How to Make Cranberry Orange Muffins
Step 1: Preheat the Oven
- Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Line a muffin tin with paper liners or grease it lightly to prevent sticking.
Step 2: Prepare the Dry Ingredients
- In a large mixing bowl, whisk together the flour, sugar, baking powder, baking soda, salt, and ground cinnamon (if using).
- Add the fresh or frozen cranberries and orange zest to the dry ingredients, tossing to coat. This helps prevent the cranberries from sinking to the bottom during baking.
Step 3: Mix the Wet Ingredients
- In a separate bowl, whisk together the orange juice, vegetable oil, eggs, and vanilla extract until well combined.
Step 4: Combine Wet and Dry Ingredients
- Pour the wet ingredients into the dry ingredients. Stir gently with a spatula until just combined. Be careful not to overmix; a few lumps are okay.
Step 5: Fill the Muffin Tins
- Divide the batter evenly among the prepared muffin cups, filling each about two-thirds full.
Step 6: Bake
- Bake in the preheated oven for 18-20 minutes or until a toothpick inserted into the center of a muffin comes out clean. The tops should be lightly golden.
Step 7: Cool and Enjoy
- Once baked, remove the muffins from the oven and allow them to cool in the pan for about 5 minutes before transferring them to a wire rack to cool completely.
Tips for Perfect Cranberry Orange Muffins
- Fresh Cranberries: If you can find fresh cranberries, use them for the best flavor. If using frozen, just add them straight from the freezer.
- Zest is Best: Don’t skip the orange zest! It adds a wonderful aromatic quality that enhances the overall flavor of the muffins.
- Add-Ins: For an extra touch, consider adding chopped nuts (like walnuts or pecans) or white chocolate chips for sweetness.
Conclusion
These Cranberry Orange Muffins are not only delicious but also easy to make, making them a perfect addition to your baking repertoire. Their vibrant flavors and lovely aroma will brighten up any morning or snack time. Enjoy them warm with a pat of butter or as they are for a delightful treat. Bake a batch today and share the joy of these scrumptious muffins with family and friends. Enjoy every delicious bite!