I still remember the first time I tasted guava. It was a warm, breezy afternoon on a family vacation in the Caribbean, the kind of day where the air smelled of salt and ripe fruit. We had spent the morning exploring colorful street markets, my eyes darting between the vibrant displays of tropical produce—plump mangoes, spiky pineapples, and bunches of tiny, fragrant bananas.

Amid the bustling scene, a friendly vendor, with a wide smile and a weathered apron, held out a slice of fresh guava. Its pink flesh glowed under the sunlight, and the scent—sweet yet citrusy—was utterly captivating. I hesitated for a second, unfamiliar with the fruit, but the vendor nodded encouragingly. The moment I took a bite, my taste buds awakened to something truly magical. It was soft yet slightly grainy, a perfect balance of natural sweetness and subtle tanginess.

That single bite became a core memory. For the rest of the trip, I found myself reaching for guava in every form—fresh, blended into juices, or spread over warm toast as a jelly. When we returned home, the taste of guava lingered in my mind, a reminder of sun-drenched afternoons and carefree exploration.

Years later, on a quiet morning, I found myself craving that same burst of tropical flavor. But instead of simply eating guava jelly with toast, I wanted something more—a baked treat that could capture that same warmth and sweetness. That’s when the idea of guava jelly muffins was born. I took a classic muffin recipe, infused it with hints of vanilla and butter, and added a surprise guava filling at the center. The result? A delightful, nostalgic bite that instantly transports me back to that Caribbean street market with every taste.

What Are Guava Jelly Muffins?

Guava jelly muffins are sweet, soft muffins infused with guava flavor, usually achieved by swirling guava jelly into the batter or stuffing it inside as a gooey filling. They offer a delicate balance of tropical sweetness and buttery richness, making them an irresistible treat for both kids and adults.

Unlike traditional muffins, these are lighter, fruitier, and slightly tangy, thanks to the natural tartness of guava. Whether enjoyed plain or topped with crumbs, nuts, or cream cheese frosting, they bring a unique tropical twist to your muffin game.

Why Guava Jelly Makes Muffins Extra Special?

So, what’s the big deal about guava jelly? Here’s why it’s a game-changer in baking:

Natural sweetness – Guava jelly adds a fruity, tropical sweetness that’s not overpowering.
Moisture boost – It helps keep muffins soft and moist for days.
Swirls of flavor – A good guava jelly swirl creates a beautiful marbled effect, making every bite exciting.
A healthier alternative – Compared to artificial flavorings, guava jelly is made from real fruit, offering a more natural taste.

Brief History of Guava in Baking

Guava has been a staple fruit in tropical regions for centuries, especially in Latin America, the Caribbean, and Southeast Asia. Traditionally used in jams, pastries, and desserts, it has found its way into modern baked goods, including guava jelly muffins.

In places like Cuba and Puerto Rico, guava is often paired with cheese in pastries, a combination that inspired guava and cream cheese muffins. Meanwhile, in Hawaii and the Philippines, guava-based desserts remain a local favorite.

With the rise of fruit-filled and gourmet muffins, guava jelly muffins have become a trendy yet nostalgic treat, blending old-world flavors with modern baking techniques.

Essential Ingredients for Perfect Guava Jelly Muffins

To create the softest, most flavorful guava jelly muffins, you need the right ingredients. From choosing the best guava jelly to deciding on the ideal flour and fat content, every component plays a role in achieving a moist and delicious texture.

Choosing the Right Guava Jelly – Homemade vs. Store-Bought

The star ingredient in guava jelly muffins is, of course, guava jelly. But should you use store-bought or homemade? Here’s a breakdown:

Store-Bought Guava Jelly – Convenient and consistent in texture, perfect for swirls and fillings. Look for high-quality brands that use real guava puree instead of artificial flavors.
Homemade Guava Jelly – If you prefer a more natural, fruity taste, homemade jelly is a fantastic option. It tends to be less processed and gives muffins a richer guava flavor.

If making your own, simply boil ripe guavas, sugar, and lemon juice until thickened. Then, strain and let it cool before using.

