Irresistibly Moist Fruit and Nut Muffins: Your Ultimate Cozy Breakfast Treat

These delightful fruit and nut muffins are like a warm, comforting hug on a chilly morning, perfect for easing into your day. Imagine biting into a soft, golden muffin, each mouthful infused with the inviting aroma of cinnamon and a hint of exotic ground vanilla. Gently sweetened with unrefined raw cane sugar, these muffins are generously studded with a vibrant medley of juicy dried apricots, tender figs, and tangy cranberries. Finely ground nuts are seamlessly blended into the batter, imparting a rich, wholesome depth of flavor that echoes all the best qualities of a classic fruit bread, but in a convenient, individual serving. They are incredibly moist, bursting with flavor, and truly the ideal way to add a touch of warmth and comfort to any breakfast or brunch spread.

Are you yearning for a breakfast that’s wonderfully fruity, inherently cozy, and perfectly balanced without being overly sweet? Look no further!

This cherished muffin recipe draws its inspiration from my all-time favorite fruit bread, but with a fantastic twist: instead of dedicating an hour to baking a large loaf, we create these perfectly portioned, quick-bake muffins that are ready to enjoy in approximately 20-25 minutes. This makes them an absolute lifesaver for busy mornings or spontaneous cravings. They’re effortlessly grab-and-go, universally loved, and serve as an exquisite accompaniment to your freshly brewed morning coffee or a relaxing afternoon tea. Imagine the fragrant steam rising from your mug, mingling with the sweet and spicy aroma of these freshly baked muffins – pure bliss!

If the thought of homemade breakfast bakes fills your heart with joy, I invite you to explore my extensive breakfast and brunch recipe collection. For those seeking a delicious nut-free alternative, my fruit cake muffins are an absolute must-try. Alternatively, if you’re in the mood for a spiced, crunchy breakfast sensation, my easy Biscoff granola is sure to tantalize your taste buds.

Beyond being a fantastic breakfast option, this recipe also provides a brilliant and resourceful way to utilize any leftover ingredients from holiday baking. Did you find a stray bag of dried fruit, a half-used scoop of ground nuts, or the last remnants of your cinnamon stash hiding in your pantry? Don’t let them go to waste! Toss them into this forgiving and flexible recipe. It’s designed to be adaptable, ensuring a full-flavored result every time, even with slight variations in ingredients. This means less food waste and more delicious muffins for everyone to enjoy!

One of the best features of this recipe is its sheer simplicity. There’s absolutely no need for a stand mixer or any specialized gadgets. All you require is a single mixing bowl, a sturdy wooden spoon (or a whisk), and a standard muffin tin. These muffins are not just a treat for your palate; they’re also here to transform your kitchen into an aromatic haven, making your mornings feel wonderfully special and indulgent, even amidst the hustle and bustle of a busy schedule. The comforting scents of cinnamon and vanilla baking in the oven are sure to uplift your spirits.

So, let’s embark on this baking journey together. Preheat your oven, gather those warm, inviting spices, and prepare to bake a batch of muffins that genuinely taste like a comforting, homemade hug. The satisfaction of creating something so delicious and fragrant from scratch is truly unparalleled. 💛

🥘 Ingredients

Crafting these delectable fruit and nut muffins requires a thoughtful selection of ingredients, each playing a crucial role in achieving their perfect texture, flavor, and moistness. Here’s a closer look at what you’ll need and why:

• Dried Apricots, Figs, and Cranberries: This vibrant trio of dried fruits is the heart of these muffins, delivering a delightful balance of natural sweetness and a satisfyingly chewy texture. The apricots and figs contribute a rich, caramel-like sweetness, while the cranberries introduce a welcome tangy counterpoint that brightens the overall flavor. It’s essential to chop the apricots and figs into small, uniform pieces. This ensures they disperse evenly throughout the batter, so every bite is packed with fruity goodness and prevents large chunks from sinking to the bottom of your muffins. You can use any combination of your favorite dried fruits, such as raisins, chopped dates, or even candied peel for a festive touch.

• Ground Nuts: These add a wonderful richness, moisture, and a subtle, nutty depth to the muffins without drastically altering their delicate texture. I recommend using finely ground nuts for this recipe, as they integrate smoothly into the batter. Almonds, hazelnuts, or walnuts are all excellent choices and can be used interchangeably based on what you have readily available or your personal preference. The fine grind helps distribute the flavor evenly and contributes to the muffin’s tender crumb.

Craving a little extra crunch to contrast the soft muffin? Feel free to stir in an additional handful of roughly chopped mixed nuts (like pecans, walnuts, or almonds) along with the dried fruit. This will add a pleasant textural dimension and an even more pronounced nutty flavor.

