These Easy Cherry Cobbler Muffins are moist and fruity with a delightful burst of cherry in every bite. They’re quick to make and perfect for breakfast or as a sweet snack!
I love whipping these up when I need a treat that feels special but is super simple. Grab a muffin and a hot cup of coffee—it’s the perfect start to the day! ☕️
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
All-purpose flour: This is the base of your muffins. If you’re looking for a gluten-free option, try a 1-to-1 gluten-free flour blend. I’ve had success with almond flour too, but you may need to adjust the liquid since it absorbs more moisture.
Granulated sugar: It adds sweetness and helps with browning. If you want something less processed, coconut sugar or honey works well, but honey may change the texture slightly, so start with less and adjust to taste.
Cherries: Fresh cherries are fantastic but if they’re out of season, frozen cherries are a great substitute. Just make sure to thaw and drain them to avoid excess moisture. I’ve also used blueberries when cherries weren’t available!
Unsalted butter: It gives muffins richness. You can replace it with vegetable oil or melted coconut oil if you’re looking for a dairy-free option. I sometimes use olive oil for a slight flavor twist.
How Do You Avoid Overmixing the Batter?
Overmixing can lead to dense muffins, so it’s important to be gentle! Here are some pointers:
- Mix the dry and wet ingredients separately before combining them.
- When you combine, use a spatula and fold gently until just a few streaks of flour remain. It’s okay if the batter isn’t perfectly smooth—some lumps are fine!
- Once you add the cherries, fold them in just until they’re evenly distributed. Remember—less mixing equals fluffier muffins!
Easy Cherry Cobbler Muffins
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- 2 cups all-purpose flour
- 3/4 cup granulated sugar
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 2 teaspoons baking powder
- 1/2 cup unsalted butter, melted
- 1 cup milk
- 1 large egg
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1 1/2 cups fresh or frozen cherries, pitted and chopped
- 1/4 cup brown sugar (for topping)
- 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon (for topping)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This delightful muffin recipe takes about 10 minutes for prep and 20-25 minutes for baking. Make sure to allow a few extra minutes for cooling before serving. In total, you’re looking at around 35-40 minutes from start to finish—perfect for a quick treat!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Preheat & Prepare:
Start by preheating your oven to 375°F (190°C). While that’s heating up, line a muffin tin with paper liners or lightly grease it. This helps keep your muffins from sticking!
2. Mix Dry Ingredients:
In a large bowl, add the flour, granulated sugar, salt, and baking powder. Whisk them together until they’re well combined. This is key for even flavor and texture in your muffins.
3. Whisk Wet Ingredients:
In another bowl, whisk together the melted butter, milk, egg, and vanilla extract until everything is nicely combined. The melted butter should not be too hot; it should only be warm to avoid cooking the egg.
4. Combine Wet and Dry Ingredients:
Now, pour the wet ingredients into the bowl with the dry ingredients. Gently stir until just combined. Remember, it’s okay if the mixture is a little lumpy—overmixing will make your muffins tough!
5. Add the Cherries:
Carefully fold in the chopped cherries. This adds a lovely fruity flavor and makes the muffins special.
6. Fill the Muffin Cups:
Divide the batter evenly among the muffin cups, filling each about 3/4 full. This gives them room to rise without overflowing!
7. Prepare the Topping:
In a small bowl, mix the brown sugar and cinnamon together. Sprinkle this mixture generously over the muffin batter for a sweet, crunchy topping.
8. Bake the Muffins:
Place the muffin tin in the preheated oven and bake for 20-25 minutes. They’re done when a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean. The tops should be golden brown.
9. Cool the Muffins:
Once baked, let the muffins cool in the tin for about 5 minutes. Then, carefully transfer them to a wire rack to cool completely. This helps them stay fluffy and prevents sogginess.
10. Serve & Enjoy:
Serve your cherry cobbler muffins warm or at room temperature. They make a delicious breakfast or a sweet treat any time of day. Enjoy every bite!
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Can I Use Frozen Cherries Instead of Fresh?
Yes, you can use frozen cherries! Just make sure to thaw and drain them before adding to the batter to prevent excess moisture. This way, your muffins will still have a great texture!
How Should I Store Leftover Muffins?
Store any leftover muffins in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days. If you want to keep them for longer, you can freeze them for up to 3 months. Just thaw at room temperature or warm them in the microwave when you’re ready to enjoy!
Can I Make These Muffins Gluten-Free?
Absolutely! You can substitute the all-purpose flour with a 1-to-1 gluten-free flour blend. Just keep in mind that the texture might be slightly different. Be sure to check that all other ingredients are also gluten-free.
What Can I Use Instead of Butter?
If you prefer a dairy-free option, you can use vegetable oil or melted coconut oil in place of the unsalted butter. Just use the same amount, and if you’re using coconut oil, ensure it’s melted but not hot before adding it to the batter.
