If you’re on the hunt for a muffin that bursts with tropical brightness and a perfect blend of sweet and tangy flavor, then this Ambrosia Muffins Recipe is about to become your new favorite go-to. Imagine fluffy, moist muffins packed with the lusciousness of coconut milk, the zing of orange zest, and the vibrant pop of dried tart cherries and pineapple—all topped with a crumbly, nutty streusel that adds that perfect crunch. This recipe combines familiar comfort with a tropical twist, making these muffins irresistible for breakfast, a snack, or even a delightful dessert. Once you try this Ambrosia Muffins Recipe, you’ll wonder how you ever enjoyed muffins without these layers of delightful texture and flavor.
Ingredients You’ll Need
These ingredients may look simple, but each one plays an essential role in creating those moist, flavorful muffins with a perfect crumb. From the all-purpose flour providing structure to the zesty orange peel uplifting the flavors, every component is thoughtfully picked to make this Ambrosia Muffins Recipe stand out.
- 2 ½ cups all-purpose flour: The foundation of your muffin’s tender crumb and structure.
- 1 cup granulated sugar: Adds sweetness and helps with browning for a beautiful muffin top.
- 1 tablespoon baking powder: Your secret to light, fluffy muffins by creating lift as they bake.
- 1 teaspoon Kosher salt: Enhances all the other flavors and balances sweetness.
- 1 â…“ cups unsweetened coconut milk: Brings moisture and a gentle, tropical creaminess.
- 1 (8 oz.) can crushed pineapple, drained well: Infuses juicy, tropical flavor without making muffins soggy.
- â…“ cup canola oil: Keeps muffins tender and moist without overpowering the delicate flavors.
- 2 large eggs, lightly beaten: Adds richness and helps bind everything together.
- 1 tablespoon orange zest: Brightens the muffins with a fresh citrusy note.
- 1 cup dried tart cherries: Offers a delightful tangy contrast and chewy texture.
- For the streusel topping: ⅔ cup all-purpose flour, ⅔ cup packed brown sugar, 6 tablespoons unsalted butter (softened), ¼ cup chopped pecans, ¼ cup sweetened flaked coconut, ½ teaspoon Kosher salt, ½ teaspoon orange zest—each adds a buttery, crunchy layer packed with flavor and texture.
How to Make Ambrosia Muffins Recipe
Step 1: Prepare Your Streusel Topping
Start by mixing the flour, brown sugar, softened butter, chopped pecans, flaked coconut, salt, and orange zest in a bowl. Use your fingers or a pastry cutter to crumble everything together until it forms coarse, sandy clumps. This topping will bake beautifully on top of the muffins, creating a sweet, crunchy finish that perfectly complements the tender crumb below.
Step 2: Combine the Dry Ingredients
In a large mixing bowl, whisk together 2 ½ cups of flour, granulated sugar, baking powder, and salt. This ensures that your leavening will distribute evenly and gives a solid base for the batter.
Step 3: Mix the Wet Ingredients
In a separate bowl, blend the coconut milk, drained crushed pineapple, canola oil, eggs, and orange zest. It’s important to mix these ingredients gently but thoroughly, so the tropical flavors meld beautifully without deflating the eggs.
Step 4: Combine Wet and Dry Mixtures
Pour the wet mixture into the dry ingredients and fold gently with a spatula or wooden spoon until just combined. Don’t overmix—just enough to bring everything together, with a few dry streaks still visible to keep your muffins tender.
Step 5: Fold in the Cherries
Gently fold the dried tart cherries into the batter, spreading their tartness throughout for a pop of flavor in each bite. This balances the sweetness and brings a lovely texture contrast to the muffins.
Step 6: Fill Muffin Cups and Add Streusel
Spoon the batter evenly into a greased or lined 18-cup muffin tin, filling each about three-quarters full. Generously sprinkle the prepared streusel topping on each muffin—don’t hold back, this is where the magic happens.
Step 7: Bake to Perfection
Bake in a preheated 350°F (175°C) oven for about 20 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean. The muffin tops will be golden brown and studded with the caramelized coconut and pecans from the streusel.
How to Serve Ambrosia Muffins Recipe
Garnishes
A simple dusting of powdered sugar or a drizzle of a light orange glaze can elevate these muffins, adding a touch of sparkle and an extra hint of citrus that ties beautifully with the zest inside.
Side Dishes
Ambrosia muffins pair wonderfully with fresh fruit salad, a dollop of vanilla yogurt, or even a slice of sharp cheddar cheese to counterbalance their sweetness in an unexpected but delicious way.
Creative Ways to Present
Try serving these muffins warm with a pat of coconut butter melting on top or stack them alongside mini jars of marmalade for a charming brunch display that’s both inviting and impressive.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Once completely cooled, store your Ambrosia Muffins Recipe muffins in an airtight container at room temperature for up to three days. They stay surprisingly moist and flavorful, perfect for keeping your snack game strong.