Flour, Sugar, and Other Dry Ingredients

To achieve light, fluffy muffins, selecting the right dry ingredients is essential:

All-Purpose Flour – The best choice for structure and softness. For gluten-free muffins, use a 1:1 gluten-free flour blend.
Baking Powder & Baking Soda – These leavening agents help muffins rise while keeping them airy.
Granulated Sugar – Enhances sweetness while maintaining a light texture. For a more caramel-like taste, swap in brown sugar.
Salt – A pinch of salt balances sweetness and intensifies guava’s tropical flavor.

Butter, Oil, or Yogurt – Which Fat Works Best?

The type of fat used in guava jelly muffins determines their moistness and crumb structure:

Butter – Adds rich flavor and a slightly denser texture.
Vegetable or Coconut Oil – Makes muffins super moist and tender. Coconut oil also enhances the tropical taste.
Greek Yogurt or Sour Cream – Creates an ultra-soft muffin while adding a slight tang that complements guava jelly.

A mix of butter and oil often works best, combining flavor and moisture for the ultimate soft muffin.

Adding Texture with Nuts, Crumbs, or Cream Cheese

Want to make your guava jelly muffins even better? Try adding a bit of texture:

Crumb Topping – A buttery brown sugar crumble on top makes these muffins bakery-style.

Chopped Nuts – Almonds, walnuts, or pecans add crunch and nutty contrast to the soft muffin base.

Cream Cheese – Pairing cream cheese with guava creates a sweet and tangy filling that melts in your mouth.

Now that we’ve covered ingredients, let’s get to the fun part—making the muffins!

For another treat, perfect for Sunday brunch, check out our Recipe for Perfect Sourdough French Toast.

Step-by-Step Guava Jelly Muffin Recipe

Preparing The Batter For Guava Jelly Muffins

Now that you have the ingredients, it’s time to bake the perfect batch of guava jelly muffins. Follow this easy step-by-step guide for fluffy, fruity, and delicious muffins every time!

Preparing the Muffin Batter – Mixing Techniques for the Best Texture

Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C) and line a muffin tin with paper liners.
In a large mixing bowl, whisk together flour, baking powder, baking soda, and salt until combined.
In a separate bowl, beat together butter (or oil), sugar, eggs, and vanilla extract until light and creamy.
Alternate adding the dry ingredients and milk or yogurt, mixing gently until just combined. Overmixing can make muffins dense!

Incorporating Guava Jelly – Swirls, Fillings, or Layers?

There are three fun ways to incorporate guava jelly into your muffins:

Swirled Guava Muffins – Drop teaspoons of guava jelly into the batter and use a toothpick to create beautiful swirls.
Filled Muffins – Fill muffin cups halfway with batter, add a spoonful of guava jelly, then top with more batter.
Layered Muffins – Pour half of the batter into the muffin cups, spread a thin layer of guava jelly, then add the rest of the batter.

Baking Tips for a Moist and Fluffy Muffin

Fill muffin cups about ¾ full to allow space for rising.
Bake for 18-22 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted comes out clean (except for melted guava jelly).
Let muffins cool for 10 minutes in the pan before transferring them to a wire rack.

Cooling, Storing, and Best Ways to Serve

Once your guava jelly muffins are baked and golden, follow these steps for the best texture and flavor:

Cooling – Allow muffins to cool completely before eating to let the flavors set.
Storage – Keep muffins in an airtight container at room temperature for 2-3 days, or refrigerate for up to a week.
Freezing – Wrap individually and freeze for up to 3 months. Thaw at room temp or reheat in the oven at 300°F (150°C) for 5 minutes.

For an extra indulgent treat, serve warm muffins with cream cheese, butter, or extra guava jelly on top!

How to Make the Best Guava Jelly Muffins at Home

Author: Nina
Total Time: 35-40 min
Yield: 12 muffins 1x

Print Recipe

Description

These guava jelly muffins are a delightful tropical treat, perfect for breakfast, snacks, or dessert. Soft, buttery, and infused with sweet guava jelly swirls, they offer a delicate balance of fruity and cake-like textures. Whether you enjoy them warm with coffee or as an on-the-go treat, these muffins are simple to make and bursting with flavor.

Ingredients

Scale

Dry Ingredients:

2 cups all-purpose flour
2 teaspoons baking powder
½ teaspoon baking soda
¼ teaspoon salt
½ cup granulated sugar

Wet Ingredients:

½ cup (1 stick) unsalted butter, melted
2 large eggs
1 teaspoon vanilla extract
½ cup whole milk (or buttermilk for extra softness)
⅓ cup Greek yogurt or sour cream

Guava Jelly Swirl:

½ cup guava jelly, slightly warmed for easy swirling

Instructions

Step 1: Prep the Muffin Tin

Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
Line a 12-cup muffin tin with paper liners or grease with non-stick spray.

