Cranberry Orange Muffins

Name: Cranberry Orange Muffins
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 25 min
Total time: 40 min
Ingredients: 1 ½ cups all-purpose flour; ½ cup sugar; 1 tablespoon baking powder; ½ teaspoon salt; 1 cup fresh cranberries; Zest of 1 orange; 1 large egg; ½ cup milk; ¼ cup vegetable oil; 1 teaspoon vanilla extract

Cranberry orange muffins are a delightful treat that perfectly blend the tartness of cranberries with the bright zest of orange. These muffins are not only easy to make but also a great way to start your morning or enjoy as an afternoon snack. With a soft texture and bursting with flavor, they are sure to become a family favorite. Let’s dive into this simple recipe that will have your kitchen smelling heavenly!

Ingredients

– 1 ½ cups all-purpose flour
– ½ cup sugar
– 1 tablespoon baking powder
– ½ teaspoon salt
– 1 cup fresh cranberries (or frozen)
– Zest of 1 orange
– 1 large egg
– ½ cup milk
– ¼ cup vegetable oil
– 1 teaspoon vanilla extract

Servings and Cooking Time

This recipe yields 12 muffins. Preparation time is about 15 minutes, and the cooking time is 20-25 minutes.

Nutritional Value

Per serving (1 muffin): Calories: 150, Protein: 2g, Carbohydrates: 25g, Fat: 5g, Fiber: 1g. This nutritional information is for one muffin.

Step-by-Step Cooking Process

1. Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C) and line a muffin tin with paper liners.
2. In a large mixing bowl, combine flour, sugar, baking powder, and salt.
3. Add the cranberries and orange zest to the dry ingredients and mix well.
4. In a separate bowl, whisk together the egg, milk, vegetable oil, and vanilla extract.
5. Pour the wet ingredients into the dry ingredients and stir until just combined.
6. Do not overmix; a few lumps are okay.
7. Divide the batter evenly among the prepared muffin cups.
8. Bake for 20-25 minutes or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.
9. Allow the muffins to cool in the tin for 5 minutes before transferring them to a wire rack.
10. Enjoy these muffins warm or at room temperature!

Alternative Ingredients

You can substitute fresh cranberries with dried cranberries for a sweeter muffin. Greek yogurt can also replace milk for added moisture and richness.

Serving and Pairings

These muffins pair wonderfully with a cup of tea or coffee. They also make a great addition to a breakfast spread along with yogurt and fresh fruit.

Storage and Reheating

Store muffins in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days. They can be frozen for up to 3 months. To reheat, simply pop them in the microwave for a few seconds or warm them in the oven.

Cooking Mistakes

Overmixing the batter can lead to tough muffins.
Not measuring ingredients accurately can affect texture.
Using too many cranberries can make them too tart.
Not preheating the oven can cause uneven baking.
Skipping the muffin liners can lead to sticking.

Helpful Tips

Use fresh cranberries for the best flavor.
Let the muffins cool completely before storing.
Experiment with adding nuts for extra crunch.
Consider adding a sprinkle of sugar on top before baking for a sweet crust.

FAQs

Can I use frozen cranberries in this recipe?

Yes, you can use frozen cranberries. There’s no need to thaw them before adding to the batter.

How can I make these muffins healthier?

You can reduce sugar, use whole wheat flour, or substitute applesauce for oil to make them healthier.

What’s the best way to store leftover muffins?

Store them in an airtight container at room temperature or refrigerate for longer freshness.

Can I add chocolate chips to this recipe?

Absolutely! Chocolate chips would add a delicious sweetness that complements the tart cranberries.

How can I tell when the muffins are done?

Insert a toothpick in the center; if it comes out clean, the muffins are done baking.

Conclusion

Cranberry orange muffins are a delightful addition to any breakfast table or snack time. Their unique flavor combination and easy preparation make them a must-try. Enjoy these muffins fresh out of the oven or save some for later—either way, they’re sure to be a hit!