Fresh Cranberry Orange Muffins
If you’re looking for a treat that blends the tartness of fresh cranberries with the zesty brightness of oranges, look no further than Cranberry Orange Muffins. These muffins are a wonderful balance of sweet, tangy, and refreshing, making them perfect for breakfast, snacks, or even dessert. The combination of seasonal cranberries and oranges creates a delightful flavor that shines in every bite.
Why You’ll Love Cranberry Orange Muffins
- Bursting with Flavor: The combination of fresh cranberries and orange zest gives these muffins a vibrant, refreshing taste.
- Moist and Tender Texture: Thanks to the addition of buttermilk or yogurt, these muffins stay soft and fluffy.
- Perfect for All Occasions: Whether it’s the holiday season or a regular weekday, cranberry orange muffins are a wonderful treat to have on hand.
- Nutrient-Rich: Cranberries are packed with antioxidants, vitamin C, and fiber, making these muffins not only delicious but nutritious.
Ingredients
To make these delightful muffins, you’ll need the following ingredients:
- 2 cups all-purpose flour
- 1 cup granulated sugar
- 2 tsp baking powder
- ½ tsp baking soda
- ½ tsp salt
- Zest of 1 orange
- ¾ cup fresh orange juice
- ½ cup unsalted butter, melted
- 2 large eggs
- 1 cup fresh cranberries, halved or roughly chopped
- ½ cup buttermilk or plain yogurt (for moisture)
Optional Add-ins:
- Nuts: Chopped pecans or walnuts can add a crunchy texture.
- Glaze: A simple orange glaze can elevate these muffins for a more decadent treat.
Step-by-Step Instructions
1. Preheat and Prep:
Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C) and line a 12-cup muffin tin with paper liners or lightly grease it.
2. Mix Dry Ingredients:
In a large bowl, whisk together the flour, sugar, baking powder, baking soda, and salt. Stir in the orange zest to infuse the dry mixture with a citrus aroma.
3. Combine Wet Ingredients:
In a separate bowl, whisk together the fresh orange juice, melted butter, eggs, and buttermilk (or yogurt). Make sure all wet ingredients are well combined.
4. Fold in the Cranberries:
Gently fold the wet ingredients into the dry ingredients until just combined. Be careful not to overmix—this ensures your muffins stay light and fluffy. Finally, fold in the chopped fresh cranberries.
5. Fill the Muffin Tin:
Spoon the batter into the prepared muffin tin, filling each cup about ¾ full to allow room for rising.
6. Bake:
Place the muffins in the preheated oven and bake for 18-22 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.
7. Cool and Enjoy:
Allow the muffins to cool in the tin for about 5 minutes before transferring them to a wire rack to cool completely. Serve warm for the best flavor!
Optional Glaze Recipe
If you want to add an extra layer of sweetness, make a simple orange glaze by mixing 1 cup of powdered sugar with 2-3 tablespoons of fresh orange juice. Drizzle it over the cooled muffins.
Storage Tips
- Room Temperature: Store the muffins in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days.
- Freezing: These muffins freeze beautifully! Place them in a freezer-safe bag and store for up to 3 months. To enjoy, simply thaw them at room temperature or reheat in the microwave for 10-15 seconds.
Variations and Tips
- Swap the Cranberries: If fresh cranberries are out of season, you can substitute them with dried cranberries (though reduce the sugar slightly).
- Add Spices: A pinch of cinnamon or nutmeg can complement the flavors of the orange and cranberry beautifully.
- Make it Healthier: Substitute some of the flour with whole wheat flour or use a sugar substitute to reduce the sugar content.
Perfect for the Holidays or Year-Round
Cranberry Orange Muffins are particularly popular around Thanksgiving and Christmas, but their refreshing, fruity flavor makes them a wonderful treat throughout the year. Whether you’re baking them for brunch, a gathering, or just a personal indulgence, they’re sure to impress with their tangy and sweet notes.
Nutritional Information per Muffin (Based on a 12-muffin batch)
| Nutrient | Amount per Muffin |
|---|---|
| Calories | 210-220 kcal |
| Total Fat | 9 g |
| – Saturated Fat | 5 g |
| Cholesterol | 45 mg |
| Sodium | 180 mg |
| Total Carbohydrates | 30 g |
| – Dietary Fiber | 1.5 g |
| – Sugars | 17 g |
| Protein | 3.5 g |
| Vitamin C | 10-15 mg (17-25% DV) |
| Calcium | 40 mg (4% DV) |
| Iron | 1 mg (5% DV) |
Key Points:
- Calories: Around 210-220 per muffin depending on ingredient variations.
- Fats: Mostly from the butter and optional nuts.
- Sugars: Natural sugars from orange juice and added sugar for sweetness.
- Vitamin C: Thanks to the fresh orange juice and zest, each muffin provides a good dose of vitamin C.
- Fiber: The fresh cranberries contribute to the fiber content, making these muffins a healthier treat than many standard muffins.
Recipes you may like