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Cranberry Orange Muffins

Indulge in the vibrant flavors of citrus and the tantalizing tang of cranberries with our Cranberry Orange Muffins. Perfectly moist, these muffins are a delightful combination of zesty orange zest, freshly squeezed juice, and bursts of juicy cranberries. In every bite of our Cranberry Orange Muffins, you'll discover a harmonious blend of sweet and tangy, making each moment a truly delightful experience. They're a delightful treat that will brighten your mornings and sweeten your afternoons.
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Prep Time 15 minutes
Cook Time 20 minutes
Total Time 35 minutes
Servings: 12
Course: Breakfast, Snack
Cuisine: American
Calories: 220
Ingredients Method Notes

Ingredients
  

  • 2½ cups all-purpose flour
  • 4 tsp baking powder
  • ⅓ tsp salt
  • 1/2 cup vegetable oil
  • 1¼ cups sugar
  • 2 eggs, large
  • ½ cup milk
  • 1 tbsp orange, zest
  • 1 tsp vanilla extract
  • ¼ cup freshly squeezed orange juice
  • 1½ cups fresh cranberries

Method
 

  1. Preheat the oven to 425°F. Spray a 12-cup muffin tray with non-stick cooking spray or line with paper liners.
  2. In a large bowl, toss together the flour, baking powder, and salt. Set aside.
  3. In a medium bowl, whisk together the vegetable oil, sugar, eggs, milk, orange juice, vanilla, and orange zest. Slowly add this mixture to the dry ingredients. Mix until just combined, then fold in the cranberries.
  4. Divide the batter into the 12 muffin cups.
  5. Bake at 425°F for 5 minutes, then reduce the oven temperature to 375°F and bake for another 13-15 minutes or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.

Notes

Note for New Cooks or Bakers:
Welcome to the world of baking, dear new cooks and bakers! You're about to embark on a flavorful journey with our Cranberry Orange Muffins recipe. Baking is not just about following a set of instructions; it's an art that allows you to infuse your creations with your unique touch. So, don your apron, preheat that oven, and let's make some magic in the kitchen.
Tips and Notes:
  1. The Perfect Morning Pick-Me-Up: These muffins are an excellent choice for breakfast or as a satisfying snack. Their citrusy zing and juicy cranberries are sure to put a smile on your face.
  2. Fresh Cranberries: Fresh cranberries are the star here, providing that delightful burst of tartness. Don't be tempted to use dried cranberries – their flavor and texture are quite different.
  3. Zest it Up: The orange zest is where you'll find intense citrus flavor. Grate the orange carefully, avoiding the bitter white pith, to capture the aromatic zest.
  4. Mix Gently: When combining the wet and dry ingredients, remember less is more. Overmixing can lead to tough muffins. Mix only until the ingredients come together.
  5. Baking Time: Keep a close eye on your muffins. They start at a high temperature to create a beautiful dome, then bake at a lower temperature to cook through. This method ensures moist, fluffy muffins.
  6. Variation Alert: Feel free to experiment with other citrus fruits like lemons, grapefruits, or even limes for a unique twist.
  7. Make-Ahead Magic: These muffins can be prepared in advance, saving you precious time in the morning. Just grab and go!
With these Cranberry Orange Muffins, you've ventured into the delightful world of baking. Remember, every kitchen triumph begins with the first step. Don't be afraid to make these muffins your own – adjust ingredients, try new flavors, and share the joy of baking with those you love. Happy baking, and may your culinary journey be as sweet as these muffins!