Name: Cranberry Orange Muffins with Sweet Orange Glaze Recipe
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 25 min
Total time: 40 min
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: 1 cup granulated sugar; 1 tablespoon orange zest (from about 2 oranges); 3/4 cup unsweetened soy milk; 1 teaspoon apple cider vinegar; 1/4 cup orange juice; 1/2 cup canola oil; 2 teaspoons pure vanilla extract; 2 cups all-purpose flour; 2 teaspoons baking powder; 1/4 teaspoon salt; 1 tablespoon cornstarch; 1 1/2 cups fresh or frozen cranberries; 1 cup powdered sugar; 3 tablespoons orange juice

Jump to Recipe· 3.9 from 12 reviews

If you love that perfect balance of sweet and tangy in your baked treats, you are going to fall head over heels for this Cranberry Orange Muffins with Sweet Orange Glaze Recipe. These muffins are soft, fluffy, and generously studded with fresh cranberries that burst with juicy tartness alongside zesty orange notes. Topped with a luminous, sweet orange glaze, this easy one-bowl wonder is ideal for a festive breakfast, cozy brunch, or an anytime snack that brightens your day. Trust me, once you try this recipe, it will become your go-to whenever you want to spread some citrus-berry joy in your kitchen.

Ingredients You’ll Need

A large white bowl sits on a wooden surface, filled with thick, pale yellow batter that has small bits of orange zest mixed in. On top of the batter, there is a pile of bright red cranberries, some shiny and full, scattered in the center. A wooden spoon with a smooth handle rests inside the bowl, partially covered with the batter. The overall look is fresh and ready for mixing, with natural colors and textures clear in the image. photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

What makes this Cranberry Orange Muffins with Sweet Orange Glaze Recipe truly special is not just its flavor, but how accessible and straightforward the ingredients are. Each element plays a unique role: the cranberries add bursts of tartness, the orange zest and juice provide vibrant citrus aroma, and the combination of baking powder and cornstarch ensures the perfect soft and tender crumb every time.

Granulated sugar: Adds sweetness and helps the orange zest release its essential oils.
Orange zest: Concentrated citrus flavor that brightens the entire muffin.
Unsweetened soy milk: Provides moisture and keeps the muffins wonderfully soft while being dairy-free.
Apple cider vinegar: Reacts with baking powder to help the muffins rise light and fluffy.
Orange juice: Infuses tangy moisture and features in the orange glaze too.
Canola oil: Contributes to moisture and tenderness without overpowering flavors.
Pure vanilla extract: Adds warmth and depth to the citrus-forward batter.
All-purpose flour: The base for structure and a tender crumb.
Baking powder: Leavens the muffins to give them a light texture.
Salt: Balances and enhances overall flavors.
Cornstarch: Keeps the crumb soft and delicate.
Fresh or frozen cranberries: For juicy bursts of tartness in every bite.
Powdered sugar: The foundation of the sweet orange glaze.

How to Make Cranberry Orange Muffins with Sweet Orange Glaze Recipe

Step 1: Prep and Prepare Your Pan

Begin by heating your oven to 400 degrees Fahrenheit. Line a standard muffin pan with paper liners and lightly spray them with oil to ensure your muffins come out clean and perfect every time.

Step 2: Infuse Sugar with Orange Zest

In a large bowl, combine the granulated sugar with fresh orange zest. Using your fingers, work the zest into the sugar until the mixture feels like damp, fragrant sand. This step helps release the oils in the zest, giving these muffins that irresistible citrus aroma.

Step 3: Mix in Wet Ingredients

Next, whisk in the unsweetened soy milk, apple cider vinegar, orange juice, canola oil, and pure vanilla extract. Stir everything together until the mixture is smooth and well combined—this creates the flavorful base that keeps your muffins moist and light.

