These Almond Cherry Muffins bring the perfect balance of fruity sweetness and nutty richness. Juicy cherry pieces are folded into a tender, buttery batter and topped with slivered almonds that toast beautifully in the oven.
Whether you’re enjoying a quiet morning or need a comforting bake for sharing, these muffins offer a nostalgic flavor and bakery-style texture with minimal effort. Serve them warm with a cup of tea or coffee, and you’re guaranteed smiles all around.
Full Recipe
Ingredients:
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1½ cups (210g) all-purpose flour
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1 teaspoon baking powder
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¼ teaspoon baking soda
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¼ teaspoon salt
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½ cup (115g) unsalted butter, softened
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⅔ cup (135g) granulated sugar
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2 large eggs
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½ teaspoon almond extract
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½ cup (120g) sour cream or plain yogurt
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¾ cup (120g) fresh or frozen cherries, pitted and halved
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¼ cup sliced almonds, for topping
Directions:
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Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Line a 12-cup muffin pan with paper liners or lightly grease.
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In a medium bowl, whisk together flour, baking powder, baking soda, and salt. Set aside.
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In a large bowl, beat the butter and sugar together until light and fluffy. Add eggs, one at a time, mixing well after each addition. Stir in the almond extract.
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Add the sour cream and mix until just combined. Gently fold in the flour mixture until fully incorporated.
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Fold in the cherries gently, being careful not to overmix.
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Divide the batter evenly among the muffin cups. Sprinkle sliced almonds on top.
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Bake for 18–22 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean.
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Let muffins cool in the pan for 5 minutes before transferring to a wire rack to cool completely.
Prep Time: 15 minutes | Cooking Time: 20 minutes | Total Time: 35 minutes
Kcal: 230 kcal | Servings: 12 muffins
Introduction to Almond Cherry Muffins
When it comes to homemade baked goods that effortlessly blend fruity brightness with nutty warmth, Almond Cherry Muffins are a timeless favorite. These muffins offer the perfect balance between soft, tender crumb and flavorful richness. The sweetness of cherries, slightly tart and juicy, pairs beautifully with the subtle marzipan-like taste of almond extract. Topped with crunchy sliced almonds, each bite offers a delightful texture contrast that elevates a simple muffin into a bakery-worthy treat.
Almond Cherry Muffins are not just delicious; they’re also incredibly versatile and easy to make. Whether you’re a beginner baker or a seasoned home cook, this recipe fits right into your repertoire. You can serve these muffins as a quick breakfast, an afternoon pick-me-up, or even a light dessert. They’re wonderful fresh out of the oven, but they also store well and maintain their moisture for several days—making them a great make-ahead option for busy households.
The Charm of Cherry and Almond Together
The cherry-almond flavor combination is a classic one in European baking, especially popular in French and British desserts. The natural sweetness of cherries balances the aromatic and slightly bitter taste of almond extract. This pairing enhances both flavors, creating a harmony that tastes far more sophisticated than the simplicity of the ingredients would suggest.
Fresh cherries, when in season, make the muffins extra juicy and flavorful, but frozen cherries work beautifully as well, allowing you to enjoy this recipe year-round. As the muffins bake, the cherries soften and release their juices, infusing the batter with flavor pockets and adding moisture that keeps the crumb tender.
The almond component comes through in two forms—almond extract mixed into the batter and a generous sprinkle of sliced almonds on top. The extract lends that signature nutty essence throughout the muffin, while the sliced almonds toast in the oven and provide a golden, crunchy topping that’s as visually appealing as it is tasty.
Perfect for Any Occasion
One of the greatest features of Almond Cherry Muffins is how adaptable they are to different settings and occasions. Hosting a weekend brunch? These muffins add a charming homemade touch to your table. Need something to tuck into a school or work lunchbox? Their mess-free, individually portioned form makes them ideal. Even at more formal events like bridal showers or baby showers, they hold their own on a dessert platter.
Because they’re not overly sweet, Almond Cherry Muffins appeal to a wide audience. They’re sweet enough to satisfy a craving but not so sugary that they feel like a full-on dessert. This makes them perfect for moments when you want something comforting and satisfying without indulging too heavily.
