Cranberry Orange Muffins Recipe

Cranberry Orange Muffins are a delightful treat that brings together the bright, zesty flavor of oranges with the tartness of cranberries. This recipe is perfect for any time of the year, whether you are enjoying a quiet breakfast, hosting a brunch, or looking for a delicious snack. These muffins are not only fluffy and fragrant but also easy to make, making them a beloved choice for families and gatherings alike.

Why make this recipe

Making Cranberry Orange Muffins at home is simple and rewarding. They are much healthier than store-bought options, allowing you to control the ingredients for a fresher and more wholesome taste. The recipe is beginner-friendly, taking only about 30 minutes from start to finish. Plus, they are budget-friendly, requiring ingredients you likely already have in your kitchen. It’s a great way to impress your family with minimal effort!

What makes Cranberry Orange Muffins Recipe special

What sets these muffins apart is their unique combination of flavors. The sweet and tart cranberries pair wonderfully with the bright citrus notes from the orange zest and juice. This recipe brings a homemade touch that you won’t find in packaged muffins. The contrast of flavors and textures creates a treat that pleases the palate, making them perfect for any occasion.

Is Cranberry Orange Muffins Recipe healthy

Cranberry Orange Muffins offer a great balance of ingredients. Whole cranberries provide fiber and antioxidants. The use of orange adds vitamin C while keeping the muffins moist and flavorful. The recipe utilizes all-purpose flour and sugar, but the homemade nature allows you to adjust it to your taste. When eaten in moderation, these muffins can fit well into a balanced diet.

How to make Cranberry Orange Muffins Recipe

Making Cranberry Orange Muffins is a straightforward process. In just a few easy steps, you’ll create a batter that combines dry and wet ingredients effortlessly. With less than 30 minutes of bake time, the muffins will soon rise to a perfect golden color in your oven. This recipe is stress-free and perfect for novice bakers, ensuring a successful outcome every time.

Ingredients

• 2 cups all-purpose flour (240g)
• 2 teaspoons baking powder
• ½ teaspoon salt
• 1 cup granulated sugar (200g)
• Zest of 2 oranges
• ½ cup milk (120mL)
• ½ cup vegetable oil (120mL)
• ¼ cup orange juice (60mL)
• 2 large eggs
• 2 teaspoons vanilla extract
• 1½ cups fresh or frozen cranberries (180g)

Directions

1. Preheat the oven to 400° Fahrenheit. Line a 12-cup muffin pan with paper liners for easy cleanup.
2. In a medium bowl, whisk together the all-purpose flour, baking powder, and salt.
3. In a larger mixing bowl, combine the granulated sugar and orange zest. Whisk them together until fragrant.
4. Add the milk, vegetable oil, orange juice, eggs, and vanilla extract to the sugar mixture. Stir until smooth.
5. Pour the dry flour mixture into the wet ingredients and stir until just combined. Small lumps are okay.
6. Gently fold in the cranberries, being careful not to break them.
7. Divide the batter evenly among the muffin cups. Bake for 25 minutes or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean.
8. Allow the muffins to cool for a few minutes in the pan before transferring them to a wire rack.

How to serve Cranberry Orange Muffins Recipe

Cranberry Orange Muffins are incredibly versatile. They can be served as a breakfast item alongside coffee or tea. They make a tasty snack for lunchboxes or afternoon breaks. For a special occasion, consider serving them warm with a dollop of butter or cream cheese. You can also plate them on a colorful serving dish for a visually appealing presentation.

 

Best occasions to make Cranberry Orange Muffins Recipe

These muffins are perfect for many occasions. They shine at weekend brunches and family breakfast tables. They are great for meal prep, allowing you to enjoy a snack throughout the week. Consider making them for holiday gatherings or as a thoughtful gift to friends and neighbors. You can also whip them up on a busy weeknight when you want something special to enjoy.

How to store Cranberry Orange Muffins Recipe

To keep your muffins fresh, store them at room temperature in an airtight container for up to three days. For longer storage, consider placing them in the refrigerator, where they can last for about a week. If you want to keep them for even longer, freeze them. Wrapped tightly in plastic wrap and stored in a freezer bag, they will stay fresh for two to three months.

Can you make Cranberry Orange Muffins Recipe ahead of time

Yes, you can prepare these muffins ahead of time! Bake them and let them cool completely, then store as mentioned above. If you want fresh muffins in the morning, you can even prepare the batter the night before. Just mix everything but the cranberries, cover, and refrigerate. In the morning, fold in the cranberries and bake them fresh.

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Tips to make Cranberry Orange Muffins Recipe

For the best results, be careful not to overmix the batter; this can lead to dense muffins. Use fresh cranberries if possible, as they provide the best flavor. Also, don’t skip the zest; it adds an essential brightness. If you find your muffins browning too fast, you can cover them loosely with aluminum foil while baking.

Variation

Feel free to make this recipe your own! You could swap the cranberries for blueberries or diced apples for a different flavor. For a healthier option, you can use whole wheat flour instead of all-purpose flour. Adding nuts such as walnuts or pecans can also give the muffins a nice crunch.

FAQs

How long do Cranberry Orange Muffins stay fresh?

When stored properly at room temperature, they last for about three days. In the fridge, they can last up to a week.

Can I freeze Cranberry Orange Muffins?

Yes, you can freeze them! After baking, let them cool and then wrap them tightly before freezing for up to three months.

What can I substitute for cranberries in the recipe?

You can replace cranberries with blueberries, dried fruit, or chopped apples for a different taste in the Cranberry Orange Muffins.