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 are topped with a sweet buttery crumb, making them a perfect breakfast treat to enjoy with your morning coffee. These muffins are not only delicious but also versatile enough for various occasions like brunch gatherings or as an afternoon snack.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Easy to Make – This recipe is straightforward, requiring simple ingredients and minimal preparation time.
• Delicious Flavor – The combination of sweet cranberry sauce and warm spices creates a delightful flavor profile that will please everyone.
• Perfect for Leftovers – Transform your leftover cranberry sauce into something special, minimizing food waste while enjoying a tasty treat.
• Versatile Snack – Enjoy them as a breakfast item, snack, or even dessert; these muffins fit any part of the day!
• Bakery-Style Texture – The crumb topping adds that extra bakery-quality feel, making each muffin feel indulgent.

Tools and Preparation

Before you start baking, gather your tools to ensure a smooth process. Having everything ready will help you focus on creating those delicious muffins!

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Muffin tin
• Mixing bowls
• Whisk
• Rubber spatula
• Measuring cups and spoons

Importance of Each Tool

• Muffin tin – Ensures even baking and gives those classic muffin shapes that are so appealing.
• Mixing bowls – Allows for efficient mixing of ingredients without any mess.
• Whisk – Ensures that dry ingredients are well combined and helps in achieving a fluffy batter.
• Rubber spatula – Ideal for folding in ingredients gently, maintaining the airiness of the 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). Grease or line a muffin tin with paper liners to prevent sticking.

Step 2: Make the Crumb Topping

In a bowl, combine:
* 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

Drizzle in the melted butter and mix until crumbly. Set aside.

Step 3: Mix Dry Ingredients for Muffins

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

Make sure the mixture is well combined before proceeding.

Step 4: Cream Butter and Sugars

In a separate mixing bowl, use an electric mixer to cream together:
* 1/2 cup unsalted butter
* 1 cup white sugar
* 1/3 cup light brown sugar

Beat until light and fluffy.

Step 5: Add Eggs and Wet Ingredients

Add in:
* 2 eggs
* 1/4 tsp vanilla extract
Mix until fully incorporated. Then add:
* 1/2 cup buttermilk
* 1/2 cup sour cream

Stir until smooth.

Step 6: Combine Wet and Dry Mixtures

Gradually fold the dry mixture into the wet ingredients using a rubber spatula. Be careful not to overmix; some lumps are okay!

Step 7: Layer with Cranberry Sauce

Spoon half of the muffin batter into each muffin cavity. Add about one tablespoon of cranberry sauce on top of this layer. Then cover with the remaining batter.

Step 8: Top with Crumb Mixture

Sprinkle the prepared crumb topping generously over each muffin.

Step 9: Bake

Place the muffin tin in your preheated oven. Bake for about 25 minutes or until golden brown and a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean.

Step 10: Cool and Serve

Allow muffins to cool in the pan for about five minutes before transferring them to wire racks. Serve warm or at room temperature with coffee! Enjoy your delicious Leftover Cranberry Sauce Coffee Cake Muffins!

How to Serve Leftover Cranberry Sauce Coffee Cake Muffins

Leftover Cranberry Sauce Coffee Cake Muffins are a delightful treat that can be enjoyed in various ways. Whether for breakfast or an afternoon snack, these muffins offer amazing flavor and versatility.

With a Hot Beverage

• Pair them with coffee for a classic breakfast combination.
• Enjoy with tea, which complements the sweetness of the cranberry sauce.

Spreadable Toppings

• Top with cream cheese for a rich and creamy addition.
• Try butter for a simple yet indulgent twist.

Fresh Fruit Sides

• Serve alongside sliced apples for a refreshing crunch.
• Add berries for a burst of flavor that enhances the muffin experience.

Breakfast Platter

• Create a breakfast spread featuring yogurt, nuts, and these muffins.
• Combine with scrambled eggs for a balanced morning meal.

How to Perfect Leftover Cranberry Sauce Coffee Cake Muffins

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

• Use fresh ingredients: Ensure your baking powder is fresh for optimal rise.
• Don’t overmix the batter: Gently combine ingredients to keep muffins fluffy and tender.
• Cool before serving: Let muffins cool slightly on a rack to enhance flavor and texture.
• Experiment with spices: Add nutmeg or ginger for an exciting twist on traditional flavors.

Best Side Dishes for Leftover Cranberry Sauce Coffee Cake Muffins

These muffins pair wonderfully with various side dishes that enhance their taste. Here are some great options to consider:

1. Greek Yogurt: A creamy and tangy side that balances the sweetness of the muffins.
2. Fruit Salad: A mix of seasonal fruits adds freshness and color to your plate.
3. Oatmeal: Serve warm oatmeal on the side for extra heartiness at breakfast.
4. Cheese Platter: Include mild cheeses that complement the sweet notes of cranberry sauce.
5. Granola Bars: For an on-the-go option, granola bars add crunch and energy.
6. Smoothies: A fruity smoothie is perfect alongside these muffins for added nutrition and flavor.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Avoiding common mistakes can make your Leftover Cranberry Sauce Coffee Cake Muffins even more delightful. Here are some pitfalls to watch out for:

• Using cold ingredients: Cold butter and eggs can lead to uneven mixing. Always let them come to room temperature before using.
• Overmixing the batter: This can result in tough muffins. Mix until just combined for a light texture.
• Not measuring flour correctly: Too much flour can make your muffins dense. Use a spoon to fluff the flour, then scoop it into the measuring cup.
• Skipping the crumb topping: The crumb adds flavor and texture. Don’t skip this step; it enhances the overall muffin experience.
• Ignoring baking time: Every oven is different. Keep an eye on your muffins towards the end of baking to prevent overcooking.

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• item Store muffins in an airtight container for up to 3 days.
• item Place parchment paper between layers if stacking to avoid sticking.

Freezing Leftover Cranberry Sauce Coffee Cake Muffins

• item Wrap each muffin individually in plastic wrap or aluminum foil.
• item Place wrapped muffins in a freezer-safe bag for up to 3 months.

Reheating Leftover Cranberry Sauce Coffee Cake Muffins

• item Oven: Preheat to 350°F (175°C) and warm muffins for about 10 minutes.
• item Microwave: Heat individual muffins on medium power for about 20-30 seconds until warmed through.
• item Stovetop: Place muffins in a skillet over low heat, cover, and warm gently for about 5 minutes.

Frequently Asked Questions

Here are some common questions about Leftover Cranberry Sauce Coffee Cake Muffins.

Can I use homemade cranberry sauce?

Yes, homemade cranberry sauce works perfectly! Just ensure it’s not too watery.

How long do these muffins last?

When stored properly, they can last up to 3 days in the refrigerator or up to 3 months in the freezer.

Can I substitute other fruits?

Absolutely! You can replace cranberry sauce with other berry sauces or fruit preserves based on your preference.

What can I serve with these muffins?

These muffins pair beautifully with coffee or tea, making them a perfect breakfast choice!

Final Thoughts

These Leftover Cranberry Sauce Coffee Cake Muffins are not only delicious but also versatile. They make a wonderful breakfast treat or a sweet snack at any time of day. Feel free to customize them by adding nuts, chocolate chips, or spices according to your taste!