Cranberry Orange Muffins

Recipe

Cranberries are loaded with healthy nutrients. They are harvested from October to mid-December when we need nutrients to keep our immune system strong. Having cranberries regularly can help overcome seasonal and urinary tract infections, cleanse the blood, and detox the liver. In addition, these tart berries are known for their anti-inflammatory properties supporting heart, brain, and healthy digestion. Unfortunately, cranberries are often combined with a lot of sugar to offset their strong tart flavor. This recipe uses unsweetened cranberries and a reasonable amount of maple syrup.

Ingredients:

  • 2 cups sprouted spelt flour (or GF flour good for baking - see the recommendation below)*

  • 1 tsp. baking soda

  • 1/2 tsp. baking powder

  • 1/2 tsp. salt

  • 1/2 tsp. Cylon cinnamon

  • 1/2 cup dark maple syrup (previously grade B)

  • 6 TBS. unsalted butter, melted

  • 1/4 cup orange juice

  • 3/4 cup milk (dairy or alternative)

  • zest of 1 orange (organic)

  • 2 eggs

  • 2 tsp. vanilla extract

  • 1 and 1/2 cups fresh or frozen cranberries, coarsely chopped (organic)

  • 1/2 cup walnuts, coarsely chopped (optional)

Method:

Prepare the muffin pan by spraying it with nonstick spray or using a parchment liner. Preheat oven to 350 degrees F.

Place melted butter in a large bowl and add maple syrup, orange zest, orange juice, milk, eggs, and vanilla. Blend or whisk until well combined.

Mix flour, baking soda, baking powder, salt, and cinnamon and add it to the liquid mixture. Stir it all gently.

Fold the cranberries and walnuts.

Spoon batter into the muffin pan and bake for 18-20 minutes.

Let the muffins cool in the pan and transfer them to a wire rack. Serve warm or at room temperature. Store muffins for up to 4 days in an airtight container.

*Spelt flour is NOT gluten free. Spelt is an ancient grain much healthier than wheat. For gluten free option, my friend Kate uses “King Arthur’s GF measure for measure” flour.

 

Health facts:

  •  Low in sugar

  • Whole grain

  • Rich in antioxidants including vitamins C and E

  • Good amount of fiber

  • Healthy fat (from walnuts)