Cranberry Orange White Chocolate Cupcakes

These Cranberry Orange White Chocolate Cupcakes are a perfect blend of tart cranberries, citrusy orange, and creamy white chocolate. They make a delicious and festive treat for any holiday celebration or cozy winter gathering.

Ingredients:

For the Cupcakes:

• 1 1/2 cups all-purpose flour
• 1 1/2 tsp baking powder
• 1/4 tsp salt
• 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened
• 1 cup granulated sugar
• 2 large eggs
• 1 tsp vanilla extract
• 1 tsp orange zest
• 1/2 cup orange juice (fresh or bottled)
• 1/2 cup whole milk
• 1 cup fresh or frozen cranberries, chopped
• 1/2 cup white chocolate chips

For the Frosting:

• 1 cup unsalted butter, softened
• 4 cups powdered sugar
• 3–4 tbsp heavy cream or milk
• 1 tsp vanilla extract
• 1/2 cup white chocolate chips, melted
• Optional: Fresh cranberries or candied orange peel for decoration

Instructions:

1. Preheat Oven: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and line a 12-cup muffin tin with cupcake liners.
2. Mix Dry Ingredients: In a medium bowl, whisk together flour, baking powder, and salt. Set aside.
3. Cream Butter and Sugar: In a large bowl, beat butter and sugar together until light and fluffy. Add the eggs one at a time, beating well after each addition.
4. Add Orange Flavor: Mix in vanilla extract, orange zest, and orange juice.
5. Combine Wet and Dry Ingredients:
   • Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet mixture, alternating with milk. Start and end with the dry ingredients. Mix until just combined.
   • Fold in chopped cranberries and white chocolate chips.
6. Fill Cupcake Liners: Divide the batter evenly between the cupcake liners, filling each about 2/3 full.
7. Bake: Bake for 18–20 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean. Let the cupcakes cool completely on a wire rack.
8. Make the Frosting:
   • Beat the softened butter in a bowl until creamy.
   • Gradually add powdered sugar, mixing until smooth.
   • Stir in vanilla extract and melted white chocolate until well combined. Add heavy cream or milk a tablespoon at a time until you reach the desired consistency for piping.
9. Frost the Cupcakes: Once the cupcakes have cooled, pipe or spread the frosting onto each cupcake.
10. Decorate: Top with fresh cranberries, candied orange peel, or a sprinkle of white chocolate chips for an extra festive touch.

Tips for Extra Flavor:

• For Extra Citrus Flavor: Add a little more orange zest to the batter or frosting for a more pronounced orange taste.
• White Chocolate Drizzle: Drizzle melted white chocolate over the frosted cupcakes for an elegant touch.
• Cranberry Sauce: Swirl a small spoonful of homemade cranberry sauce into the frosting for added sweetness and color.

These Cranberry Orange White Chocolate Cupcakes are a delightful combination of tart, sweet, and creamy, making them the perfect treat for holiday parties or as a special winter dessert!