Pineapple-Coconut Muffins: A Tropical Delight for Any Occasion
Indulging in a delightful muffin can brighten anyone’s day, and these Pineapple-Coconut Muffins are no exception. This unique recipe is a personal creation, born from the desire to incorporate fresh pineapple into a simple muffin, resulting in a deliciously moist and flavorful treat that is perfect for breakfast, brunch, or even a midday snack. The combination of tropical flavors makes these muffins an ideal choice for gatherings, while their easy preparation ensures that even novice bakers can whip up a batch without hassle.
Overview
| Recipe Name | Pineapple-Coconut Muffins |
|---|---|
| Category | Quick Breads |
| Prep Time | 10 minutes |
| Cook Time | 25 minutes |
| Total Time | 35 minutes |
| Servings | 24 muffins |
| Yield | 24 muffins |
| Source | Me 🙂 |
Nutritional Information
| Nutrient | Amount per Serving |
|---|---|
| Calories | 161.6 kcal |
| Total Fat | 7.4 g |
| Saturated Fat | 5.3 g |
| Cholesterol | 25.7 mg |
| Sodium | 128.3 mg |
| Total Carbohydrates | 22.7 g |
| Dietary Fiber | 1.4 g |
| Sugars | 13.1 g |
| Protein | 2.1 g |
Ingredients
| Ingredient | Quantity |
|---|---|
| Butter | 1/2 cup (softened) |
| Sugar | 1 1/4 cups |
| Eggs | 2 large |
| Vanilla extract | 1/2 teaspoon |
| Salt | 1/2 teaspoon |
| Baking powder | 2 1/2 teaspoons |
| Unsweetened coconut | 1/2 cup |
| All-purpose flour | 2 cups |
| Pineapple (fresh or canned) | 1 cup (drained and chopped) |
Instructions
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Preheat the Oven: Begin your baking adventure by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). This step is essential for achieving that perfect muffin rise. While your oven warms up, take a moment to line two muffin pans with paper cups to make removal and cleanup easier.
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Cream Butter and Sugar: In a large mixing bowl, combine the softened butter and sugar. Using a mixer or a sturdy spatula, beat them together until the mixture is pale and fluffy, which should take about 3 to 5 minutes. This step is crucial as it incorporates air into the batter, leading to lighter muffins.
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Incorporate Eggs and Vanilla: Next, add the eggs one at a time, ensuring each is fully integrated before adding the next. Pour in the vanilla extract, and continue to beat until the mixture is well combined and smooth.
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Mix Dry Ingredients: In a separate bowl, combine the salt, baking powder, unsweetened coconut, and flour. Whisk these dry ingredients together until they are evenly distributed, which will help avoid any clumps in your muffins.
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Prepare the Pineapple: If using fresh pineapple, peel and core it, then chop it into small pieces. If using canned pineapple, drain it well, reserving approximately 7 ounces of the juice for later use. The juice adds moisture and enhances the pineapple flavor in the muffins.
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Combine Mixtures: Gradually add the dry flour mixture to the butter mixture, alternating with the reserved pineapple juice. Begin with the flour mixture, mixing until just combined, then add some juice, and repeat until everything is incorporated. This alternating method helps create a smooth batter without overmixing.
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Fold in Pineapple: Carefully fold in the chopped pineapple, ensuring it is evenly distributed throughout the batter without overworking it.
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Fill Muffin Cups: Using a spoon or a cookie scoop, fill each muffin cup about two-thirds full with the batter. This allows room for the muffins to rise beautifully during baking.
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Bake: Place the muffin pans in the preheated oven and bake for 20 to 25 minutes, or until the muffins are golden brown on top and a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.
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Optional Topping: For an extra touch of sweetness and texture, sprinkle a little sugar on top of each muffin before baking. This will create a delightful crunchy muffin top that contrasts perfectly with the soft interior.
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Cool and Serve: Once baked, remove the muffins from the oven and allow them to cool in the pans for about 5 minutes before transferring them to a wire rack. Enjoy these muffins warm or at room temperature, and savor the delightful tropical flavors they bring to your palate.
Serving Suggestions
These Pineapple-Coconut Muffins are incredibly versatile and can be enjoyed in a variety of ways. They are perfect for breakfast alongside a hot cup of coffee or tea, serve them at brunch with a fresh fruit salad, or enjoy them as a sweet treat during afternoon tea. Their light and fluffy texture, combined with the sweetness of pineapple and coconut, makes them an ideal addition to any gathering, ensuring that they are both toddler and kid-friendly.
Tips for Success
- Ingredient Quality: Using fresh, high-quality ingredients, especially the pineapple, will enhance the overall flavor of the muffins.
- Avoid Overmixing: When combining the wet and dry ingredients, mix just until combined to prevent dense muffins.
- Storage: Store any leftover muffins in an airtight container at room temperature for up to three days, or freeze them for longer storage.
With these detailed instructions and tips, you’re well on your way to baking a batch of delightful Pineapple-Coconut Muffins that will impress family and friends alike. Enjoy the tropical flavors and happy baking!
