These Cranberry, Orange, and Pecan Muffins are a delicious way to start your day or enjoy as an afternoon snack. Bursting with tart cranberries, bright citrusy orange zest, and crunchy pecans, these muffins are full of flavor and texture. Perfect for the holiday season or any time you want a comforting, flavorful treat, these muffins are easy to make and sure to impress family and friends.
The combination of sweet and tangy flavors, along with the nutty crunch from the pecans, makes these muffins a favorite for breakfast or a snack on the go. Pair them with a cup of tea or coffee for the perfect cozy moment.
Table of Contents
- Ingredients
- Instructions
- Cook Notes & Tips
- Recipe Variations
- Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
- Conclusion
Ingredients
- 2 cups all-purpose flour
- 1 cup granulated sugar
- 1 tablespoon baking powder
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 teaspoon ground cinnamon
- 1/2 cup unsalted butter, melted
- 1/2 cup whole milk
- 2 large eggs
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- Zest of 1 large orange
- 1/4 cup freshly squeezed orange juice
- 1 1/2 cups fresh or frozen cranberries
- 3/4 cup chopped pecans
Instructions
Step 1: Preheat the Oven
- Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Line a 12-cup muffin tin with paper liners or grease the cups well.
Step 2: Mix the Dry Ingredients
- In a large mixing bowl, whisk together the flour, granulated sugar, baking powder, salt, and ground cinnamon until well combined.
Step 3: Mix the Wet Ingredients
- In a separate bowl, whisk together the melted butter, milk, eggs, vanilla extract, orange zest, and orange juice until smooth.
Step 4: Combine Wet and Dry Ingredients
- Pour the wet ingredients into the bowl with the dry ingredients and mix until just combined. Be careful not to overmix—it’s okay if there are a few lumps.
- Gently fold in the cranberries and chopped pecans until evenly distributed.
Step 5: Fill the Muffin Tin
- Divide the batter evenly among the prepared muffin cups, filling each about 3/4 full.
Step 6: Bake the Muffins
- Bake in the preheated oven for 18-22 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center of a muffin comes out clean.
- Allow the muffins to cool in the tin for 5 minutes, then transfer them to a wire rack to cool completely.
Cook Notes & Tips
- Fresh or Frozen Cranberries: You can use either fresh or frozen cranberries for this recipe. If using frozen, there’s no need to thaw them before adding to the batter.
- Orange Zest: Be sure to zest the orange before juicing it. The zest adds a lot of flavor to the muffins.
- Mixing Tip: Avoid overmixing the batter, as it can lead to dense muffins. Mix until just combined for a light and fluffy texture.
Recipe Variations
- Almond Cranberry Muffins: Substitute the pecans with chopped almonds and add a teaspoon of almond extract for a nutty twist.
- Glazed Orange Muffins: Drizzle the cooled muffins with a simple orange glaze made from powdered sugar and orange juice for added sweetness.
- White Chocolate Cranberry Muffins: Fold in 1/2 cup of white chocolate chips for a sweeter version of these muffins.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Q: Can I use dried cranberries instead of fresh or frozen?
A: Yes, you can use dried cranberries if you prefer. Soak them in warm water or orange juice for 10-15 minutes to plump them up before adding to the batter.
Q: How do I store these muffins?
A: Store the muffins in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days. You can also refrigerate them to keep them fresh longer.
Q: Can I freeze these muffins?
A: Absolutely! Let the muffins cool completely, then place them in a freezer-safe bag or container. Freeze for up to 3 months. Thaw at room temperature or warm them in the microwave before serving.
These Cranberry, Orange, and Pecan Muffins are a wonderful way to bring festive flavors into your kitchen. With bursts of tart cranberries, bright orange zest, and the satisfying crunch of pecans, they are a delightful treat any time of the year. Whether you’re baking for a holiday breakfast or just want a delicious snack, these muffins are sure to please. Give this recipe a try, and enjoy the perfect balance of sweet, tangy, and nutty flavors in every bite!
