⏱️ Prep Time: 15 minutes • 🍳 Cook Time: 20 minutes

Enjoy the delightful combination of tart cranberries, zesty orange, and warm spices in these Cranberry Orange Spice Muffins. Perfect for breakfast or as a snack, these muffins offer a burst of flavor and a touch of warmth that's perfect for any occasion.

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There’s something so cozy and nostalgic about the combination of cranberries and orange—it instantly reminds me of chilly mornings, soft sweaters, and that first quiet cup of coffee before the day begins. These Cranberry Orange Spice Muffins are the perfect balance of tart, sweet, and warmly spiced. Each bite bursts with juicy cranberries, fragrant citrus, and a tender crumb that’s just right for breakfast or a mid-day snack.

I originally started making these around the holidays, but honestly, they’ve become a year-round favorite in my kitchen. The warm notes of cinnamon and nutmeg pair beautifully with the brightness of fresh orange zest, and they smell absolutely divine while baking—like the best parts of winter coziness and citrusy summer mornings wrapped into one. Bonus: they freeze like a dream, so you can stash a few away for busy mornings!

If you’re someone who loves muffins that feel both hearty and indulgent, these are a must-bake. I love enjoying them warm with a little pat of butter or a swipe of cream cheese. Whether you’re baking for a weekend brunch, prepping for the week, or just in the mood for something comforting, these muffins bring the kind of joy that only homemade goodness can offer.

Ingredients

🍽️ Servings: 12 muffins • 🔥 Calories/Serving: 180

2 cups all-purpose flour
1/2 cup granulated sugar
1/4 cup brown sugar, packed
2 teaspoons baking powder
1/2 teaspoon baking soda
1/2 teaspoon salt
1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
1/2 teaspoon ground nutmeg
1/4 teaspoon ground cloves
1 cup buttermilk
1/2 cup unsalted butter, melted and cooled
2 large eggs
Zest of 1 orange
1 tablespoon fresh orange juice
1 teaspoon vanilla extract
1 cup fresh or frozen cranberries, coarsely chopped
1/4 cup granulated sugar mixed with 1/2 teaspoon ground cinnamon (for dusting)

Steps

Step 1

Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C) and line a muffin tin with paper liners.

Step 2

In a large bowl, whisk together the flour, granulated sugar, brown sugar, baking powder, baking soda, salt, cinnamon, nutmeg, and cloves.

Step 3

In a separate bowl, whisk together the buttermilk, melted butter, eggs, orange zest, orange juice, and vanilla extract.

Step 4

Pour the wet ingredients into the dry ingredients and gently stir until just combined.

Step 5

Fold in the chopped cranberries.

Step 6

Divide the batter evenly among the muffin cups, filling each about 2/3 full.

Step 7

If desired, mix the granulated sugar and ground cinnamon in a small bowl. Sprinkle this mixture over the tops of the muffins for a sweet and spiced crust.

Step 8

Bake in the preheated oven for approximately 18-20 minutes or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.

Step 9

Allow the muffins to cool in the tin for 5 minutes, then transfer them to a wire rack to cool completely. Enjoy!

Make it your own!

🍊 Boost the citrus
Add an extra tablespoon of orange zest or a splash of orange extract for a more intense citrus punch.
🍫 Chocolate twist
Swap half the cranberries for dark chocolate chips for a sweet and tangy combo.
🌾 Go whole grain
Use whole wheat pastry flour or a mix of whole wheat and all-purpose for a heartier, fiber-rich muffin.
🌱 Make it vegan
Replace the egg with a flax egg (1 tbsp ground flax + 3 tbsp water) and use plant-based milk and vegan butter.

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Did you add a unique twist? Did your family enjoy it? Share your thoughts and any customizations you made in the comments below.

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Cranberry Orange Spice Muffins