Cheese and jam muffins

Cheese and Jam Muffins: a fluffy and aromatic delicacy

Preparation time: 20 minutes
Cooling time: 2-3 hours
Baking time: 20-25 minutes
Total: approximately 3 hours and 45 minutes
Number of servings: 12-15 muffins

Recipe history:
Cheese and jam muffins are a delicious and comforting combination that has won the hearts of many over time. These treats are inspired by pastry traditions, where the flaky dough embraces rich and aromatic fillings. Whether you prepare them for a special occasion or just to indulge on a weekend morning, cheese and jam muffins are always a wonderful choice.

Ingredients for the dough:
- 600 g of flour (about 4 cups)
- 1.5 tablespoons of dry yeast
- 5 large eggs
- 60 g (1/4 cup) of sugar
- 60 ml (1/4 cup) of warm milk
- 1 teaspoon of salt
- 1 tablespoon of grated lemon zest
- 1 packet of vanilla sugar
- 1 egg for brushing

Ingredients for the filling:
- 250 g of soft cheese (like ricotta or cream cheese)
- 3 tablespoons of sugar
- 1 egg yolk
- 3 tablespoons of cornstarch
- 1 tablespoon of grated lemon zest
- 150 g of apricot jam or another tart jam (for a more interesting note, you can use raspberry or cherry jam)

Step by step in making cheese and jam muffins:

1. Preparing the dough:
In a large bowl or mixer bowl, combine all the ingredients for the dough, except for the butter. Mix well at medium speed for about 2 minutes. A useful tip is to use room temperature eggs to achieve a more homogeneous and fluffy dough.

2. Adding the butter:
Incorporate the soft butter cut into cubes and continue mixing at high speed for 6 minutes. The dough should become flaky and slightly sticky. If you feel it's too sticky, add a little flour, but be careful not to overdo it.

3. Cooling the dough:
Lightly dust the dough with flour and place it in a clean bowl. Cover it with plastic wrap and let it chill in the refrigerator for 2-3 hours. This step is essential for achieving the perfect texture.

4. Preparing the filling:
In a separate bowl, mix all the filling ingredients, except for the jam. Use a fork or mixer to obtain a homogeneous mixture. Taste the filling – it should be sweet but with a hint of freshness from the lemon zest.

5. Forming the muffins:
Remove the dough from the refrigerator and divide it into two equal parts. On a lightly floured surface, roll out the first part of the dough into a thin sheet. Spread the cheese filling on it, then draw a line of jam across the entire width of the sheet. Roll the dough tightly, then cut it into portions of about 5 cm each.

6. Arranging the muffins:
Place the obtained “roses” on a baking tray lined with parchment paper. You can use a round tray or muffin molds, depending on your preferences. Brush each muffin with beaten egg for a golden and appetizing crust.

7. Fermentation:
Let the muffins rise for 40-60 minutes at room temperature, covering them with a clean towel. This step will ensure a fluffy and airy texture.

8. Baking:
Preheat the oven to 180°C. Bake the muffins for 20-25 minutes or until they are golden and the filling is well-cooked. A trick to know if they are ready is to gently touch them – if they spring back, they are done!

9. Cooling and serving:
After baking, let the muffins cool on a rack. Serve them warm or at room temperature, plain or dusted with powdered sugar for an elegant touch. These muffins are perfect alongside a cup of coffee or an aromatic tea.

Tips and variations:
- If you wish, you can add some ground nuts to the filling for a crunchy texture.
- Instead of apricot jam, try using blackberry jam or any other jam you prefer – each variation will offer a different taste.
- These muffins can also be a quick dessert, perfect for a family meal or a gathering with friends.

Nutritional benefits:
Cheese and jam muffins are a good source of protein due to the cheese and eggs. Additionally, the jam adds a hint of antioxidants, especially if you opt for jams made from fresh fruits. Moderate consumption of sweets can be part of a balanced diet, and these muffins offer culinary pleasure without compromising health.

Frequently asked questions:
1. Can I use whole wheat flour?
Yes, you can use whole wheat flour, but the texture may be slightly different. You may need to adjust the amount of liquid.

2. What can I use instead of dry yeast?
You can use fresh yeast, being careful to adjust the quantity (about 3 times more).

3. Can I freeze the muffins?
Yes, these muffins can be frozen. Make sure to cool them completely before packing them in freezer bags.

These cheese and jam muffins are not only a simple recipe but also a wonderful opportunity to bring joy into the kitchen and the lives of loved ones. Experiment with filling variations and serve them with an open heart!