Cranberry and lemon muffins

Cranberry and Lemon Muffins - A Delicious and Aromatic Snack

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

Are you looking for a quick and delicious recipe to start your day? I invite you to try the cranberry and lemon muffins! This dessert is not only easy to make, but it is also an excellent choice for a healthy breakfast or a savory snack. The flavors of lemon and the sweetness of cranberries blend perfectly, while the almond flakes add a crunchy note and an attractive appearance. It’s a recipe that will delight you and will surely become one of your favorites!

A Brief History of Muffins
Muffins have a long history, being considered a dessert that originated in France. They have evolved over time, becoming known and appreciated around the world. Although recipes vary, the base is the same: a light batter that can be customized with various ingredients. In today’s recipe, cranberries and lemon bring an extra freshness and flavor.

Necessary Ingredients
To prepare these delicious muffins, you will need the following ingredients, measured with a 250 ml cup:

- 2 cups of white flour
- 1 cup and 1/4 of sugar
- 3/4 cup of sweet milk
- 2 eggs
- 1/4 cup of lemon juice
- 1 teaspoon of baking powder
- 1/2 cup of oil
- A pinch of salt
- 1 cup of dried or fresh cranberries
- Almond flakes (optional, for decoration)

Ingredient Details
Cranberries are rich in antioxidants and vitamin C, making them an excellent choice for your health. Lemon adds a tangy flavor, while the oil ensures moisture in the muffins, giving them a soft and fluffy texture. If you don’t have cranberries on hand, you can also try other dried fruits, such as raisins or cherries.

Step by Step - Preparation Method
1. Prepare the ingredients: Start by sifting the flour and baking powder. This step is essential to avoid lumps and to achieve a fine texture.
2. Beat the eggs: In a tall bowl, add the eggs and sugar. Use an electric mixer to beat them well until the mixture becomes light in color and frothy.
3. Add the wet ingredients: While continuing to mix, add the oil, milk, lemon juice, and a pinch of salt. Make sure everything is well incorporated.
4. Incorporate the dry ingredients: Gradually add the sifted flour with the baking powder, mixing gently with a spatula or the mixer until the composition becomes homogeneous.
5. Add the cranberries: Fold the cranberries into the batter, making sure to distribute them evenly.
6. Prepare the muffin tins: If you are using silicone muffin molds, there is no need for liners. Otherwise, place liners in metal molds and fill each mold with batter, leaving a little space for the muffins to rise.
7. Decorate with almond flakes: Sprinkle almond flakes on top of each muffin for added texture and a pleasing appearance.
8. Baking: Preheat the oven to a medium temperature (about 180°C). Bake the muffins for 20-25 minutes or until they become golden. You can check if they are done by inserting a toothpick in the center; if it comes out clean, the muffins are perfectly baked.
9. Cooling and serving: Let the muffins cool in the molds for 5-10 minutes, then transfer them to a rack to cool completely. They are delicious both warm and cold.

Serving Suggestions
These cranberry and lemon muffins are perfect alongside a cup of freshly brewed coffee or a fragrant tea. You can also serve them with a yogurt sauce or cream cheese for a more substantial breakfast.

Delicious Variations
If you want to experiment, you can add chopped nuts or seeds to the muffin batter for an extra crunchy note. You can also replace cranberries with other berries or add a few drops of vanilla extract for a sweeter flavor.

Frequently Asked Questions
1. Can I use whole wheat flour?
Yes, you can replace white flour with whole wheat flour, but keep in mind that the texture of the muffins will be denser. You can also try a combination of white and whole wheat flour for a balanced result.

2. How can I keep the muffins fresh?
The best muffins are the ones consumed fresh, but you can store them in an airtight container at room temperature for 2-3 days or freeze them for longer storage.

3. What drinks pair well with these muffins?
In addition to coffee, a fruit tea or a banana and lemon smoothie pairs perfectly with these muffins, bringing an extra freshness.

Nutritional Benefits
These muffins are a source of carbohydrates, proteins, and healthy fats, thanks to the ingredients used. Cranberries add fiber and antioxidants, thus contributing to a balanced diet.

In conclusion, cranberry and lemon muffins are not only a tasty choice but also an easy recipe to make, perfect for any time of the day. I encourage you to try them and explore your favorite variations! Enjoy every bite and delight in this simple yet flavorful treat!