Cranberry Orange Muffins

Cranberry Orange Muffins with Streusel are a delightful treat that brings together the tartness of cranberries and the brightness of oranges, making for a perfect breakfast or snack option. These muffins are not only delicious but also easy to make, ensuring that even beginner bakers can whip them up with confidence.

Why Make This Recipe

There are plenty of reasons to try your hand at making Cranberry Orange Muffins with Streusel! Firstly, they are bursting with flavor thanks to the combination of juicy cranberries and zesty orange. Secondly, this recipe is incredibly versatile. You can enjoy them fresh out of the oven, pack them in lunchboxes, or serve them at brunch gatherings. Finally, the crumbly streusel on top adds a delightful texture that makes each bite even more enjoyable.

How to Make Cranberry Orange Muffins with Streusel

Making Cranberry Orange Muffins with Streusel is straightforward and can be completed in just a few steps. With simple ingredients and a bit of love, you will have a batch of wonderful muffins ready in no time.

Ingredients

• 2 cups all-purpose flour
• ¾ cup granulated sugar
• 2 teaspoons baking powder
• ½ teaspoon baking soda
• ½ teaspoon salt
• ½ cup unsalted butter, melted
• 2 large eggs
• ½ cup milk
• 1 tablespoon orange zest
• 1 cup fresh or frozen cranberries
• ½ cup brown sugar (for streusel)
• ⅓ cup all-purpose flour (for streusel)
• ¼ cup cold unsalted butter, cubed (for streusel)

Directions

1. Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C) and line a 12-cup muffin tin with paper liners.
2. In a large bowl, whisk together the flour, granulated sugar, baking powder, baking soda, and salt.
3. In another bowl, combine the melted butter, eggs, milk, and orange zest. Add the wet ingredients to the dry ingredients and mix until just combined.
4. Gently fold in the cranberries. Divide the batter evenly among the muffin cups.
5. For the streusel, mix the brown sugar and flour in a small bowl. Cut in the cold butter until the mixture is crumbly. Sprinkle streusel over the muffin batter.
6. Bake for 20-22 minutes or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean. Cool in the pan for 5 minutes, then transfer to a wire rack.

Pro Tips for Success Cranberry Orange Muffins with Streusel

1. Don’t Overmix: When combining the wet and dry ingredients, mix just until combined. Overmixing can lead to dense muffins.
2. Use Fresh Cranberries if Possible: Fresh cranberries add a wonderful tartness. If using frozen, do not thaw them to prevent excess moisture.
3. Chill the Butter for Streusel: Cold butter helps create a crumbly texture for the streusel. Be sure to keep it chilled until you are ready to mix.
4. Zest from Fresh Oranges: For the best flavor, use freshly zested orange rather than bottled zest.
5. Check for Doneness: Ovens may vary, so start checking your muffins a minute or two before the recommended bake time.

Flavor Variations Cranberry Orange Muffins with Streusel

1. Nutty Addition: Consider adding chopped walnuts or pecans for added crunch and flavor.
2. Chocolate Twist: Mix in some chocolate chips for a sweet surprise in every bite.
3. Spice it Up: Adding ground cinnamon or nutmeg to the batter can enhance the flavor profile.
4. Coconut Delight: Add shredded coconut into the batter to bring a tropical twist to your muffins.

Serving Suggestions Cranberry Orange Muffins with Streusel

Cranberry Orange Muffins with Streusel are incredibly versatile and can be served in various ways:

• Morning Treat: They make a fantastic breakfast option, paired with a hot cup of coffee or tea.
• Brunch Item: Serve these muffins as part of a brunch spread alongside fruit salads or yogurt.
• Snack Time: They’re great for an afternoon pick-me-up, especially when paired with a dab of butter or cream cheese.

Storage and Freezing Instructions Cranberry Orange Muffins with Streusel

To keep your muffins fresh, store them in an airtight container at room temperature for 2-3 days. If you want to keep them longer, consider freezing them! Place the completely cooled muffins in a single layer on a baking sheet to freeze for about one hour, then transfer them to a freezer-safe bag. They can last for up to three months in the freezer. To enjoy later, simply thaw at room temperature or warm them in the microwave for a few seconds.

Nutrition Facts (Per Serving)

| Nutrient | Amount |
|—————|————-|
| Calories | 210 |
| Protein | 3g |
| Carbohydrates | 29g |
| Fat | 10g |
| Fiber | 1g |
| Sodium | 150mg |

FAQ About Cranberry Orange Muffins with Streusel

Can I use dried cranberries instead of fresh or frozen cranberries?

Yes, you can use dried cranberries in place of fresh or frozen. However, since dried cranberries are sweeter, you might want to reduce the amount of granulated sugar slightly to balance the sweetness.

How can I make these muffins gluten-free?

To make cranberry orange muffins gluten-free, substitute the all-purpose flour with a gluten-free 1:1 baking flour. Most blends work well, but be sure to check that they contain xanthan gum or add it separately if needed for texture.

Can I make the batter ahead of time?

Yes, you can prepare the batter ahead of time. Just be cautious not to leave it sitting too long, as it might affect the texture of the muffins. It’s best to store it in the refrigerator for no more than a couple of hours before baking.

What can I do if my muffins are too dense?

If your muffins turn out too dense, it could be due to overmixing. When combining wet and dry ingredients, mix just until combined. Additionally, ensure your baking powder is fresh, as stale leavening agents can affect the rise and texture.

Are these muffins suitable for a vegan diet?

To make Cranberry Orange Muffins vegan, you can swap the eggs for a flaxseed or chia seed mixture (1 tablespoon ground seeds + 2.5 tablespoons water per egg). Use a plant-based milk like almond or soy and replace the butter with a vegan substitute.

Final Thoughts

Cranberry Orange Muffins with Streusel are a wonderful blend of tangy and sweet flavors, making them a cherished recipe in any kitchen. The ease of preparation, coupled with the delightful aroma that fills your home during baking, will have family and friends reaching for seconds. Whether enjoyed at breakfast, as a snack, or shared at gatherings, these muffins are sure to delight everyone. So gather your ingredients and start baking—these delightful treats await your taste buds!

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