Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Orange Almond Muffins are a bright and flavorful treat that blends the citrusy zing of fresh orange with the nutty richness of almonds. These moist, tender muffins are perfect for breakfast, brunch, or a midday snack. With a soft crumb and a hint of crunch from sliced almonds, they offer a delicious balance of sweet and tangy.

ingredients

(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

all-purpose flourbaking powderbaking soda saltgranulated sugareggsmilkplain yogurt or sour creamfresh orange juiceorange zestalmond extractvegetable oilsliced almonds (for topping)

directions

Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C) and line a muffin tin with paper liners or grease it lightly.

In a large mixing bowl, whisk together the flour, baking powder, baking soda, and salt.

In another bowl, beat the eggs with the sugar until light and fluffy.

Add the yogurt or sour cream, orange juice, orange zest, almond extract, and oil to the egg mixture and stir to combine.

Gradually add the wet ingredients to the dry ingredients, mixing until just combined. Do not overmix.

Spoon the batter into the prepared muffin tin, filling each cup about 3/4 full.

Sprinkle sliced almonds on top of each muffin.

Bake for 18-22 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean.

Allow the muffins to cool in the tin for 5 minutes before transferring to a wire rack to cool completely.

Servings and timing

This recipe yields approximately 12 muffins.Preparation time: 15 minutesBaking time: 18-22 minutesCooling time: 10 minutesTotal time: 45 minutes

Variations

Add mini chocolate chips for an indulgent twist.

Use whole wheat flour for a heartier texture.

Top with an orange glaze made of powdered sugar and orange juice.

Mix in chopped dried apricots or cranberries for extra texture and flavor.

storage/reheating

Store muffins in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days.For longer freshness, refrigerate for up to 1 week or freeze for up to 2 months.Reheat in the microwave for 15-20 seconds or warm in a 300°F oven for 5 minutes.

FAQs

Can I use almond flour instead of all-purpose flour?

Almond flour will change the texture significantly and isn’t a 1:1 substitute. A mix of both can be used.

Can I make these muffins dairy-free?

Yes, use a dairy-free yogurt and plant-based milk substitute.

Do I need to toast the sliced almonds?

Toasting is optional but adds a richer flavor and extra crunch.

Can I use bottled orange juice?

Fresh orange juice is preferred for the best flavor, but bottled can be used in a pinch.

How do I keep muffins moist?

Avoid overbaking and store in an airtight container once cooled.

Can I use butter instead of oil?

Yes, melted butter can be used but may change the texture slightly.

Are these muffins freezer-friendly?

Absolutely. Cool completely, then freeze in a sealed bag or container.

Can I double the recipe?

Yes, this recipe scales well for larger batches.

Can I make mini muffins?

Yes, reduce the baking time to about 10-12 minutes for mini muffins.

Are these muffins sweet?

They’re mildly sweet with a tangy citrus flavor and nutty finish.

Conclusion

Orange Almond Muffins are a delightful blend of bright citrus and nutty almonds that bring a burst of sunshine to your table. Whether enjoyed fresh out of the oven or saved for later, these muffins are a tasty and versatile option for any time of day. Perfect for sharing—or keeping all to yourself.