Step 2: Mix the Dry Ingredients

In a large bowl, whisk together flour, baking powder, baking soda, salt, and sugar until evenly combined.

Step 3: Combine Wet Ingredients

In a separate bowl, whisk together melted butter, eggs, vanilla, milk, and yogurt until smooth.

Step 4: Make the Batter

Slowly pour the wet ingredients into the dry ingredients, mixing gently with a spatula until just combined. Avoid overmixing, as this can make the muffins dense.

Step 5: Add the Guava Jelly Swirl

Fill each muffin cup halfway with batter.
Spoon ½ teaspoon of guava jelly into the center of each.
Top with the remaining batter until each cup is about ¾ full.
Use a toothpick or skewer to gently swirl the jelly into the batter for a marbled effect.

Step 6: Bake the Muffins

Bake for 18-22 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted comes out clean (except for melted guava jelly).
Let muffins cool in the pan for 5 minutes, then transfer to a wire rack to cool completely.

Notes

✔ Use room temperature ingredients – This helps the batter mix evenly and results in softer muffins.
✔ For extra moist muffins, use buttermilk instead of regular milk.
✔ Don’t overmix! Stir gently to avoid dense muffins. A few lumps in the batter are okay.
✔ If your guava jelly is too runny, refrigerate it for 10 minutes before swirling.
✔ For a creamier version, add a teaspoon of cream cheese in the center before baking.

Prep Time: 15 min
Cook Time: 18-22 min

Nutrition

Serving Size: 1 muffin
Calories: 210 kcal
Sugar: 12 g
Sodium: 130mg
Fat: 9 g
Saturated Fat: 5 g
Unsaturated Fat: 3 g
Trans Fat: 0
Carbohydrates: 28g
Fiber: 1g
Protein: 4 g
Cholesterol: 40 mg

Variations of Guava Jelly Muffins

One of the best things about guava jelly muffins is how versatile they are! Whether you want a creamy twist, a healthier option, or a fun new way to serve them, there are plenty of ways to customize this tropical treat.

Guava and Cream Cheese Muffins – A Decadent Twist

Guava and cream cheese is a classic pairing, often found in Cuban pastries and Latin American desserts. Adding cream cheese to your guava jelly muffins gives them a tangy, creamy contrast that balances the sweetness of guava.

To make guava and cream cheese muffins:

Fill the muffin cups halfway with batter.
Add a teaspoon of cream cheese (softened and slightly sweetened with powdered sugar).
Top with more batter, then swirl in guava jelly before baking.

The result? A rich, bakery-style muffin with a gooey guava and cream cheese filling!

Peanut Butter and Guava Jelly Muffins – A Tropical PB&J Version

If you love peanut butter and jelly sandwiches, this variation is for you! The nutty richness of peanut butter pairs beautifully with the sweet and fruity notes of guava jelly.

To make PB&J guava muffins:

Swap half of the butter or oil in the recipe for creamy peanut butter.
Swirl guava jelly into the batter before baking.
Sprinkle crushed peanuts on top for extra crunch.

This version is packed with protein and makes a great breakfast-on-the-go option!

Gluten-Free and Vegan Guava Jelly Muffins

For those with dietary restrictions, you can still enjoy guava jelly muffins with a few simple swaps!

Gluten-Free Option – Use 1:1 gluten-free flour or a mix of almond flour and oat flour for a moist, nutty texture.
Vegan Option – Replace eggs with flax eggs (1 tbsp flaxseed + 3 tbsp water per egg) and use coconut oil or applesauce instead of butter.

Even with these swaps, these muffins remain fluffy, fruity, and delicious!

Mini Muffins vs. Jumbo Muffins – Which Size Works Best?

You can bake guava jelly muffins in different sizes depending on the occasion:

Mini Muffins – Great for snacks or kids’ lunchboxes. Reduce baking time to 10-12 minutes.
Jumbo Muffins – Perfect for brunch or a coffee shop-style treat. Increase baking time to 25-28 minutes.

No matter the size, the tropical flavor of guava jelly makes every bite irresistible!

