Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Bursting with flavor – The combination of cranberries and orange creates a refreshing and vibrant taste.
- Perfect texture – These muffins are soft, moist, and have a crunchy pecan topping.
- Easy to make – No complicated steps, just mix and bake.
- Great for meal prep – Make a batch and enjoy them throughout the week.
- Customizable – Easily swap ingredients to suit your taste or dietary needs.
Ingredients
(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)
- All-purpose flour
- Baking powder
- Baking soda
- Salt
- Granulated sugar
- Brown sugar
- Fresh cranberries (or dried)
- Orange zest
- Orange juice
- Eggs
- Unsalted butter
- Milk
- Chopped pecans
- Vanilla extract
Directions
- Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C). Line a muffin tin with paper liners or grease it lightly.
- Mix dry ingredients – In a large bowl, whisk together the flour, baking powder, baking soda, salt, and sugars.
- Prepare wet ingredients – In another bowl, beat the eggs, then add melted butter, orange juice, milk, and vanilla extract. Stir in the orange zest.
- Combine the mixtures – Gradually fold the wet ingredients into the dry ingredients, mixing until just combined. Avoid overmixing.
- Add cranberries and pecans – Gently fold in the cranberries and chopped pecans.
- Fill the muffin tin – Spoon the batter into the prepared muffin cups, filling them about ¾ full.
- Bake for 18-22 minutes or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean.
- Cool and serve – Let the muffins cool in the pan for 5 minutes before transferring them to a wire rack. Enjoy warm or at room temperature.
Servings and Timing
- Servings: Makes 12 muffins
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Total Time: 35 minutes
Variations
- Nut-Free Option – Skip the pecans or replace them with sunflower seeds.
- Sweeter Muffins – Use dried cranberries instead of fresh for a sweeter taste.
- Gluten-Free Version – Substitute all-purpose flour with a gluten-free blend.
- Dairy-Free Alternative – Use almond milk or oat milk and replace butter with coconut oil.
- Extra Crunch – Sprinkle some coarse sugar or chopped pecans on top before baking.
Storage/Reheating
- Room Temperature: Store in an airtight container for up to 3 days.
- Refrigerator: Keep in the fridge for up to a week. Warm slightly before eating.
- Freezer: Wrap muffins individually and store in a freezer-safe bag for up to 3 months.
- Reheating: Microwave for 15-20 seconds or warm in a 300°F oven for a few minutes.
FAQs
How do I prevent muffins from becoming dry?
Avoid overmixing the batter and ensure you measure the flour correctly. Using fresh orange juice also helps keep them moist.
Can I use frozen cranberries?
Yes! No need to thaw them—just fold them into the batter as directed.
What can I substitute for orange juice?
Lemon juice or apple juice can be used, but it will slightly change the flavor.
Can I make these muffins vegan?
Yes! Use flax eggs, plant-based milk, and replace butter with coconut oil or a vegan butter alternative.
How do I make the muffins fluffier?
Ensure your baking powder and baking soda are fresh, and don’t overmix the batter.
Can I use walnuts instead of pecans?
Absolutely! Walnuts work well as a substitute for pecans.
Why did my muffins sink in the middle?
This may happen if the batter was overmixed or if the oven temperature was too low. Make sure your oven is fully preheated before baking.
Can I make mini muffins with this recipe?
Yes, use a mini muffin tin and bake for 10-12 minutes instead.
How do I get a stronger orange flavor?
Increase the amount of orange zest and use orange extract instead of vanilla extract.
Can I add a streusel topping?
Definitely! Mix butter, brown sugar, flour, and chopped pecans to create a crunchy topping before baking.
Conclusion
These cranberry, orange, and pecan muffins are a must-try for anyone who loves a balance of tart, sweet, and nutty flavors. Whether you’re baking them for a weekend breakfast or a quick snack, they’re guaranteed to impress. Try different variations, store them for later, and enjoy a delicious homemade treat anytime!
