If you are craving a bright, fruity, and delightfully moist treat, this Ambrosia Muffins Recipe will quickly become your new favorite morning or snack-time indulgence. Bursting with tropical flavors like juicy pineapple, mandarin oranges, and luscious coconut, these muffins capture the essence of a classic ambrosia salad but in a portable, tender muffin form. The combination of sugars, yogurt, and pecans creates a perfect balance of sweetness, texture, and richness that feels like a tiny celebration in every bite. Whether you are serving them for breakfast, brunch, or an anytime pick-me-up, you’ll find these Ambrosia Muffins simply irresistible.
Ingredients You’ll Need
Before you dive into baking, gather these essential ingredients. Each one plays a vital role, from the fluffy texture of the all-purpose flour to the tropical notes of the mandarin oranges and coconut, ensuring your Ambrosia Muffins Recipe comes out perfectly every time.
- 2 cups all-purpose flour: The base for your muffins, providing structure and tenderness.
- 1/2 cup granulated sugar: Adds sweetness and helps create a golden crust.
- 1/4 cup brown sugar: Brings a subtle molasses depth and moistness.
- 1 tablespoon baking powder: Essential leavening agent for light, airy muffins.
- 1/2 teaspoon baking soda: Reacts with yogurt for extra lift.
- 1/4 teaspoon salt: Balances sweetness and enhances overall flavor.
- 1/2 teaspoon ground cinnamon: Adds a warm, comforting spice without overpowering.
- 2 large eggs: Bind the ingredients and add richness.
- 1/2 cup plain Greek yogurt: Moistens the batter while adding a gentle tang.
- 1/2 cup whole milk: Keeps muffins tender and moist.
- 1/3 cup vegetable oil: Contributes to moistness and a soft crumb.
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract: Infuses a sweet aroma and enhances the fruit flavors.
- 1/2 cup crushed pineapple (drained): The tropical star that brightens every bite.
- 1/2 cup sweetened shredded coconut: Offers a chewy texture and tropical sweetness.
- 1/2 cup mandarin orange segments (chopped and drained): Bursts of juicy citrus that add freshness.
- 1/3 cup chopped maraschino cherries (patted dry): Brings vibrant color and a hint of tart sweetness.
- 1/2 cup chopped pecans (optional): Adds delightful crunch and a nutty note.
How to Make Ambrosia Muffins Recipe
Step 1: Prep Your Oven and Muffin Tin
Start by preheating your oven to 375°F (190°C). Line a 12-cup muffin tin with paper liners or lightly grease each cup to ensure your muffins release effortlessly after baking.
Step 2: Combine Dry Ingredients
In a large mixing bowl, whisk together the all-purpose flour, granulated sugar, brown sugar, baking powder, baking soda, salt, and ground cinnamon. Mixing these ingredients first ensures even distribution of leavening and spice throughout your batter.
Step 3: Mix Wet Ingredients
In another bowl, beat the eggs lightly. Then stir in the Greek yogurt, whole milk, vegetable oil, and vanilla extract until the mixture turns smooth and creamy. These wet components create the perfect moisture and richness for your muffins.
Step 4: Combine Wet and Dry Mixtures
Pour the wet ingredients into the dry ingredients and stir gently until just combined. Be careful not to overmix, or your muffins might turn out dense instead of tender.
Step 5: Fold in the Tropical Goodness
Gently fold in the crushed pineapple, shredded coconut, mandarin orange segments, maraschino cherries, and chopped pecans if you’re using them. Each piece adds a burst of flavor and texture that makes these muffins so memorable.
Step 6: Fill Muffin Cups and Bake
Divide the batter evenly into the prepared muffin cups, filling each about three-quarters full. Bake for 18 to 22 minutes until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean. This indicates your muffins are perfectly cooked inside while still tender.
Step 7: Cool and Enjoy
Allow the muffins to cool in the pan for about 5 minutes before transferring them to a wire rack to cool completely. This step helps the muffins set and makes them easier to handle without falling apart.
How to Serve Ambrosia Muffins Recipe
Garnishes
For an extra touch of charm, sprinkle some toasted coconut flakes or a light dusting of powdered sugar right before serving. These garnishes add visual appeal and a bit of extra flavor that pairs beautifully with the tropical fruit inside.
Side Dishes
Ambrosia muffins make a fantastic companion to a hot cup of coffee or tea, but they also shine alongside a fresh fruit salad or creamy yogurt. These pairings enhance the tropical flavors and make your meal feel complete and nourishing.
Creative Ways to Present
Serve your Ambrosia Muffins Recipe with a smear of cream cheese or a drizzle of honey for an added layer of indulgence. For a festive touch, place them in a tiered dessert stand during brunch or pack them as a cheerful surprise for a picnic or lunchbox.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
If you find yourself with extra muffins, store them in an airtight container at room temperature for up to three days. Keeping them sealed prevents them from drying out while preserving their tender crumb and juicy fruit bits.
