Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Bursting with citrus flavor – Fresh orange zest and juice make these muffins incredibly flavorful.
Soft and moist texture – The perfect balance of fluffiness and moisture.
Easy to make – Simple ingredients and quick preparation.
Great for any time of the day – Ideal for breakfast, a snack, or a light dessert.
Topped with a delicious glaze – The sweet orange glaze enhances the flavor and adds a beautiful finish.

Ingredients

(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

For the muffins:

All-purpose flour
Baking powder
Baking soda
Salt
Granulated sugar
Unsalted butter, melted
Eggs
Fresh orange juice
Orange zest
Milk
Vanilla extract

For the orange glaze:

Powdered sugar
Fresh orange juice
Orange zest

Directions

Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C) and line a muffin tin with paper liners or grease it lightly.
Mix the dry ingredients – In a large bowl, whisk together the flour, baking powder, baking soda, salt, and sugar.
Prepare the wet ingredients – In another bowl, whisk the melted butter, eggs, orange juice, orange zest, milk, and vanilla extract until well combined.
Combine the mixtures – Gradually add the wet ingredients to the dry ingredients, stirring gently until just combined. Do not overmix.
Fill the muffin tin – Divide the batter evenly among the muffin cups, filling each about ¾ full.
Bake for 18-22 minutes or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.
Cool the muffins – Let them cool in the pan for 5 minutes, then transfer them to a wire rack.
Prepare the glaze – In a small bowl, whisk together powdered sugar, orange juice, and zest until smooth.
Drizzle the glaze over the cooled muffins and let it set before serving.

Servings and Timing

Servings: 12 muffins
Prep time: 15 minutes
Cook time: 20 minutes
Total time: 35 minutes

Variations

Add nuts – Chopped walnuts or pecans add a nice crunch.
Include chocolate chips – A handful of white or dark chocolate chips makes them extra indulgent.
Make them dairy-free – Use almond or oat milk instead of regular milk.
Try a different glaze – A cream cheese glaze can be a richer alternative.
Use whole wheat flour – Swap half the all-purpose flour for whole wheat flour for added fiber.

Storage/Reheating

Room temperature – Store in an airtight container for up to 3 days.
Refrigerator – Keep in an airtight container for up to a week.
Freezer – Wrap individually and freeze for up to 3 months. Thaw at room temperature before serving.
Reheating – Warm in the microwave for 10-15 seconds for a freshly baked taste.

FAQs

How do I make my muffins extra moist?

Using fresh orange juice, milk, and butter helps keep the muffins soft and moist. Avoid overmixing the batter.

Can I use bottled orange juice instead of fresh?

Yes, but fresh orange juice and zest provide the best flavor.

What can I substitute for eggs?

You can use applesauce, mashed banana, or a flaxseed egg as an alternative.

Can I make these muffins gluten-free?

Yes, use a 1:1 gluten-free flour blend for the best results.

Why did my muffins turn out dense?

Overmixing the batter can lead to dense muffins. Stir just until the ingredients are combined.

Can I make these muffins without the glaze?

Absolutely! They are delicious on their own, but the glaze adds extra sweetness.

How do I get a stronger orange flavor?

Increase the amount of orange zest and use a bit of orange extract if desired.

Can I use oil instead of butter?

Yes, vegetable or coconut oil can be used for a slightly different texture.

Can I make mini muffins with this recipe?

Yes, just reduce the baking time to about 10-12 minutes.

How do I prevent my muffins from sticking to the liners?

Using high-quality liners or lightly greasing them helps prevent sticking.

Conclusion

These orange muffins with orange glaze are a delightful treat, perfect for any occasion. They are easy to make, full of citrus flavor, and have a deliciously sweet topping. Whether you enjoy them for breakfast, as a snack, or with your afternoon coffee, they’re sure to be a favorite. Try different variations to make them your own, and enjoy a fresh, homemade muffin any time!