Rum Muffins

Rum Muffins – a fluffy and aromatic delicacy for any time of the day

Discover the joy of baking rum muffins, a simple and quick recipe that will bring a touch of joy to every bite! These muffins are perfect as a dessert or can be enjoyed at breakfast alongside a cup of aromatic coffee or tea. With a fluffy texture and unmistakable fragrance, these mini cakes are ideal for sharing with loved ones on special occasions or simply to indulge yourself.

Preparation time: 15 minutes
Baking time: 20 minutes
Total time: 35 minutes
Number of servings: 12-18 muffins (depending on the size of the molds)

The history of muffins dates back to the 19th century when they were often made with simple ingredients and enjoyed popularity among families. Over time, recipes have evolved and diversified, and today, muffins can be made with various flavors, ingredients, and combinations, from sweet to savory. Rum muffins add a festive and sophisticated touch, perfect for any occasion.

Basic ingredients:
- 150 g flour
- 100 g starch
- 200 g sugar
- 200 g butter (melted)
- 100 ml milk
- 4 eggs
- 1 packet baking powder
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1-2 tablespoons rum extract (or 100 ml rum)
- a pinch of salt

Ingredient details:
- Flour: It is the base of the recipe, ensuring the structure of the muffin. You can use regular white flour or, for a healthier option, whole wheat flour.
- Starch: This contributes to the fluffy texture of the muffin, giving them a finer consistency. You can use corn or potato starch.
- Butter: Adds a rich flavor and creamy texture. Make sure it is melted but not hot to avoid cooking the eggs.
- Sugar: You can adjust the amount of sugar according to your preferences. If you prefer a less sweet taste, you can reduce it by 50 g.
- Rum and vanilla extracts: These add a delicious fragrance and a special flavor to the muffins. If using rum, ensure it is of good quality.

Step-by-step instructions:
1. Start by preheating the oven to 180°C (160°C if using ventilation). Prepare a muffin pan by greasing it with a little oil or, if you prefer, you can use muffin liners.

2. In a large bowl, sift the flour, starch, baking powder, and salt. This step is essential to avoid lumps and achieve a uniform and airy mixture.

3. In another bowl, beat the eggs together with the sugar using an electric mixer until the mixture becomes fluffy and the sugar completely dissolves. This step will add volume to the muffins.

4. Add the melted butter and milk to the egg and sugar mixture, gently mixing to incorporate all the ingredients. Then, add the vanilla and rum extracts. Here you can adjust the amount of rum according to how intense you want the flavor.

5. Gradually incorporate the dry ingredient mixture into the wet composition, mixing with a spatula or wooden spoon until you achieve a homogeneous mass. The final consistency should resemble that of thick sour cream.

6. Fill the muffin molds to 2/3 full, leaving room for rising. This step is important as the muffins need space to rise during baking.

7. Place the tray in the preheated oven and bake the muffins for 20 minutes, or until they turn golden and pass the toothpick test (inserted in the middle, it should come out clean).

8. After baking, let the muffins cool in the pan for 5 minutes, then transfer them to a wire rack to cool completely.

Serving suggestions:
These rum muffins are delicious served warm, alongside a cup of coffee or tea. You can add a little whipped cream or a teaspoon of fruit jam for extra flavor. You can also dust them with powdered sugar for an elegant look.

Possible variations:
To add a personal touch, you can experiment with various ingredients added to the mixture. Here are some suggestions:
- Dried fruits: raisins, cranberries, or dried apricots.
- Nuts: pecans or ground hazelnuts.
- Chocolate: dark or milk chocolate chips for a decadent taste.

Frequently asked questions:
1. What should I do if the muffins don’t rise enough?
Make sure the baking powder is fresh and that you followed the ingredient quantities. Also, do not open the oven door in the first 15 minutes of baking.

2. Can I freeze the muffins?
Yes, these muffins can be stored in the freezer for up to 3 months. Make sure to wrap them well in plastic wrap or in a freezer bag.

3. How do I know when the muffins are done?
When they turn golden on top and a toothpick inserted in the middle comes out clean, they are done!

Nutritional benefits:
Rum muffins provide a good source of energy due to the sugars and healthy fats from the butter. Eggs bring quality proteins and essential nutrients, while the flour and starch mixture contributes to carbohydrate intake.

Calories:
One serving of muffins (1 muffin) has approximately 200-250 calories, depending on the exact ingredients used. It is an indulgent choice, but one that can be enjoyed in moderation.

These rum muffins are more than just a recipe; they are an opportunity to bring joy into your kitchen. So get ready to treat yourself and your loved ones to this fluffy and aromatic delicacy! Every bite will be an explosion of flavor and aroma, and you will surely become the star of the evening. Enjoy!