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 served alongside coffee. These muffins are not just delicious; they are also versatile enough for any occasion, from holiday gatherings to cozy weekend brunches.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Delicious and Moist: The cranberry sauce adds a delightful tartness that balances the sweetness of the muffins.
• Easy to Make: With simple ingredients and straightforward steps, even beginner bakers can whip these up in no time.
• Perfect for Leftovers: Transform your leftover cranberry sauce into something special instead of letting it go to waste.
• Versatile Serving Options: Enjoy them warm for breakfast or as an afternoon snack with tea or coffee.
• Impressive Presentation: These muffins look beautiful and are sure to impress family and friends at any gathering.

Tools and Preparation

Before you start baking, gather your tools and equipment to make the process smooth and enjoyable.

Essential Tools and Equipment

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

Importance of Each Tool

• Muffin tin: Ensures uniform cooking; each muffin turns out perfectly shaped.
• Mixing bowls: Allows for easy mixing of dry and wet ingredients without mess.
• Whisk: Ideal for ensuring your batter is well combined and fluffy.
• Rubber spatula: Great for scraping down the sides of bowls, ensuring no ingredient is left behind.

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Ingredients

For the 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: Preheat the Oven

Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease your muffin tin or line it with muffin liners.

Step 2: Prepare the 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 butter. Mix until crumbly and set aside.

Step 3: Mix Dry Ingredients for Muffins

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

Make sure there are no lumps.

Step 4: Cream Butter and Sugars

In another bowl, cream together:
1. 1/2 cup unsalted butter (softened)
2. 1 cup white sugar
3. 1/3 cup light brown sugar

Beat in:
4. 2 eggs one at a time until well blended.
5. Stir in 1/4 tsp vanilla extract.

Step 5: Add Wet Ingredients

Mix in:
6. 1/2 cup buttermilk
7. 1/2 cup sour cream

Blend until smooth.

Step 6: Combine Wet and Dry Mixtures

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

Step 7: Fold in Cranberry Sauce

Gently fold in:
8. 1 cup cranberry sauce until evenly distributed through the batter.

Step 8: Fill Muffin Tin

Scoop the batter into each muffin tin about two-thirds full. Sprinkle the topping generously over each muffin.

Step 9: Bake

Bake in the preheated oven for about 25 minutes or until a toothpick inserted comes out clean.

Step 10: Cool Down

Allow muffins to cool in the pan for about five minutes before transferring them to a wire rack to cool completely.

Enjoy your delightful Leftover Cranberry Sauce Coffee Cake Muffins!

How to Serve Leftover Cranberry Sauce Coffee Cake Muffins

These delicious Leftover Cranberry Sauce Coffee Cake Muffins are perfect for breakfast or a snack. They pair wonderfully with various beverages and dishes, making them a versatile treat.

With a Warm Beverage

• Coffee: The rich flavors of coffee complement the muffins beautifully, enhancing the taste of the cranberry sauce.
• Tea: A soothing cup of herbal or black tea balances the sweetness of the muffins, creating a delightful contrast.

As Part of a Breakfast Spread

• Fresh Fruit: Serve with sliced oranges or berries for a refreshing side that adds color and nutrition to your meal.
• Yogurt: A dollop of plain or flavored yogurt on the side provides creaminess and pairs well with cranberry flavors.

For Afternoon Snacks

• Cheese Platter: Pair with mild cheeses like brie or gouda for a savory element that contrasts the sweetness of the muffins.
• Nuts: A handful of almonds or walnuts adds crunch and makes for a satisfying snack alongside your muffin.

How to Perfect Leftover Cranberry Sauce Coffee Cake Muffins

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

• Use room temperature ingredients: Let your butter, eggs, and dairy come to room temperature for easier mixing and better texture.
• Don’t overmix: Combine wet and dry ingredients just until blended. Overmixing can lead to dense muffins.
• Check doneness: Insert a toothpick in the center; if it comes out clean, your muffins are ready. Avoid overbaking for best results.
• Cool before serving: Allow muffins to cool in the pan for 5 minutes before transferring them to a wire rack. This helps maintain their moisture.
• Experiment with toppings: Try adding chopped nuts or a sprinkle of oatmeal on top before baking for added crunch.
• Store properly: Keep leftovers in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days, or freeze them for longer storage.

Best Side Dishes for Leftover Cranberry Sauce Coffee Cake Muffins

These muffins are delicious on their own, but they can be even better with some tasty side dishes. Consider these options:

1. Fruit Salad: A mix of seasonal fruits adds freshness and balances out the sweet flavors of the muffins.
2. Granola Parfait: Layer yogurt, granola, and fresh berries in a glass for an eye-catching and nutritious addition to your meal.
3. Smoothie Bowl: Blend your favorite fruits and top with nuts, seeds, and coconut flakes for a refreshing side that’s full of flavor.
4. Savory Quiche: A slice of quiche filled with vegetables or cheese provides protein and complements the sweetness of the muffins.
5. Oatmeal: Creamy oatmeal topped with fruits can create a heartier breakfast option when served alongside muffins.
6. Herbed Cream Cheese Spread: A flavorful spread can enhance your muffin experience, adding creaminess and savory notes.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Avoiding common mistakes can elevate your Leftover Cranberry Sauce Coffee Cake Muffins from good to great. Here are some pitfalls to watch out for:

• Using cold ingredients: Make sure your butter, eggs, and buttermilk are at room temperature for better mixing and fluffiness.

• Skipping the muffin liners: Using liners helps with easy removal and keeps muffins intact. Don’t forget them!

• Overmixing the batter: Mixing too much can lead to dense muffins. Stir until just combined for a light texture.

• Not measuring accurately: Use proper measuring tools for flour and sugar. Incorrect measurements can affect the final product.

• Ignoring baking times: Keep an eye on your muffins as they bake. Every oven is different, so check for doneness a few minutes early.

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Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store muffins in an airtight container for up to 3 days.
• Place parchment paper between layers to prevent sticking.

Freezing Leftover Cranberry Sauce Coffee Cake Muffins

• Wrap each muffin tightly in plastic wrap and place them in a freezer-safe bag.
• They can be frozen for up to 3 months.

Reheating Leftover Cranberry Sauce Coffee Cake Muffins

• Oven: Preheat to 350°F (175°C) and heat muffins for about 10-15 minutes.
• Microwave: Heat one muffin at a time for about 20-30 seconds.
• Stovetop: Place in a skillet over low heat, covered, for a few minutes until warmed through.

Frequently Asked Questions

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

Can I use homemade cranberry sauce?

Yes! Homemade cranberry sauce works wonderfully in this recipe, adding fresh flavor.

How do I customize my muffins?

Feel free to add nuts or chocolate chips to the batter before baking for added texture and sweetness.

Can I make these muffins gluten-free?

Absolutely! Substitute all-purpose flour with a gluten-free blend designed for baking.

How do I know when my muffins are done?

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

Final Thoughts

These Leftover Cranberry Sauce Coffee Cake Muffins offer a delightful way to use up leftover cranberry sauce while providing a tasty breakfast or snack option. Feel free to customize them with mix-ins like nuts or spices according to your taste preferences. Enjoy baking these scrumptious treats!