A Taste of Nostalgia: Orange Muffins from Teen Guide to Homemaking (1961)
If you’ve ever wondered what teenage home economics students were learning in the early 1960s, look no further than Teen Guide to Homemaking, a charmingly detailed textbook designed to prepare young women for the domestic responsibilities of the time. Nestled among lessons on etiquette, sewing, and meal planning, you’ll find an array of classic recipes, including a delightful one for orange muffins.
Ninja NC301C, CREAMi Ice Cream, Gelato, Milkshake, Sorbet, Smoothie Bowl, and Lite Ice Cream Maker, 7 One-Touch Programs (Canadian Version), 16oz
$179.98 (as of June 3, 2025 23:58 GMT -07:00 – More infoProduct prices and availability are accurate as of the date/time indicated and are subject to change. Any price and availability information displayed on [relevant Amazon Site(s), as applicable] at the time of purchase will apply to the purchase of this product.)
Ziploc Large Food Storage Freezer Bags, Grip ‘n Seal Technology for Easier Grip, Open and Close, 60 Count
$11.97 (as of June 3, 2025 23:58 GMT -07:00 – More infoProduct prices and availability are accurate as of the date/time indicated and are subject to change. Any price and availability information displayed on [relevant Amazon Site(s), as applicable] at the time of purchase will apply to the purchase of this product.)
MELITTA Natural Brown #6 Cone Filters, Cone Coffee Filters, Replacement Filters, Coffee Maker Filters, 40 Count (Pack of 12)
$3.79 (as of June 3, 2025 23:58 GMT -07:00 – More infoProduct prices and availability are accurate as of the date/time indicated and are subject to change. Any price and availability information displayed on [relevant Amazon Site(s), as applicable] at the time of purchase will apply to the purchase of this product.)
KitchenAid Variable Speed Corded Hand Blender, KHBV53AQ, Aqua Sky
$49.98 (as of June 3, 2025 23:58 GMT -07:00 – More infoProduct prices and availability are accurate as of the date/time indicated and are subject to change. Any price and availability information displayed on [relevant Amazon Site(s), as applicable] at the time of purchase will apply to the purchase of this product.)
Utopia Bedding King Pillow Cases – 2 Pack – Envelope Closure – Soft Brushed Microfiber Fabric – Shrinkage and Fade Resistant Pillow Covers Queen Size 20 X 40 Inches (King, Black)
$8.54 (as of June 3, 2025 23:58 GMT -07:00 – More infoProduct prices and availability are accurate as of the date/time indicated and are subject to change. Any price and availability information displayed on [relevant Amazon Site(s), as applicable] at the time of purchase will apply to the purchase of this product.)
Utopia Bedding Comforters Queen Size, All Season Duvet Insert, Down Alternative Box Stitched Bed Comforter with Corner Tabs, Machine Washable (White)
$29.89 (as of June 3, 2025 23:58 GMT -07:00 – More infoProduct prices and availability are accurate as of the date/time indicated and are subject to change. Any price and availability information displayed on [relevant Amazon Site(s), as applicable] at the time of purchase will apply to the purchase of this product.)
YETI Rambler 20 oz Stainless Steel Vacuum Insulated Tumbler w/MagSlider Lid
$45.00 (as of June 3, 2025 23:58 GMT -07:00 – More infoProduct prices and availability are accurate as of the date/time indicated and are subject to change. Any price and availability information displayed on [relevant Amazon Site(s), as applicable] at the time of purchase will apply to the purchase of this product.)
Utopia Bedding Waterproof Pillow Protectors Zippered (4 Pack, Beige) King Size, Bed Bug Proof Pillowcases, Pillow Encasement Covers 20 x 38 Inches
$12.99 (as of June 3, 2025 23:58 GMT -07:00 – More infoProduct prices and availability are accurate as of the date/time indicated and are subject to change. Any price and availability information displayed on [relevant Amazon Site(s), as applicable] at the time of purchase will apply to the purchase of this product.)
Vegetable Chopper and Slicer Dicer for Kitchen 23 PCS Veggie Slicer and Chopper Vegetable Cutter Cooking Accessories Gadget Stuff Salad Maker Dicing Machine Potato Fruit Chopper with Container
$37.99 (as of June 3, 2025 23:58 GMT -07:00 – More infoProduct prices and availability are accurate as of the date/time indicated and are subject to change. Any price and availability information displayed on [relevant Amazon Site(s), as applicable] at the time of purchase will apply to the purchase of this product.)
NICETOWN Blackout Curtains 2 Panels for Bedroom- Thermal Insulated Grommet Blackout Curtains 63 Inches Long for Living Room/Kitchen Rideaux occultants (2 Panels, W42 x L63 -Inch,Grey)
$24.99 (as of June 3, 2025 23:58 GMT -07:00 – More infoProduct prices and availability are accurate as of the date/time indicated and are subject to change. Any price and availability information displayed on [relevant Amazon Site(s), as applicable] at the time of purchase will apply to the purchase of this product.)A Glimpse into 1961 Home Economics
The 1960s was a fascinating era for home cooking. Processed and convenience foods were gaining popularity, but many homemakers still relied on simple, scratch-made recipes that had been passed down through generations. Home economics classes played a significant role in shaping young girls’ cooking skills, teaching them how to prepare wholesome and budget-friendly meals for their future families.
One of the standout recipes in Teen Guide to Homemaking is for orange muffins—a perfect example of the era’s emphasis on simple, well-balanced baked goods. These muffins are light, slightly sweet, and bursting with fresh citrus flavor, making them a timeless treat that still holds up today.
Why This Recipe Still Shines Today
These orange muffins embody the simplicity and freshness that defined 1960s home baking. Unlike overly sweet, modern-day muffins, these have a delicate balance of flavors—lightly sweet with a bright citrusy punch. They pair beautifully with a morning cup of coffee or a warm mug of tea, making them a nostalgic yet practical addition to any baker’s repertoire.
Baking these muffins is like stepping back in time, offering a taste of the home economics lessons that shaped an entire generation of young homemakers. Whether you’re a vintage recipe enthusiast or just looking for a wholesome, old-fashioned treat, these orange muffins from Teen Guide to Homemaking are a delightful way to connect with the past—one bite at a time.
- 100 Ways To Use Ground Beef
- How To Season A Cast Iron Frying Pan
- Crunchy Pea Salad
- Easter Cake
- Hot Cross Buns
Ingredients
Method
- Sift together flour, baking powder, salt, and sugar.
- Beat egg well, add milk and butter or margarine, and mix thoroughly.
- Pour liquid mixture into flour mixture, stirring lightly until flour mixture is just moistened.
- Fill greased muffin pans one-half to two-thirds full.
- Bake in a hot oven (400° F.) for 20 to 25 minutes, or until the tops of muffins are golden brown and spring back to the touch.
Notes
Orange: Substitute 1/2 cup orange juice for 1/2 cup milk. Add orange juice and 1 teaspoon grated orange rind to the egg mixture.