1-Getting started with cherry muffins: Begin by preheating your oven to 400° F and lining a muffin tin with paper liners to avoid any sticking. This step ensures your muffins bake evenly and come out just right.

2-In a large bowl, whisk together the dry ingredients: 3 cups (375 g) all-purpose flour, 1 tablespoon baking powder, ¼ teaspoon baking soda, and ½ teaspoon salt. This mix forms the foundation that makes your cherry muffins rise and hold their shape. Keep in mind, measuring flour correctly by fluffing, spooning, and leveling helps avoid dense results.

3-Next, in another bowl, whisk the melted butter, sugar, and eggs until smooth, then add the milk, sour cream or yogurt, and extract. Pour the wet mix into the dry ingredients and stir just until combined to keep things light and fluffy. For the best homemade muffins, gently fold in the chopped fresh cherries by hand at this stage.

4-Filling and Baking Steps: Fill each muffin cup about three-quarters full with the batter, then sprinkle coarse sugar on top for a nice crunch. Bake for 20 to 22 minutes until the tops turn golden and a toothpick comes out clean. Let them cool in the pan for 5 minutes before moving to a wire rack.