Bicolor Muffins

Two-tone muffins: a simple and quick delicacy

If you're looking for a quick, tasty, and appealing dessert, two-tone muffins are the perfect choice. These muffins not only look wonderful but also have a special taste, thanks to the combination of flavors and textures. Whether you're making them for a special breakfast, a snack at the office, or a dessert for friends, these muffins will disappear quickly!

Total preparation time: 1 hour
Preparation time: 15 minutes
Baking time: 30-35 minutes
Number of servings: 12 muffins

Necessary ingredients:

- 2 large eggs (ideally at room temperature)
- 200 ml oil (you can use sunflower oil or light olive oil)
- 300 ml yogurt (Greek yogurt gives a creamier texture)
- 400 g flour (preferably type 000 wheat flour for a fluffy muffin)
- 200 g sugar (or 150 g coconut sugar for a healthier option)
- 2 tablespoons cocoa powder (good quality cocoa for an intense flavor)
- 1 packet of baking powder (about 10 g)
- 2 packets of vanilla sugar (or 1 tablespoon of vanilla extract)
- Grated zest of 1 lemon (optional, but adds extra flavor)
- A handful of raisins (you can also use dark chocolate or nuts, depending on your preferences)
- A pinch of salt

Step by step:

1. Preparing the ingredients:
Make sure all ingredients are at room temperature. This will help achieve a better homogeneity of the mixture. Preheat the oven to 180°C (medium heat).

2. Mixing the wet ingredients:
In a large bowl, beat the eggs with the sugar using a whisk or an electric mixer. Continue mixing until the sugar is completely dissolved and the mixture becomes fluffy. Gradually add the oil, mixing constantly to achieve a homogeneous emulsion. Then, incorporate the yogurt and lemon juice, mixing well.

3. The dry ingredients:
In another bowl, sift the flour, baking powder, salt, and cocoa powder. This will ensure a fluffy and even muffin. Divide the flour mixture into two equal parts.

4. Creating the two-tone mixtures:
In the first half of the flour, add the vanilla sugar and lemon zest. In the other half, add the cocoa powder and raisins. Mix each composition well until no lumps remain.

5. Filling the molds:
Line a muffin tray with baking papers. Use a spoon or a batter dispenser to alternately pour the two mixtures into the muffin molds. You can use a fork to create a marbled effect between the two colors, but don’t overdo it to keep the muffins two-tone.

6. Baking:
Place the tray in the preheated oven and let the muffins bake for 30-35 minutes. Check if they are done by inserting a toothpick in the middle of one; if it comes out clean, they are baked.

7. Cooling and serving:
After the muffins are baked, let them cool in the tray for a few minutes, then carefully remove them and place them on a cooling rack. When completely cool, dust them with powdered sugar for an elegant look.

Useful tips:
- You can also add other ingredients, such as nuts or chocolate, according to your preferences.
- If you want to make them healthier, you can reduce the amount of sugar or replace part of the flour with whole wheat flour.
- These two-tone muffins keep well in an airtight container for a few days but are best enjoyed fresh.

Nutritional benefits:
Two-tone muffins are a good source of carbohydrates, providing energy, while the yogurt in the mixture brings beneficial probiotics for digestion. The lemon zest adds a touch of vitamin C, and the cocoa contributes antioxidants.

Delicious combinations:
These muffins pair perfectly with a cup of coffee, tea, or even a fruit smoothie. You can also serve them with a spoonful of fruit jam or a portion of whipped cream on top.

Frequently asked questions:
- *Can I use another type of yogurt?* Yes, you can use Greek yogurt or soy yogurt for a vegan option.
- *What if I don’t have vanilla sugar?* You can just use regular sugar or add a little vanilla essence.
- *How can I make the muffins less sweet?* Reducing the amount of sugar will help, but you can also add more tart ingredients, such as yogurt.

Two-tone muffins are a simple recipe but with a remarkable visual and taste impact. Try making them, and you will discover how quickly they can disappear from the table! Enjoy!