Delicious & Healthy Orange Glazed Yogurt Muffins: Your Go-To Low-Point Recipe
Are you searching for a delightful and guilt-free treat that can brighten your morning or serve as the perfect pick-me-up snack? Look no further than these incredible Orange Glazed Yogurt Muffins! These muffins have become a beloved staple for many, especially those keeping an eye on their nutritional intake, thanks to their remarkably low SmartPoints value. We all love a delicious muffin, and when it’s also light on points, it’s a true win-win! This recipe delivers a burst of fresh citrus flavor combined with the wholesome goodness of yogurt, creating a muffin that is moist, tender, and incredibly satisfying. While the muffins themselves are a mere 2 SmartPoints without the glaze, I wholeheartedly encourage you to spend that extra point and indulge in the zesty orange glaze. It elevates the flavor profile, adding a touch of sweetness and a beautiful finish that makes these muffins truly irresistible. At just 3 SmartPoints per muffin with the glaze, they remain an absolutely fantastic option for any time of day. Get ready to bake a batch today; I promise, you’re going to fall in love with them!
Why These Orange Yogurt Muffins Are a Must-Try
What makes these orange yogurt muffins stand out from the crowd? Beyond their delicious taste and impressive low-point count, they offer a fantastic combination of health benefits and pure enjoyment. The incorporation of yogurt not only makes these muffins incredibly moist and tender but also adds a boost of protein and beneficial probiotics, contributing to a more satisfying and nutritious treat. We also use unsweetened applesauce, which acts as a fantastic natural sweetener and a binder, reducing the need for excessive added sugars and fats, making them a healthier alternative to many traditional muffin recipes.
The vibrant flavor of fresh oranges is truly the star here. Using both fresh orange juice and grated orange zest infuses every bite with a bright, aromatic citrus tang that is both invigorating and comforting. This isn’t just a plain muffin; it’s a sensory experience that awakens your palate. The optional, yet highly recommended, orange glaze seals the deal, providing a thin, sweet, and tangy layer that complements the muffin perfectly, adding an extra dimension of flavor without overwhelming the balance.
These muffins are incredibly versatile. They are perfect for a quick breakfast on the go, a delightful afternoon snack with your coffee or tea, or even a light dessert. Their ease of preparation also makes them an ideal choice for busy individuals or anyone who loves freshly baked goods without the fuss. Whether you’re following a specific dietary plan or simply looking for a healthier, delicious baking option, these orange glazed yogurt muffins are sure to become a cherished recipe in your kitchen.
Orange Glazed Yogurt Muffins
Ingredients
- 1 egg
- 2 Tbsp liquid egg whites, I buy the carton of egg whites
- 1 Tbsp sugar
- 1/3 cup unsweetened apple sauce
- 1/2 cup plain, or vanilla yogurt, I use the President Choice Skyr Icelandic yogurt, 0% greek is fine too)
- 3 Tbsp fresh squeezed orange juice
- 1 tsp baking powder
- 1/2 tsp baking soda
- 1 cup flour
- 1 Tbsp fresh grated orange zest, use a grater and grate the peel from your orange
- FOR THE GLAZE
- 3 Tbsp icing sugar, confectionery sugar
- 1 Tbsp fresh squeezed orange juice
- 1 tsp fresh grated orange zest
Understanding the Ingredients: Key to Perfect Muffins
Crafting these wonderful orange yogurt muffins begins with a thoughtful selection of ingredients, each playing a crucial role in achieving the perfect texture and flavor. The combination of one whole egg and two tablespoons of liquid egg whites ensures a light and airy structure while keeping the fat content low. I find that using liquid egg whites from a carton is a convenient way to achieve this without wasting yolks. A single tablespoon of sugar provides just enough sweetness to balance the tartness of the orange, while one-third cup of unsweetened applesauce acts as a fantastic natural sweetener and moisture provider, allowing us to reduce added fats.
The star ingredient for moisture and tenderness is half a cup of plain or vanilla yogurt. I personally love using President’s Choice Skyr Icelandic yogurt for its thickness and creamy texture, but any 0% Greek yogurt will work beautifully, contributing to the rich, tangy base of the muffin. Three tablespoons of freshly squeezed orange juice are essential for that bright, natural citrus flavor that permeates the entire muffin. For leavening, one teaspoon of baking powder and half a teaspoon of baking soda work in harmony to give the muffins their characteristic rise and fluffy texture. Finally, one cup of all-purpose flour provides the necessary structure, and one tablespoon of fresh grated orange zest is added right into the batter, ensuring an intense burst of aromatic orange in every bite. Remember to grate only the brightly colored outer layer of the orange peel, avoiding the bitter white pith.
For the irresistible glaze, you’ll need three tablespoons of icing sugar (also known as confectionery sugar) to provide sweetness and structure, combined with one tablespoon of fresh squeezed orange juice to achieve the perfect consistency and an extra layer of citrus flavor. A teaspoon of fresh grated orange zest is also stirred into the glaze, intensifying the orange experience.
Instructions
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Preheat oven to 350F, spray a regular sized muffin tin with some non stick spray.
