Name: Cranberry Muffins with Orange Glaze Recipe
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 25 min
Total time: 35 min
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: 2 cups all purpose flour; 3/4 cup coconut sugar; 2 teaspoons baking powder; ½ teaspoon baking soda; ¼ teaspoon salt; 1/2 cup melted unsalted butter (or vegetable oil); 1 cup coconut milk; 2 large eggs; 1 teaspoon vanilla extract; 2 cups fresh cranberries (you can use dried or frozen cranberries too); 3/4 cup confectioners’ sugar; 3 tablespoons orange juice

Print Recipe· 3.9 from 15 reviews

There is something genuinely magical about the combination of tart cranberries and sweet citrus, and this Cranberry Muffins with Orange Glaze Recipe brings that magic right to your kitchen in a muffin tin. These muffins are bursting with fresh cranberries, offering a vibrant pop of color and a perfect balance of tang and sweetness. The addition of a glossy orange glaze adds a citrusy finish that transforms simple muffins into a treat that feels special enough for brunch, snacks, or even a cozy breakfast in bed. Whether you’re an experienced baker or just looking for a delightful new recipe to share with friends and family, these cranberry muffins are guaranteed to impress and become a fast favorite.

Ingredients You’ll Need

The image shows a white marbled surface with eight bowls and measuring cups arranged in a loose grid. Two white speckled ceramic bowls hold white flour and fresh red cranberries. A white speckled plate holds two whole white eggs. A white small bowl contains a white powder. A small wooden-handled metal measuring cup holds brown sugar, and another similar measuring cup has white liquid, possibly milk. A tiny wooden-handled scoop contains a dark liquid, likely vanilla extract. A white scalloped bowl at the bottom contains a golden yellow liquid, likely melted butter or oil. The scene is bright and neat with soft natural light. Photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

Gathering your ingredients for this Cranberry Muffins with Orange Glaze Recipe is delightfully straightforward. Each item plays an important role, creating the perfect texture, flavor, and visual appeal that make these muffins so inviting.

2 cups all purpose flour: Provides the structure and crumb of the muffins.
3/4 cup coconut sugar: Adds natural sweetness with a subtle caramel note.
2 teaspoons baking powder: Helps the muffins rise and become fluffy.
½ teaspoon baking soda: Works with the acid from the cranberries for a tender crumb.
¼ teaspoon salt: Enhances all the flavors and balances sweetness.
1/2 cup melted unsalted butter (or vegetable oil): Brings moisture and richness to the muffins.
1 cup coconut milk: Adds a gentle creaminess and keeps the muffins moist.
2 large eggs: Bind the ingredients and contribute to fluffiness.
1 teaspoon vanilla extract: Infuses warmth and depth to the flavor profile.
2 cups fresh cranberries: The star ingredient, bursting with tartness and vibrant color (frozen or dried cranberries can also be used).
3/4 cup confectioners’ sugar: For the glaze, to add sweetness and a smooth finish.
3 tablespoons orange juice: Fresh and bright, it wakes up the glaze with citrus flair.

How to Make Cranberry Muffins with Orange Glaze Recipe

Step 1: Get Your Oven and Cranberries Ready

Start by preheating your oven to 350 degrees F to ensure it’s perfectly hot when the batter is ready to go in. Line a muffin tin with paper liners for easy cleanup and portioning. Give your fresh cranberries a quick rinse and pat them dry so that they don’t add extra moisture to the batter.

Step 2: Mix the Dry Ingredients

In a large bowl, combine the all purpose flour, coconut sugar, baking powder, baking soda, and salt. Mixing these dry ingredients well upfront ensures every muffin has consistent flavor and rise.

Step 3: Whisk Together the Wet Ingredients

In a separate bowl, stir together the melted unsalted butter (or vegetable oil), coconut milk, eggs, and vanilla extract until just combined. This wet mixture will bring moisture and richness to your muffins.

Step 4: Combine the Wet and Dry, Then Fold in Cranberries

Pour the dry ingredient mix into the wet and gently whisk until everything is just combined. Now carefully fold in the cranberries. This step is key—overmixing can result in tougher muffins, so be gentle to keep them tender and light.

