Cranberry Orange Cupcakes

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Imagine biting into a soft, fluffy cupcake bursting with the vibrant flavors of fresh cranberries and zesty oranges.

These Cranberry Orange Cupcakes are not only delicious but also the perfect treat for any occasion.

Whether you are celebrating a holiday, hosting a get-together, or simply in the mood for a tasty dessert, these cupcakes will surely impress your family and friends.

They elevate any dessert table with their festive flair and delightful flavors!

Cranberry and orange have such a wonderful partnership that creates a refreshing taste explosion in each bite.

The tartness of the cranberries paired with the sweet citrusy notes from the orange makes for a lovely balance.

Plus, they are easy to whip up, so let’s dive into the world of these scrumptious cupcakes!

Why This Recipe Is a Must-Try

These Cranberry Orange Cupcakes are special for a few reasons.

First, they are moist and tender, thanks to a blend of fresh ingredients.

The use of orange juice and zest really brightens the flavor profile, making each bite feel like sunshine.

Second, they are topped with fresh cranberries, giving them a festive look and a burst of flavor.

Finally, these cupcakes are versatile and can be enjoyed at any time of the year, making them a fantastic recipe to have on hand!

Ingredients

To create these delightful cupcakes, you will need the following ingredients:

• 1 ½ cups (180 g) all-purpose flour
• 1 teaspoon baking powder
• ¼ teaspoon baking soda
• ¼ teaspoon kosher salt
• ½ cup (113 g) unsalted butter, softened to room temperature
• 1 cup (200 g) granulated sugar
• ½ teaspoon pure vanilla extract
• ⅓ cup (80 ml) orange juice
• 2 large eggs, at room temperature
• ⅓ cup (80 ml) milk
• 1 ½ tablespoons orange zest
• 1 cup fresh cranberries, plus more for garnish

Make sure all your ingredients are at room temperature for the best results.

This simple step helps the batter mix together smoothly, resulting in fabulous cupcakes.

How To Make Cranberry Orange Cupcakes

Step 1: Prepare Your Oven and Cupcake Pans

Start by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C).

Prepare your muffin tin by placing cupcake liners in each cup.

This makes for easy cleanup and gives your cupcakes a lovely presentation.

Step 2: Combine the Dry Ingredients

In a medium bowl, whisk together the all-purpose flour, baking powder, baking soda, and kosher salt.

This step ensures that the baking powder and soda are evenly distributed throughout the flour, leading to perfect rising.

Step 3: Cream the Butter and Sugar

In a large bowl, use a mixer to cream together the softened unsalted butter and granulated sugar.

Beat them together until the mixture is light and fluffy.

This usually takes about 3 to 5 minutes.

The fluffier the butter and sugar, the lighter your cupcakes will be!

Step 4: Add the Flavorings

Next, mix in the pure vanilla extract, orange juice, and grated orange zest.

Beat until well combined.

The aroma from the orange zest will brighten your kitchen!

Step 5: Incorporate the Eggs

Add the eggs, one at a time, mixing well after each addition.

Make sure they are fully incorporated before moving on to the next step.

The eggs help bind the ingredients together and add moisture.

Step 6: Blend in the Dry Ingredients and Milk

Now, alternately add the dry flour mixture and milk to the butter mixture.

Start with a spoonful of the dry mix, then add a splash of milk, continuing to alternate until everything is mixed in.

This layering helps create a tender cupcake.

Step 7: Fold in the Cranberries

Gently fold in the fresh cranberries with a spatula.

Be careful not to overmix, or you might break the cranberries.

You want them to stay whole to provide bursts of flavor and tartness.

Step 8: Bake the Cupcakes

Spoon the batter into the prepared cupcake liners, filling them about two-thirds full.

This allows room for them to rise without overflowing.

Place the muffin tin in the preheated oven and bake for about 18-22 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.

Step 9: Cool the Cupcakes

Once baked, remove the cupcakes from the oven and let them cool in the pan for about 5 minutes.

Then, transfer them to a wire rack to cool completely.

Expert Tips

To ensure your Cranberry Orange Cupcakes turn out perfectly, consider these expert tips:

• Use fresh cranberries for the best flavor. If you use frozen ones, don’t thaw them beforehand, or they might bleed into the batter.
• Make sure your butter is softened. If it’s too cold, it won’t cream well with the sugar.
• Try not to overmix your batter. Mix just until the flour is incorporated for softer cupcakes.
• Let your cupcakes cool completely before frosting or serving for the best taste and texture.

Variations and Customizations

Feel free to mix it up! Here are a few ideas to customize your Cranberry Orange Cupcakes:

• Make a cream cheese frosting for a rich and tangy topping.
• Add white chocolate chips for extra sweetness.
• Substitute the orange juice with lemon juice for a different citrus flavor.
• Top with a sprinkle of powdered sugar or a drizzle of icing for added flair.

How to Store Leftovers

If you find yourself with leftover cupcakes, fear not! Store them in an airtight container at room temperature for 2-3 days.

For longer storage, you can refrigerate them for up to a week.

Just be sure to cover them well to keep them moist.

If you prefer, you can also freeze the cupcakes for up to three months.

Just thaw them in the refrigerator before serving.

FAQ

Can I make these cupcakes ahead of time?

Absolutely! You can make these cupcakes a day or two in advance.

Just store them in an airtight container at room temperature.

Can I use dried cranberries instead of fresh cranberries?

While you can use dried cranberries, the flavor will be different.

Fresh cranberries provide a unique tartness that makes these cupcakes so special.

Can I substitute the butter for oil?

Yes, you can substitute the unsalted butter with an equal amount of a neutral oil, like canola or vegetable oil, but this might slightly change the texture.

What can I use instead of orange juice?

You can use apple juice or lemon juice as an alternative, but note that this will change the flavor of the cupcakes.

If using lemon juice, consider increasing the sugar slightly to balance the tartness.

Conclusion

Cranberry Orange Cupcakes are a delightful treat worth baking.

They’re easy to make, bursting with flavor, and perfect for sharing with loved ones.

Whether you enjoy them plain or decorate them with frosting, they are sure to be a hit.

So, gather your ingredients, put on your favorite apron, and enjoy the magical combination of tart cranberries and sweet oranges in every moist and fluffy bite! Happy baking!

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