Tips and Tricks for the Best Guava Jelly Muffins

Want to bake perfectly soft and flavorful guava jelly muffins every time? Follow these expert tips to avoid common baking mistakes and get the best results.

How to Prevent Muffins from Becoming Dense or Dry

Nobody likes a tough or dry muffin! Here’s how to ensure your muffins turn out light and moist:

Don’t overmix the batter – Stir until just combined. Overmixing makes muffins dense and rubbery.
Use room temperature ingredients – This helps the batter mix evenly, preventing dry patches.
Measure flour correctly – Spoon flour into the measuring cup and level it off. Too much flour leads to dry muffins.
Don’t skimp on fat – Butter, oil, or yogurt add moisture and tenderness.

If your muffins still turn out dry, try adding an extra tablespoon of guava jelly to the batter for more moisture!

Best Storage Practices for Freshness

To keep your guava jelly muffins tasting fresh and soft, follow these storage tips:

At Room Temperature – Store in an airtight container for up to 3 days.
Refrigeration – If you’ve added cream cheese, store in the fridge for up to a week.
Freezing – Wrap muffins individually and freeze for up to 3 months. Thaw at room temperature or reheat in the oven at 300°F (150°C) for 5 minutes.

For the best taste, warm muffins slightly before serving—they’ll taste freshly baked!

How to Achieve a Perfectly Baked Muffin Every Time

Muffins that are too dense, flat, or underbaked can be disappointing. Follow these final tips for golden, fluffy muffins:

✔ Preheat the oven properly – Muffins need high heat to rise well.
✔ Fill muffin cups ¾ full – This allows room for rising without spilling over.
✔ Use an oven thermometer – Some ovens run hot or cold, affecting baking time.
✔ Don’t open the oven door too soon – This can cause muffins to sink in the middle.

By following these simple baking hacks, your guava jelly muffins will turn out perfectly every time!

Pairing and Serving Ideas for Guava Jelly Muffins

Guava jelly muffins are incredibly versatile, making them perfect for breakfast, snacks, or even dessert. Whether you want a quick bite with coffee or a fancy plated dessert, there are endless ways to serve and enjoy these muffins.

Best Drinks to Pair with Guava Jelly Muffins

Pairing the right drink with your guava jelly muffins enhances their tropical sweetness. Here are some great options:

Coffee – A bold espresso or a creamy latte balances the fruity flavor of guava.
Tea – A cup of chamomile, green tea, or hibiscus tea pairs beautifully with the muffins’ light, sweet taste.
Milk – Classic and comforting, milk complements the soft, buttery texture of the muffins.
Smoothies – Try a tropical smoothie with mango, pineapple, or banana to bring out the fruity flavors even more!
Fresh Juice – A citrus juice like orange or passion fruit adds a tangy contrast to the sweetness of guava jelly.

Creative Breakfast and Dessert Serving Ideas

Looking to elevate your guava jelly muffins? Try these fun and delicious serving ideas:

Guava Muffin French Toast – Slice the muffins in half, dip them in an egg-milk mixture, and pan-fry for a delicious twist on French toast.
Guava Muffin Sundae – Warm up a muffin, top it with vanilla ice cream, whipped cream, and a drizzle of guava jelly.
Muffin Parfait – Crumble muffins into a glass, layer with Greek yogurt and fresh fruit, and top with a sprinkle of granola.
Toasted with Butter – Slice a muffin in half, toast it lightly, and spread some butter or cream cheese for a simple yet satisfying treat.
Guava Muffin Trifle – Layer muffin chunks with custard and guava jelly for an elegant dessert.

These creative serving ideas make guava jelly muffins more than just a simple baked good—they become a full culinary experience!

If you want to try something else next, check out our Ultimate Guide to Gluten Free Peach Cobbler here.

Common Mistakes and How to Avoid Them

Even the best bakers sometimes face issues when making guava jelly muffins. Whether they turn out too dense, too dry, or just not quite right, here are the most common baking mistakes and how to fix them.

Overmixing or Undermixing the Batter

Mixing the batter too much or too little can affect your muffins’ texture. Here’s how to avoid these common problems:

Overmixing – Stirring the batter too much develops the gluten, leading to dense, chewy muffins. Mix until the dry ingredients are just incorporated.
Undermixing – Leaving large pockets of flour or baking powder can cause uneven baking. Gently fold ingredients until no dry spots remain.

