Muffins with candied fruits and almonds

Fruit and Almond Muffins: A Sweet Treat for Your Mornings

Who doesn’t love a fluffy, aromatic muffin that delights your senses at breakfast or as a simple snack? This recipe for fruit and almond muffins is not only delicious but also easy to prepare, making it a perfect choice for moments when you want to impress family or friends. I will share the necessary steps, some useful tips, and details about the ingredients used to help you achieve a perfect result every time.

Preparation time: 10 minutes
Baking time: 55 minutes
Total time: 1 hour and 5 minutes
Number of servings: 12 muffins

Ingredients you will need:

- 2 cups of flour
- 1/4 cup of brown sugar
- 1 1/2 cups of yogurt (preferably Greek for a creamier texture)
- 1 tablespoon of honey
- 1 teaspoon of vanilla extract
- 1 teaspoon of dry yeast
- 1 egg (at room temperature for better incorporation)
- Dried fruits (pineapple, cherries, apricots, or any other preferences)
- Whole almonds (for added crunch)
- Acacia honey (for decoration)

Preparing the muffins:

1. Mix the dry ingredients: In a large bowl, combine the 2 cups of flour with 1 teaspoon of dry yeast. Ensure the yeast is well distributed, as this will help the muffins rise.

2. Add the wet ingredients: In the same bowl, add 1/4 cup of brown sugar, 1 1/2 cups of yogurt, 1 tablespoon of honey, 1 teaspoon of vanilla extract, and the egg. Use a whisk or spatula to mix the composition well. It is important that all ingredients are well integrated, but do not overmix, as the muffins can become dense.

3. Let the dough rise: Cover the bowl with a clean towel and let it sit in a warm place for 15-30 minutes. This step is essential to ensure a fluffy texture, as the yeast will start to work.

4. Prepare the muffin tins: Preheat the oven to 200°C. Fill the muffin tins with the dough, leaving a little space at the top to allow the muffins to rise. If you want larger muffins, fill the tins almost to the edge.

5. Add the dried fruits and almonds: Place a few dried fruits on top of each muffin, then gently press them in to incorporate. In the center of each muffin, insert a whole almond, which will add a pleasant contrast of textures.

6. Bake the muffins: Place the tins in the preheated oven and let them bake for 55 minutes or until they turn golden and a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean. It is important not to open the oven door in the first 30 minutes to avoid them sinking.

7. Decorate with honey: After removing the muffins from the oven, let them cool slightly, then drizzle a bit of acacia honey on each muffin. This will add a sweet note and enrich the flavor.

8. Serving and suggestions: These muffins are delicious served warm but can also be enjoyed at room temperature. They can be accompanied by a cup of herbal tea or a creamy cappuccino, turning them into a perfect breakfast.

Useful tips:

- Choose quality ingredients: Use fresh flour and good quality yogurt for the best results.
- Healthier option: You can replace the brown sugar with a natural sweetener, such as maple syrup or agave, for a healthier choice.
- Enhancements: Add chopped nuts or chocolate chips for an explosion of flavors.

Nutritional benefits:

These muffins are not only delicious but also relatively healthy. Yogurt provides protein and probiotics, while dried fruits bring vitamins and minerals. Almonds are an excellent source of healthy fats and vitamin E, making them a good choice for a nutritious breakfast.

Frequently asked questions:

1. Can I replace yogurt with milk?
Yes, but yogurt provides a fluffier texture and moisture to the muffins.

2. What other fruits can I use?
You can use fresh fruits like raspberries or blueberries, but the baking time may vary.

3. How do I keep the muffins fresh?
Store them in an airtight container at room temperature for 2-3 days or in the refrigerator for a longer duration.

This recipe for fruit and almond muffins will surely become a favorite in your family. I encourage you to experiment and put your personal touch on the recipe, bringing a touch of your creativity into every bite. Enjoy!