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In a bowl whisk together your egg and egg whites, add in sugar and stir well.
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Mix in apple sauce, yogurt and orange juice.
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Stir in your flour, baking powder & soda then fold in your orange zest.
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Fill 10 muffin cups with batter and bake for 16-18 minutes.
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While muffins are cooling make your glaze, in a small bowl mix your icing sugar and fresh squeezed orange juice together, stir in orange zest.
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Using a spoon top muffins with glaze, I found it worked best topping the muffin with glaze just before you are ready to eat it, the glaze will store well with some saran wrap over it.
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Makes 10 muffins at 3 smart points each (2 points plus) if you do not want the glaze the muffins are 2 SP each, store in a sealed container and best in fridge after a day or two.
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Nutritional info per muffin (with glaze) Calories 80… Fat 0.7g…Sat fat 0.2g… Carbs 14.3g…Fiber 0.4g…Sugar 5g..Protein 3.6g… Sodium 16.6mg
Step-by-Step Guide to Baking Perfect Orange Glazed Yogurt Muffins
Let’s get baking! Follow these simple steps to create your batch of delicious Orange Glazed Yogurt Muffins:
- **Preparation:** Begin by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). While the oven heats up, take a moment to prepare a regular-sized 12-cup muffin tin. Generously spray each muffin cup with non-stick cooking spray, or line them with paper liners for easy removal. This step ensures your muffins won’t stick and come out perfectly shaped.
- **Combine Wet Ingredients (Part 1):** In a large mixing bowl, gently whisk together the whole egg and the liquid egg whites until they are well combined and slightly frothy. This provides the base for our moist muffins.
- **Add Sweetness:** Stir in the sugar until it’s fully dissolved. The small amount of sugar works with the natural sweetness of the applesauce to create a balanced flavor.
- **Introduce Creaminess and Fruitiness:** Now, thoroughly mix in the unsweetened applesauce, your chosen plain or vanilla yogurt, and the three tablespoons of freshly squeezed orange juice. Stir until the mixture is smooth and all ingredients are fully incorporated. This wet mixture forms the heart of our muffin’s tenderness and flavor.
- **Incorporate Dry Ingredients and Zest:** Gradually add the flour, baking powder, and baking soda to the wet mixture. Stir gently with a spoon or spatula until just combined. Be careful not to overmix; overmixing can lead to tough muffins. A few lumps are perfectly fine! Once the dry ingredients are mostly incorporated, fold in the fresh grated orange zest. This is where a lot of the vibrant orange aroma and flavor come from, so don’t skip this step!
- **Fill Muffin Cups:** Evenly distribute the muffin batter among 10 regular-sized muffin cups. Filling them about two-thirds full usually works best.
- **Bake to Perfection:** Place the muffin tin into your preheated oven and bake for 16 to 18 minutes. Baking times can vary slightly depending on your oven, so keep an eye on them. The muffins are ready when they are golden brown on top and a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.
- **Cooling Time:** Once baked, remove the muffins from the oven and let them cool in the muffin tin for a few minutes before transferring them to a wire rack to cool completely. Cooling completely is crucial before glazing to prevent the glaze from melting off.
- **Prepare the Glaze:** While your muffins are cooling, prepare the irresistible orange glaze. In a small bowl, combine the icing sugar (confectionery sugar) with one tablespoon of fresh squeezed orange juice. Whisk until smooth. If the glaze is too thick, add a tiny bit more orange juice, a few drops at a time, until it reaches a pourable but not watery consistency. Finally, stir in the teaspoon of fresh grated orange zest for an extra aromatic kick.
- **Glaze and Serve:** Using a spoon, generously drizzle the glaze over the cooled muffins. I’ve found that the glaze sets best and maintains its shine if applied just before you plan to eat the muffins. If you’re making them ahead of time, you can store the muffins plain and keep the glaze in a small, airtight container in the refrigerator, covered with plastic wrap, then glaze them as needed.
This recipe yields 10 delightful muffins. Each muffin (with the glaze) is approximately 3 SmartPoints. If you prefer to skip the glaze, each muffin is 2 SmartPoints. Store any leftover muffins in a sealed container, and for optimal freshness, keep them in the refrigerator after a day or two. Nutritional info per muffin (with glaze) Calories 80… Fat 0.7g…Sat fat 0.2g… Carbs 14.3g…Fiber 0.4g…Sugar 5g..Protein 3.6g… Sodium 16.6mg.
Additional Info
Tips for Muffin-Making Success
Achieving the perfect orange yogurt muffin is simple with a few helpful tips:
- **Don’t Overmix:** This is perhaps the most crucial rule for baking tender muffins. Overmixing develops gluten in the flour, leading to a tough, rubbery texture. Mix the wet and dry ingredients just until they are combined, even if there are a few small lumps.
- **Fresh Citrus is Key:** The flavor of these muffins largely depends on the freshness of your orange juice and zest. Always use freshly squeezed juice and fresh zest from a ripe orange for the most vibrant taste. The oils in the zest provide intense aroma and flavor that cannot be replicated by extracts.