• Soft Butter: Using softened butter is crucial for achieving a light and airy muffin texture. It creams beautifully with the sugar, creating air pockets that expand during baking, contributing to a tender crumb. Ensure your butter is at room temperature before you begin.
• Baking Powder: This leavening agent is essential for giving the muffins their characteristic rise, making them light and fluffy. Always check the expiration date to ensure it’s fresh and active for the best results.
• Ground Vanilla: Aromatic ground vanilla adds a luxurious, warm, and comforting fragrance and flavor that elevates the entire muffin experience. It complements the spices and dried fruits perfectly.
• Raw Cane Sugar: Unlike highly refined white sugar, raw cane sugar imparts a gentle, nuanced sweetness and a lovely, warm, slightly caramel-like flavor. This unrefined quality pairs exceptionally well with the robust flavors of the dried fruit and warming spices, contributing to the muffins’ cozy character.
• Eggs: Eggs act as a binder, provide structure, and add richness and moisture to the muffins. For optimal emulsification and a smoother batter, it’s always best to use room temperature eggs. This helps them incorporate more easily into the butter and sugar mixture.
• Plain Flour: Regular all-purpose flour provides the necessary structure and softness for these muffins. There’s no need for any specialty flours here; straightforward plain flour works perfectly to create a tender and consistent crumb.
• Milk: Whole milk will yield the richest and most tender muffins due to its fat content, contributing to a wonderfully moist result. However, feel free to use any type of milk you have on hand; the recipe is quite forgiving.
• Ground Cinnamon: This classic warming spice ties all the flavors together, adding a cozy, inviting aroma and a delightful hint of sweetness and spice. It’s truly essential for that comforting “fruit bread” flavor profile.

For precise quantities of each ingredient, please refer to the detailed recipe card below.

🔪 Instructions: Baking Your Perfect Fruit & Nut Muffins

Baking these comforting fruit and nut muffins is a straightforward process that yields incredibly delicious results. Follow these simple steps for a batch of perfectly moist and flavorful treats:

Step 1: Preheat Your Oven & Prepare Muffin Tin

Begin by setting your oven to 170°C (338°F). It’s important to preheat your oven fully before placing the muffins inside, as this ensures an even bake and a good rise. While the oven heats, prepare a standard 12-cup muffin tin. You can either line each cup with paper liners (for easy removal and cleanup) or lightly grease each cup with butter or baking spray to prevent sticking.

Step 2: Prepare Your Dried Fruit Medley

Take your dried apricots and figs and chop them into small, manageable pieces. The goal here is to ensure they are evenly distributed throughout the muffin batter, so every bite contains a delightful burst of fruit. Once chopped, combine them in a bowl with your dried cranberries. Set this colorful fruit mixture aside for later.

Step 3: Cream the Butter and Sugar

In a large mixing bowl, combine the softened butter and raw cane sugar. Using a wooden spoon or a hand mixer, beat these two ingredients together until the mixture becomes light, pale, and fluffy. This creaming process is vital as it incorporates air into the butter, which contributes significantly to the muffins’ wonderfully tender texture.

Step 4: Incorporate the Eggs

Crack the eggs into the butter-sugar mixture one at a time. After each egg addition, mix thoroughly until it is fully incorporated into the batter before adding the next. This gradual addition helps prevent the batter from splitting and ensures a smooth, slightly thick consistency.

Step 5: Stir in Liquid, Spices, and Ground Nuts

Now, add the milk, ground cinnamon, ground vanilla, and ground nuts to your wet mixture. Stir everything gently but thoroughly until all the ingredients are just combined. You’ll notice a beautiful aroma beginning to fill your kitchen at this stage as the spices wake up!

Step 6: Combine Dry and Wet Ingredients

In a separate, medium-sized bowl, whisk together the plain flour and baking powder. This step helps distribute the leavening agent evenly. Gradually add this dry mixture to your wet ingredients in the larger bowl. Stir *just* until there are no visible streaks of flour remaining. Be very gentle here – overmixing the batter can develop the gluten in the flour too much, resulting in tough, dense muffins rather than the desired light and fluffy texture.

Step 7: Fold in the Dried Fruit

Add your prepared chopped apricots, figs, and cranberries to the muffin batter. Using a spatula or wooden spoon, gently fold them into the mixture until they are evenly dispersed throughout. Avoid mashing the fruit or overworking the batter.

Step 8: Fill Your Muffin Tin

Spoon the muffin batter evenly into your prepared 12-cup muffin tin. Each cup should be filled approximately three-quarters full. This allows enough space for the muffins to rise without overflowing during baking.

