Are you craving a delicious and easy treat that’s perfect for breakfast, brunch, or an afternoon snack? Look no further! These delightful dried cranberry muffins are bursting with festive flavor and require minimal effort. They're the perfect blend of sweet and tart, making them a crowd-pleaser for any occasion. Whether you're a seasoned baker or just starting your homemade cooking journey, this recipe is guaranteed to impress. Get ready to enjoy the warm, comforting aroma and delightful taste of these irresistible muffins!
Ingredients: You'll Need These Simple Staples
This recipe uses readily available ingredients, making it a perfect addition to your quick dinner ideas repertoire.
- 2 cups all-purpose flour
- 1 teaspoon baking soda
- ½ teaspoon baking powder
- ¼ teaspoon salt
- ½ cup (1 stick) unsalted butter, softened
- ¾ cup granulated sugar
- 2 large eggs
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1 cup buttermilk
- 1 cup dried cranberries
Step-by-Step Baking Instructions: A Simple Guide
Follow these easy steps to bake the most delicious dried cranberry muffins:
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Preheat & Prep: Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). Line a 12-cup muffin tin with paper liners or grease it well. This prevents sticking and ensures easy removal.
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Dry Ingredients: In a large bowl, whisk together the flour, baking soda, baking powder, and salt. This ensures even distribution of leavening agents for perfectly fluffy muffins.
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Cream Butter & Sugar: In a separate bowl, cream together the softened butter and sugar until light and fluffy. Use an electric mixer for best results, but a good old-fashioned hand mixer will work too!
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Add Wet Ingredients: Beat in the eggs one at a time, then stir in the vanilla extract.
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Combine Wet & Dry: Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet ingredients, alternating with the buttermilk, beginning and ending with the dry ingredients. Mix until just combined – don't overmix! Overmixing can lead to tough muffins.
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Fold in Cranberries: Gently fold in the dried cranberries. Be careful not to crush them.
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Fill Muffin Cups: Fill each muffin cup about ¾ full.
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Bake: Bake for 18-20 minutes, or until a wooden skewer inserted into the center comes out clean.
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Cool: Let the muffins cool in the tin for a few minutes before transferring them to a wire rack to cool completely.
Tips & Variations for Perfect Muffins
- For extra moisture: Add a tablespoon of milk or yogurt to the batter.
- Spice it up: Add a teaspoon of cinnamon or nutmeg for a warm, spiced flavor.
- Nutty Delight: Incorporate ½ cup of chopped walnuts or pecans for added texture and flavor.
- Citrus Twist: Add the zest of one orange or lemon for a bright, citrusy note.
- Make it Gluten-Free: Substitute all-purpose flour with your favorite gluten-free blend.
Nutritional Information (Per Muffin - Approximate)
These values are estimates and may vary depending on specific ingredients used.
- Calories: Approximately 250
- Fat: Approximately 10g
- Protein: Approximately 4g
- Carbohydrates: Approximately 35g
- Sugar: Approximately 15g
This recipe provides a delicious and relatively healthy option for a quick breakfast or snack. The addition of cranberries offers a boost of antioxidants.
Enjoy your freshly baked, delicious dried cranberry muffins! They’re perfect for sharing with friends and family, or simply savoring on your own. These easy recipes are a great way to brighten your day and enjoy the simple pleasures of homemade cooking. Remember to adjust sweetness and ingredients based on your preferences to create your perfect batch of healthy meals. Happy baking!