Cheese and ham muffins Sofia

Sofia cheese and ham muffins are a perfect choice for those who want a delicious, easy-to-make, and versatile snack. Whether you enjoy them for breakfast, as appetizers, or in a packed lunch, these muffins will always be appreciated. In this recipe, I will guide you step by step to achieve fluffy and flavorful muffins, full of taste.

Preparation time: 15 minutes
Baking time: 35-45 minutes
Total time: 50-60 minutes
Number of servings: 12 muffins

A brief history of muffins

Muffins have an interesting history, with deep roots in culinary tradition. They have evolved over time and have become popular worldwide in various forms and flavors. Although their origins are diverse, savory muffins, like those with cheese and ham, have gained popularity due to their versatility. They can be adapted based on available ingredients and personal preferences, making them ideal for any occasion.

Necessary ingredients

- 200 g flour
- 200 ml milk
- 2 eggs
- 2 tablespoons oil (sunflower or olive)
- 1 packet baking powder (about 10 g)
- 100 g SOFIA cheese, diced
- 100 g ham, finely chopped
- Salt and pepper to taste

Useful tips about ingredients

- Flour: Choose a good quality flour, preferably type 000, to achieve a fluffy texture. You can also use whole wheat flour for a healthier option, but the muffins will have a denser texture.
- Milk: If you want a richer flavor, use whole milk or milk with fat content. Almond or soy milk are excellent alternatives for vegans.
- Oil: Olive oil adds a Mediterranean note, while sunflower oil is more neutral, allowing other flavors to shine through.
- Cheese: SOFIA cheese is an excellent choice due to its creamy texture and delicate taste. You can also experiment with other types of cheese, such as feta or mozzarella, depending on your preferences.
- Ham: If you prefer a healthier option, you can replace the ham with boiled chicken breast or sautéed vegetables.

Preparation technique

1. Preparing the ingredients: Start by measuring all the ingredients. This will make the cooking process more efficient and enjoyable.

2. Mixing the wet ingredients: In a large bowl, whisk the eggs with a whisk or fork. Add the milk and oil, continuing to mix until the mixture becomes smooth.

3. Adding the dry ingredients: In another bowl, mix the flour with baking powder, salt, and pepper. Then, add the egg and milk mixture over the flour. Gently mix with a spatula or a wooden spoon until there are no lumps.

4. Including the cheese and ham: Add the diced cheese and ham, gently mixing to distribute them evenly in the batter.

5. Preparing the muffin tins: Preheat the oven to 180°C (fan mode) and prepare a muffin tray, greasing the cups with a drop of oil or using silicone muffin molds.

6. Filling the cups: Pour the batter into the prepared cups, filling them about one finger below the edge. This will allow the muffins to rise beautifully during baking.

7. Baking: Place the tray in the preheated oven and bake for 35-45 minutes, until the muffins turn golden and a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean.

8. Cooling and serving: Once baked, let the muffins cool for a few minutes in the tray, then transfer them to a wire rack to cool completely.

Possible variations

- Vegetable muffins: Add sautéed vegetables, such as bell peppers, onions, or zucchini, to make them healthier and more flavorful.
- Herb muffins: Incorporate fresh herbs, such as dill or parsley, for a touch of freshness.
- Gluten-free muffins: Use a gluten-free flour blend to make these muffins suitable for those with gluten intolerance.

Serving suggestions

Sofia cheese and ham muffins are delicious both warm and cold. You can serve them with a fresh salad for a light lunch or alongside a warm soup for a cozy dinner. Another great idea is to pair them with a yogurt or sour cream dip for an extra creaminess.

Frequently asked questions

1. Can I freeze the muffins? Yes, these muffins freeze very well. Make sure to pack them well in a freezer bag to prevent ice crystals from forming.

2. How can I enhance the flavor of the muffins? You can add spices like paprika, garlic powder, or dried onion to the batter for an extra flavor boost.

3. How long do they last in the fridge? These muffins are delicious for 2-3 days, stored in an airtight container in the fridge.

Nutritional benefits

- Cheese: It is an excellent source of calcium, protein, and B vitamins.
- Eggs: Provide high-quality protein and essential nutrients like vitamin D.
- Flour: Provides carbohydrates, which are an important source of energy.

Sofia cheese and ham muffins are the ideal choice for a quick, healthy, and extremely tasty snack. They bring together the savory flavors of cheese and ham in a delicious combination that will satisfy any craving. All that’s left is for you to try them and enjoy every bite! Enjoy your meal!