Fresh Cranberry Orange Muffins are a delightful treat that perfectly blend the tartness of cranberries with the bright, citrusy notes of orange. These muffins are ideal for breakfast, a snack, or even dessert. With their soft, fluffy texture and festive flavour, they are sure to become a favourite in your household, especially during the colder months when cranberries are in season.
What Goes into These Cranberry Orange Muffins
To make these delicious muffins, gather the following ingredients:
- 1 1/2 cups (190 g) all-purpose flour
- 1 cup (100 g) fresh cranberries, chopped
- 1/2 cup (100 g) sugar
- 1/2 cup (120 ml) buttermilk
- 1/4 cup (60 ml) orange juice
- 1 tablespoon orange zest
- 1/4 cup (30 g) pecans, chopped
- 1/4 cup (60 ml) vegetable oil
- 1 large egg
- 1 teaspoon baking powder
- 1/2 teaspoon baking soda
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
Step-by-Step Cranberry Orange Muffins Recipe
Follow these simple steps to bake your Cranberry Orange Muffins:
- Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C) and grease a muffin tin or line it with paper liners.
- In a large bowl, whisk together the flour, sugar, baking powder, baking soda, and salt.
- In another bowl, mix the buttermilk, vegetable oil, orange juice, egg, and orange zest until well combined.
- Pour the wet ingredients into the dry ingredients and stir until just combined. Be careful not to overmix!
- Gently fold in the chopped cranberries and pecans.
- Divide the batter evenly among the muffin cups, filling each about 2/3 full.
- Bake in the oven for 18-20 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the centre comes out clean.
- Allow to cool in the pan for a few minutes before transferring to a wire rack to cool completely.
Serve & Enjoy Your Muffins
These Cranberry Orange Muffins make a perfect addition to your morning tea or coffee routine. Try serving them warm with a pat of butter or a drizzle of honey for an extra touch of indulgence. They can be enjoyed on their own or paired with a side of yogurt or fresh fruit to create a wholesome breakfast platter. If you’re feeling festive, consider dusting them with a little icing sugar, making them perfect for your holiday gatherings.
Expert Tips for Cranberry Orange Muffins
- If you prefer a sweeter muffin, increase the sugar slightly for an extra touch of sweetness.
- Feel free to experiment with different nuts; walnuts or almonds also work beautifully in this recipe.
- For a dairy-free option, substitute the buttermilk with a plant-based milk mixed with a teaspoon of vinegar or lemon juice.
Cranberry Orange Muffins: Frequently Asked Questions
Can I use frozen cranberries instead of fresh?
Yes, you can use frozen cranberries. Just ensure they are thawed and drained before adding them to the batter.
How should I store these muffins?
Store your muffins in an airtight container at room temperature for up to three days. For longer storage, consider freezing them in a ziplock bag.
Can I make these muffins ahead of time?
Absolutely! These muffins can be made a day in advance. Just reheat them in the oven for a few minutes before serving for that fresh-out-of-the-oven taste.
Whip up a batch of these Fresh Cranberry Orange Muffins and enjoy the delightful combination of flavours. They are sure to brighten your day!