Today, we’re making delightful curd muffins that are soft, airy, and sweet with a burst of fresh apple flavor. These muffins are a perfect treat for breakfast or as a snack, offering a light and satisfying bite. With just a few simple ingredients, you’ll have a batch of fluffy muffins ready in no time. Let’s get baking!
Preparation Time:
- Total Time: 45-50 minutes
- Active Time: 15 minutes
- Bake Time: 30-35 minutes
Ingredients:
- For 10-12 Muffins:
- 220g cottage cheese
- 2 eggs
- 80g butter (softened)
- 1 1/2 cups (180-200g) flour
- 1/2 cup (100g) sugar
- 1 tsp (8g) baking powder
- A pinch of salt
- 1-2 apples (peeled and chopped)
- Optional: finely chopped nuts or raisins
Directions:
- Prepare the Batter: In a bowl, beat 80g softened butter with 100g sugar until creamy, about 2-3 minutes. Add 2 eggs one at a time, mixing well after each addition. Mix in 220g cottage cheese until combined.
- Add Dry Ingredients: Gradually mix in 180-200g flour, 1 tsp baking powder, and a pinch of salt until smooth.
- Prepare the Muffins: Fold in chopped apples and optional nuts or raisins. Grease muffin tins with vegetable oil. Divide the batter evenly among the muffin molds and smooth the tops if needed.
- Bake and Serve: Bake in a preheated oven at 180°C (350°F) for 30-35 minutes, or until golden brown and a toothpick inserted comes out clean. Cool slightly, then sprinkle with powdered sugar.
Serving Suggestions:
- Serve warm with a cup of tea or coffee.
- Great as a breakfast treat or afternoon snack.
- Add a dollop of whipped cream or yogurt on top for extra indulgence.
Cooking Tips:
- Ensure butter is softened for easier mixing.
- Apples can be mixed directly into the batter or placed on top for a decorative touch.
- Adjust baking time if using different-sized muffin tins.
Nutritional Benefits:
- Cottage cheese provides protein and calcium.
- Apples add fiber and natural sweetness.
- A good source of energy to start your day or power through an afternoon slump.
Dietary Information:
- Vegetarian: Yes
- Nut-Free Option: Omit nuts
Nutritional Facts (Per Muffin):
- Calories: 180
- Protein: 5g
- Carbohydrates: 25g
- Fat: 7g
- Sugar: 10g
Storage:
- Store in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days.
- Refrigerate for up to 1 week.
- Can be frozen for up to 3 months. Thaw before serving.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe:
- Quick and Easy: Simple ingredients and preparation.
- Light and Fluffy: Perfect texture with a soft, airy crumb.
- Customizable: Add your favorite mix-ins like nuts or raisins.
- Family-Friendly: Loved by both kids and adults.
Conclusion:
These curd muffins are a delightful blend of light, fluffy texture and sweet apple flavor. They’re quick to make and perfect for any time of day. Enjoy them fresh out of the oven or as a tasty snack later. Your family is sure to love these scrumptious treats!
Frequently Asked Questions:
- Can I use Greek yogurt instead of cottage cheese?
- Yes, Greek yogurt can be a good substitute for cottage cheese.
- How can I make these muffins dairy-free?
- Use a dairy-free yogurt and substitute the butter with a dairy-free alternative.
- Can I use a different type of fruit?
- Absolutely! Try blueberries, raspberries, or chopped pears.
- What if I don’t have baking powder?
- You can use baking soda with a bit of lemon juice or vinegar as a substitute.
- How do I know when the muffins are done?
- Insert a toothpick into the center; it should come out clean when done.
- Can I make these muffins ahead of time?
- Yes, they can be made ahead and stored in an airtight container.
- How can I adjust the sweetness?
- Reduce or increase the sugar in the batter to suit your taste.
- Can I add chocolate chips to the batter?
- Yes, chocolate chips would be a delicious addition!
- What type of flour works best?
- All-purpose flour is ideal, but you can use whole wheat flour for a healthier option.
- How should I store leftover muffins?
- Store in an airtight container at room temperature or refrigerate to keep them fresh longer.