Gluten Free Orange Cranberry Muffins

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Simple and satisfying gluten free orange cranberry muffins that are the perfect winter breakfast and brunch treat.

Course Breakfast

Cuisine American

Keyword gluten free cranberry muffin, gluten free dairy free orange cranberry muffins, gluten free orange cranberry muffins, Gluten Free orange muffins

Servings

Calories 228kcal

Ingredients

2 cups gluten free all purpose flour
dash salt
1 tsp baking powder
1 tsp baking soda
3 eggs
3/4 cup dairy free vanilla yogurt I use So Delicious coconut
1 cup sugar
1/2 cup neutral oil
1 tsp vanilla extract
3 tbsp orange zest
1 tbsp orange juice
2 tsp orange extract
1 1/2 cups fresh cranberries or 3/4 cup dried cranberries

Instructions

Preheat the oven to 350 degrees F.
In a medium bowl whisk the flour, salt, and baking soda. Set aside
In your stand mixer add the eggs, yogurt and vanilla. Mix on medium speed for 30 seconds.
With the mixer on low add the oil and sugar, mix for 1 minute. Add the orange zest, juice and extract. Blend for 1 minute.
Turn the mixer off and pour in the dry ingredients. Blend on low for 30 seconds, increase the speed to medium low and then blend for 1 minute. Scrape down the sides halfway.
Fold in your cranberries and then pour the batter into your muffin tins.
Bake the muffins on the middle rack of the oven, for 20-23 minutes or until a toothpick comes out of the center of the muffin clean. Enjoy!

Notes

Tips for Baking Gluten Free Orange Cranberry Muffins

To make your muffins turn out perfect every time, follow these tips:

Choose the Right Flour Blend

Using a high-quality gluten-free all-purpose flour blend is key to achieving the ideal texture. I recommend my Gluten Free All Purpose Flour Blend.

Don’t Overmix

When working with gluten-free batter, it’s important not to overmix. Overmixing can make the muffins dense instead of fluffy. Blend the ingredients just until combined.

Fresh vs. Dried Cranberries

Both fresh and dried cranberries work in this recipe. Fresh cranberries provide a tart burst of flavor, while dried cranberries offer a slightly sweeter, chewy texture. Adjust according to your preference!

Check Your Muffins Early

Gluten-free baked goods can sometimes bake faster than their traditional counterparts. Begin checking your muffins around the 20-minute mark by inserting a toothpick into the center. If it comes out clean, they’re ready!

Enhance the Citrus Flavor

For an extra burst of orange, top the muffins with a light orange glaze made with powdered sugar and orange juice.

FAQs for Gluten Free Orange Cranberry Muffins

Can I Freeze These Muffins?

Absolutely! Once the muffins have cooled completely, place them in an airtight container or freezer bag. They’ll stay fresh for up to 3 months. To reheat, microwave for 20-30 seconds or let them thaw at room temperature.

Do I Need to Adjust Baking Time for Mini Muffins?

If you’re making mini muffins, reduce the baking time to 12-15 minutes. Keep an eye on them and use the toothpick test to check for doneness.

Can I Use Orange Juice Instead of Orange Extract?

Orange extract provides a concentrated flavor that orange juice alone can’t replicate. If you don’t have extract, you can increase the orange zest slightly to enhance the citrus flavor.

What Other Add-Ins Work Well?

Chopped nuts like pecans or walnuts add a delightful crunch. You can also fold in white chocolate chips for extra sweetness.

Does this gluten free cranberry muffins recipe require xanthan gum?

Store bought All Purpose Flour blends contains xanthan gum. If you are using a pre-made all purpose flour blend then you do not need to add xanthan gum. If you are using a homemade flour blend that does not contain xanthan gum then add 3/4 tsp to this recipe.

Can I freeze these gluten free dairy free orange muffins?

Yes, you can store these in the freezer for up to 3 months. I recommend wrapping them individually in plastic wrap or foil and then storing them in a freezer bag. Allow them to thaw on the countertop and serve warm by popping them in the oven at 350 degrees for about 5 or so minutes.

Can these gluten free orange cranberry muffins be made vegan/without eggs?

I personally don't bake without eggs that much, but I have a few readers who make all of my recipes with flax eggs instead and have a ton of success. Another option would be to use Bob's Red Mill Egg Replacer. That is my go-to when baking without eggs.

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