These Orange Muffins are a testament to the versatility and ease of transforming classic cake recipes into delightful muffin treats. Utilizing the same beloved recipe for orange cake, this version yields 24 perfectly moist and flavorful muffins, each infused with the zest of orange and glazed with a sweet orange syrup. Simple to prepare and irresistibly delicious, these muffins are sure to become a favorite for breakfast, snack time, or any moment that calls for a touch of sweetness.
Why You’ll Love This: The natural sweetness and zesty aroma of oranges make these muffins a refreshing alternative to heavier desserts. The addition of a light orange syrup immediately after baking ensures each muffin retains its moisture, offering a tender crumb with every bite. This recipe proves that simplicity does not compromise taste or texture, providing a straightforward approach to homemade muffins that anyone can master.
Perfect Occasion: Whether you’re hosting a brunch, looking for a delightful addition to your afternoon tea, or simply in need of a comforting snack, these Orange Muffins fit the bill perfectly. They’re also an excellent choice for packing into lunchboxes, gifting to friends, or serving at casual gatherings.
Decoration Tips: For an extra touch of elegance, garnish each muffin with a thin slice of orange or a sprinkle of grated orange zest before baking. After glazing, a light dusting of powdered sugar or a drizzle of melted white chocolate can add a decorative and delicious finishing touch.
Ingredients:
- 180g sugar
- Zest of 1 orange
- 160cc neutral oil (such as sunflower)
- 4 eggs
- 200g self-raising flour
- 1 teaspoon baking soda
For the Syrup:
- 150cc orange juice
- 1 tablespoon honey
- 4 tablespoons sugar
Instructions:
- Preparation: Preheat the oven to 170°C (338°F). Mix the sugar and orange zest in a bowl.
- Wet Ingredients: Add the oil to the sugar mixture and blend well for 3 minutes. Incorporate the eggs one at a time, beating well after each addition until creamy.
- Dry Ingredients: Sift the flour and baking soda together and fold into the wet mixture in three parts, using a spatula to gently combine.
- Baking: Place muffin liners in a muffin tray. Fill each liner with the batter and bake for 20 minutes or until a toothpick inserted comes out clean.
- Orange Syrup: While the muffins are baking, prepare the syrup by boiling the orange juice, honey, and sugar together for 5 minutes. Brush the warm muffins with syrup as soon as they come out of the oven.
Additional Tips:
- Brushing the muffins with syrup right out of the oven locks in moisture.
- For a healthier version, substitute regular flour with 170g whole wheat flour and add 1 teaspoon of baking powder.
- Softened butter (180g) can be used instead of oil for a richer taste.
- An electric mixer may be used for a more effortless preparation.
Enjoy these moist and zesty Orange Muffins, a simple yet delightful treat that brings the essence of oranges into a tender, syrup-glazed bite.