A good rule of thumb? Mix the batter until just combined—a few lumps are totally fine!

Why Your Muffins Turn Out Soggy or Too Dry

Nobody likes a muffin that’s too wet or crumbly. Here’s how to get the right balance:

Too Soggy? This often happens when using too much guava jelly or underbaking.
- Solution: Spoon the jelly carefully and don’t add too much in one spot. Always check for doneness with a toothpick test.
Too Dry? Overbaking, too much flour, or not enough fat can cause dry muffins.
- Solution: Use the correct amount of butter or oil, and don’t leave muffins in the oven longer than needed.

To keep muffins extra soft, try adding a little extra yogurt or applesauce to the batter!

Using the Wrong Type of Guava Jelly

Not all guava products work the same way in baking. Here’s what to watch for:

Guava Paste – While delicious, it’s too thick and won’t create a smooth swirl. Instead, mix guava paste with a little warm water to soften it.
Too Thin Jelly – Some store-bought jellies are too runny, causing the muffins to become soggy. Look for a thicker, high-quality guava jelly.

Choosing the right consistency of guava jelly ensures perfectly balanced muffins—not too dry and not too wet!

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

Baking guava jelly muffins may seem simple, but many bakers have questions about ingredients, techniques, and storage. Below are answers to some of the most commonly asked questions.

Can I Use Guava Paste Instead of Guava Jelly in Muffins?

Yes, but with modifications. Guava paste is thicker and firmer than jelly, so it won’t create the same smooth swirls. To use guava paste:

Warm it slightly and mix with a little water or lemon juice to soften.
Cut it into small cubes and fold them into the batter for bursts of guava flavor.
Melt it down into a jam-like consistency for an easier spread.

While guava jelly muffins have a delicate, fruity swirl, using guava paste creates a bolder flavor and texture.

How Do You Prevent Guava Jelly from Sinking in Muffins?

A common issue when making guava jelly muffins is that the jelly sinks to the bottom during baking. Here’s how to fix it:

✔ Layer the jelly – Instead of adding it all at once, alternate batter and jelly to distribute it evenly.
✔ Use a thicker jelly – Runny guava jelly tends to sink more than thicker varieties.
✔ Chill the jelly first – Cold jelly holds its shape better and doesn’t immediately melt into the batter.

By following these simple tricks, you’ll get evenly distributed guava flavor in every bite!

What’s the Best Way to Store Guava Jelly Muffins?

To keep guava jelly muffins soft and fresh, proper storage is key.

Room Temperature – Store in an airtight container for up to 3 days.
Refrigeration – If muffins contain cream cheese or dairy-based fillings, refrigerate them for up to a week.
Freezing – Wrap individually and freeze for up to 3 months. Thaw at room temperature or reheat in an oven at 300°F (150°C) for 5 minutes.

For best results, always warm muffins slightly before eating to enhance their flavor and texture.

Can I Make Guava Jelly Muffins Without Eggs?

Yes! If you need an egg-free version, try these simple substitutes:

Flax egg – Mix 1 tablespoon ground flaxseed + 3 tablespoons water (let sit for 5 minutes).
Unsweetened applesauce – Replace each egg with ¼ cup applesauce for a moist texture.
Mashed banana – Adds natural sweetness while binding the ingredients together.

These egg alternatives ensure your muffins stay soft and fluffy without compromising on taste.

Why Guava Jelly Muffins Are the Ultimate Treat

If you love tropical flavors and soft, buttery muffins, then guava jelly muffins are a must-try. Their fruity sweetness, tender crumb, and beautiful swirls make them perfect for any occasion—whether it’s a simple breakfast treat, a mid-day snack, or a delightful dessert.

Final Thoughts and Baking Inspiration

Now that you know how to make the best guava jelly muffins, why not experiment with new flavors and variations? Try adding:

✔ A coconut crumble topping for an extra tropical touch.
✔ Chocolate chips for a fun guava-and-chocolate combo.
✔ Lemon zest to enhance the fruity notes even more.

With so many ways to enjoy these delicious muffins, they’ll quickly become a favorite in your kitchen. Happy baking! 😊

Can’t get enough of our delicious recipes? Try this Fudgy Sourdough Brownie Recipe next!

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