Step 9: Bake to Golden Perfection

Carefully place the muffin tin into your preheated oven. Bake for approximately 20-25 minutes. Baking times can vary slightly depending on your oven, so keep an eye on them. To check for doneness, insert a toothpick into the center of a muffin. If it comes out clean, your muffins are ready! They should be beautifully golden brown on top.

Step 10: Cool and Savor

Once baked, remove the muffin tin from the oven and let the muffins cool in the tin for about 5 minutes. This brief cooling period helps them set and prevents them from breaking apart when removed. After 5 minutes, carefully transfer the muffins to a wire rack to cool completely. Or, if you can’t resist, grab one while it’s still warm, pair it with a steaming mug of coffee or tea, and indulge. You’ve certainly earned this delightful treat! 💛

🌡️ Storage Tips for Maximum Freshness

One of the many wonderful things about these fruit and nut muffins is how well they keep, making them an excellent choice for meal prepping your breakfasts for the week or preparing a delicious treat in advance for guests. Proper storage ensures they remain moist and flavorful for days.

• Room Temperature: To keep your muffins at their freshest for immediate enjoyment, store them in an airtight container. They will stay wonderfully moist and delicious for up to 4 days. Always choose a cool, dry spot in your kitchen, away from direct sunlight or heat sources like your oven or a heater, which can prematurely dry them out.
• Freezer-Friendly: These muffins are incredibly freezer-friendly, making them perfect for longer-term storage. For the best quality, individually wrap each cooled muffin tightly in plastic wrap, then place the wrapped muffins in a freezer-safe bag or an airtight container. They can be stored in the freezer for up to 3 months. When you’re ready to enjoy one, simply let it thaw at room temperature for an hour or two, or for a warm, “just baked” experience, pop it into the microwave for about 20-30 seconds.
• Avoid Refrigeration: While it might seem counterintuitive for baked goods, refrigerating muffins actually tends to dry them out faster due to the starch retrogradation process that occurs in cooler temperatures. For this reason, it’s best to stick to storing them at room temperature or in the freezer for optimal texture and flavor.

🍽 Essential Equipment for Baking Success

One of the beauties of this fruit and nut muffin recipe is its simplicity, requiring only basic kitchen tools. You won’t need any fancy gadgets, just a few essentials to get the job done efficiently and deliciously:

• Mixing Bowls: You’ll need at least two – one large bowl for your wet ingredients and another smaller one for whisking your dry ingredients together. This allows for proper combination and prevents overmixing.
• Wooden Spoon or Hand Mixer: A sturdy wooden spoon is perfectly adequate for creaming the butter and sugar and mixing the batter gently. If you prefer, a hand mixer can speed up the creaming process, but it’s not strictly necessary.
• 12-Cup Muffin Tin: A standard-sized muffin tin is essential for baking a full batch of 12 muffins. Ensure it’s clean and ready for use.
• Muffin Liners or Baking Spray: To prevent sticking and for easy cleanup, you can either line your muffin tin with paper liners or lightly grease each cup with baking spray or softened butter.
• Wire Rack for Cooling: A wire rack is crucial for allowing air to circulate around your baked muffins, preventing the bottoms from becoming soggy and ensuring they cool evenly.
• Measuring Cups and Spoons: Accurate measurements are key in baking, so make sure you have a set of both dry measuring cups and liquid measuring cups, as well as a set of measuring spoons.
• Sharp Knife and Cutting Board: These will be indispensable for finely chopping your dried fruits like apricots and figs, ensuring they are evenly distributed in your muffins.

If you embark on making this recipe, I would absolutely love to hear about your experience! Please consider giving it a ★★★★★ star rating and leaving a comment below to share your thoughts. Your feedback is incredibly valuable and always appreciated! It would be awesome! You can also sign up for our Newsletter to receive weekly delicious homemade recipes directly to your inbox. For more culinary inspiration and to see what I’m baking next, follow me on Pinterest or Instagram, and be sure to share your beautiful creations with me. Just tag me @combinegoodflavors and use the hashtag #combinegoodflavors, so I don’t miss seeing your culinary masterpieces!

📖 Recipe

Fruit and Nut Muffins

Nora

A cozy, fruit-filled muffin perfect for chilly mornings. Sweetened with raw cane sugar, spiced with cinnamon and ground vanilla, and packed with dried fruit and ground nuts – these muffins are everything you love about fruit bread, in a quick-bake version.

