Cranberry orange muffins are the perfect way to start your day with a burst of fresh flavors. The tangy cranberries and the zesty orange make for a delightful combination, creating a balance between sweet and tart that’s simply irresistible. These muffins are perfect for breakfast, brunch, or an afternoon snack with a cup of coffee or tea. The bright orange flavor paired with the tartness of the cranberries creates a refreshing and light taste, while the moist, tender crumb makes each bite satisfying.
This recipe is quick, easy to follow, and ideal for using up fresh or frozen cranberries during the holiday season. Whether you’re looking for a treat to share with friends and family or something to enjoy yourself, these muffins will quickly become a favorite. Let’s dive into how you can make these zesty cranberry orange muffins in just a few simple steps!
Cranberry Orange Muffins Ingredients:
– For the Muffins:
– 2 cups all-purpose flour
– 3/4 cup granulated sugar
– 2 teaspoons baking powder
– 1/2 teaspoon baking soda
– 1/4 teaspoon salt
– 1/2 cup unsalted butter, melted
– 3/4 cup freshly squeezed orange juice (about 2 large oranges)
– Zest of 1 large orange
– 1 large egg
– 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
– 1 1/2 cups fresh or frozen cranberries, roughly chopped
– For the Orange Glaze (optional):
– 1 cup powdered sugar
– 2-3 tablespoons freshly squeezed orange juice
Cranberry Orange Muffins Directions
1. Preheat the oven: Set your oven to 375°F (190°C). Line a 12-cup muffin tin with paper liners or grease it lightly.
2. Mix the dry ingredients: In a large bowl, whisk together the flour, sugar, baking powder, baking soda, and salt.
3. Combine the wet ingredients: In a separate bowl, whisk together the melted butter, orange juice, orange zest, egg, and vanilla extract until smooth.
4. Make the batter: Add the wet ingredients to the dry ingredients, stirring gently until just combined. Be careful not to overmix. Fold in the chopped cranberries.
5. Fill the muffin cups: Divide the batter evenly among the muffin cups, filling each about 3/4 full.
6. Bake the muffins: Bake in the preheated oven for 18-22 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center of a muffin comes out clean. Allow the muffins to cool in the pan for 5 minutes before transferring them to a wire rack to cool completely.
7. Prepare the orange glaze (optional): In a small bowl, whisk together powdered sugar and orange juice until smooth. Drizzle the glaze over the cooled muffins for an extra burst of sweetness and citrus flavor.
How to Prepare The Cranberry Orange Muffins:
Making these cranberry orange muffins is easy and fun. Start by preparing the dry ingredients and whisking together the wet ingredients in a separate bowl. Combining the two carefully ensures a light, fluffy texture, so be sure to stir just until the ingredients are incorporated. Chopping the cranberries helps distribute their tartness throughout the muffins, giving every bite a burst of flavor. The optional orange glaze adds a touch of sweetness that beautifully complements the tartness of the cranberries.
Preparation Time:
– Prep time: 15 minutes
– Bake time: 18-22 minutes
– Total time: 35-40 minutes
Servings:
– Makes 12 muffins
Cranberry Orange Muffins FAQs
1. Can I use frozen cranberries?
Yes, you can use frozen cranberries. No need to thaw them before adding them to the batter—just chop them while frozen and proceed with the recipe.
2. Can I substitute dried cranberries?
Yes, dried cranberries can be used, but the muffins will be less tart. If using dried cranberries, soak them in hot water for 10 minutes before draining and adding them to the batter for a softer texture.
3. How do I store leftover muffins?
Store leftover muffins in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days. You can also freeze them for up to 3 months and reheat in the microwave or oven when ready to enjoy.
4. Can I make the muffins gluten-free?
Yes! You can substitute the all-purpose flour with a gluten-free flour blend designed for baking. Be sure to check that all other ingredients are gluten-free as well.
5. Can I use bottled orange juice instead of fresh?
Freshly squeezed orange juice adds the best flavor, but bottled orange juice can be used in a pinch. Be sure to also add orange zest to maintain that bright, citrusy flavor.
Conclusion
Cranberry orange muffins are the perfect blend of sweet and tart, offering a refreshing change from the usual breakfast or snack options. The combination of fresh orange juice and zest with tangy cranberries makes these muffins stand out, while the soft, tender texture keeps you coming back for more. Whether you enjoy them with a cup of coffee in the morning or as an afternoon treat, these muffins are sure to brighten your day.
Easy to make and bursting with flavor, these cranberry orange muffins are ideal for any occasion. With the added option of a sweet orange glaze, they’re a delicious, versatile treat that can be enjoyed by everyone. Bake a batch today and savor the flavors of fresh citrus and cranberries in every bite!
Print
Cranberry Orange Muffins
- Total Time: 35 minutes
- Yield: 12 muffins
- Diet: Vegetarian
Description
Tender and zesty cranberry orange muffins, bursting with fresh cranberries and orange flavor. These muffins make a perfect breakfast treat or snack during the holiday season.
Ingredients
- ? 1 1/2 cups all-purpose flour
- ? 1/2 cup granulated sugar
- ? 1 tablespoon orange zest
- ? 2 teaspoons baking powder
- ? 1/2 teaspoon salt
- ? 1/2 teaspoon baking soda
- ? 1/2 cup buttermilk (or milk with 1/2 tablespoon vinegar)
- ? 1/4 cup vegetable oil
- ? 1 large egg
- ? 1 cup fresh or frozen cranberries, chopped
- ? 1/2 teaspoon vanilla extract
Instructions
1️⃣ Preheat Oven:
Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C) and line a muffin tin with paper liners or grease it lightly. ✨
2️⃣ Mix Dry Ingredients:
In a large bowl, whisk together flour, sugar, baking powder, salt, baking soda, and orange zest until well combined. ?
3️⃣ Mix Wet Ingredients:
In another bowl, mix together buttermilk, vegetable oil, egg, and vanilla extract until smooth.
4️⃣ Combine Mixtures:
Pour the wet ingredients into the dry ingredients and stir until just combined. Do not overmix! Gently fold in the chopped cranberries. ?
5️⃣ Fill Muffin Tin:
Divide the batter evenly among the muffin cups, filling each about 2/3 full.
6️⃣ Bake:
Bake in the preheated oven for 18-20 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.
7️⃣ Cool and Serve:
Allow the muffins to cool in the tin for about 5 minutes before transferring them to a wire rack. Enjoy your delightful cranberry orange muffins! ?️?
Notes
◻️ These muffins are perfect for breakfast or as a snack!
◻️ You can add chopped nuts or a sprinkle of sugar on top before baking for extra crunch! ?✨
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Category: Breakfast, Snack
- Method: Baked
- Cuisine: American