Instructions
Step 1: Preheat the Oven
- Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
- Line a muffin tin with paper liners or lightly grease it with cooking spray.
Step 2: Mix the Dry Ingredients
- In a large mixing bowl, whisk together the flour, granulated sugar, baking powder, baking soda, and salt.
- Gently fold in the cranberries and orange zest, ensuring they are evenly distributed.
Step 3: Combine the Wet Ingredients
- In a separate bowl, whisk together the egg, milk, vegetable oil, vanilla extract, and orange juice until well combined.
Step 4: Combine Wet and Dry Mixtures
- Pour the wet ingredients into the dry ingredients and mix until just combined. Be careful not to overmix; a few lumps are okay.
Step 5: Fill the Muffin Tin
- Divide the batter evenly among the muffin cups, filling each about ¾ full.
Step 6: Bake the Muffins
- Bake in the preheated oven for 18-22 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.
- Once baked, remove the muffins from the oven and let them cool in the pan for about 5 minutes before transferring them to a wire rack to cool completely.
Step 7: Make the Orange Glaze (Optional)
- In a small bowl, combine the powdered sugar, orange juice, and orange zest. Whisk until smooth, adjusting the consistency with more juice or powdered sugar as needed.
- Drizzle the glaze over the cooled muffins for an extra burst of orange flavor.
Tips for Success
- Cranberries: If using fresh cranberries, rinse and pick through them to remove any bad berries. If using frozen, add them directly to the batter without thawing to prevent excess moisture.
- Storage: Store any leftover muffins in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days, or in the refrigerator for up to a week. You can also freeze them for later enjoyment!
- Customization: Feel free to add chopped nuts, like walnuts or pecans, for added crunch, or substitute half the flour with whole wheat flour for a healthier option.
Conclusion
These Cranberry Orange Muffins are a delightful way to enjoy the flavors of the season. With their bright taste and fluffy texture, they are perfect for any occasion, from holiday gatherings to simple breakfasts at home. Whether enjoyed warm from the oven or as a snack on the go, these muffins are sure to bring a smile to your face. So gather your ingredients and start baking—these muffins are a treat you won’t want to miss!
