Introduction
Muffins are a delightful treat, perfect for breakfast or a snack. They can easily be customized with various flavors and ingredients, but this specific recipe features the vibrant taste of cranberries combined with the zesty brightness of orange. Topped with a flavorful streusel, these muffins are sure to satisfy your cravings.
Detailed Ingredients with measures
Muffins:
1½ cups all-purpose flour
2 teaspoons baking powder
1 teaspoon cinnamon
¼ teaspoon baking soda
¼ teaspoon salt
½ cup sugar
2 large eggs, lightly beaten
¾ cup milk
⅓ cup vegetable oil
2 teaspoons vanilla extract
3 tablespoons freshly grated orange zest
1½ cups fresh cranberries
Streusel:
3 tablespoons light brown sugar
3 tablespoons sugar
½ teaspoon cinnamon
¼ teaspoon salt
¼ cup unsalted butter, melted
¾ cup all-purpose flour
Prep Time
15 minutes
Cook Time
18 to 20 minutes
Total Time
Approximately 35 to 40 minutes
Yield
12 muffins
Detailed Directions and Instructions
Step 1: Preheat the Oven
Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C). Line a muffin tin with muffin liners to prevent the muffins from sticking to the pan.
Step 2: Prepare Dry Ingredients
In a mixing bowl, whisk together 1½ cups of all-purpose flour, 2 teaspoons of baking powder, 1 teaspoon of cinnamon, ¼ teaspoon of baking soda, and ¼ teaspoon of salt. Set aside.
Step 3: Combine Wet Ingredients
In a larger mixing bowl, whisk together ½ cup of sugar and 2 large eggs until well combined. Add ¾ cup of milk, ⅓ cup of vegetable oil, and 2 teaspoons of vanilla extract, mixing thoroughly.
Step 4: Mix Dry and Wet Ingredients
Gradually add the dry ingredient mixture to the wet ingredients, stirring gently until just combined. Be careful not to overmix. Fold in 3 tablespoons of freshly grated orange zest and 1½ cups of fresh cranberries.
Step 5: Fill Muffin Liners
Using a spoon or a scoop, fill each muffin liner about two-thirds full with the batter to allow room for rising during baking.
Step 6: Prepare the Streusel
In a separate bowl, whisk together 3 tablespoons of light brown sugar, 3 tablespoons of granulated sugar, ½ teaspoon of cinnamon, and ¼ teaspoon of salt. Stir in ¼ cup of melted unsalted butter until combined, then mix in ¾ cup of all-purpose flour until the mixture resembles coarse crumbs.
Step 7: Add Streusel Topping
Sprinkle the streusel mixture evenly over the muffin batter in each liner. Gently press the topping down to ensure it adheres to the batter.
Step 8: Bake the Muffins
Bake the muffins in the preheated oven for 18 to 20 minutes. Check for doneness by inserting a toothpick into the center of a muffin; it should come out clean and the tops should be golden brown.
Step 9: Cool the Muffins
Once baked, allow the muffins to cool in the pan for a few minutes. Then, transfer them to a wire rack to cool completely.
Notes
Storage Instructions
Muffins can be stored in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days. For longer storage, consider freezing them.
Flavor Variations
Feel free to experiment with different fruits or add-ins, such as blueberries or chopped nuts, to customize the flavor.
Freshness Tip
For the best flavor, use fresh cranberries if they are in season. If using frozen cranberries, do not thaw them before mixing into the batter.
Cook techniques
Measuring Flour
Use the spoon and level method to measure flour accurately: spoon flour into a measuring cup and level it off with a knife to avoid packing.
Mixing Dry Ingredients
Whisk together the dry ingredients thoroughly to ensure an even distribution of baking powder, baking soda, and spices for uniform leavening.
Combining Wet Ingredients
Whisk the sugar and eggs together until well combined, creating a smooth mixture that will help incorporate air into your muffins.
Folding in Ingredients
Gently fold the orange zest and cranberries into the batter to avoid breaking the cranberries and to keep the batter light and airy.
Filling Muffin Liners
When filling muffin liners, use an ice cream scoop for even portions, filling each liner two-thirds full to allow space for rising.
Preparing Streusel Topping
Combine the dry ingredients for the streusel before adding melted butter, ensuring even distribution of sugar and cinnamon.
Baking Muffins
Preheat the oven properly to ensure even baking, and check for doneness by inserting a toothpick into the center of a muffin; it should come out clean.
Cooling Muffins
Let muffins cool in the pan for a few minutes to set, then transfer to a wire rack to cool completely, preventing sogginess.
FAQ
Can I use frozen cranberries instead of fresh?
Yes, you can use frozen cranberries; they may be a little softer, but they will still add flavor.
How can I make my muffins more moist?
You can add a little more vegetable oil or consider using yogurt or applesauce in place of some of the oil.
What can I use instead of vegetable oil?
You may substitute vegetable oil with melted coconut oil, melted butter, or applesauce.
Can I make these muffins gluten-free?
Yes, you can substitute all-purpose flour with a gluten-free flour blend suitable for baking.
How should I store leftover muffins?
Store muffins in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days or freeze for longer storage.
Can I add nuts to the muffin batter?
Absolutely! Chopped nuts like walnuts or pecans can enhance flavor and texture.
Conclusion
These delightful muffins, packed with fresh cranberries and a hint of orange zest, offer a perfect balance of sweetness and tartness, making them an ideal treat for breakfast or as a snack. The crunchy streusel topping adds a wonderful texture, elevating the overall flavor experience. Enjoy making them for yourself, family, or friends!
More recipes suggestions and combination
Blueberry Oat Muffins
Replace cranberries with fresh blueberries and add ½ cup of rolled oats for added texture and nutrition.
Apple Cinnamon Muffins
Swapping out cranberries for diced apples and adding an extra teaspoon of cinnamon can create a warm, comforting flavor.
Chocolate Chip Muffins
Incorporate 1 cup of chocolate chips into the batter for a deliciously sweet treat that appeals to chocolate lovers.
Lemon Poppy Seed Muffins
Replace the orange zest with lemon zest and add 2 tablespoons of poppy seeds for a refreshing twist.
Banana Nut Muffins
Substitute 1 cup of mashed ripe bananas for the cranberries and add ½ cup of chopped walnuts for a flavorful and hearty option.
