Cranberry and Orange Muffins – 20-Minute Recipe

Cranberry and orange muffins are a delightful treat that combines the tangy tartness of cranberries with the refreshing citrusy notes of oranges. These muffins are not only delicious but also easy to prepare, making them a perfect choice for breakfast, brunch, or an afternoon snack. With the addition of yogurt, these muffins are moist and tender, while being a bit healthier than your traditional muffin recipe. Whether you’re a baking novice or an experienced cook, this recipe is simple, satisfying, and sure to become a favorite in your kitchen.

Why You’ll Love These Cranberry and Orange Muffins

These cranberry and orange muffins are the ideal balance of flavors, offering a burst of citrus from the orange peel and the slight tanginess of cranberries in every bite. The use of Greek yogurt instead of butter adds moisture without the heaviness, while the addition of minimal sugar ensures they aren’t overly sweet. These muffins are versatile enough for a light breakfast, a snack, or even a gift for a friend. Plus, they’re quick to prepare and can be made in just under 30 minutes.

Ingredients for Cranberry and Orange Muffins

• All-purpose flour: Provides the structure for the muffins, contributing to their light and fluffy texture.
• Baking powder & baking soda: These leavening agents help the muffins rise and become soft and airy.
• Sugar: Adds sweetness to balance the tartness of the cranberries and brightness of the orange.
• Eggs: Bind the ingredients together and add richness to the texture.
• Olive oil or sunflower oil: Replaces butter for a lighter, healthier fat option while maintaining moisture.
• Greek yogurt or labne: Gives the muffins a tender crumb and a slight tang, replacing butter or milk.
• Buttermilk: Adds acidity, which helps activate the baking soda and makes the muffins fluffier.
• Cranberries (fresh or frozen): The star ingredient, providing a burst of tartness and a pop of color.
• Orange peel: Adds a fresh, zesty citrus flavor that pairs beautifully with cranberries.
• Swedish pearl sugar or Demerara sugar: Sprinkled on top for a slight crunch and a beautiful finish.

Alternative Ingredients for Cranberry and Orange Muffins

• Dried cranberries: If fresh or frozen cranberries aren’t available, dried cranberries are a great substitute.
• Almond or coconut milk: For a dairy-free alternative to buttermilk, use plant-based milk with a splash of lemon juice to replicate the acidity.
• Honey or maple syrup: For a natural sweetener, try replacing the sugar with honey or maple syrup in the batter.
• Non-dairy yogurt: If you’re looking for a vegan version, opt for non-dairy yogurt like coconut or almond milk yogurt to replace Greek yogurt.

Step-by-Step Instructions for Cranberry and Orange Muffins

1. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and prepare a muffin tin with liners or lightly grease it.
2. In a large bowl, sift together the all-purpose flour, baking powder, and baking soda. Stir in the sugar.
3. In a separate bowl, combine the cranberries and grated orange peel. Toss the cranberries with a little flour to prevent them from sinking to the bottom of the muffins during baking.
4. In a measuring jug, whisk together the eggs, olive oil, Greek yogurt, and buttermilk until fully combined.
5. Gently stir the yogurt mixture into the dry ingredients. Mix just until the flour is incorporated; be careful not to overmix.
6. Add the cranberries and orange peel to the batter and fold them in gently until just combined. The batter should be lumpy.
7. Spoon the batter into the muffin cups, filling each one about 2/3 full. If desired, sprinkle the tops with Swedish pearl sugar or Demerara sugar for a sweet, crunchy finish.
8. Bake for about 20 minutes, or until the muffins are golden brown on top and a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.
9. Let the muffins cool in the tin for a few minutes before transferring them to a wire rack. Enjoy warm with a cup of tea!

Tips for Perfect Cranberry and Orange Muffins

• Don’t overmix the batter: Overmixing can result in dense muffins. Stir the batter just until the flour is incorporated and no longer.
• Check your oven temperature: Ovens vary, so keep an eye on the muffins towards the end of baking time. If using a loaf tin, expect to bake for 50 to 55 minutes.
• Let them cool slightly: Allow the muffins to cool a bit before serving. This helps them set and enhances the flavor.
• Adjust sweetness: If you prefer sweeter muffins, feel free to add a little more sugar to the batter, especially if you’re not using the sugar topping.

Pairing Ideas and Variations

Cranberry and orange muffins pair beautifully with a variety of dishes. For a complete breakfast, serve them alongside a bowl of fresh fruit, yogurt, or scrambled eggs. For a more decadent treat, add a dollop of clotted cream or a drizzle of honey.

Variations:

• Gluten-free version: Substitute all-purpose flour with a gluten-free flour blend for a gluten-free version of these muffins.
• Vegan option: Use flax eggs and non-dairy yogurt to make this recipe fully vegan, and opt for maple syrup instead of sugar.

Make-ahead and Storage:

These muffins are great for meal prep! Store them in an airtight container for up to 3 days at room temperature or freeze for up to 3 months. To reheat, warm them in the oven for a few minutes for a fresh-out-of-the-oven experience.

Why These Cranberry and Orange Muffins Are a Must-Try

The combination of cranberry and orange is a classic that never goes out of style. The slight tang of the cranberries pairs perfectly with the sweet citrusy notes of orange, creating a flavor profile that is both refreshing and comforting. These muffins are also healthier than many traditional muffin recipes, thanks to the inclusion of Greek yogurt, olive oil, and minimal sugar. Whether you’re preparing them for a holiday brunch, a weekend breakfast, or just a cozy snack, these muffins are sure to impress.

Try making these cranberry and orange muffins today – they’re simple, delicious, and a wonderful way to enjoy the vibrant flavors of winter fruits.

Conclusion

Cranberry and orange muffins are the perfect balance of tart, sweet, and citrusy flavors. With a simple yet satisfying recipe, these muffins are ideal for any occasion, whether it’s a casual breakfast, a snack, or a treat to share with friends and family. The use of Greek yogurt ensures they are moist and tender while keeping them healthier than traditional muffin recipes. Quick to make and adaptable to dietary needs, these cranberry and orange muffins will soon become a staple in your baking repertoire. Try them today and enjoy the delightful burst of flavors with every bite!

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

More Relevant Recipes

• Cranberry Orange Scones: These light and flaky scones are bursting with the same delightful cranberry and orange combination, perfect for a tea-time snack or breakfast treat. They have a slightly crumbly texture, making them a great alternative to muffins with a similar flavor profile.
• Apple Cranberry Crisp: This warm, comforting dessert features the same tartness from cranberries and sweetness from apples. It’s topped with a crunchy oat streusel, making it a perfect fall dessert to pair with a scoop of vanilla ice cream or a dollop of whipped cream.
• Pumpkin Sourdough Bread: For those who love a seasonal twist, this pumpkin sourdough bread combines the rich, earthy flavor of pumpkin with the tanginess of sourdough, offering a hearty and flavorful alternative to traditional bread. It’s perfect for those looking for a savory yet festive recipe.

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