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Muffins are a beloved staple in many kitchens, celebrated for their versatility as breakfast or snack options. With their delightful textures and endless flavor combinations, muffins can cater to any palate. Whether enjoyed on a cozy morning or packed into lunchboxes, these baked goods have a unique way of bringing joy and comfort. Today, we’ll delve into a special recipe that perfectly encapsulates the essence of fall and winter: Pear & Cranberry Sauce Muffins. This unique treat combines the sweet and juicy flavor of pears with the tartness of cranberry sauce, creating a harmonious blend that’s both delicious and nutritious.

Pear & Cranberry Sauce Muffins

Discover the joy of baking with Pear & Cranberry Sauce Muffins, a perfect treat for the fall and winter seasons. This simple recipe combines the sweetness of fresh pears with the tartness of cranberry sauce, resulting in delicious, fluffy muffins that everyone will love. Packed with vitamins and fiber, these muffins are not only a tasty snack but also a nutritious choice. Ideal for breakfast or as an afternoon pick-me-up, they are a delightful addition to any table. Get ready to fill your kitchen with wonderful aromas while creating a seasonal favorite!

Ingredients
  

1 ½ cups all-purpose flour

1 teaspoon baking powder

½ teaspoon baking soda

½ teaspoon salt

½ cup granulated sugar

¼ cup brown sugar, packed

½ cup unsalted butter, melted and cooled to room temperature

2 large eggs

1 teaspoon vanilla extract

1 medium pear, peeled and diced (about 1 cup)

1 cup cranberry sauce (homemade or store-bought)

½ teaspoon ground cinnamon (optional)

¼ cup chopped walnuts or pecans (optional)

Instructions
 

Preheat the Oven: Set your oven to preheat at 350°F (175°C). Prepare a muffin tin by lining it with paper liners or coating it with non-stick cooking spray for easy removal.

    Mix Dry Ingredients: In a large mixing bowl, combine the all-purpose flour, baking powder, baking soda, salt, granulated sugar, brown sugar, and ground cinnamon (if using). Whisk these ingredients together until they are fully blended and free of lumps.

      Combine Wet Ingredients: In a separate bowl, whisk together the melted butter, eggs, and vanilla extract until the mixture is smooth and uniform in texture.

        Combine Mixtures: Gradually pour the wet mixture into the bowl containing the dry ingredients. Using a spatula or wooden spoon, gently stir the mixtures together until they are just combined. Take care not to over-mix; the batter should be thick and may contain small lumps, with no visible dry flour remaining.

          Add Pear and Cranberry Sauce: Carefully fold in the diced pear and cranberry sauce, ensuring they are well-distributed throughout the batter. If desired, add the chopped walnuts or pecans at this stage, mixing gently.

            Fill Muffin Liners: Evenly divide the batter among the prepared muffin liners, filling each one approximately two-thirds full to allow space for the muffins to rise while baking.

              Bake: Place the muffin tin in the preheated oven. Bake for 18 to 22 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center of a muffin comes out clean. The tops should be lightly golden and spring back when touched.

                Cool and Enjoy: Once baked, remove the muffins from the oven and allow them to cool in the tin for about 5 minutes. Then, transfer them to a wire rack to cool completely. These muffins are delightful when enjoyed fresh but can also be stored in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days.

                  Prep Time: 15 minutes | Total Time: 40 minutes | Servings: 12 muffins

                    - Presentation Tips: Serve the muffins warm on a beautiful platter, garnished with additional diced pear or a sprinkle of cinnamon for an inviting touch.