Pina Colada Muffins Recipe: Tropical Paradise in Every Bite

Craving a taste of the tropics in every bite? Dive into the delightful world of Pina Colada Muffins with Toasted Coconut Streusel Topping. These pineapple-infused treats are a perfect blend of sweet and tangy flavors, topped with a crunchy coconut twist that’ll transport you to a sunny beach with every mouthful.

During these times of COVID-19 and quarantine, experimenting with new recipes has become a comforting pastime. Amy’s creation of these Pina Colada Muffins using Paradise Candied Fruit pineapple is a delicious escape to paradise. Whether you’re a coconut lover or need a nudge to try something new, these muffins are a must-try for a taste of summer all year round.

Indulge in the moist, tender texture of these pina colada-flavored muffins, enhanced by the toasted coconut flakes that add a delightful crunch. Get ready to elevate your baking game with this tropical twist on a classic treat.

Ingredients

Let’s dive into the essential components that make these Pina Colada Muffins a tropical delight.

Pineapple and Coconut Components

• 1 cup crushed pineapple (drained)
• 1/2 cup coconut milk
• 1 can (398 ml / 14 oz) crushed pineapple (drained)
• 1 cup unsweetened desiccated coconut
• 1 cup coconut oil (melted)
• 1/4 cup dark rum or 1 tsp vanilla extract

• 1 1/4 cups all-purpose flour
• 2 1/2 tsp baking powder
• 1/2 tsp salt
• 1 cup sugar
• 2 large eggs

Equipment Needed

For these delightful Pina Colada Muffins, you’ll need a few essential kitchen tools to make the baking process smooth and enjoyable.

1. Muffin Tin: A 12-cup muffin tin will be perfect for baking these muffins to perfection.
2. Mixing Bowls: Have a set of mixing bowls handy for preparing the batter.
3. Whisk: A whisk will help you combine the ingredients smoothly.
4. Measuring Cups and Spoons: Ensure accurate measurements with these tools.
5. Spatula: Use a spatula for folding in the ingredients gently.
6. Paper Liners: Line your muffin tin with paper liners for easy removal and serving.
7. Cooling Rack: Have a cooling rack ready for the muffins to cool down after baking.

Instructions

Let’s dive into the process of making these delicious Pina Colada Muffins with Toasted Coconut Streusel Topping!

Mixing the Batter

1. In a large mixing bowl, whisk together the all-purpose flour, sugars, baking soda, cinnamon, and salt. Set this dry mixture aside.
2. In another bowl, combine the eggs, applesauce, mashed bananas, and crushed pineapple. Stir well to mix the wet ingredients thoroughly.
3. Gently fold the wet mixture into the dry ingredients, gradually incorporating the shredded coconut. Be careful not to overmix; the batter should be just combined with no visible dry spots.

Preparing Muffin Tins

1. Preheat your oven to 350 degrees Fahrenheit and line two muffin tins with paper liners. Set them aside for later use.
2. Fill each muffin liner about 3/4 full with the prepared batter. This allows room for the muffins to rise and bake evenly.

1. Place the filled muffin tins in the preheated oven and bake for approximately 17-20 minutes. To check for doneness, insert a toothpick into the center of a muffin; it should come out clean.
2. Once baked, remove the muffins from the oven and let them cool on a wire rack for a few minutes before serving.

Coconut Streusel Topping

The Coconut Streusel Topping is the crowning glory of these Pina Colada Muffins, adding a delightful crunch and sweetness to each bite.

Ingredients for Streusel

• 1 cup coconut flakes (sweetened or unsweetened)
• 1 cup brown sugar
• 2 tablespoons all-purpose flour
• 1/4 cup butter (melted)

1. In a bowl, mix the coconut flakes, brown sugar, and flour until well combined.
2. Pour in the melted butter and stir until the mixture resembles coarse crumbs.
3. Sprinkle the streusel generously over the muffin batter before baking.
4. Enjoy the toasty coconut goodness that awaits once the muffins are baked to perfection!

Assembling the Muffins

It’s time to bring together these delightful Pina Colada Muffins and get them ready for the oven. Follow these simple steps to ensure your tropical-inspired treats turn out perfectly.

Adding Toppings

1. Sprinkle the Toasted Coconut Streusel Topping generously over the muffin batter in each liner. Ensure to cover the entire surface area for that extra crunch and sweetness.
2. For a finishing touch, you can add a few extra shredded coconut pieces on top of the streusel before baking. This will enhance the coconut flavor and create a beautiful presentation.

1. Once baked, allow the muffins to cool in the pan for about 5 minutes before transferring them to a wire rack to cool completely. This will help them set and avoid any sogginess.
2. Before serving, you can lightly dust the muffins with powdered sugar or drizzle them with a glaze made from lime juice, coconut extract, and vanilla extract. Sprinkle some toasted coconut on top for an added flourish of flavor and texture.

By following these steps, you’ll have a batch of freshly baked Pina Colada Muffins with a delightful tropical twist ready to be enjoyed by all.

Storage Instructions

Pina Colada muffins can be stored easily to enjoy their deliciousness over several days. Here are some tips on how to store and freeze these tropical treats:

How to Store

To keep your Pina Colada muffins fresh and moist, store them in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3-4 days. Make sure to cool the muffins completely before storing them, and they will maintain their texture and flavor beautifully.

Freezing and Reheating Tips

If you want to prolong the shelf life of your Pina Colada muffins, freezing is the way to go. Wrap each muffin individually in plastic wrap and place them in a sealed freezer bag. They can be kept in the freezer for up to 2-3 months. To reheat, simply thaw the muffins overnight in the refrigerator or pop them in a microwave for a quick warm-up. Enjoy the tropical goodness of your Pina Colada muffins whenever you crave a delightful treat.

Conclusion

Creating these Pina Colada Muffins with Toasted Coconut Streusel Topping is a delightful way to bring a taste of the tropics into your kitchen. The blend of sweet pineapple, creamy coconut, and crunchy streusel topping offers a flavor explosion in every bite. By following the simple steps outlined in this recipe, you can enjoy these moist and flavorful muffins at any time of the year. The addition of the Coconut Streusel Topping elevates the muffins to a whole new level of deliciousness, making them a perfect treat for breakfast, brunch, or a sweet snack. With handy storage tips provided, you can savor the tropical goodness of these muffins for days to come. So, why not whip up a batch of these Pina Colada Muffins and transport yourself to a sunny paradise with each delectable bite?