Moist Orange Cranberry Muffins

Name: Moist Orange Cranberry Muffins
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 20 min
Total time: 30 min
Yield: 12 muffins
Ingredients: 1 1/2 cups all-purpose flour; 1 cup fresh cranberries, chopped; 1/2 cup granulated sugar; 1/2 cup orange juice; 1/4 cup vegetable oil; 1 large egg; 2 teaspoons baking powder; 1/2 teaspoon baking soda; 1/4 teaspoon salt; 1 tablespoon orange zest

Highlighted under: Sweet Bakes

I can’t resist a good muffin, especially when it’s bursting with the flavors of orange and cranberry. These Moist Orange Cranberry Muffins have become a staple in my kitchen, and they never fail to impress. Each bite is a perfect blend of sweetness and tartness, complemented by the subtle aroma of fresh oranges. Not only are they delicious, but they are also incredibly easy to make, making them perfect for breakfast or a sweet afternoon treat.

Created by

Anna

Last updated on 2026-02-02T17:45:04.664Z

When I first decided to create these muffins, it was all about finding the right balance between the tartness of cranberries and the brightness of orange zest. After several trials, I found that tossing the cranberries in flour before mixing them in helped prevent them from sinking to the bottom. This little technique drastically improved the consistency of the muffins, making every bite a delightful surprise.

As a bonus, I love to add a simple glaze on top after they cool, which not only enhances the flavor but also gives a beautiful sheen. These muffins have become a favorite for brunch and holiday gatherings, and they always disappear quickly!

Why You'll Love These Muffins
Bright and zesty flavor with a touch of sweetness
Perfectly moist texture that keeps you coming back for more
A delightful treat that’s great for any occasion

Understanding the Ingredients

The balance of flavors in these Moist Orange Cranberry Muffins comes from the interplay between the tartness of fresh cranberries and the bright sweetness of orange juice and zest. Fresh cranberries, while a bit tart when eaten raw, unleash their flavor and sweetness during baking, especially when combined with the sugar in the batter. Using fresh cranberries rather than dried ones enhances the texture and gives the muffins a juicy burst in every bite.

Each ingredient plays a pivotal role; for example, the baking powder and baking soda are essential leavening agents that help the muffins rise and achieve a light, fluffy texture. Be cautious with their measurements, as too much can lead to an overly airy muffin, while too little can result in a dense, heavy outcome. It's also important to ensure these ingredients are fresh to maximize their effectiveness.

Baking Tips for Success

When filling the muffin liners, aim for about two-thirds full to allow room for rising without overflowing. If you happen to overfill, don’t worry too much; keep an eye on them in the oven and be prepared to catch any drips if needed. For best results, bake in a preheated oven, as this ensures an even rise and helps develop that nice golden-brown top, which typically takes about 20 minutes, but keep an eye out for the toothpick test—when it comes out clean, they're ready!

Cooling is a crucial step that many overlook. Allow the muffins to cool in the tin for about five minutes before transferring them to a wire rack. This helps them maintain their shape and prevents sogginess. If you choose to drizzle a glaze, make sure the muffins are completely cooled for a beautiful finish that won't melt into the surface.

Ingredients

Gather the following ingredients for your Muffins:

For the Muffins

1 1/2 cups all-purpose flour
1 cup fresh cranberries, chopped
1/2 cup granulated sugar
1/2 cup orange juice
1/4 cup vegetable oil
1 large egg
2 teaspoons baking powder
1/2 teaspoon baking soda
1/4 teaspoon salt
1 tablespoon orange zest

Make sure to have everything measured and ready to mix!

Instructions

Follow these easy steps to make your muffins:

Preheat the Oven

Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C) and line a muffin tin with paper liners.

Mix the Dry Ingredients

In a large bowl, whisk together the flour, sugar, baking powder, baking soda, and salt.

Prepare the Cranberries

Toss the chopped cranberries in a tablespoon of flour to prevent them from sinking.

Combine Wet Ingredients

In another bowl, mix the orange juice, vegetable oil, egg, and orange zest until well combined.

Combine the Mixtures

Fold the wet ingredients into the dry ingredients until just combined, then gently fold in the floured cranberries.

Bake the Muffins

Fill each liner about 2/3 full with batter and bake for 20 minutes or until a toothpick comes out clean.

Cool and Glaze

Allow the muffins to cool in the pan for 5 minutes, then transfer to a wire rack. Drizzle with an optional glaze if desired.

Enjoy your freshly baked muffins!

Pro Tips

Try substituting dried cranberries for a different texture and flavor. Adjust the sweetness if you prefer a less sweet muffin.

Storing and Freezing

These muffins can be stored in an airtight container at room temperature for up to three days. If you want to keep them longer, consider freezing them. To freeze, let the muffins cool completely, then wrap each one individually in plastic wrap and place them in a freezer-safe bag. They can be frozen for up to three months. To enjoy, simply thaw them at room temperature or heat them in the microwave for about 20-30 seconds for a warm treat.

If you're serving these muffins for a gathering or a meal prep, consider making a double batch. They freeze well, and having them on hand for busy mornings or impromptu guests is a game changer. Plus, they remain moist even after freezing, so you won't lose that delightful texture.

Variations and Add-Ins

Feel free to customize these muffins by adding nuts like chopped walnuts or pecans for extra crunch. You can also incorporate a teaspoon of cinnamon or nutmeg into the dry ingredients for a warm spice note that complements the citrusy flavors beautifully. If you're looking for a healthier twist, substitute half of the all-purpose flour with whole wheat flour, which adds a nuttier flavor and boosts the nutritional profile without sacrificing too much texture.

For a variation that's even more indulgent, consider adding a cream cheese filling. Before baking, scoop out a small amount of batter from the center of each muffin cup, fill it with a mixture of cream cheese, sugar, and a hint of vanilla, and then cover it back up with the remaining batter. This creates a delightful surprise in the center of each muffin!

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use frozen cranberries?

Yes, you can use frozen cranberries, but do not thaw them before adding to the batter.

→ How do I store the leftovers?

Store the muffins in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days.

→ Can I make a gluten-free version?

Absolutely! Substitute all-purpose flour with a 1:1 gluten-free flour mix.

→ What can I substitute for orange juice?

You can use apple juice or cranberry juice as alternatives, though it will slightly change the flavor.