine in the kitchen!

Dairy-Free: Substitute buttermilk and sour cream with plant-based yogurt or almond milk to make these muffins dairy-free. The taste will still be delightful!
Fruit-Infused: Substitute cranberry sauce with an array of fruity jams or preserves, like raspberry or apricot, for a fresh twist. Each fruit brings its own unique flavor to your muffins.
Zesty Kick: Add a teaspoon of orange zest to the batter for a bright, citrusy flavor that contrasts beautifully with the tart cranberry sauce.
Extra Spices: Include nutmeg or ground ginger to elevate the warm spice profile of your muffins. Just a dash will add a cozy touch that feels like a warm hug.
Nutty Crunch: Toss in chopped nuts like pecans or walnuts to the batter for added texture. Their crunch will give your muffins an engaging contrast to the soft crumb.
Sweet Swaps: Replace light brown sugar with coconut sugar for a more subtle sweetness and a hint of caramel flavor.
Make It Gluten-Free: Use a 1:1 gluten-free flour blend to make the recipe suitable for gluten-sensitive friends or family. They won’t miss out on the deliciousness!
Flavorful Crumb Topping: Mix in some old-fashioned oats into your crumb topping for an extra crunchy texture and wholesome flavor.

Feel free to get creative with these variations and remember, you can pair these delightful muffins with a steaming cup of coffee or enjoy them alongside some Homemade Blueberry Muffins for a delightful breakfast spread! Want more inspiration? Don’t forget to check out our easy recipe for Basque Burnt Cheesecake!

Cranberry Sauce Coffee Cake Muffins Recipe FAQs

What type of cranberry sauce should I use for the muffins?
I recommend using a thicker cranberry sauce that isn’t too runny, as it can make the muffins soggy. If your sauce is too watery, simply simmer it on the stove until it thickens up a bit—this will prevent any excess moisture.

How should I store my muffins after baking?
To keep your Cranberry Sauce Coffee Cake Muffins fresh, store them in an airtight container at room temperature for 3 days. If you need them to last longer, move them to the fridge for up to 1 week while ensuring they’re tightly wrapped to maintain their moisture.

Can I freeze these muffins? If so, how?
Absolutely! To freeze your Cranberry Sauce Coffee Cake Muffins, wrap each muffin individually in plastic wrap or aluminum foil and place them in a resealable freezer bag. They can be stored in the freezer for up to 3 months. When you’re ready to enjoy them, simply thaw at room temperature or warm them up in the microwave.

What should I do if my muffins seem dense or tough?
If you find your muffins are dense, it might be due to overmixing the batter. Be gentle when combining the wet and dry ingredients—mix just until combined for a light and fluffy muffin. If your batter becomes overworked, it can lead to a less desirable texture.

Are these muffins suitable for nut allergies?
Yes, these Cranberry Sauce Coffee Cake Muffins do not contain any nuts! However, always double-check your ingredient labels to ensure safety, as some baking ingredients can be processed in facilities that handle nuts.

Can I make these muffins with other fruits or jams?
The more the merrier! Feel free to experiment with different jams or fruit preserves instead of cranberry sauce. Strawberry, raspberry, or even a peach jam can bring exciting flavors while keeping the muffins moist and delicious. Just be mindful of the sweetness level, as some fruits may alter the balance of flavors.