Orange Pecan Muffins

Orange Pecan Muffins Recipe - Almond Flour, Flax Meal, Pecans, and Orange Zest

Preparation time: 10 minutes | Cooking time: 15-20 minutes | Servings: 6

Introduction

Orange Pecan Muffins are a delicious and nutritious treat that is perfect for breakfast or as a snack. These muffins are packed with the flavors of orange and pecans, making them a delightful addition to any meal.

History

The combination of orange and pecans in muffins is a classic flavor pairing that has been enjoyed for generations. This recipe takes that traditional flavor profile and gives it a healthy twist by using almond flour and flax meal as the base.

Ingredients

4 oz (113 g) of almond flour
1 cup of almond flour
0.5 cup of golden flax meal
2 oz (57 g) of golden flax meal
1 tsp of baking powder
0.13 tsp of salt
1 oz (28 g) of chopped pecans
0.25 cup of chopped pecans
1 cup of granular splenda or equivalent liquid splenda
2 tbsp of butter
1 tsp of pure orange extract
1 tsp of vanilla
2 tbsp of heavy cream
2 tbsp of water or orange juice [1]
1 tbsp of orange zest, from 1 small orange
2 eggs

How to prepare

In a small bowl, combine the almond flour, flax meal, baking powder, salt, nuts, and granular Splenda (if using).
In a medium microwave-safe bowl, melt the butter in the microwave.
Stir in the liquid Splenda (if using), extracts, cream, water, and orange zest.
Add the dry ingredients [2] and the eggs to the butter mixture; stir with a wooden spoon until well blended.
Divide the batter evenly among 6 paper-lined muffin cups.
You can spray the liners with cooking spray, but they shouldn't stick too much.
Bake at 350°F (177°C) for 15 – 20 minutes, or until the tops are golden brown.
Allow the muffins to cool for 5 minutes on a rack before removing them from the pan.
Serve the muffins warm or at room temperature.
Store any leftovers in the refrigerator.
Enjoy the muffins with butter or cream cheese spread.

Variations

Swap out the pecans for walnuts or almonds for a different flavor profile.
Add in some dried cranberries or raisins for a burst of sweetness.

Cooking Tips & Tricks

Make sure to evenly distribute the batter among the muffin cups to ensure even baking.

- Be careful not to overmix the batter, as this can result in tough muffins.

- Feel free to add in other mix-ins such as dried cranberries or chocolate chips for a different flavor profile.

Serving Suggestions

Enjoy these Orange Pecan Muffins with a cup of hot tea or coffee for a cozy breakfast or snack.

Cooking Techniques

Be sure to preheat your oven before baking the muffins to ensure even cooking.

- Use a toothpick to test for doneness; if it comes out clean, the muffins are ready.

Ingredient Substitutions

If you don't have almond flour, you can use regular all-purpose flour as a substitute.

- You can use any type of nuts in place of pecans, such as walnuts or almonds.

Make Ahead Tips

These muffins can be made ahead of time and stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.

Presentation Ideas

Serve these muffins on a decorative plate with a sprinkle of powdered sugar on top for a beautiful presentation.

Pairing Recommendations

Pair these Orange Pecan Muffins with a side of fresh fruit or a yogurt parfait for a balanced breakfast.

Storage and Reheating Instructions

Store any leftover muffins in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, simply microwave for 20-30 seconds or until warm.

Nutrition Information

Calories per serving

Each serving of Orange Pecan Muffins contains approximately 250 calories.

Carbohydrates

Each serving of Orange Pecan Muffins contains approximately 10 grams of carbohydrates.

Fats

Each serving of Orange Pecan Muffins contains approximately 15 grams of fats.

Proteins

Each serving of Orange Pecan Muffins contains approximately 6 grams of proteins.

Vitamins and minerals

Orange Pecan Muffins are a good source of Vitamin C and Vitamin E, thanks to the orange juice and pecans.

Alergens

This recipe contains nuts (pecans) and eggs.

Summary

Orange Pecan Muffins are a nutritious and delicious treat that is high in healthy fats and proteins, making them a great option for a quick and satisfying snack.

Summary

Orange Pecan Muffins are a delicious and nutritious treat that is perfect for breakfast or as a snack. With the flavors of orange and pecans, these muffins are sure to be a hit with your family and friends. Enjoy!

How did I get this recipe?

I have a clear memory of the first time I discovered this recipe for Orange Pecan Muffins. It was a warm summer day, and I was visiting my dear friend Sarah in her cozy little cottage by the sea. Sarah was an amazing cook, and she always had a delicious treat waiting for me whenever I came to visit.

On this particular day, Sarah had just taken a batch of these muffins out of the oven when I arrived. The scent of orange and pecans wafted through the air, and my mouth watered at the thought of sinking my teeth into one of those warm, fluffy muffins.

"Would you like to try one?" Sarah asked, a twinkle in her eye. I eagerly accepted, and as soon as I took my first bite, I knew I had to have the recipe.

"These are amazing, Sarah! Where did you learn to make them?" I asked, savoring every bite.

Sarah smiled, a glint of nostalgia in her eyes. "I learned this recipe from my grandmother. She used to make them for me when I was a little girl, and they've been a family favorite ever since."

I begged Sarah to teach me how to make the muffins, and she gladly agreed. We spent the afternoon in her sunny kitchen, mixing and measuring, laughing and chatting. Sarah shared stories of her grandmother and the special memories they had shared over these muffins.

As the muffins baked in the oven, the sweet aroma filled the kitchen, and I knew that this recipe would become a treasured part of my own culinary repertoire.

After that day, I made the Orange Pecan Muffins often, and they quickly became a favorite among my family and friends. Whenever I made them, I would think of Sarah and her grandmother, and the bond they shared over a simple recipe.

Years passed, and the recipe for Orange Pecan Muffins became a staple in my kitchen. I made them for special occasions and lazy Sunday mornings alike, always thinking of Sarah and the day she had shared her family recipe with me.

One day, as I was baking a batch of muffins for a family gathering, my granddaughter Lily came into the kitchen, her eyes wide with curiosity.

"What are you making, Grandma?" she asked, peering over the counter.

"These are Orange Pecan Muffins, sweetheart. Would you like to help me make them?" I replied, a smile tugging at the corners of my mouth.

Lily eagerly agreed, and together we mixed the batter, chopped the pecans, and grated the orange zest. As we worked, I shared with her the story of how I had learned the recipe from Sarah, and how it had become a special tradition in our family.

When the muffins were finally done, we sat down at the table with a plate of warm muffins and a pot of steaming tea. Lily took a bite, her face lighting up with delight.

"These are so good, Grandma! Can you teach me how to make them too?" she asked, her eyes shining with excitement.

And so, the tradition continued. I passed down the recipe for Orange Pecan Muffins to my granddaughter, just as Sarah had done for me so many years ago. As I watched Lily's face light up with joy, I knew that this simple recipe would continue to bring our family together for generations to come.