Customizations and Variations
The base recipe for Almond Cherry Muffins is solid and forgiving, making it an excellent canvas for creative bakers. Here are a few popular variations and additions to consider:
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Chocolate Chips: Add dark or white chocolate chips to the batter for a decadent twist.
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Coconut Flakes: For a tropical flair, mix in shredded coconut, which pairs surprisingly well with both cherries and almonds.
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Citrus Zest: A little lemon or orange zest adds a bright, zippy contrast to the richness of the almonds.
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Alternative Flours: Swap out part of the all-purpose flour with almond flour for an even more pronounced almond flavor and a slightly denser texture.
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Gluten-Free Option: Use a gluten-free flour blend to make these muffins celiac-friendly without sacrificing texture or flavor.
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Vegan Substitutes: Replace eggs with flaxseed meal and butter with plant-based alternatives to make a vegan version that still delivers on taste.
These variations not only expand the possibilities for your muffins but also allow you to tailor them to dietary preferences or available pantry ingredients.
Baking Tips for the Best Results
Even though Almond Cherry Muffins are simple to prepare, a few expert tips can ensure they turn out bakery-perfect every time:
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Don’t Overmix the Batter: Overmixing can lead to dense, tough muffins. Mix just until the flour is incorporated.
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Room Temperature Ingredients: Use room temperature butter, eggs, and sour cream for a smoother batter and even baking.
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Use Fresh or Properly Thawed Cherries: If using frozen cherries, make sure to thaw and drain them well to avoid excess moisture that could affect the muffin structure.
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Proper Oven Temperature: Ensure your oven is fully preheated to 350°F (175°C) before baking. An oven thermometer can be helpful, as oven temperatures often vary.
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Even Distribution: Use an ice cream scoop or measuring cup to distribute the batter evenly, ensuring all muffins bake at the same rate.
Health Benefits of Almonds and Cherries
While muffins aren’t necessarily “health food,” incorporating almonds and cherries does offer some nutritional perks:
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Almonds are rich in healthy fats, vitamin E, fiber, and protein. They contribute to satiety and provide a satisfying crunch without adding excessive sugar.
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Cherries are loaded with antioxidants, particularly anthocyanins, which give them their deep red color and have been linked to anti-inflammatory benefits. They also contain vitamin C and potassium.
Together, these ingredients make Almond Cherry Muffins a more balanced indulgence—especially when enjoyed as part of a well-rounded breakfast or snack.
Storage and Make-Ahead Tips
These muffins are perfect for meal prepping or entertaining in advance. After baking, let them cool completely before storing:
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Room Temperature: Store in an airtight container for up to 3 days.
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Refrigeration: If you live in a humid climate or want them to last a bit longer, refrigerate them for up to 5 days.
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Freezing: Almond Cherry Muffins freeze exceptionally well. Place them in a freezer-safe bag or container and freeze for up to 2 months. Thaw at room temperature or microwave for 20–30 seconds for a quick warm-up.
They maintain their flavor and texture wonderfully, making them a reliable grab-and-go option on busy mornings.
Why You’ll Fall in Love With This Recipe
From the comforting aroma that fills your kitchen as they bake to the burst of cherry and almond flavor in each bite, Almond Cherry Muffins are more than just a baked treat—they’re a nostalgic, homemade experience. They’re the kind of baked good that makes people pause, smile, and ask, “Did you make these yourself?”
The ease of preparation, coupled with their crowd-pleasing taste and lovely presentation, ensures that this recipe will quickly become one of your go-tos. Whether you’re baking for yourself, your family, or guests, these muffins make a simple yet impressive statement.
Conclusion
Almond Cherry Muffins are a delightful example of how a few simple ingredients can come together to create something truly special. They’re quick to make, adaptable to different occasions, and undeniably delicious. Their fruity, nutty flavor combination offers a refreshing departure from more common muffin varieties like blueberry or banana, making them stand out on any breakfast table or snack tray.
In a world of fast food and processed snacks, there’s something deeply comforting about baking a batch of muffins from scratch. Almond Cherry Muffins are a small luxury you can enjoy with your morning coffee, share with loved ones, or even gift as a homemade gesture. Once you try them, they’re sure to become a staple in your baking rotation.
If you’re looking to bring a bit more joy and homemade warmth into your kitchen, this recipe is the perfect place to start.