Cupcakes with mascarpone cream

Muffins with mascarpone cream - A sweet delight for any occasion

Preparation time: 20 minutes
Baking time: 30 minutes
Total time: 50 minutes
Number of servings: 12 muffins

Who can resist a fresh, fluffy, and fragrant dessert? Muffins with mascarpone cream are the perfect choice for a sweet breakfast, a delicious snack, or a delightful surprise for friends and family. These muffins are not only easy to make but also extremely versatile, making them ideal for various occasions. Additionally, the combination of chocolate and mascarpone will delight any sweet tooth!

The history of muffins is fascinating, evolving over time from simple homemade cakes to elaborate desserts enjoyed worldwide. Muffins can be customized with various ingredients, and today I will show you how to prepare them with a fine mascarpone cream that adds a sophisticated touch.

Necessary ingredients:

For muffins:
- 200 g flour
- 2 eggs
- 150 ml milk
- 125 g butter at room temperature
- 100 g sugar
- 100 g chocolate (preferably dark or milk chocolate, according to preference)
- 1 packet of baking powder

For the cream:
- 200 g mascarpone
- 200 ml whipped cream

For the glaze:
- 50 g milk chocolate
- 25 g butter

Step-by-step preparation:

1. Preparing the muffin mixture: Start by creaming the butter with the sugar in a large bowl until the mixture becomes a fluffy, light-colored cream. This step is essential as the air incorporated will help the muffins be light and fluffy.

2. Adding the eggs: Incorporate the two eggs, one at a time, mixing well after each addition. The added egg will contribute to the structure of the muffins, providing moisture and richness.

3. Including the milk and flour: Gradually add the milk and mix well to obtain a homogeneous mixture. In another bowl, sift the flour together with the baking powder. This step will ensure an even distribution of the baking powder in the dough. Fold the flour into the butter and egg mixture gently to avoid over-activating the gluten.

4. Adding the chocolate: Cut the chocolate into small cubes and add it to the mixture. The chocolate will partially melt during baking, giving the muffins a delicious texture and intense flavor.

5. Preparing the muffin tray: Preheat the oven to 180°C. Grease the muffin molds with a little butter and dust them with flour to prevent sticking. This detail is crucial to ensure that the muffins come out easily after baking.

6. Filling the molds: Pour the mixture into the prepared molds, filling them about 2/3 full. This will allow the muffins to rise beautifully during baking without overflowing.

7. Baking: Place the tray in the preheated oven and bake the muffins for about 30 minutes, or until they turn golden and a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean. Meanwhile, you can prepare the mascarpone cream.

8. Preparing the mascarpone cream: In a clean bowl, whip the cream until it becomes firm. Then, add the mascarpone and gently mix with a spatula to obtain a smooth and airy cream. It is important not to overmix to avoid the cream curdling.

9. Decorating the muffins: Once the muffins have completely cooled, use a piping bag with a decorative tip to apply the mascarpone cream on each muffin. This will add a beautiful and professional look to your dessert.

10. Preparing the glaze: In a heatproof bowl, melt the milk chocolate and butter over a double boiler, stirring constantly until they become homogeneous. Let the glaze cool slightly before pouring it over the muffins to create a delicious and glossy layer.

11. Serving: These muffins are perfect to be served as a dessert or snack alongside a cup of tea or coffee. You can also add fresh fruits or a spoonful of jam for an extra flavor boost.

Practical tips:
- Ensure that all ingredients are at room temperature, as this helps create a better emulsion and a fluffy texture.
- If you want a healthier version, you can replace some of the butter with coconut oil or add chopped nuts to the mixture.
- These muffins can be stored in an airtight container for up to 3 days, but they are best enjoyed fresh.

Nutritional benefits:
Muffins with mascarpone cream contain protein from eggs and mascarpone, carbohydrates from flour and sugar, as well as healthy fats from butter. Naturally, moderate consumption of these muffins can provide a dose of energy and good mood.

Frequently asked questions:
- Can I use whole wheat flour?
Yes, but the muffins may be denser. You can combine whole wheat flour with white flour to achieve a lighter texture.
- Can I substitute chocolate with another ingredient?
Absolutely! You can use dried fruits, nuts, or even caramel pieces to vary the flavor of the muffins.

These muffins with mascarpone cream are more than just a simple dessert; they are a culinary experience that brings joy in every bite. Feel free to experiment with ingredients and flavors, creating your own unique variations. Enjoy!