Step 4: Combine Dry Ingredients and Fold

Add the all-purpose flour, baking powder, salt, and cornstarch to the wet mix. Gently stir with a large spoon, being careful not to overmix, as that can lead to dense muffins. Then, fold in the fresh or frozen cranberries to evenly distribute those bright pockets of tartness.

Step 5: Fill Muffin Liners and Bake

Use a generous cookie scoop, ice cream scoop, or spoon to fill each muffin liner right to the top with batter. This ensures a beautiful rise and a hearty muffin. Bake for about 22 to 25 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.

Step 6: Prepare the Sweet Orange Glaze

While the muffins are baking, whisk together the powdered sugar and orange juice to make the glaze. Once the muffins come out of the oven, drizzle this sweet citrus glaze over the warm muffins and allow them to cool for 5 to 10 minutes to set the glaze before serving.

How to Serve Cranberry Orange Muffins with Sweet Orange Glaze Recipe

A close-up view shows several light golden muffins with a soft, crumbly texture, each containing bright red cranberry pieces scattered throughout the inside and on top. One muffin is torn in half to reveal its moist, fluffy interior with visible bursts of juicy cranberries, sitting on an open white cupcake liner. A few whole cranberries are placed around the muffins on a smooth white marbled surface. The scene is softly lit, highlighting the warm, inviting colors and textures of the muffins photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

Garnishes

For a gorgeous finishing touch, add some extra orange zest or a few whole cranberries on top of the glaze. These simple garnishes not only look stunning but also add pops of texture and flavor that make your muffins irresistible.

Side Dishes

Pair these muffins with a cup of freshly brewed coffee or your favorite herbal tea for a delightful morning treat. They also complement creamy yogurt or a fruit salad beautifully for a more filling brunch spread that balances zesty, sweet, and fresh flavors.

Creative Ways to Present

Transform your Cranberry Orange Muffins with Sweet Orange Glaze Recipe into an elegant offering by arranging them in a tiered cake stand or wrapping them up with colorful ribbons and parchment paper for gifting. You can also slice them horizontally and add a smear of cream cheese or mascarpone for a dreamy layered bite.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

These muffins stay fresh and moist for up to three days when stored in an airtight container at room temperature. Make sure the glaze has completely set before storing to avoid any sogginess.

Freezing

If you want to savor these muffins over a longer period, freeze them individually wrapped in plastic wrap and placed inside a freezer-safe bag. They freeze wonderfully for up to two months without losing their soft texture.

Reheating

To enjoy the muffins as if freshly baked, thaw them at room temperature, then warm in a 350-degree oven for about 5 to 7 minutes. This brings back their soft crumb and reactivates the sweet orange glaze’s melt-in-your-mouth charm.

FAQs

Can I use regular milk instead of soy milk?

Absolutely! Regular dairy milk is a great substitute if you’re not dairy-free. The muffins will still turn out moist and delicious.

Can I use frozen cranberries for this recipe?

Yes, frozen cranberries work perfectly well. They add the same tartness and flavor; just fold them in gently to avoid turning the batter purple.

How do I know when the muffins are done baking?

Insert a toothpick into the center of a muffin—if it comes out clean or with just a few moist crumbs, your muffins are baked to perfection.

Is the glaze necessary?

The sweet orange glaze adds a delightful citrusy sweetness and a lovely glossy finish that makes these muffins extra special, but you can certainly enjoy them plain or with a dusting of powdered sugar.

Can I make these muffins gluten-free?

To make a gluten-free version, substitute the all-purpose flour with a 1-to-1 gluten-free baking flour blend. The texture may differ slightly, but the flavor will still shine.

Final Thoughts

There is something truly comforting and joyful about biting into these Cranberry Orange Muffins with Sweet Orange Glaze Recipe. Whether you’re seeking a festive addition to your holiday table or a bright treat to lift an ordinary morning, this recipe delivers softness, tanginess, and sweet citrus charm all rolled into one. I can’t wait for you to try these muffins and share them with those you love because good food always tastes better when it’s shared.