Cranberry Orange Muffins

The moment I bake Cranberry Orange Muffins, my kitchen transforms into a warm haven filled with the sweet and tangy scents of fresh oranges and cranberries. It takes me back to autumn afternoons spent with my family, where the mere act of baking brought us together. I remember gathering around the table, eagerly waiting for the muffins to come out of the oven, our hearts filled with the anticipation of those golden, fluffy delights. Each bite of a Cranberry Orange Muffin is like a hug, a perfect blend of tart and sweet that dances on your taste buds. This recipe is a cherished gem, one that I’m excited to share with you. It’s not just about the ingredients; it’s about the memories created in the process.

When it comes to baking, the joy lies in watching simple ingredients come together to create something truly magical. And that’s exactly what happens with these muffins. As the oven does its magic, the aroma fills the air, beckoning everyone to gather in the kitchen. What I love most is how versatile these muffins are; they make a delightful breakfast, a perfect snack, or even a festive treat during the holidays. Let’s dive into the reasons why this recipe will quickly become a favorite in your house!

Ingredients to Make Cranberry Orange Muffins

To create those delightful Cranberry Orange Muffins, we need a harmonious blend of ingredients, each playing a vital role in the final product. The star players here include flour, cranberries, and orange zest, which combine to give these muffins their unique flavor and texture. Every ingredient is selected with care to ensure they complement one another, resulting in a delicious muffin that’s soft and moist.

• Flour: 2 cups – This is the foundation of our muffins, providing structure and texture.
• Baking Powder: 2 teaspoons – This leavening agent helps the muffins rise, creating a fluffy texture.
• Salt: A pinch – Enhances the flavors of the muffins, balancing the sweetness.
• Sugar: 1 cup – Adds sweetness, making the muffins irresistible.
• Orange Zest: 1 zest – Gives a bright, citrusy flavor that elevates the muffins.
• Orange Juice: 1/4 cup – Adds moisture and a burst of fresh flavor.
• Oil: 1/2 cup of avocado oil or any neutral-tasting oil – Ensures the muffins are moist and tender.
• Milk: 1/2 cup – Adds richness and helps to keep the muffins soft.
• Eggs: 2 – Binds the ingredients together and adds moisture.
• Vanilla Extract: 1 teaspoon – Introduces a warm flavor that complements the other ingredients.
• Cranberries: 1 cup fresh or frozen (not thawed) – Gives the muffins their signature tartness.
• Confectioner Sugar: 1 1/2 cups – Used for the glaze, adding sweetness and a lovely finish.
• Orange Zest: 1 teaspoon – For the glaze, enhancing the orange flavor.
• Orange Juice: 2-3 tablespoons – For the glaze, adjusting the consistency as needed.

Cooking Method for Cranberry Orange Muffins

Making Cranberry Orange Muffins is a fulfilling experience where you can engage all your senses. The process is simple yet rewarding, and I love how each step brings you closer to enjoying these delicious treats. Let’s get started!

1. Preheat your oven to 374 degrees F. Prepare a standard-sized muffin pan by lining it with baking paper or lightly spraying it with oil. This ensures that your muffins won’t stick and will come out easily. I always find that having everything ready before I begin is key to a smooth baking process.
2. In a large mixing bowl, add milk, sugar, eggs, oil, vanilla, orange zest, and orange juice. Whisk everything together until smooth. The mixture should be well combined and creamy, which is the base for your muffins.
3. In a separate bowl, combine flour, salt, and baking powder. Stir these dry ingredients together, and then carefully pour them over the wet ingredients. This method allows for even mixing and helps prevent lumps.
4. Use a whisk to blend the dry ingredients into the wet mixture. Be gentle and avoid overbeating; you want to see some lumps in the batter. Overmixing can lead to tough muffins, so mix just until combined.
5. Now, it’s time to fold in the star of the show: the cranberries. Switch to a spatula and gently fold them into the batter until evenly distributed. This step adds a pop of color and flavor to each muffin.
6. Divide the batter among your prepared muffin pan, filling each cup about two-thirds full. This allows room for the muffins to rise perfectly.
7. Bake the muffins for about 18 minutes. You’ll know they’re ready when a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean. Keep an eye on them, as ovens can vary.
8. Once baked, allow the muffins to cool slightly in the pan for about 10 minutes. This helps them set properly and makes them easier to handle without falling apart.
9. While the muffins cool, prepare the glaze. In a bowl, mix the confectioners sugar with orange zest. Gradually add orange juice, one tablespoon at a time, whisking until you reach your desired consistency. You want it pourable but not too runny.
10. Drizzle the glaze generously over each muffin while they are still warm. This adds a beautiful finish and a touch more sweetness. Enjoy your freshly baked muffins right away or let them cool completely before storing!

How to Switch It Up

There are countless ways to make Cranberry Orange Muffins your own. Here are some ideas to switch things up and keep your baking exciting:

• Mix in Nuts: Consider adding chopped nuts like walnuts or pecans for added crunch and flavor.
• Spice it Up: A teaspoon of cinnamon or nutmeg can add a warm spice note that complements the orange and cranberry beautifully.
• Different Fruits: Try substituting cranberries with blueberries or raspberries for a different fruity twist.
• Gluten-Free Option: Use a gluten-free flour blend to make these muffins gluten-free without losing flavor.
• Sweet Variations: Add chocolate chips for a sweet surprise in every bite.
• Healthier Sweetener: Swap out regular sugar for a natural sweetener like honey or maple syrup for a healthier version.
• Serving Suggestion: Serve with a dollop of cream cheese or butter for a richer taste.

