These moist muffins are so sinfully scrumptious you will never believe that they could possibly be low fat – but they are!!! Unsweetened, shredded coconut has a very mild flavor (not like the rich, heavy, syrupy sweet flavor that you would associate with something such as a coconut cream pie, coconut cake, or coconut icing) – so even if someone in the family is not a huge fan of coconut, they may still enjoy these Low Fat Cherry Coconut Muffins. The unsweetened coconut merely adds a nice texture and a hint of sweetness, with a very subtle coconut flavor. The addition of the sour cherries adds an amazing depth to the flavor of the muffins.
Low Fat Cherry Coconut Muffins
Equipment
- oven
- 6 cup jumbo (or 12 cup standard) muffin tin
- 1 large bowl
- 1 separate bowl
- 1 toothpick
Ingredients
- 1½ cups whole wheat pastry flour
- 1¼ cups non fat buttermilk (or 1 1/4 cups skim milk with 1 tablespoon lemon juice or vinegar stirred in)
- ½ cup all purpose flour
- ¾ cup granulated sugar
- ¾ cup unsweetened shredded coconut
- 1 tablespoon baking powder
- 1 tablespoon canola or olive oil
- ¼ teaspoon cinnamon
- ¼ teaspoon salt
- ¼ unsweetened applesauce
- 1 teaspoon vanilla
- 2 whole eggs
- 1 cup pitted sour cherries *(see note)
Instructions
- Preheat the oven to 400 degrees and generously spray a 6 cup jumbo (or 12 cup standard) muffin tin with nonstick spray.
- In a large bowl stir together flours, sugar, coconut, baking powder,baking soda, cinnamon and salt.
- In a separate bowl, whisk together buttermilk, eggs, applesauce, oil and vanilla until well blended. Stir the wet ingredients into the flour mixture until just moistened, then fold in the cherries.
- Divide the batter evenly between the muffin cups and bake for about 20 minutes (or until a toothpick inserted in the center of a muffin comes out clean).
Video
Notes
Cooking Tips
To ensure your Low Fat Cherry Coconut Muffins turn out perfectly every time, I’m here to share some valuable cooking tips and tricks. These insights will help you achieve the best results and avoid common mistakes that may arise during the baking process. Let’s dive in and unlock the secrets to baking these heavenly treats!
Offer tips and tricks for the best results:
- Use fresh, high-quality ingredients to enhance the flavors of the muffins.
- Gently fold in the cherries and coconut flakes into the batter to distribute them evenly without overmixing.
- Preheat the oven to the recommended temperature to ensure even baking.
- Test the muffins for doneness by inserting a toothpick into the center. If it comes out clean or with a few crumbs, they are ready.
- Allow the muffins to cool in the pan for a few minutes before transferring them to a wire rack to cool completely.
Share insights on common mistakes to avoid:
- Avoid overmixing the batter, as it can lead to dense and tough muffins. Mix until the ingredients are just combined.
- Do not overbake the muffins, as they can dry out. Keep a close eye on them and follow the recommended baking time.
- Ensure the cherries are well-drained to prevent excess moisture in the batter, which can affect the texture of the muffins.
- Measure the ingredients accurately, especially the flour, to maintain the right balance of wet and dry ingredients.
- Allow the muffins to cool completely before storing them to prevent condensation and maintain their freshness.
Serving Suggestions
Enhance your dining experience with these delectable Low Fat Cherry Coconut Muffins. While they are delightful on their own, there are endless possibilities to elevate their presentation and flavor. In this section, we’ll explore various serving suggestions, including recommended sides, garnishes, and beverages that perfectly complement the flavors of these muffins. Get ready to indulge in a delightful culinary adventure!
Suggest different ways to serve the dish:
There are multiple ways to serve these tantalizing Low Fat Cherry Coconut Muffins, each offering a unique twist. For a simple and elegant presentation, place the muffins on a decorative platter or cake stand. Dust them with powdered sugar for a touch of elegance. Alternatively, you can drizzle a homemade cherry glaze over the muffins or top them with a dollop of whipped coconut cream. These variations will add a stunning visual appeal and an extra burst of flavor.
Recommend sides, garnishes, or beverages that complement the flavors:
To complement the flavors of these muffins, consider serving them with a few carefully selected sides and beverages. A refreshing glass of iced coconut milk or a tropical fruit smoothie would pair perfectly with their fruity coconut goodness. For a more elaborate brunch spread, serve the muffins alongside a platter of fresh berries, a selection of artisanal cheeses, and a side of Greek yogurt. The tartness of the berries and the creaminess of the cheese will harmonize beautifully with the muffins’ sweetness.
Suggest presentation ideas for special occasions:
If you’re serving these Low Fat Cherry Coconut Muffins for a special occasion, consider taking the presentation up a notch. Arrange them on a dessert charcuterie board with an assortment of dried fruits, nuts, and dark chocolate. Add a sprinkle of toasted coconut flakes on top for an eye-catching finish. For a festive touch, garnish each muffin with a fresh cherry or a sprig of mint. These thoughtful details will make your guests feel extra special and create a memorable dining experience.
FAQ about Low Fat Cherry Coconut Muffins
As a passionate food blogger and experienced chef, I often receive questions from readers eager to perfect their baking skills. In this FAQ section, I’ll address some common queries related to Low Fat Cherry Coconut Muffins. From storage tips to ingredient substitutions, you’ll find the answers you need to create these mouthwatering treats with confidence.
How should I store leftover muffins?
To store any leftover Low Fat Cherry Coconut Muffins, place them in an airtight container or sealable bag. They can be kept at room temperature for up to 3 days. If you want to extend their shelf life, refrigerate them for up to a week. For longer-term storage, wrap each muffin individually in plastic wrap and freeze them in a freezer-safe bag for up to 3 months. Thaw them overnight in the refrigerator before enjoying.
Can I use frozen cherries instead of fresh ones?
Absolutely! If fresh cherries aren’t available, you can use frozen cherries as a substitute. Thaw them completely and pat them dry before incorporating them into the batter. Keep in mind that frozen cherries may release more moisture, so ensure they are well-drained to avoid affecting the texture of the muffins.
Can I use a different type of milk instead of coconut milk?
Certainly! If you prefer or havea dietary restriction that prevents you from using coconut milk, you can substitute it with almond milk, soy milk, or any other plant-based milk of your choice. The milk substitution may slightly alter the flavor profile, but it will still yield delicious results.
Can I add nuts to the muffins?
Absolutely! Adding a handful of chopped nuts, such as almonds or walnuts, can provide a delightful crunch and add an extra layer of flavor to the muffins. Simply fold them into the batter along with the cherries and coconut flakes.
Can I make these muffins gluten-free?
Yes, you can make these muffins gluten-free by using a gluten-free all-purpose flour blend in place of regular all-purpose flour. Ensure that the flour blend you choose is suitable for baking and follow the same measurements as mentioned in the recipe. Additionally, double-check that all other ingredients you use are also gluten-free to avoid any cross-contamination.
Elevate your baking skills with Low Fat Cherry Coconut Muffins that are both delicious and nutritious. Uncover essential cooking tips, serving ideas, and FAQs to master this recipe. Help us spread the joy of baking by sharing the recipe and subscribing to our blog for more culinary inspiration!