Freezing
To enjoy Ambrosia Muffins Recipe anytime, wrap each muffin individually in plastic wrap or aluminum foil, then place them in a freezer-safe bag. They’ll keep well for up to 3 months and thaw quickly for a quick tropical treat whenever you want.
Reheating
Warm frozen or refrigerated muffins in the microwave for about 20 to 30 seconds or pop them in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for 5 to 7 minutes. Reheating refreshes their soft texture and brings back the vibrant fruit flavors.
FAQs
Can I substitute Greek yogurt with regular yogurt?
Absolutely! Regular plain yogurt works just fine. Greek yogurt adds a bit more creaminess and tang, but either will keep your Ambrosia Muffins moist and flavorful.
Are these muffins suitable for a vegetarian diet?
Yes, this Ambrosia Muffins Recipe is completely vegetarian-friendly as it does not include any meat products or gelatin.
Can I omit the pecans if I have a nut allergy?
Definitely. Simply leave out the pecans or replace them with seeds such as sunflower or pumpkin seeds for a different crunch without nuts.
Is there a way to make these muffins gluten-free?
You can try substituting the all-purpose flour with a gluten-free flour blend that includes xanthan gum. Be mindful that texture might slightly vary, but it’s a great option for gluten-free diets.
Can I prepare the batter the night before?
While it’s best to bake the batter fresh for fluffiest results, you can prepare it the night before, cover tightly, and refrigerate. Stir gently before portioning into muffin tins and bake as directed.
Final Thoughts
There is something truly joyful about biting into an Ambrosia Muffins Recipe filled with tropical fruits and tender coconut. These muffins bring a sunny brightness to your day, whether for breakfast or a sweet snack. I highly encourage you to try making these delightful muffins—they’re a warm hug in muffin form that’s sure to bring smiles around your table.
Print
Ambrosia Muffins Recipe
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Total Time: 35 minutes
- Yield: 12 muffins 1x
- Category: Breakfast
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
- Diet: Vegetarian
Description
Ambrosia Muffins are tropical-inspired breakfast treats bursting with sweet crushed pineapple, mandarin oranges, coconut, and maraschino cherries, balanced by a tender, spiced batter. These moist and flavorful muffins combine the freshness of fruit with the warmth of cinnamon, making them a delightful morning indulgence or a sweet snack.
Ingredients
Dry Ingredients
- 2 cups all-purpose flour
- 1/2 cup granulated sugar
- 1/4 cup brown sugar
- 1 tablespoon baking powder
- 1/2 teaspoon baking soda
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 teaspoon ground cinnamon
Wet Ingredients
- 2 large eggs
- 1/2 cup plain Greek yogurt
- 1/2 cup whole milk
- 1/3 cup vegetable oil
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
Fruit and Nuts
- 1/2 cup crushed pineapple (drained)
- 1/2 cup sweetened shredded coconut
- 1/2 cup mandarin orange segments (chopped and drained)
- 1/3 cup chopped maraschino cherries (patted dry)
- 1/2 cup chopped pecans (optional)
Instructions
- Preheat Oven and Prepare Pan: Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Line a 12-cup muffin tin with paper liners or gently grease it to prevent sticking.
- Mix Dry Ingredients: In a large mixing bowl, whisk together the all-purpose flour, granulated sugar, brown sugar, baking powder, baking soda, salt, and ground cinnamon until evenly combined.
- Combine Wet Ingredients: In a separate bowl, beat the eggs vigorously. Then add the plain Greek yogurt, whole milk, vegetable oil, and vanilla extract, stirring until the mixture is smooth and homogenous.
- Combine Wet and Dry Mixtures: Pour the wet ingredient mixture into the bowl of dry ingredients. Stir gently but thoroughly until just combined; avoid overmixing to keep the muffins tender.
- Fold in Fruits and Nuts: Carefully fold in the drained crushed pineapple, sweetened shredded coconut, chopped mandarin oranges, patted dry chopped maraschino cherries, and the optional chopped pecans, distributing them evenly throughout the batter.
- Fill Muffin Cups: Spoon the batter into the prepared muffin tin, filling each cup about three-quarters full to allow room for rising.
- Bake: Place the muffin tin in the preheated oven and bake for 18 to 22 minutes. Check doneness by inserting a toothpick into the center of a muffin; it should come out clean.
- Cool: Allow the muffins to cool in the pan for about 5 minutes before transferring them to a wire rack to cool completely, which prevents sogginess at the bottom.
Notes
- Ensure all fruit components are well-drained to prevent soggy muffins.
- These muffins are best eaten the day they are baked but can be stored in an airtight container for up to 3 days or frozen for longer preservation.
- For added texture and flavor, sprinkle shredded coconut or turbinado sugar on top prior to baking.
