Cranberry Orange Cupcakes with Orange Cream Cheese Frosting Recipe

If you’re searching for a delightful treat that bursts with bright, zesty flavors and a touch of tartness, this Cranberry Orange Cupcakes with Orange Cream Cheese Frosting Recipe is exactly what you need. Imagine moist, fluffy cupcakes infused with fresh orange zest and studded with vibrant cranberries, all crowned with a luscious, tangy cream cheese frosting that’s lovingly flavored with orange. These cupcakes not only taste incredible but also bring a cheerful splash of color to any gathering or cozy afternoon snack. They’re a perfect way to celebrate the season or simply brighten your day with every bite.

Ingredients You’ll Need

Getting the ingredients right is key for these cupcakes to shine. Each item plays an essential role, from lending moisture and tender crumb to delivering that unmistakable citrus-cranberry harmony. Nothing complicated here, but every element matters!

• 1 1/2 cups all-purpose flour: Provides the structure for perfectly tender cupcakes.
• 1 1/2 teaspoons baking powder: Ensures your cupcakes rise beautifully and stay fluffy.
• 1/4 teaspoon salt: Balances sweetness and enhances all the flavors.
• 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened: Adds rich flavor and moistness to the batter.
• 3/4 cup granulated sugar: Sweetens just enough without overpowering the citrus notes.
• 2 large eggs: Bind the ingredients and add richness.
• 1/2 cup freshly squeezed orange juice: Brings fresh tang and moisture to the cupcakes.
• 2 tablespoons orange zest: Packs potent citrus aroma and flavor.
• 1/2 cup whole milk or buttermilk: Keeps the cupcakes tender and adds subtle tang.
• 1 cup fresh or frozen cranberries, coarsely chopped: Adds bursts of tartness and bright red pops.
• 8 oz cream cheese, softened: Base for rich, creamy frosting.
• 1/4 cup unsalted butter, softened: Gives frosting smoothness and richness.
• 2 cups powdered sugar: Sweetens and thickens the frosting to the perfect amount.
• 1 tablespoon orange zest: Infuses the frosting with vibrant citrus flavor.
• 1 tablespoon freshly squeezed orange juice: Enhances cream cheese frosting’s brightness.
• 1/2 teaspoon vanilla extract: Rounds out the frosting with warm undertones.
• Extra orange zest and sugared cranberries (optional): For that stunning finishing touch on your cupcakes.

How to Make Cranberry Orange Cupcakes with Orange Cream Cheese Frosting Recipe

Step 1: Preheat the Oven and Prepare Your Pan

Begin by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). Line a 12-cup muffin tin with cupcake liners to ensure your cupcakes bake evenly and release easily from the pan after baking.

Step 2: Mix the Dry Ingredients

In a medium bowl, whisk together the all-purpose flour, baking powder, and salt. This dry mix provides the necessary lift and structure for your cupcakes, so give it a good whisk to combine everything evenly.

Step 3: Cream the Butter and Sugar

Take your softened butter and granulated sugar and beat them together with a hand or stand mixer on medium speed. Continue until the mixture becomes light and fluffy, roughly 2 to 3 minutes. This step is crucial because it incorporates air, creating a tender cupcake crumb. Then add the eggs one at a time, beating well after each addition to keep the batter smooth and well combined.

Step 4: Add the Orange Zest, Juice, and Milk

Stir in the vibrant orange zest and freshly squeezed orange juice, which will infuse your cupcakes with fresh citrus notes. Next, gradually add the flour mixture alternately with the milk, starting and ending with the dry ingredients. Mix just until combined — the key to soft cupcakes is to avoid overmixing.

Step 5: Fold in the Cranberries

Gently fold the coarsely chopped cranberries into the batter. These juicy bursts will create delightful pops of tartness in every bite, making the cupcakes truly special.

Step 6: Fill the Cupcake Liners

Divide the batter evenly among the lined muffin cups, filling each about two-thirds full. This ensures enough room for them to rise without spilling over.

Step 7: Bake the Cupcakes

Bake your cupcakes in the preheated oven for 18-20 minutes. To check for doneness, insert a toothpick in the center; if it comes out clean, they’re ready. Let them cool in the pan for 5 minutes before transferring to a wire rack to cool completely — frosting warm cupcakes will melt it!

