Cranberry muffins are a convenient treat, generally low in fat and high in fiber. These fruit muffins are prepared much like regular ones are, with the exception that cranberries are added to the batter before baking. The finished product has an attractive appearance due to the combination of ingredients used. This food is somewhat sweet with a light fruity taste. The muffins can be enjoyed at different times, and a number of beverages are ideal for serving along with them.
Flour, eggs, and sugar are normally used to make cranberry muffins. Fresh cranberries are normally recommended, as this tends to give a fresher taste. The fruit should be washed thoroughly but does not need to be peeled or have the seeds removed. Some cooks like to add partially dehydrated berries instead, and this can result in a finished product that is somewhat chewy.
After baking, cranberry muffins are normally a golden brown color on the sides and slightly darker on top. There are splashes of red color throughout from the cranberries, which complements the overall shade of these muffins. If nuts are used, these tend to be light in color, which means they offset the darker tones of the muffin and cranberries. These fruit muffins are generally not frosted; however, some recipes call for a crumb-like topping that consists of brown sugar and butter. When one of these toppings is used, it tends to add visual interest and texture to this food.
Cranberry muffins are normally soft to eat even though they may have a somewhat firm texture on top and bottom. They are usually sweet, yet not extremely sugary. While the taste of the cranberries is noticeable, it is not normally overpowering. These homemade muffins may have a hint of spicy flavor if cinnamon or nutmeg was used in the batter.
Many people enjoy eating cranberry muffins for breakfast, but they might also be enjoyed as a dessert for lunch or dinner. They make a nutritious snack whether eaten in the afternoon or just before bedtime. When eaten for breakfast, they are often enjoyed along with a cup of coffee, milk, or fruit juice. Iced tea could be an ideal beverage to drink whenever the muffins are eaten as a dessert. Almost any beverage is refreshing when enjoying cranberry muffins as a snack, and some popular choices for doing so include soda, hot tea, or lemonade.