blackberry muffins

Blackberry Muffins - a quick and delicious dessert

Preparation time: 15 minutes
Baking time: 20-25 minutes
Total time: 35-40 minutes
Number of servings: 12 muffins

The history of muffins brings to mind moments of indulgence and joy, when the fresh aroma of a sweet treat just out of the oven fills the house. This blackberry muffin recipe is perfect for those who want a simple yet flavorful dessert. Blackberries not only add a delicious taste but also a touch of freshness, and the combination with vanilla and rum transforms each bite into a memorable experience.

Ingredients

- 2 large eggs
- 150 g granulated sugar
- 250 g flour
- 1 packet baking powder (about 10 g)
- 1 packet vanilla sugar (or 1 teaspoon vanilla extract)
- 1 teaspoon rum essence
- A pinch of salt
- 100 g baking margarine (or butter, if you prefer)
- 200 g fresh blackberries (or frozen, but make sure they are well drained)

Useful tips for ingredients

- Eggs: Make sure they are at room temperature for better incorporation into the mixture. If you have free-range eggs, the taste will be even more intense.
- Flour: Prefer type 000 flour, which is ideal for baking. Sifting the flour before use helps avoid lumps.
- Sugar: You can use brown sugar to add a caramelized note to your muffins.
- Blackberries: If using frozen blackberries, it’s best to let them thaw and drain well to avoid a wet batter.

Preparation

1. Preheat the oven to 180°C (low heat) and prepare a muffin tray with muffin liners. This step is essential to avoid sticking and to achieve beautifully shaped muffins.

2. In a large bowl, beat the eggs with the granulated sugar using an electric mixer. Continue mixing for about 10 minutes until the mixture becomes creamy and fluffy. This step is crucial, as aerating the eggs helps achieve an airy texture for the muffins.

3. Add the melted margarine (but not hot) to the egg and sugar mixture, mixing well to integrate the ingredients.

4. In another bowl, mix the flour, baking powder, vanilla sugar, and salt. This will be the dry base of your recipe.

5. Gradually incorporate the dry ingredients into the wet mixture, gently mixing with a spatula. It’s important not to overmix to avoid activating the gluten in the flour, which could lead to dense muffins.

6. Add the blackberries at the end, gently folding them into the mixture. They will add an explosion of flavor and color to your muffins.

7. Fill the muffin cups with the obtained mixture, being careful to fill them a little more than halfway.

8. Bake the muffins in the preheated oven for 20-25 minutes. You can check if they are done by inserting a toothpick into the center of one; if it comes out clean, the muffins are baked.

9. After removing them from the oven, let the muffins cool in the tray for 5 minutes, then transfer them to a rack to cool completely.

10. Serve the muffins warm or at room temperature, decorated with a dollop of whipped cream for added flavor. If you want to impress, you can top them with a few fresh blackberries.

Possible variations

- If you want to add extra texture, you can incorporate chopped nuts or almonds into the mixture.
- Instead of blackberries, you can use other berries like raspberries or blueberries. These will add a touch of freshness and a palette of different flavors.
- For a more decadent version, you can add dark chocolate or white chocolate chips to the mixture, creating muffins with chocolate and fruit.

Nutritional benefits

Blackberry muffins are not only delicious but also packed with nutritional benefits. Blackberries are rich in antioxidants, vitamins, and minerals, contributing to immune system health and maintaining healthy skin. They are also a good source of fiber, aiding digestion.

Frequently asked questions

1. Can I use frozen blackberries?
Yes, frozen blackberries are an excellent choice, but make sure to drain them well before adding them to the mixture to avoid a wet batter.

2. What if I don't have margarine?
You can use butter or even coconut oil for a healthier option. The taste will be slightly different, but the muffins will be just as delicious.

3. How can I check if the muffins are baked?
Use a toothpick or a thin knife. If it comes out clean from the center of the muffin, they are ready.

These blackberry muffins are perfect for a light breakfast, a snack between meals, or a tasty dessert. Paired with a cup of tea or coffee, they become a perfect choice for any time of day. Don’t hesitate to share this recipe with your friends and enjoy every bite!