Cranberry Orange Muffins
Experience the delightful combination of tart cranberries and zesty orange in these scrumptious muffins. Perfectly fluffy and bursting with flavor, they make an ideal breakfast or snack. Whether enjoyed fresh from the oven or as a quick grab-and-go treat, cranberry orange muffins are sure to please everyone in your family. Let’s dive into this easy recipe that will fill your kitchen with a warm, inviting aroma!
Ingredients
- 1 ½ cups all-purpose flour
- ½ cup granulated sugar
- 1 tablespoon baking powder
- ½ teaspoon salt
- 1 cup fresh cranberries (or frozen)
- 1 large orange (zest and juice)
- ½ cup milk
- ⅓ cup vegetable oil
- 1 large egg
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
Servings and Cooking Time
This recipe makes 12 muffins. Preparation time is about 15 minutes, and cooking time is approximately 20-25 minutes.
Nutritional Value
Each muffin contains approximately 180 calories, 4g of protein, 8g of fat, 25g of carbohydrates, and 2g of fiber. This nutritional value is based on a serving size of one muffin.
Step-by-Step Cooking Process
- Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C) and line a muffin tin with paper liners.
- In a large bowl, whisk together the flour, sugar, baking powder, and salt.
- In another bowl, combine the milk, vegetable oil, egg, orange juice, and vanilla extract.
- Add the wet ingredients to the dry ingredients and stir until just combined.
- Gently fold in the cranberries and orange zest.
- Fill each muffin cup about two-thirds full with the batter.
- Bake for 20-25 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.
- Allow the muffins to cool in the pan for 5 minutes before transferring them to a wire rack.
- Enjoy warm or at room temperature!
- Store any leftovers in an airtight container.
Alternative Ingredients
You can substitute cranberries with blueberries or raspberries for a different flavor profile. Additionally, use almond milk instead of regular milk for a dairy-free option. If you prefer a lower sugar option, consider using honey or maple syrup in place of granulated sugar.
Serving and Pairings
These muffins pair wonderfully with a cup of tea or coffee. You can also serve them alongside yogurt or a light salad for a balanced breakfast. They make a delightful snack any time of day!
Storage and Reheating
Store cranberry orange muffins in an airtight container at room temperature for up to three days. They can also be frozen for up to three months. To reheat, simply microwave for 15-20 seconds or warm in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 5 minutes.
Cooking Mistakes
- Don’t overmix the batter; this can lead to dense muffins.
- Ensure your baking powder is fresh for the best rise.
- Measure flour correctly—spoon it into the cup and level off.
- Don’t skip the orange zest; it adds essential flavor.
- Be cautious when folding in cranberries; they can break easily.
Helpful Tips
- Use room temperature ingredients for better mixing.
- Experiment with adding nuts for crunch.
- Try adding a sprinkle of sugar on top before baking for a sweet crust.
- Let muffins cool completely before storing.
FAQs
Can I use frozen cranberries?
Yes, you can use frozen cranberries. Just fold them into the batter without thawing; this helps prevent them from becoming mushy.
How do I know when the muffins are done?
The muffins are done when a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean or with a few crumbs attached.
Can I make these muffins gluten-free?
Absolutely! Use a 1:1 gluten-free flour blend to substitute the all-purpose flour in this recipe.
How should I store leftover muffins?
Store leftover muffins in an airtight container at room temperature for up to three days, or freeze them for longer storage.
Can I add nuts to the recipe?
Yes, adding walnuts or pecans can enhance the flavor and texture of the muffins. Just fold them in gently with the cranberries.
Conclusion
Cranberry orange muffins are a delightful treat that combines sweet and tart flavors in a fluffy texture. Perfect for breakfast, snacks, or even dessert, these muffins are simple to make and sure to impress. With a few easy steps, you can fill your home with the warm, inviting aroma of baking, making any day feel special!
Cranberry Orange Muffins
Ingredients
- 1 ½ cups all-purpose flour
- ½ cup granulated sugar
- 1 tablespoon baking powder
- ½ teaspoon salt
- 1 cup fresh cranberries or frozen
- 1 large orange zest and juice
- ½ cup milk
- ⅓ cup vegetable oil
- 1 large egg
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
Instructions
- Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C) and line a muffin tin with paper liners.
- In a large bowl, whisk together the flour, sugar, baking powder, and salt.
- In another bowl, combine the milk, vegetable oil, egg, orange juice, and vanilla extract.
- Add the wet ingredients to the dry ingredients and stir until just combined.
- Gently fold in the cranberries and orange zest.
- Fill each muffin cup about two-thirds full with the batter.
- Bake for 20-25 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.
- Allow the muffins to cool in the pan for 5 minutes before transferring them to a wire rack.
- Enjoy warm or at room temperature!
- Store any leftovers in an airtight container.
