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Cranberry Orange Muffins

Bright, zesty cranberry orange muffins that are moist and easy to make, perfect for breakfast or a snack.
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Prep Time 15 minutes
Cook Time 20 minutes
Total Time 35 minutes
Servings: 12 muffins
Course: Breakfast, Snack
Cuisine: American
Calories: 200
Ingredients Method Notes

Ingredients
  

Dry Ingredients
  • 2.5 cups all-purpose flour Fluffy and versatile, providing the perfect base for our muffins.
  • 1 cup granulated sugar Sweetness that balances the tartness of cranberries.
  • 2 tablespoons orange zest Aromatic and citrusy.
  • 1 tablespoon baking powder The leavening agent.
  • 0.25 teaspoon kosher salt Enhances the flavors.
Wet Ingredients
  • 0.5 cup unsalted butter (melted) Rich and creamy.
  • 1 cup sour cream Can be substituted with Greek yogurt or buttermilk.
  • 3 tablespoons orange juice Adds an extra layer of citrus flavor.
  • 2 large eggs Binding the ingredients together.
  • 1 teaspoon vanilla extract Sweet and fragrant.
Fruits
  • 1 cup dried cranberries Chewy and sweet.
  • 1 cup fresh or frozen cranberries Juicy and tart.
Garnish
  • 2 tablespoons sparkling sugar For garnish.

Method
 

Preparation
  1. Preheat the oven to 425 degrees F and lightly mist a muffin pan with non-stick spray.
  2. In a medium bowl, combine the flour, sugar, orange zest, baking powder, and salt. Whisk together until well mixed.
  3. Create a well in the center of the dry ingredients. Pour in the melted butter, sour cream, orange juice, eggs, and vanilla extract.
  4. Using a whisk, blend the liquid ingredients together, gradually incorporating the dry ingredients until the mixture is smooth.
  5. Gently fold the batter until just combined. It’s okay if it’s lumpy.
  6. Carefully fold in the dried and fresh cranberries.
  7. Divide the batter evenly into each well of the muffin tin, filling them about three-quarters full. Top each muffin with a sprinkle of sparkling sugar.
Baking
  1. Bake at 425 degrees F for 5 minutes. Without opening the oven door, reduce the temperature to 350 degrees F and bake for an additional 15 minutes.

Notes

For an intense orange flavor, consider adding an extra tablespoon of orange zest. Dust fresh cranberries with flour to prevent sinking. For sweeter muffins, increase the sugar slightly. Experiment with nuts or chocolate chips for variety. Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to three days or freeze for three months.