Step 5: Portion the Batter and Bake

Divide the thick muffin batter evenly into the lined muffin cups, about two tablespoons per muffin. Pop them into the oven and bake for 25 to 30 minutes, or until the tops are set and a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean.

Step 6: Cool and Glaze Your Muffins

Once baked, transfer the muffin pan to a wire rack and let the muffins cool in the pan for about 10 minutes. While they’re cooling, whisk together confectioners’ sugar and fresh orange juice to make your bright, shiny orange glaze. Drizzle this glaze over the warm muffins to add a sweet, citrusy finishing touch that will have your kitchen smelling amazing.

How to Serve Cranberry Muffins with Orange Glaze Recipe

A black muffin tray holds twelve golden-brown muffins, each lined with a white paper cup. The muffins have a slightly cracked top, revealing bright red cherries or berries baked inside, some peeking out from the surface. The tray is placed on a white marbled surface that contrasts with the dark tray and vibrant muffins. The colors include light brown from the baked batter and deep red from the fruits scattered unevenly on each muffin. photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

Garnishes

For an extra pop, sprinkle a few fresh cranberries or a little finely grated orange zest on top of the glaze right after drizzling. It adds both visual appeal and a burst of fresh flavor with every bite.

Side Dishes

These muffins pair wonderfully with a simple cup of coffee or tea, making them perfect for breakfast or an afternoon snack. You can also serve alongside a light yogurt parfait or a fresh fruit salad to balance the richness.

Creative Ways to Present

If you’re bringing these muffins to a party or brunch, consider placing them in a rustic basket lined with a festive kitchen towel. Wrap individual muffins in parchment paper tied with twine for a charming grab-and-go treat. They also look stunning when served on a tiered cake stand, inviting guests to dive in.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Keep leftover muffins in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 2 days. This helps maintain their moist, tender crumb without drying out.

Freezing

You can freeze these cranberry muffins for longer storage. Wrap each muffin tightly in plastic wrap and place them in a freezer bag. They’ll keep well for up to 3 months and thaw beautifully at room temperature when you’re ready for a snack.

Reheating

To bring frozen or refrigerated muffins back to life, microwave for about 20 seconds or warm in a preheated oven at 300 degrees F for 10 minutes. The orange glaze will soften and slightly melt, adding extra irresistible sweetness.

FAQs

Can I substitute fresh cranberries with dried or frozen ones?

Absolutely! Dried cranberries will add sweetness with less tartness, so you might want to reduce the sugar slightly. Frozen cranberries work well too; just make sure to thaw and drain any excess moisture before folding them into the batter.

Is coconut sugar necessary or can I use regular sugar?

You can use regular granulated sugar if you don’t have coconut sugar on hand. Coconut sugar adds a mild caramel-like flavor and a hint of molasses, which complements the cranberries nicely, but regular sugar will work perfectly fine as a substitute.

Can I make this recipe dairy-free?

Yes, by using vegetable oil instead of butter and coconut milk as the milk component, this recipe is already on the dairy-free side if you skip the butter altogether or use a vegan butter substitute.

How long do the muffins stay fresh?

Freshly baked cranberry muffins are best enjoyed within 2 days when stored at room temperature. They tend to dry out progressively after that, so plan accordingly for storage or freezing.

Can these muffins be made gluten-free?

To make these muffins gluten-free, swap the all purpose flour with a gluten-free flour blend that is suitable for baking. Keep an eye on the texture since gluten-free flours sometimes require slight recipe adjustments for moisture.

Final Thoughts

There’s nothing quite like the joy of biting into a soft, tender muffin bursting with juicy cranberries and topped with a zesty orange glaze. This Cranberry Muffins with Orange Glaze Recipe is a wonderful way to brighten up your day, morning or afternoon alike, with its delightful flavors and inviting aroma. I encourage you to try it soon—you might just find that these muffins become one of your go-to treats for sharing warmth and happiness with everyone around you.