- **Measure Accurately:** Baking is a science, and precise measurements are important. Use proper measuring cups and spoons, and for flour, spoon it into your measuring cup and level it off with a straight edge rather than scooping directly from the bag (which can compact the flour and lead to too much).
- **Adjust Glaze Consistency:** The amount of orange juice needed for the glaze can vary slightly depending on the humidity and the exact amount of icing sugar. Start with the recommended amount and add more juice (a tiny bit at a time) if you prefer a thinner glaze, or a touch more icing sugar if it’s too runny.
- **Storage Savvy:** While these muffins are best enjoyed fresh, they store well. Keep them in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 2 days, or in the refrigerator for up to 4-5 days, especially with the glaze. For longer storage, freeze unglazed muffins in an airtight bag or container for up to 3 months. Thaw at room temperature and glaze before serving.
- **Baking Pan Choice:** A good quality, light-colored metal muffin tin will bake more evenly than a dark-colored one, which can sometimes lead to overly browned bottoms. If using paper liners, make sure to still give them a light spray with non-stick spray, especially if your liners tend to stick.
By keeping these tips in mind, you’ll be baking perfect, delicious, and healthy orange yogurt muffins every time!
Serving Suggestions for Your Zesty Muffins
These versatile orange glazed yogurt muffins are delightful on their own, but they also pair wonderfully with a variety of accompaniments. Enjoy them as a quick and satisfying breakfast alongside a cup of coffee or herbal tea. They make an excellent addition to a brunch spread, offering a lighter, fruity option. For an afternoon treat, serve them with a dollop of extra plain yogurt or a side of fresh berries to enhance the fruity flavors. They’re also perfect for packing in lunchboxes or enjoying as a post-workout snack, providing a sweet and energizing boost without the heavy guilt.
Frequently Asked Questions About Orange Glazed Yogurt Muffins
We know you might have some questions about making these delectable muffins. Here are answers to some frequently asked questions:
- **Q: Can I use a different type of yogurt?**
- A: Yes, absolutely! While 0% Greek yogurt or Icelandic Skyr yogurt are recommended for their thick consistency and high protein content, you can use other plain or vanilla yogurts. Just be mindful that thinner yogurts might slightly alter the muffin’s texture, and flavored yogurts could add extra sugar and change the SmartPoints value. Always opt for plain, unsweetened varieties if you’re trying to control sugar intake.
- **Q: Can I make these muffins gluten-free?**
- A: We haven’t tested this specific recipe with gluten-free flour, but generally, a 1:1 gluten-free baking flour blend should work. You might need to add a touch more liquid or let the batter sit for a few minutes to absorb moisture before baking.
- **Q: What if I don’t have fresh oranges for the zest and juice?**
- A: While fresh is always best for optimal flavor, in a pinch, you can use bottled orange juice. However, for the zest, fresh is truly irreplaceable for that vibrant aroma. If you absolutely cannot get fresh oranges, you might omit the zest from the muffin batter and glaze, or add a very small amount of orange extract to the batter for flavor. Be cautious, as extracts can be potent.
- **Q: Can I add other ingredients to the muffins?**
- A: Yes! These muffins are a great base for customization. Consider adding a quarter cup of dried cranberries or blueberries for an extra burst of fruitiness, or a sprinkle of finely chopped nuts (like almonds or walnuts) for texture. Remember that any additions will change the nutritional information and potentially the SmartPoints value.
- **Q: Is the glaze really worth the extra SmartPoint?**
- A: In my opinion, yes! The glaze adds a wonderful layer of sweet, tangy orange flavor and a beautiful finish that truly elevates the muffin. It’s only one extra point, and it transforms a simple muffin into a gourmet treat. However, if you’re strictly adhering to the lowest possible points or prefer a less sweet muffin, they are still absolutely delicious without it.
- **Q: How should I store the glazed muffins?**
- A: Glazed muffins are best stored in an airtight container. At room temperature, they will last about 1-2 days. For longer freshness, especially in warmer climates or if made several days in advance, it’s best to store them in the refrigerator for up to 4-5 days. Ensure they are fully cooled before storing to prevent condensation.
- **Q: Can I freeze these muffins?**
- A: Absolutely! These muffins freeze beautifully. It’s generally best to freeze them unglazed to maintain the best texture and appearance of the glaze upon thawing. Once cooled completely, place them in a single layer in an airtight freezer bag or container. They can be frozen for up to 3 months. When ready to enjoy, thaw at room temperature or gently warm in the microwave, then apply the fresh glaze if desired.
Embrace the Zest: Try These Delicious Muffins Today!
There you have it – a recipe for incredibly delicious, light, and flavor-packed Orange Glazed Yogurt Muffins. This recipe proves that healthy eating doesn’t mean sacrificing taste or satisfaction. With their bright citrus notes, tender texture, and the optional, yet highly recommended, sweet orange glaze, these muffins are a true delight. They’re perfect for anyone looking for a wholesome breakfast, a smart snack, or a sweet treat that aligns with a mindful eating plan. Don’t wait, gather your ingredients and bake a batch of these wonderful muffins today. You’ll be glad you did!