If you’re looking for a muffin recipe that is packed with juicy fruit, subtly sweet flavors, and a delightful texture, look no further than these Fruit Exploding Muffins! These muffins are moist, bursting with berries, and have a delicious surprise center of sugar-free strawberry jelly. Perfect for breakfast, brunch, or even an afternoon snack, these muffins are wholesome yet indulgent, making them a treat the whole family will love.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

These muffins are ideal for anyone who enjoys a balance of nutrition and taste. With Greek yogurt, whole wheat flour, and a mix of fresh berries, this recipe provides a nutritious twist on traditional muffins. The jelly-filled center adds a fun and unexpected pop of flavor, making each bite exciting and delicious. Whether you’re meal prepping for the week, looking for a kid-friendly snack, or just want a satisfying treat with your coffee, these muffins are the perfect solution.

Ingredients

To make these Fruit Exploding Muffins, you’ll need:

• 1 cup plain Greek yogurt
• ½ cup canola oil
• ½ cup unsweetened applesauce
• 2 eggs
• ½ cup sugar
• 1.2 cups packed brown sugar
• 1 cup all-purpose flour
• 1 cup whole wheat flour
• 1 teaspoon baking powder
• ½ teaspoon baking soda
• ½ teaspoon salt
• 1 ½ cups strawberries (chopped)
• 1 ½ cups blackberries (chopped)
• 1 ½ cups cherries (chopped)
• ¾ cup sugar-free strawberry jelly

Kitchen Equipment Needed

Before you start baking, make sure you have the following tools on hand:

• Mixing bowls
• Whisk
• Rubber spatula
• Measuring cups and spoons
• Muffin pan
• Nonstick baking spray
• Oven

Step-by-Step Instructions

1. Preheat and Prep

• Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
• Spray a muffin pan with nonstick baking spray to prevent sticking.

2. Mix the Wet Ingredients

• In a large mixing bowl, whisk together the Greek yogurt, canola oil, applesauce, eggs, and vanilla extract until smooth.
• Add the sugars and stir until well combined.

3. Add the Dry Ingredients

• Slowly add the flours, baking powder, baking soda, and salt to the wet mixture.
• Stir until the dry ingredients are fully incorporated.

4. Fold in the Berries

• Using a rubber spatula, gently fold in the chopped strawberries, blackberries, and cherries. Be careful not to overmix, as this can make the muffins dense.

5. Fill the Muffin Cups

• Spoon 1 tablespoon of batter into each prepared muffin cup.
• Add 2 teaspoons of strawberry jelly on top of the batter.
• Cover with another tablespoon of batter, ensuring the jelly is fully enclosed.

6. Bake to Perfection

• Bake at 350°F for 23-25 minutes until the muffins turn a golden brown color.
• Check that the batter around the fruit is fully baked.

7. Cool and Serve

• Remove the muffins from the oven and let them cool in the pan for a few minutes.
• Transfer to a wire rack to cool completely before serving.

Storage and Freezing Tips

• Room Temperature: Store in an airtight container for 2-3 days.
• Refrigerator: If you prefer a longer shelf life, keep them in the fridge for up to a week.
• Freezer: These muffins freeze well for 3-4 months. Simply place them in a freezer-safe bag or container.
• Reheating: Warm them in the microwave for 20-30 seconds before serving.

Recipe Variations and Substitutions

Want to tweak the recipe? Here are some easy swaps and variations:

• Swap the Fruits: Try blueberries, raspberries, or diced peaches instead.
• Use Different Jams: Raspberry, apricot, or even mixed berry jam works beautifully.
• Make it Vegan: Substitute eggs with flax eggs and use coconut yogurt instead of Greek yogurt.
• Gluten-Free Option: Swap the flours with a gluten-free flour blend.
• Add Some Crunch: Sprinkle chopped nuts like almonds or walnuts on top before baking.

Perfect Pairings

These muffins pair beautifully with a variety of beverages and side dishes. Try them with:

• A hot cup of coffee or tea for a cozy morning treat.
• A smoothie for an extra fruit boost.
• Greek yogurt with honey for a protein-packed breakfast.
• A drizzle of warm peanut butter for a nutty twist.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

Can I use frozen berries instead of fresh?

Yes! If using frozen berries, do not thaw them before adding to the batter. This helps prevent excess moisture in the muffins.

How do I keep the muffins from becoming soggy?

Make sure the muffins cool completely before storing. If using very juicy berries, lightly pat them dry with a paper towel before adding to the batter.

Can I make these muffins without sugar?

Yes! You can replace the sugar with honey, maple syrup, or a sugar substitute like monk fruit sweetener.

How do I prevent the jelly from leaking out?

Make sure you fully cover the jelly with muffin batter before baking. Pressing the edges slightly with a spoon can help seal it in.

Try This Recipe and Share Your Creations!

We hope you love these Fruit Exploding Muffins as much as we do! They’re fun to make, delicious to eat, and perfect for any occasion. If you try this recipe, let us know in the comments below!

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