Freezing
If you want to make these ahead of time, freeze the muffins individually wrapped in plastic wrap and then in a freezer bag. They keep wonderfully frozen for up to three months without losing their fresh-from-the-oven appeal.
Reheating
To enjoy frozen muffins, thaw at room temperature and warm in the oven at 325°F (160°C) for 5-7 minutes to revive the crumb and bring back that fresh-baked aroma. Microwave reheating works too but may soften the streusel topping slightly.
FAQs
Can I substitute the coconut milk with regular milk?
Absolutely! Regular milk will work just fine, but coconut milk adds a subtle tropical creaminess that really complements the pineapple and coconut flavors in the muffins.
Do I have to drain the pineapple? What happens if I don’t?
Yes, draining the pineapple is crucial to prevent excess moisture, which could lead to soggy muffins or longer baking times.
Can I use fresh pineapple instead of canned?
Fresh pineapple can be used but be sure to finely chop and drain it well, as fresh pineapple has more juice that could affect the muffin texture.
Is there a way to make the muffins gluten-free?
You can try substituting all-purpose flour with a gluten-free flour blend designed for baking. Keep in mind the texture may vary slightly, but the flavors will still shine through.
How long will these muffins stay fresh?
Stored properly in an airtight container, these delicious Ambrosia Muffins Recipe muffins stay fresh for about three days at room temperature and up to a week in the fridge.
Final Thoughts
I can honestly say this Ambrosia Muffins Recipe captures all the sunshine and happiness you want in a muffin. Its lush tropical flavors with the perfect crumb and a crunchy topping make it a true standout whether you’re baking for friends, family, or just yourself. You’re going to love the way these muffins brighten your mornings and uplift any time of day—give this recipe a try and watch it become a treasured classic in your kitchen!
Print
Ambrosia Muffins Recipe
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Total Time: 35 minutes
- Yield: 18 muffins
- Category: Breakfast, Snack
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Description
Ambrosia Muffins are moist, flavorful treats bursting with tropical flavors of pineapple, coconut, and orange zest, complemented by the tartness of dried cherries and a crunchy pecan topping. These muffins are perfect for breakfast or a delightful snack, combining a tender crumb with a sweet, nutty streusel.
Ingredients
Muffin Batter
- 2 ½ cups all-purpose flour
- 1 cup granulated sugar
- 1 tablespoon baking powder
- 1 teaspoon Kosher salt
- 1 â…“ cups unsweetened coconut milk
- 1 (8 oz.) can crushed pineapple, drained well
- â…“ cup canola oil
- 2 large eggs, lightly beaten
- 1 tablespoon orange zest
- 1 cup dried tart cherries
Streusel Topping
- â…” cup all-purpose flour
- â…” cup packed brown sugar
- 6 tablespoons unsalted butter, softened
- ¼ cup chopped pecans
- ¼ cup sweetened flaked coconut
- ½ teaspoon Kosher salt
- ½ teaspoon orange zest
Instructions
- Preheat and prepare muffin tin: Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Line a muffin tin with paper liners or grease it lightly to prevent sticking.
- Mix dry ingredients for batter: In a large bowl, whisk together 2 ½ cups flour, granulated sugar, baking powder, and 1 teaspoon Kosher salt until evenly combined.
- Combine wet ingredients: In a separate bowl, mix the unsweetened coconut milk, drained crushed pineapple, canola oil, beaten eggs, and orange zest until well blended.
- Make the muffin batter: Gradually add the wet ingredients into the dry ingredients, stirring gently until just combined. Be careful not to overmix; some lumps are fine.
- Fold in dried cherries: Gently fold 1 cup of dried tart cherries into the batter ensuring they are evenly distributed.
- Prepare streusel topping: In a medium bowl, combine ⅔ cup flour, brown sugar, softened butter, chopped pecans, sweetened flaked coconut, ½ teaspoon Kosher salt, and ½ teaspoon orange zest. Using a fork or your fingers, mix until the mixture forms coarse crumbs.
- Fill muffin cups and top: Spoon the batter evenly into the prepared muffin cups, filling about 2/3 full. Sprinkle the streusel topping generously over each muffin.
- Bake the muffins: Place the muffin tin in the preheated oven and bake for about 20 minutes or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean and the tops are golden brown.
- Cool and serve: Remove the muffins from the oven and let them cool in the pan for 5 minutes before transferring to a wire rack to cool completely. Serve warm or at room temperature.
Notes
- Ensure pineapple is well drained to avoid soggy muffins.
- Do not overmix the batter to keep muffins tender and light.
- You can substitute dried tart cherries with dried cranberries if preferred.
- Store muffins in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days or freeze for longer storage.
- The streusel topping adds a delightful crunch but can be omitted for a simpler muffin.