Step 8: Make the Orange Cream Cheese Frosting

Beat together the softened cream cheese and butter until creamy and smooth. Gradually add the powdered sugar, mixing after each addition so that the frosting stays fluffy and free of lumps. Stir in the orange zest, fresh orange juice, and vanilla extract. Adjust consistency as needed with more juice or powdered sugar until your frosting is perfect for spreading or piping.

Step 9: Frost the Cupcakes

Once the cupcakes are completely cool, frost them generously using a spatula or a piping bag for a beautiful finish. The frosting’s tangy sweetness paired with the cocktail of flavors in the cupcake is utterly irresistible.

Step 10: Garnish and Serve

Top them off with extra orange zest or sugared cranberries if you want to wow your guests with elegant presentation and extra bursts of color and flavor.

How to Serve Cranberry Orange Cupcakes with Orange Cream Cheese Frosting Recipe

Garnishes

Adding garnishes like sugared cranberries or fresh orange zest not only enhances the festive appearance but also gives each bite a little zing and sparkle. They create a stunning visual contrast that makes these cupcakes a centerpiece-worthy dessert.

Side Dishes

Pair these cupcakes with a light, refreshing beverage such as iced tea infused with citrus, or a cup of aromatic Earl Grey tea to complement the orange notes. They also go wonderfully with a simple fruit salad for a vibrant dessert spread.

Creative Ways to Present

Serve your cupcakes on a tiered dessert stand for a charming touch at parties. You can also box them individually with cellophane and a ribbon for delightful gifts. For a brunch gathering, arrange them on plates garnished with fresh cranberries and small orange wedges to tie the flavors together beautifully.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Store leftover cupcakes in an airtight container in the refrigerator to keep the frosting fresh and prevent the cupcakes from drying out. They maintain their delightful texture for up to 3 days, making them a perfect make-ahead treat.

Freezing

You can freeze unfrosted cupcakes by wrapping each individually in plastic wrap and placing them in a sealed container or freezer bag. To freeze frosted cupcakes, first chill them thoroughly, then freeze on a tray until firm before wrapping to avoid damaging the frosting. Use within 2 months for optimal freshness.

Reheating

To enjoy frozen cupcakes, thaw overnight in the refrigerator or at room temperature for a couple of hours. If you prefer warm cupcakes, microwave an unfrosted or lightly frosted cupcake for about 10 seconds, but avoid warming frosted ones too much to prevent melting.

FAQs

Can I use frozen cranberries in this Cranberry Orange Cupcakes with Orange Cream Cheese Frosting Recipe?

Absolutely! Frozen cranberries work just as well as fresh ones. Just be sure to coarsely chop them before folding into the batter and do not thaw them fully to prevent excess moisture in your cupcakes.

Is it possible to make these cupcakes dairy-free?

Yes, you can substitute the butter with a dairy-free margarine and use a plant-based milk like almond or oat milk. You’ll also need dairy-free cream cheese for the frosting, which is widely available in many grocery stores.

How long do these cupcakes last at room temperature?

Because the frosting contains cream cheese, it’s best to keep the cupcakes refrigerated. Left at room temperature, they’re fine for a few hours, but for safety and freshness, refrigeration is recommended.

Can I make the frosting ahead of time?

Definitely! You can prepare the orange cream cheese frosting a day ahead and keep it refrigerated. Bring it to room temperature and give it a quick whip before spreading to restore its creamy texture.

What’s the best way to prevent cranberries from sinking to the bottom?

Toss the chopped cranberries in a little flour before folding them into the batter. This helps them suspend evenly throughout the cupcakes as they bake.

Final Thoughts

If you’re looking to add a burst of freshness and festive cheer to your baking, give this Cranberry Orange Cupcakes with Orange Cream Cheese Frosting Recipe a go. From the tender crumb to the vibrant pops of cranberry and the delightfully tangy frosting, every bite feels like a celebration. Trust me, once you try these, they’ll become a beloved staple in your recipe collection. Happy baking and enjoy every joyful bite!

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