Poppy seed muffins filled with pudding

Muffins with Poppy Seed and Pudding Filling: a delicacy that combines the fluffy texture of muffins with the intense flavor of poppy seeds and the creamy sweetness of pudding. These muffins are more than just a dessert; they evoke childhood memories when every bite was a little joy. Let’s discover together how to prepare this delicious recipe, step by step!

Preparation time: 20 minutes
Baking time: 15-20 minutes
Total time: 35-40 minutes
Servings: 12 muffins

Ingredients:
For the batter:
- 100 g ground poppy seeds
- 100 g bran
- 100 g flour
- 100 ml oil
- 200 ml milk
- 1 teaspoon baking soda
- 1 teaspoon baking powder
- 2 teaspoons finely grated lemon zest
- ½ teaspoon cinnamon
- ½ teaspoon nutmeg
- 2 eggs
- 100 g sugar

For the filling:
- 400 ml milk
- 2-3 tablespoons sugar (to taste)
- 1 package pudding (chocolate or vanilla, depending on preference)

Preparing the filling:
1. In a pot, bring 400 ml of milk to a boil, stirring constantly to prevent burning.
2. In a separate bowl, combine the remaining 100 ml of milk with the pudding and sugar, mixing well until smooth.
3. Pour the pudding mixture into the boiling milk, continuing to stir. Simmer on low heat, stirring constantly, until it thickens. Once it reaches the desired consistency, let it cool.

Preparing the batter:
1. Preheat the oven to 180°C (350°F) and prepare the muffin tins by lining them with parchment paper to prevent sticking.
2. In a large bowl, combine the ground poppy seeds, bran, flour, baking soda, baking powder, lemon zest, cinnamon, and nutmeg. Mix the dry ingredients well to combine.
3. In another bowl, separate the eggs. Beat the egg yolks with the sugar until frothy and pale. Add the oil and mix well.
4. Gradually incorporate the dry ingredient mixture into the yolk mixture, alternating with the milk. Mix until you achieve a smooth batter.
5. Beat the egg whites with a pinch of salt until stiff peaks form. Gently fold them into the batter using a spatula, taking care not to deflate the mixture.

Assembling the muffins:
1. In each muffin tin, pour a tablespoon of batter, then add a tablespoon of pudding filling, and finally top with another tablespoon of batter. This double layer will create a delightful surprise in every bite!
2. Place the tins in the preheated oven and bake for 15-20 minutes, or until the muffins are golden and pass the toothpick test.

Serving:
Let the muffins cool slightly in the tins, then transfer them to a wire rack to cool completely. These poppy seed muffins filled with pudding are delicious served warm but can also be enjoyed at room temperature. Pair them with a cup of tea or coffee for the perfect indulgent moment!

Helpful tips:
- Use high-quality poppy seeds, as their flavor plays a crucial role in the recipe.
- For a special touch, add a few drops of vanilla extract to the batter or filling.
- You can experiment with different types of pudding - vanilla, chocolate, or even caramel to vary the flavor of the muffins.

Variations:
If you want to enhance the recipe, try substituting some of the flour with almond flour for a richer texture. You can also add chocolate chips or dried fruits to the batter for an extra burst of flavor.

Nutritional benefits:
These muffins contain poppy seeds, which are an excellent source of calcium, fiber, and antioxidants. The bran adds a significant amount of dietary fiber, contributing to healthy digestion. Additionally, the pudding filling provides a boost of energy, perfect for an afternoon snack.

Frequently asked questions:
1. Can I use whole poppy seeds instead of ground?
- It is recommended to use ground poppy seeds for a uniform texture in the batter. Whole poppy seeds may not integrate well and will offer a different taste experience.

2. How can I keep the muffins fresh?
- Store the muffins in an airtight container at room temperature for 2-3 days. To keep them longer, you can freeze them.

3. Can I make the muffins gluten-free?
- Yes, you can substitute the flour with a gluten-free flour blend, ensuring you check ingredient labels to avoid cross-contamination.

Poppy seed muffins filled with pudding are not only a quick dessert but also a perfect choice to impress your guests. Enjoy them with pleasure and don’t forget to share this recipe with your loved ones!