Save Moist, fluffy muffins bursting with tart cranberries and zesty orange&mdashperfect for holiday breakfasts or snacks.
I love making these muffins for holiday breakfasts as they bring a fresh burst of flavor and joy to the table.
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Ingredients
- Dry Ingredients: 2 cups (250 g) all-purpose flour, 3/4 cup (150 g) granulated sugar, 2 tsp baking powder, 1/2 tsp baking soda, 1/2 tsp salt
- Wet Ingredients: 2 large eggs, 1/2 cup (120 ml) vegetable oil, 3/4 cup (180 ml) buttermilk (or milk + 1 tsp lemon juice), zest of 1 large orange, 1/4 cup (60 ml) fresh orange juice, 1 tsp vanilla extract
- Add-ins: 1 1/4 cups (150 g) fresh or frozen cranberries (halved if large), 1/2 cup (60 g) chopped walnuts or pecans (optional)
- Topping (optional): 2 tbsp coarse sugar, 1 tsp orange zest
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Instructions
- Step 1:
- Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C). Line a 12-cup muffin tin with paper liners or grease well.
- Step 2:
- In a large bowl, whisk together flour, sugar, baking powder, baking soda, and salt.
- Step 3:
- In another bowl, whisk eggs, oil, buttermilk, orange zest, orange juice, and vanilla until well combined.
- Step 4:
- Pour wet ingredients into dry ingredients. Stir gently just until combined do not overmix.
- Step 5:
- Fold in cranberries and nuts (if using).
- Step 6:
- Divide batter evenly among muffin cups. Sprinkle with coarse sugar and extra orange zest if desired.
- Step 7:
- Bake 18–20 minutes or until tops are golden and a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean.
- Step 8:
- Cool in pan for 5 minutes then transfer to a wire rack to cool completely.
Save These muffins often bring my family together as we enjoy them fresh out of the oven during holiday mornings.
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Notes
For a glaze mix 1/2 cup powdered sugar with 1–2 tbsp orange juice and drizzle on cooled muffins. Pair with a light breakfast tea or sparkling wine for a festive touch.
Required Tools
12-cup muffin tin, mixing bowls, whisk, measuring cups and spoons, grater or microplane (for zest), spatula
Nutritional Information
Calories: 215, Total Fat: 9 g, Carbohydrates: 31 g, Protein: 3 g per muffin
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Enjoy these delicious muffins warm or at room temperature for the best flavor experience.
Recipe Questions
- → How can I ensure the muffins stay moist?
Using buttermilk or substituting yogurt or sour cream adds moisture and tenderness. Avoid overmixing the batter to prevent dryness.
- → Can I use dried cranberries instead of fresh?
Yes, but reduce sugar slightly since dried cranberries are sweeter. Halve large cranberries for even distribution.
- → What is a good alternative to nuts for topping?
Coarse sugar combined with extra orange zest adds a sweet crunch and vibrant aroma without nuts.
- → How do I achieve a bright orange flavor throughout?
Incorporate both orange zest and fresh orange juice into the batter for layered citrus notes.
- → What baking tools are essential for these muffins?
A 12-cup muffin tin, mixing bowls, whisk, measuring tools, and a grater or microplane for zest are recommended.
