Cranberry Orange Muffins

Cranberry Orange Muffins (Bakery-Style) are a delightful treat for both baking enthusiasts and casual home cooks alike. They bring together the tartness of fresh cranberries and the bright zing of citrus in a way that feels both familiar and festive. As the enticing aroma of these muffins fills your kitchen, you’ll find the warmth and comfort that comes with baking can turn any ordinary day into something special. Whether you’re preparing for a holiday gathering or just want to enjoy a cozy snack at home, these muffins stand out with their bakery-style appeal. Plus, making them is a fun project to tackle. So, roll up your sleeves, and get ready to tantalize your taste buds with the perfect balance of sweet and tart!

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Why This Recipe Works

This recipe captures the festive essence of bakery-style cranberry orange muffins, perfectly blending tart cranberries with bright citrus notes. The incorporation of various spices not only enhances the flavor profile but also contributes to an aromatic experience that evokes warmth and comfort. The moist texture of these muffins is achieved through a rich sour cream base, ensuring each bite is decadent and satisfying. Additionally, the orange glaze adds an extra layer of sweetness and enhances the overall appeal.

Why You’ll Love This Cranberry Orange Muffins (Bakery-Style)

You’ll fall in love with these cranberry orange muffins for their delightful combination of flavors, seasonal appeal, and bakery-style presentation. They are perfect for sharing during the holidays or enjoying as a cozy treat at any time. These muffins are easy to make and provide a wonderful way to utilize fresh or frozen cranberries, making them an accessible choice year-round. Plus, the vibrant orange zest and glaze create a beautiful aesthetic that will impress your friends and family.

Ingredients

• 3 cups (360g) all-purpose flour
• 1 tablespoon (14g) baking powder
• 1/2 teaspoon salt
• 1/2 teaspoon ground cinnamon
• 1/4 teaspoon ground nutmeg
• 1/2 teaspoon ground cardamom
• 3/4 cup (170g) unsalted butter, room temperature
• 1 cup (199g) granulated sugar
• 1/3 cup (71g) light brown sugar, packed
• 1 tablespoon orange zest, finely grated
• 3 large eggs, room temperature
• 2 teaspoons pure vanilla extract
• 1/2 teaspoon orange extract (optional)
• 1 cup (227g) full-fat sour cream, room temperature
• 1/3 cup (76ml) orange juice
• 2 cups cranberries, fresh or frozen (do NOT thaw if frozen)
• 1 cup confectioners’ sugar, sifted
• 1 tablespoon freshly squeezed orange juice (more if needed)
• 1 teaspoon orange zest, finely grated

Preparing the Cranberry Orange Muffins

Preheat Your Oven and Prepare the Muffin Tin

Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). Line a 12-cup muffin tin with paper liners and lightly spray with non-stick baking spray. Set aside.

Combine Dry Ingredients

In a large bowl, sift together the all-purpose flour, baking powder, salt, cinnamon, nutmeg, and cardamom. Set aside.

Mix Butter and Sugars

In a separate large bowl, use a handheld electric mixer or a stand mixer fitted with a paddle attachment to combine the room temperature unsalted butter, granulated sugar, brown sugar, orange zest, and vanilla extract. Beat on medium speed until the mixture is light and fluffy, for about 3 minutes, scraping the sides and bottom of the bowl as necessary.

Add Eggs One at a Time

Add the room temperature eggs, one at a time, ensuring each egg is well incorporated before adding the next. Scrape the sides and bottom of the bowl as needed.

Combine Sour Cream and Orange Juice

In a spouted bowl or measuring cup, whisk together the sour cream and orange juice until you have a smooth mixture.

Mix Wet and Dry Ingredients

With the mixer on low speed, alternate adding the flour mixture and the sour cream mixture. Start and end with the flour. Be careful not to overmix. Gently fold in the cranberries until they are evenly distributed.

Fill Muffin Tins and Bake

Divide the batter evenly among the prepared muffin tins. Bake for 25 to 27 minutes or until the tops turn lightly golden brown and a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean or with a few moist crumbs attached. Allow the muffins to cool in the pan for 10 minutes before transferring them to a cooling rack.

Preparing the Orange Glaze

Combine Ingredients for the Glaze

In a medium mixing bowl, combine the sifted confectioners’ sugar, freshly squeezed orange juice, and orange zest. Whisk until smooth, adjusting the consistency with more orange juice as necessary.

Drizzle Over Muffins

Just before serving, drizzle the orange glaze over the cooled muffins. This step adds flavor and excitement.

Serving Suggestions

Serve these delightful cranberry orange muffins warm or at room temperature. They pair wonderfully with a cup of coffee or tea, making them an ideal choice for breakfast, brunch, or a cozy afternoon snack. Consider presenting them on a decorative platter during holiday gatherings for an elegant touch.

Tips for Success

• Be sure to use room temperature ingredients for better incorporation.
• Avoid overmixing the batter. This ensures soft, fluffy muffins.
• If using frozen cranberries, add them directly to the batter without thawing to maintain their shape and texture.

Variations

• Substitute blueberries for the cranberries to create a different fruity flavor.
• Add chopped walnuts or pecans for a crunchy texture.
• Experiment with different extracts, such as almond or lemon, for unique flavor profiles.

Storage Tips

Store the cranberry orange muffins in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days. For longer storage, freeze them in a freezer-safe bag for up to 3 months. Thaw at room temperature when ready to enjoy.

Pairing Ideas

Pair these muffins with:

• Cream cheese spread
• Honey or maple syrup for drizzling
• Fresh fruit or fruit salad for a colorful plate

FAQs

1. Can I use frozen cranberries in this recipe?
Yes, frozen cranberries can be used directly without thawing.

2. How do I ensure my muffins are moist?
Incorporating sour cream and avoiding overmixing help keep your muffins moist.

3. How should I store leftover muffins?
Keep them in an airtight container at room temperature for a few days, or freeze them for longer storage.

4. Can I make these muffins gluten-free?
Yes, you can substitute all-purpose flour with a 1:1 gluten-free flour blend.

5. What’s the best way to reheat muffins?
Reheat muffins in a microwave for 10-15 seconds or in an oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 5-10 minutes.

These cranberry orange muffins will undoubtedly be a hit at your gatherings, offering a festive taste and delightful aroma that will have everyone asking for the recipe. Enjoy the burst of flavors in each bite and the joy of sharing them with loved ones!

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