Name: Individual Stuffing Muffins with Apples and Cherries
Prep time: 20 min
Cook time: PT-487723H32M50S
Total time: PT-487723H32M50S
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: 8 tablespoons salted butter (plus extra for greasing pans); 1 stick butter; 3 cups finely diced yellow onion (about 1 medium onion); 1½ cups finely diced celery (about 4 medium stalks); 1 whole dried bay leaf; 2 cups finely diced Fuji or Honeycrisp apple, peeled and cored (about 1½ medium apples); 1 cup roughly chopped pecans; 4 ounces tart dried cherries; 1 teaspoon dried sage; 1 teaspoon dried thyme; 3 large eggs; 2 cups vegetable stock; 10 cups dried bread cubes; Whole pecans for topping muffins (optional)

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

These stuffing muffins are bursting with flavor and texture. The combination of sweet fruit, savory herbs, and crunchy nuts creates a perfectly balanced bite. Individually baked, they’re easy to serve, make-ahead friendly, and visually impressive for holiday gatherings or special dinners.

Ingredients

(Tip: Full measurements are listed in the recipe card below.)

For the Muffins:

8 tablespoons salted butter (plus extra for greasing pans)
1 stick butter
3 cups finely diced yellow onion (about 1 medium onion)
1½ cups finely diced celery (about 4 medium stalks)
1 whole dried bay leaf
2 cups finely diced Fuji or Honeycrisp apple, peeled and cored (about 1½ medium apples)
1 cup roughly chopped pecans
4 ounces tart dried cherries
1 teaspoon dried sage
1 teaspoon dried thyme
3 large eggs
2 cups vegetable stock
10 cups dried bread cubes
Whole pecans for topping muffins (optional)

Directions

Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease a 12-cup muffin pan with butter.
In a large skillet, melt butter over medium heat. Add onions, celery, and bay leaf. Sauté for 5–7 minutes until softened. Remove bay leaf.
Add diced apples, pecans, dried cherries, sage, and thyme. Cook for another 2–3 minutes, stirring occasionally. Remove from heat and let cool slightly.
In a large bowl, whisk together eggs and vegetable stock. Add the sautéed vegetable and fruit mixture. Stir in dried bread cubes until well combined. Let mixture sit for 5 minutes to allow bread to absorb liquid.
Spoon the mixture into the greased muffin cups, pressing gently to fill each cup. Top with whole pecans if desired.
Bake for 25–30 minutes until golden brown on top and set in the center.
Remove from oven and allow muffins to cool for a few minutes before carefully removing from the pan. Serve warm.

Servings and Timing

This recipe makes 12 individual stuffing muffins.
Preparation time: 20 minutes
Cooking time: 25–30 minutes
Total time: 45–50 minutes

Variations

Substitute walnuts or almonds for pecans for a different nutty flavor.
Mix in dried cranberries instead of cherries.
Use a combination of different bread types, such as sourdough or whole wheat, for added texture.
Sprinkle shredded cheese on top before baking for a cheesy twist.

Storage/Reheating

Store leftover muffins in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat in a 350°F (175°C) oven for 5–7 minutes or microwave briefly until warmed through.

FAQs

Can I prepare these muffins ahead of time?

Yes, assemble the mixture and refrigerate for up to 24 hours before baking.

Can I freeze these muffins?

Yes, bake first, then freeze individually in a freezer-safe container for up to 2 months. Reheat in the oven before serving.

Are these muffins vegetarian?

Yes, this recipe is naturally vegetarian.

Can I make them vegan?

Substitute eggs with a flax or chia egg, use plant-based butter, and ensure bread is vegan.

Conclusion

Individual Stuffing Muffins with Apples and Cherries are a flavorful, festive, and visually appealing twist on traditional stuffing. With sweet, tart, and savory notes all in one bite, they’re perfect for holidays, family dinners, or any special occasion. Easy to prepare and packed with flavor, these muffins will impress your guests while simplifying serving.