Welcome to the cozy world of Zesty Cranberry Orange Spice Muffins! Bursting with bright citrus and warm spices, these muffins are perfect for any season, especially when fresh cranberries are in abundance. Let's dive into what makes these little treats so special!
All-purpose flour is the backbone of our muffins, providing structure. We use granulated sugar for sweetness, while unsalted butter adds richness and moisture. Two large eggs help bind everything together. The star of the show, freshly squeezed orange juice, infuses the batter with natural sweetness and acidity, complemented by fragrant orange zest. A hint of vanilla extract enhances all the flavors. Baking powder and baking soda are our leavening agents, ensuring the muffins rise beautifully. Ground cinnamon and nutmeg bring warmth and spice, while a pinch of salt balances the sweetness. Lastly, coarsely chopped fresh cranberries and walnuts add texture and a burst of flavor.
These muffins are delightful served warm with a pat of butter or a dollop of orange marmalade for an extra citrus kick. They also pair wonderfully with a steaming cup of spiced tea or a frothy cappuccino. Consider serving them as part of a brunch spread alongside yogurt and fresh fruit.
First things first, preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C) and line a muffin tin with paper liners. This way, you're all set for smooth sailing once the batter is ready. Next, in a large bowl, whisk together the dry ingredients: flour, sugar, baking powder, baking soda, cinnamon, nutmeg, and salt. This step ensures everything is evenly mixed and ready to go.
In another bowl, combine your wet ingredients. Melt the butter and let it cool slightly before mixing it with the eggs, orange juice, orange zest, and vanilla extract. Stir everything together until well combined. Now, gradually pour the wet mixture into your dry ingredients, stirring gently until just combined. Remember, overmixing is the enemy of tender muffins!
Add the chopped cranberries and walnuts to the batter, folding them in gently to make sure they're evenly distributed. This will give you that wonderful burst of flavor and texture in every bite. Once your batter is ready, divide it evenly among the muffin cups, filling each about two-thirds full.
Pop the tray into your preheated oven and bake for 18-20 minutes. You'll know they're done when a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean or with a few crumbs. Let them cool in the pan for about 5 minutes before transferring them to a wire rack to finish cooling completely.
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