Heart Muffins

Heart-shaped Muffins – A Dessert Full of Love

Preparation time: 20 minutes
Baking time: 25-30 minutes
Total time: 50-55 minutes
Number of servings: 12 muffins

There are moments in life when we want to bring a smile to the faces of our loved ones, and heart-shaped muffins are the perfect choice to convey our feelings! This delicious dessert is not only a feast for the taste buds but also a visual delight. Besides being easy to prepare, these muffins are ideal for serving on various occasions, whether it’s a party, a picnic, or a simple Sunday afternoon with family.

The history of muffins goes back in time, but it is known that these treats evolved from traditional bread recipes, becoming a symbol of sweetness and joy in many cultures. Today, muffins have become a popular choice among dessert lovers worldwide, with countless variations.

Here’s how you can prepare these fantastic heart-shaped muffins, step by step.

Ingredients for the hearts:
- 1 egg
- 120 g sugar
- 50 ml oil
- 50 ml yogurt
- 250 g flour
- 1/2 packet baking powder
- 2 tablespoons raspberry syrup or food coloring (optional)

Ingredients for the muffins:
- 2 eggs
- 100 g sugar
- 150 g flour
- 8 tablespoons oil
- 2 tablespoons sour cream
- 2 tablespoons milk
- 1/2 packet baking powder

Step 1: Preparing the hearts
In a medium bowl, start by mixing the egg with the sugar. Use an electric mixer to achieve a creamy and airy mixture. Then, gradually add the oil while continuously mixing to integrate the ingredients well. At this point, add the yogurt, which will contribute to the moisture and consistency of the muffins.

Step 2: Dry ingredients
In another bowl, mix the flour with the baking powder. This step is essential to ensure a fluffy texture for your muffins. Try to use high-quality flour for the best results. Once the dry ingredients are well combined, add them to the egg mixture and homogenize everything.

Step 3: Flavors and colors
If you choose to use raspberry syrup, now is the time to add it to the mixture. This will not only provide a delicious flavor to the muffins but will also add an attractive hue. If you wish to use food coloring, choose a high-quality food dye to avoid harmful chemicals.

Step 4: Baking the hearts
Line a tray with parchment paper and pour the heart mixture into the desired molds. You can use a heart-shaped cutter or another design you like. Place in a preheated oven at 180°C and let them bake for 15-20 minutes, or until they pass the toothpick test. When the toothpick comes out clean, the hearts are ready!

Step 5: Preparing the muffins
In a large bowl, mix the two eggs with the sugar until you achieve a homogeneous mixture. Gradually add the oil, then the sour cream and milk. These ingredients will make your muffins soft and flavorful.

Step 6: Combining the hearts with the muffins
Mix the flour with the baking powder and add them to the wet mixture. Gently mix to integrate the ingredients, but be careful not to over-mix to keep the muffins fluffy. In the muffin molds, add a heart and complete with the remaining mixture.

Step 7: Baking the muffins
Place the molds in the preheated oven at 180°C and bake for 20-25 minutes, or until they pass the toothpick test. Allow them to cool slightly in the tray before transferring them to a cooling rack.

Serving and variations
These heart-shaped muffins are delicious both warm and cold. You can serve them plain or with a chocolate sauce, raspberry glaze, or even with fine ice cream. You can also add chocolate chips or dried fruits to the mixture for an explosion of flavors.

Useful tips:
- Make sure all ingredients are at room temperature to achieve a uniform texture.
- If you want muffins with a more intense flavor, you can add vanilla essence or lemon zest.
- For a special look, you can decorate the muffins with powdered sugar or colored glaze.

Nutritional benefits:
These muffins are a source of energy due to the eggs and oil, and the yogurt contributes protein and calcium. The raspberry syrup adds a boost of antioxidants, making each bite not just a pleasure but also a healthy choice.

Approximate calories per muffin (without glaze): 160-180 kcal.

Frequently asked questions:
1. Can I use another type of yogurt?
Yes, you can use Greek yogurt or lactose-free yogurt, depending on your preferences.

2. How can I keep the muffins fresh?
Keep them in an airtight container at room temperature for 2-3 days. You can freeze the muffins to keep them longer.

3. Can I use another type of sugar?
Yes, you can use brown sugar for a more intense flavor or natural sweeteners, but keep in mind the quantities indicated in the recipe.

These heart-shaped muffins are more than just a dessert – they are a perfect way to express your love and appreciation for your loved ones. So put on your apron, gather your ingredients, and get ready to create unforgettable moments in the kitchen!