Description
Healthy cranberry muffins are a guilt-free delight that combines the sweet and tart allure of cranberries with wholesome ingredients. These muffins are a perfect balance of taste and nutrition, making them an ideal choice for those looking to savor a treat without compromising on health. Packed with whole wheat flour, oats, and fresh cranberries, they're a source of fiber and antioxidants.
Ingredients
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- 1 ½ cups whole wheat flour (for added fiber and nutrients)
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- 1/2 cup rolled oats (for whole-grain goodness and texture)
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- 1/2 cup natural sweetener (like honey or maple syrup instead of granulated sugar)
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- 1 ½ teaspoons baking powder (aluminum-free for a more natural option)
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- 1/2 teaspoon baking soda
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- 1/4 teaspoon salt (preferably sea salt)
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- 1 cup fresh cranberries (rich in antioxidants)
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- 1/4 cup unsweetened applesauce (as a healthier alternative to butter)
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- 1/4 cup plain Greek yogurt (for added protein and creaminess)
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- 1/4 cup almond milk (or any milk of your choice, preferably unsweetened)
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- 1 large egg (for protein and binding)
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- 1 teaspoon pure vanilla extract (for flavor without additives)
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- Zest of one organic orange (for a natural, zesty kick)
Instructions
Step 1: Preheat and Prep
Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C) and line a muffin tin with paper liners or grease it to prevent sticking.
Step 2: Wholesome Dry Ingredients
In a mixing bowl, combine the whole wheat flour, rolled oats, and the natural sweetener (like honey or maple syrup). Add the aluminum-free baking powder, baking soda, and sea salt. Mix these ingredients thoroughly.
Step 3: Combine Wet Ingredients
In a separate bowl, blend the unsweetened applesauce, plain Greek yogurt, almond milk, egg, and pure vanilla extract. Mix until all the wet ingredients are well incorporated.
Step 4: The Perfect Union
Gently fold the wet ingredients into the bowl with the dry ingredients, stirring until they come together. Be cautious not to overmix; a few lumps are perfectly fine.
Step 5: Add Cranberries
Fold the fresh cranberries into the batter, ensuring even distribution throughout.
Step 6: Fill the Muffin Cups
Using a spoon or an ice cream scoop, fill each muffin cup about 2/3 full with the batter.
Step 7: Bake to Perfection
Place the muffin tin in the preheated oven and bake for approximately 20-25 minutes. They're ready when the tops turn a beautiful golden brown, and a toothpick inserted into a muffin comes out clean.
Step 8: Cool and Savor
Allow the muffins to cool in the tin for a few minutes before transferring them to a wire rack to cool completely. Once they've cooled, you're ready to savor these delectable, healthier cranberry muffins.
These cranberry muffins strike the perfect balance between delicious and nutritious, making them a delightful addition to your daily life. Enjoy them fresh out of the oven or save them for a guilt-free snack anytime you please. A sweet, tangy, and health-conscious treat to brighten your day!
Notes
- Prep Time: 15-20 minutes
- Cook Time: 25-25 minutes