Cranberry Cardamom Spice Muffins

Yield: 12 muffins

Prep Time: 10 minutes

Total Time: 35 minutes

Ingredients:

 * 1 and 3/4 cups all-purpose flour (spoon & leveled)
 * 1 teaspoon baking soda
 * 1 teaspoon baking powder
 * 1 teaspoon cardamom
 * 1/2 teaspoon ground cinnamon
 * 1/2 teaspoon salt
 * 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened to room temperature
 * 3/4 cup granulated sugar
 * 2 large eggs, at room temperature
 * 1/2 cup sour cream
 * 1 teaspoon pure vanilla extract
 * 1/3 cup milk
 * zest of 1 orange
 * 1/2 cup chopped walnuts
 * 1 and 1/2 cups fresh or frozen cranberries (do not thaw if using frozen)

Orange Icing

 * 1 cup confectioners' sugar
 * juice of 1 orange (about 3 Tablespoons)

Directions:
Make ahead tip:  For longer storage, freeze muffins (without glaze) for up to 3 months. Allow to thaw overnight in the refrigerator, then bring to room temperature or warm up in the microwave if desired. Glaze before serving.
 * 1) Preheat oven to 425°F (218°C). Spray a 12-count muffin pan with nonstick spray or line with cupcake liners. Set aside.
 * 2) Make the muffins:  In a large bowl, toss the flour, baking soda, baking powder, cardamom, cinnamon, and salt together. Set aside.
 * 3) In a large bowl using a handheld or stand mixer fitted with a paddle attachment, beat the butter on high speed until smooth and creamy, about 1 minute. Add the granulated sugar and beat on high until creamed, about 2 full minutes. Scrape down the sides and bottom of the bowl as needed. Add the eggs, sour cream, and vanilla extract. Beat on medium speed for 1 minute, then turn up to high speed until the mixture is combined and creamy. Scrape down the sides and bottom of the bowl as needed.
 * 4) Pour the dry ingredients into the wet ingredients and beat on low speed until just about combined. Add the milk and orange zest and continue to beat on low until combined. Fold in the walnuts and cranberries.
 * 5) Spoon the batter evenly into each cup or liner, filling each all the way to the top. Bake the muffins for 5 minutes at 425 then, keeping the muffins in the oven, reduce the oven temperature to 350°F (177°C). Bake for an additional 15-18 minutes or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean. The total time these muffins take in the oven is about 22-23 minutes, give or take. Allow the muffins to cool for 5 minutes in the muffin pan, then transfer to a wire rack and drizzle with icing.
 * 6) For the icing:  Whisk the confectioners' sugar and orange juice together. Drizzle over muffins.
 * 7) Muffins stay fresh stored in the refrigerator for 1 week.

Enjoy!!