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Golden cranberry orange muffins on a wooden platter with coffee and autumn flowers in the background.

Cranberry Orange Muffins

These Cranberry Orange Muffins are the ultimate blend of tangy and sweet, perfect for breakfast, brunch, or holiday gatherings. Bursting with fresh cranberries and zesty orange flavor, this easy-to-make recipe will quickly become a family favorite. Discover step-by-step instructions, tips, and variations to bake the perfect muffins every time!
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Prep Time 20 minutes
Cook Time 25 minutes
Total Time 6 hours 45 minutes
Servings: 12
Course: Dessert
Calories: 250
Ingredients Equipment Method

Ingredients
  

Muffin Batter:
  • 2 Cups All-purpose flour
  • 1 Tsp Baking powder
  • 1/2 Tsp Baking soda
  • 1/4 Tsp Salt
  • 1/2 Cup Unsalted butter, softened
  • 3/4 Cup Granulated sugar
  • 2 Large eggs
  • 1/2 Cup Freshly squeezed orange juice
  • 1/4 Cup Whole milk
  • 1 Tbsp Orange zest
  • 1 Tsp Pure vanilla extract
  • 1 1/2 Cups Fresh or frozen cranberries (coarsely chopped)
Optional Topping:
  • 2 Tbsp Turbinado sugar (for crunch)
  • 1/4 Cup Slivered almonds or walnuts

Equipment

  • Mixing Bowls: At least two bowls for wet and dry ingredients.
  • Measuring Cups and Spoons: For precise measurement of ingredients.
  • Electric Mixer (optional): To cream the butter and sugar; a whisk works as an alternative.
  • Spatula or Wooden Spoon: For mixing and folding ingredients.
  • Muffin Tin: A standard 12-cup muffin tin.
  • Muffin Liners (optional): For easy cleanup and serving.
  • Zester or Microplane: To zest the orange.
  • Citrus Juicer: For freshly squeezed orange juice.
  • Sifter (optional): For sifting flour if needed.
  • Oven Mitts: To safely handle the hot muffin tin.

Method
 

  1. Step 1: Prep Your Kitchen
    Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Line a 12-cup muffin tin with paper liners or lightly grease it.
    Gather all ingredients and ensure the butter is at room temperature for easy mixing.
  2. Step 2: Mix the Dry Ingredients
    In a medium-sized bowl, whisk together the flour, baking powder, baking soda, and salt. Set aside.
  3. Step 3: Cream the Butter and Sugar
    In a large mixing bowl, use an electric mixer to beat the butter and sugar until light and fluffy (about 2-3 minutes). This step is crucial for creating tender muffins.
    Add the eggs one at a time, beating well after each addition.
  4. Step 4: Incorporate the Wet Ingredients
    Mix in the orange juice, milk, orange zest, and vanilla extract until smooth.
  5. Step 5: Combine Wet and Dry Ingredients
    Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet mixture, mixing just until combined. Be careful not to overmix, as this can make the muffins dense.
    Gently fold in the cranberries.
  6. Step 6: Fill the Muffin Tins
    Divide the batter evenly among the prepared muffin cups, filling each about 3/4 full. Sprinkle the tops with turbinado sugar and nuts if desired.
  7. Step 7: Bake and Cool
    Bake for 20-25 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.
    Allow the muffins to cool in the tin for 5 minutes, then transfer to a wire rack to cool completely.