Name: Cranberry Orange Muffins Recipe
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 22 min
Total time: 32 min
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: 2 cups all-purpose flour; ¾ cup granulated sugar; 2 tsp baking powder; ½ tsp salt; ½ cup vegetable oil or melted butter; ¾ cup milk; 2 large eggs; Zest of 1 orange; ¼ cup fresh orange juice; 1 cup fresh or frozen cranberries

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If you have been searching for a bright and zesty treat to brighten up your mornings or share with loved ones, this Cranberry Orange Muffins Recipe is exactly what you need. These muffins are wonderfully moist and fluffy, bursting with the fresh, vibrant flavors of tart cranberries and sweet, aromatic orange zest. Perfectly balanced, they bring that perfect hint of citrus that lingers just long enough to leave you craving another bite. Whether you’re craving a cozy breakfast, a sweet snack, or a festive holiday bakery-style muffin, this delightful recipe hits all the right notes and is sure to win over any crowd.

Ingredients You’ll Need

The image shows an overhead view of several small white bowls and glass bowls arranged neatly on a white marbled surface. There are two whole oranges placed near the center. One large white bowl holds a light beige flour mixture. A white bowl contains light yellow oil, and a small white bowl next to it has a dark brown liquid. Another small wooden bowl holds a light brown powder. Two white eggs lay side by side on the surface. A glass bowl is filled with white creamy yogurt, and next to it is another glass bowl containing a light creamy liquid. A small glass bowl holds white salt, while two white bowls contain dark red dried cranberries and fresh whole cranberries. The colors contrast nicely with the white marbled background. photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

Getting the ingredients right is key to mastering this Cranberry Orange Muffins Recipe. Each item contributing to the overall flavor, texture, and beautiful burst of color, these simple staples come together for an unforgettable muffin experience.

2 cups all-purpose flour: The base of your muffin, providing that tender crumb you’re after.
¾ cup granulated sugar: Sweetness that balances the tart cranberries perfectly.
2 tsp baking powder: Essential for the muffins’ light and airy rise.
½ tsp salt: Enhances all other flavors for better balance.
½ cup vegetable oil or melted butter: Adds moistness and richness to the muffins.
¾ cup milk: Keeps the batter smooth while adding tenderness.
2 large eggs: Bind all ingredients together and help the muffins rise beautifully.
Zest of 1 orange: Delivers vibrant citrus notes that brighten the whole recipe.
¼ cup fresh orange juice: Adds fresh tang and juicy flavor infusions.
1 cup fresh or frozen cranberries: Bursts of tartness that make every bite exciting.

How to Make Cranberry Orange Muffins Recipe

Step 1: Preheat and Prepare

Start by setting your oven to 375°F (190°C) and lining a muffin tin with paper liners or light greasing. This ensures your muffins come out effortlessly without sticking, ready for a perfect golden finish.

Step 2: Mix Dry Ingredients

Whisk together the flour, sugar, baking powder, and salt in a large bowl. This step ensures your rising agents are evenly distributed and will help create that ideal fluffy texture.

Step 3: Combine Wet Ingredients

In a separate bowl, mix your oil or melted butter, milk, eggs, orange zest, and fresh orange juice. The blend of citrus juice and zest here is what infuses your muffins with unforgettable brightness.

Step 4: Blend Wet and Dry Mixtures

Gently stir the wet ingredients into the dry ingredients just until combined. Overmixing can toughen muffins, so it’s okay if the batter looks a bit lumpy—this will keep your muffins tender.

Step 5: Fold in Cranberries

Carefully fold the fresh or frozen cranberries into your batter. For best results, toss cranberries lightly in a spoonful of flour before folding in to prevent sinking to the bottom during baking.

Step 6: Bake

Divide the batter evenly among your muffin tins, filling each about three-quarters full. Bake for 18 to 22 minutes or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean. This is the moment your kitchen starts smelling amazing!

Step 7: Cool and Enjoy

Allow the muffins to cool in the tin for a few minutes before transferring them to a wire rack. This helps them set beautifully, ensuring they stay moist and fluffy on the inside with a slight golden crust outside.

How to Serve Cranberry Orange Muffins Recipe

A close-up view shows multiple golden-brown muffins placed on a wrinkled white parchment paper atop a white marbled surface. Each muffin is topped with a light white icing drizzle forming thin, irregular lines across the surface. Some muffins have small red berry pieces visible inside and on top, contrasting with the warm muffin color. The muffins sit slightly apart, with soft natural light highlighting their texture and the glossy icing. A white marbled surface serves as the base, creating a clean and simple background. photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

Garnishes

Try topping your muffins with a light dusting of powdered sugar or a drizzle of orange glaze to enhance their sweetness and add a pretty finish. A sprinkle of finely chopped orange zest or a few fresh cranberries on top can make your presentation shine.

Side Dishes

Pair these muffins with a warm cup of coffee or your favorite herbal tea for a comforting breakfast. They also pair beautifully with a side of creamy yogurt or a cheese platter to create a delightful brunch spread.

Creative Ways to Present

For a festive touch, arrange your cranberry orange muffins on a wooden board surrounded by fresh orange slices and whole cranberries. You can also serve them with a small bowl of orange marmalade or clotted cream on the side, transforming a simple treat into an elegant indulgence.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Once fully cooled, store your muffins in an airtight container at room temperature for up to two days. To keep them fresh longer, refrigerate for up to five days—just be sure to bring them to room temperature before enjoying.

Freezing

Cranberry Orange Muffins Recipe also freezes beautifully. Wrap individual muffins tightly in plastic wrap or aluminum foil, then place in a freezer-safe bag. Freeze for up to three months and thaw overnight in the fridge or at room temperature.

Reheating

Reheat muffins by warming them in a 350°F (175°C) oven for about 10 minutes or pop them in the microwave for 20-30 seconds. This revives that freshly-baked texture and enhances the orange and cranberry flavors once again.

FAQs

Can I use frozen cranberries in this Cranberry Orange Muffins Recipe?

Absolutely! Frozen cranberries work perfectly without thawing and help keep the muffins moist while providing that delightful tart burst in every bite.

Is there a substitute for orange juice in the recipe?

If you don’t have fresh orange juice, pineapple or apple juice can be a good alternative to maintain sweetness and moisture, though the citrus zing won’t be quite the same.

Can I make these muffins vegan?

Yes! Swap eggs with flax or chia seeds mixed with water, use a plant-based milk, and replace butter or oil with vegan alternatives. The muffins will be just as tasty and fluffy.

How do I prevent cranberries from sinking to the bottom?

Tossing the cranberries lightly in flour before folding them into the batter helps them stay suspended throughout the muffin batter for even distribution.

Can I add nuts to this recipe?

Definitely! Chopped walnuts or pecans complement the tart cranberries and add a lovely crunch. Just fold them in with the cranberries before baking.

Final Thoughts

I can’t recommend this Cranberry Orange Muffins Recipe enough if you want a quick, flavorful, and comforting baked treat that feels a little special. The combination of bright citrus and tart cranberries will keep you coming back, whether for breakfast, snack time, or sharing at your next holiday gathering. Give it a try and watch these muffins become a beloved classic in your kitchen.