How to Serve Cranberry Orange Muffins

Serving Cranberry Orange Muffins is all about embracing their delightful flavors and making them the highlight of your gathering or meal. Here are some wonderful ideas for serving these delicious muffins:

• Breakfast Delight: Enjoy them warm with a cup of coffee or tea for a delightful breakfast experience.
• Brunch Staple: They make a perfect addition to any brunch spread, complementing savory dishes beautifully.
• Festive Treat: Serve during Thanksgiving or Christmas as a festive treat that everyone will love.
• On-the-Go Snack: Pack them in lunchboxes or take them as a snack for a busy day out.
• Pairing Suggestions: These muffins go wonderfully with soft cheeses or a dab of butter. Add a side of fresh fruit for a refreshing contrast.
• Storage Tips: Store uneaten muffins in an airtight container at room temperature for up to three days, or refrigerate to prolong freshness.
• Freezing for Later: These muffins freeze well! Just be sure to store them without the glaze in a zip-lock bag for up to three months.

FAQ

Conclusion

These Cranberry Orange Muffins are not just a recipe; they’re a celebration of flavors that brings joy to any occasion. With their delightful sweet-tart balance and moist texture, they are sure to become a staple in your baking repertoire. I encourage you to try making them and share them with those you love. Each bite is a reminder of the warmth of home and the joy of gathering together, making them perfect for any time of the year!

Cranberry Orange Muffins

The ultimate treat for fall! These Cranberry Orange Muffins are fluffy, moist, and bursting with the perfect balance of sweet and tart flavors. They're easy to whip up and make a delightful addition to any meal or gathering. Perfect for breakfast or a snack, you won't be able to resist making them tonight!

Print Recipe Pin Recipe

Prep Time 5 minutes mins

Cook Time 18 minutes mins

Total Time 23 minutes mins

Course Breakfast

Cuisine American

Servings 12 muffins

Calories 210 kcal

Equipment

• Mixing Bowl
• Baking Sheet
• Blender
• Whisk
• Frying Pan
• Oven

Ingredients

  

• 2 cups Flour
• 2 teaspoons Baking Powder
• a pinch Salt
• 1 cup Sugar
• 1 Orange Zest
• 1/4 cup Orange Juice
• 1/2 cup Oil Avocado oil or any neutral tasting oil
• 1/2 cup Milk Whole milk if possible.
• 2 Eggs
• 1 teaspoon Vanilla Extract
• 1 cup Cranberries Fresh or frozen, not thawed. May use up to 1 1/2 cups to your taste.
• 1 1/2 cups Confectioner Sugar
• 1 teaspoon Orange Zest
• 2-3 Tablespoons Orange Juice See notes on consistency.

Instructions

 

• Preheat your oven to 374 degrees F. Prepare a standard-sized muffin pan by lining it with baking paper or lightly spraying it with oil. This ensures that your muffins won’t stick and will come out easily. I always find that having everything ready before I begin is key to a smooth baking process.
• In a large mixing bowl, add milk, sugar, eggs, oil, vanilla, orange zest, and orange juice. Whisk everything together until smooth. The mixture should be well combined and creamy, which is the base for your muffins.
• In a separate bowl, combine flour, salt, and baking powder. Stir these dry ingredients together, and then carefully pour them over the wet ingredients. This method allows for even mixing and helps prevent lumps.
• Use a whisk to blend the dry ingredients into the wet mixture. Be gentle and avoid overbeating; you want to see some lumps in the batter. Overmixing can lead to tough muffins, so mix just until combined.
• Now, it’s time to fold in the star of the show: the cranberries. Switch to a spatula and gently fold them into the batter until evenly distributed. This step adds a pop of color and flavor to each muffin.
• Divide the batter among your prepared muffin pan, filling each cup about two-thirds full. This allows room for the muffins to rise perfectly.
• Bake the muffins for about 18 minutes. You'll know they’re ready when a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean. Keep an eye on them, as ovens can vary.
• Once baked, allow the muffins to cool slightly in the pan for about 10 minutes. This helps them set properly and makes them easier to handle without falling apart.
• While the muffins cool, prepare the glaze. In a bowl, mix the confectioners sugar with orange zest. Gradually add orange juice, one tablespoon at a time, whisking until you reach your desired consistency. You want it pourable but not too runny.
• Drizzle the glaze generously over each muffin while they are still warm. This adds a beautiful finish and a touch more sweetness. Enjoy your freshly baked muffins right away or let them cool completely before storing!

Notes

• Use a bowl and a whisk: for best results, avoid using a mixer or over beating your batter as this will create a tough bread-like muffin.
• Check for lumps: make sure you see some lumps in the batter after mixing in the dry ingredients, as long as you don't see dry specs of flour.
• Preheat your oven: have your oven preheated before beginning to make the batter, and line your muffin pans or oil them ahead as well.
• Fresh ingredients: Use fresh orange zest and juice for maximum flavor.
• Watch your oven: keep an eye on your oven as each oven operates differently and the heat may not be distributed evenly.
• Storage: Keep the muffins on the counter for up to 3 days stored in an airtight container or covered in plastic wrap.
• Freezing: Once baked and cooled (do not glaze in this case), place the muffins in a tight zip-lock bag and freeze them for up to 3 months. To reheat them, make sure you defrost the muffins in the fridge overnight and reheat them in a 350-degree oven for 5 minutes. Glaze and enjoy!

Keyword Cranberry Muffins, easy muffin recipe, fall baking, Orange Muffins

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Meet Hanna Hart

I am obsessed with the “how” and “why” of cooking. It doesn’t matter if we are roasting a chicken or baking brownies; I am the one double-checking our measurements and cooking times. I love working on every type of cuisine and finding the absolute best method to get the results we want. I treat every recipe with the same level of care and dedication.