5 from 3 votes

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Prep Time 15 minutes mins

Cook Time 24 minutes mins

Course Breakfast, Brunch

Cuisine European

Servings 12 muffins

Calories 298 kcal

Equipment

• Mixing bowls
• Wooden spoon or hand mixer
• 12-cup muffin tin
• Muffin liners or baking spray
• Wire rack
• Measuring cups and spoons
• Knife and cutting board

Ingredients

 

 

• 1 cup Dried apricots chopped
• ¾ cup Dried figs chopped
• ½ cup Dried cranberries
• ⅓ cup Soft butter
• ½ cup Raw cane sugar
• 2 medium Eggs
• ½ cup Milk
• 1 teaspoon Ground cinnamon
• 1 teaspoon Ground vanilla
• 1 cup Ground nuts e.g. almonds, hazelnuts, or walnuts
• 1 ⅔ cups Plain flour
• 2 teaspoon Baking powder

Instructions

 

• Preheat oven to 170°C (338°F). Line a 12-cup muffin tin with paper liners or lightly grease.
• Chop 1 cup Dried apricots, ¾ cup Dried figs, and ½ cup Dried cranberries into small pieces for even distribution. Set aside.
  1 cup Dried apricots, ¾ cup Dried figs, ½ cup Dried cranberries
• In a large bowl, cream ⅓ cup Soft butter and ½ cup Raw cane sugar until light and fluffy.
  ⅓ cup Soft butter, ½ cup Raw cane sugar
• Add 2 medium Eggs one at a time, mixing well after each addition.
  2 medium Eggs
• Stir in ½ cup Milk, 1 teaspoon Ground cinnamon, 1 teaspoon Ground vanilla, and 1 cup Ground nuts.
  ½ cup Milk, 1 teaspoon Ground cinnamon, 1 teaspoon Ground vanilla, 1 cup Ground nuts
• In a separate bowl, whisk together 1 ⅔ cups Plain flour and 2 teaspoon Baking powder. Gradually add to the wet mixture, stirring gently until just combined.
  1 ⅔ cups Plain flour, 2 teaspoon Baking powder
• Fold in the chopped dried fruit.
• Divide the batter evenly between the muffin cups, filling each about three-quarters full.
• Bake for 20-25 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.
• Let cool in the tin for 5 minutes, then transfer to a wire rack to cool completely. Enjoy warm or at room temperature.

Notes

You can add a handful of roughly chopped mixed nuts for extra crunch if you like.

These muffins freeze beautifully. Wrap individually and store in a freezer-safe container for up to 3 months.

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Keyword brunch muffins, cozy baking, dried fruit muffins, fruit muffins, holiday breakfast

Like this recipe?Mention @combinegoodflavors or tag #combinegoodflavors!

Nutrition values are estimates only, using online calculators. Please verify using your own data.

Serving: 1Muffin | Calories: 298kcal | Carbohydrates: 41g | Protein: 7g | Fat: 13g | Saturated Fat: 5g | Polyunsaturated Fat: 3g | Monounsaturated Fat: 4g | Trans Fat: 0.2g | Cholesterol: 42mg | Sodium: 131mg | Potassium: 328mg | Fiber: 4g | Sugar: 22g | Vitamin A: 606IU | Vitamin C: 0.2mg | Calcium: 96mg | Iron: 2mg

⛑️ Important Food Safety Guidelines

Ensuring food safety is paramount when preparing any meal, including these delicious muffins. By following these basic guidelines, you can protect yourself and your loved ones from foodborne illnesses and enjoy your homemade treats with complete peace of mind:

• Cook to a Minimum Temperature: While these muffins don’t contain raw meat, always ensure any baked goods that include eggs are cooked thoroughly. Generally, baked goods should reach an internal temperature of 165 °F (74 °C), which is usually achieved when a toothpick comes out clean.
• Prevent Cross-Contamination: If you are preparing other dishes that involve raw meat or poultry alongside your muffins, never use the same utensils, cutting boards, or mixing bowls that previously touched raw meat without thoroughly washing and sanitizing them first.
• Wash Hands Thoroughly: Always wash your hands with warm water and soap for at least 20 seconds before and after handling food, especially after touching raw ingredients.
• Avoid Extended Room Temperature Storage: Do not leave perishable ingredients or cooked foods sitting out at room temperature for extended periods (generally no longer than two hours). Harmful bacteria can multiply rapidly between 40°F (4°C) and 140°F (60°C).
• Never Leave Cooking Food Unattended: Stay in the kitchen when food is on the stove or in the oven, especially during active cooking or baking. This helps prevent burning and reduces the risk of kitchen accidents.
• Use Oils with High Smoking Points: If your recipe involves frying or sautéing (though not applicable to these muffins), choose cooking oils with high smoking points to avoid the formation of harmful compounds and off-flavors.
• Ensure Good Ventilation: Always have proper ventilation when using a gas stove or oven. This helps clear cooking fumes and maintains good air quality in your kitchen.

For more comprehensive and official food safety information, please refer to reliable sources such as the Safe Food Handling guide from the U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA).