Name: Panera Cranberry Orange Muffins
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 22 min
Total time: 37 min
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: 2 cups all-purpose flour; 1 cup granulated sugar; 2 teaspoons baking powder; ½ teaspoon baking soda; ½ teaspoon salt; 2 large eggs, room temperature; 1 cup plain yogurt (Greek yogurt or sour cream may be substituted); ½ cup vegetable oil (or melted butter); Zest from 2 medium oranges; ¼ cup fresh orange juice; 1½ cups fresh cranberries (or frozen; dried cranberries soaked in orange juice also work); 1 teaspoon vanilla extract; Optional: coarse sugar, for topping

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

I keep this recipe on repeat because it’s simple, reliable, and full of flavor. I enjoy how the yogurt keeps the muffins moist while the orange zest adds a bold citrus aroma. These muffins work just as well for breakfast as they do for brunch or dessert, which makes them one of my go-to baked goods.

Ingredients

(Here’s a tip: Check out the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

2 cups all-purpose flour
1 cup granulated sugar
2 teaspoons baking powder
1/2 teaspoon baking soda
1/2 teaspoon salt
2 large eggs, room temperature
1 cup plain yogurt
1/2 cup vegetable oil or melted butter
Zest from 2 medium oranges
1/4 cup fresh orange juice
1 1/2 cups fresh cranberries
1 teaspoon vanilla extract
Optional coarse sugar for topping

Directions

I start by preheating the oven to 375°F and lining a 12-cup muffin tin with paper liners. In a large bowl, I whisk together the flour, sugar, baking powder, baking soda, and salt until everything is evenly mixed.

I zest the oranges directly into the dry mixture, then squeeze out fresh orange juice and set it aside. In a separate bowl, I whisk the eggs, yogurt, oil, vanilla, and orange juice until smooth.

I pour the wet ingredients into the dry ingredients and gently fold everything together just until combined. I make sure not to overmix because I want a tender crumb. I fold in the cranberries carefully so they stay evenly distributed.

I divide the batter among the muffin cups, filling each about three-quarters full. Sometimes I sprinkle coarse sugar on top for a bakery-style finish. I bake the muffins for about 20–24 minutes, until they’re golden and a toothpick comes out clean. After cooling briefly in the pan, I transfer them to a wire rack to cool completely.

Servings and Timing

I usually get 12 muffins from this recipe. Prep time takes about 15 minutes, and baking takes around 22 minutes, so everything is ready in roughly 37 minutes.

Variations

I sometimes use Greek yogurt or sour cream for an even richer texture. When fresh cranberries aren’t available, I use frozen ones straight from the freezer or dried cranberries soaked in orange juice. For a gluten-free version, I substitute a 1:1 gluten-free flour blend with great results.

Storage/Reheating

I store these muffins in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 2 days. When I want them to last longer, I refrigerate them for up to 5 days or freeze them for later. To reheat, I warm a muffin briefly in the microwave to bring back its soft texture.

FAQs

Can I use dried cranberries instead of fresh?

Yes, I soak dried cranberries in orange juice first so they soften and absorb extra flavor.

Why shouldn’t I overmix the batter?

I avoid overmixing because it can make the muffins dense instead of light and tender.

Can I make these muffins ahead of time?

I often bake them the night before and store them covered, which makes mornings much easier.

What gives these muffins their orange flavor?

I rely on both fresh orange zest and juice to give the muffins a bright, natural citrus taste.

Can I freeze these muffins?

Yes, I freeze them once fully cooled, then thaw them at room temperature or reheat as needed.

Conclusion

These Panera cranberry orange muffins are one of my favorite bakery-style recipes to make at home. I love the balance of tart cranberries and fresh citrus, and the soft crumb makes them hard to resist. Whether I serve them for breakfast or as a sweet snack, they always disappear quickly.