Muffins are one of those small joys in life that save our breakfast, snack, or that sudden craving for something sweet. Making them at home is a true pleasure, especially when it involves combining the enveloping scent of orange with the delicacy of almonds. This recipe, besides being incredibly easy and quick, does not require the use of butter, making the muffins even softer and lighter.
Just a few steps are needed to get delicious little cakes, perfect for dipping in coffee or for a treat at any time of the day.
- Difficulty: Very easy
- Cost: Very cheap
- Preparation time: 15 Minutes
- Portions: 12 Pieces
- Cooking methods: Electric oven
- Cuisine: International
- Seasonality: All seasons
Ingredients
- 2 cups all-purpose flour
- 1/2 cup granulated sugar
- 3/4 cup almonds (whole or sliced)
- 2 eggs (medium)
- 1/3 cup sunflower oil
- 1/3 cup orange (juice and untreated zest)
- 1 packet baking powder
- 1 pinch salt
Tools
- 1 Bowl
- 1 Fork
- 1 Muffin pan
- 12 Paper cups
Steps
In a large bowl, combine the flour, sugar, packet of baking powder, pinch of salt, and almonds. Mix well with a whisk to combine everything evenly.
In another bowl, lightly beat the eggs, then add the sunflower oil, and the orange juice and grated zest. Mix until you get a homogeneous mixture.
Pour the liquid mixture into the bowl with the dry ingredients. Mix quickly and for just a few seconds, just enough to combine everything. The batter should not be perfectly smooth; in fact, a somewhat lumpy texture is ideal for soft muffins.
Place the paper cups in the muffin pan. With a spoon, distribute the batter into the 12 paper cups, filling them about two-thirds full. Bake in a preheated static oven at 350°F for 20-25 minutes.
To ensure they are done, do the toothpick test: if it comes out clean, the muffins are ready. Take them out of the oven and let them cool before enjoying. For a final touch, you can sprinkle them with powdered sugar.
Tips and Variations
For a more intense flavor: You can add 50g of dark chocolate chips or pieces of candied orange peel to the batter.
Do not overmix: It’s the secret to soft muffins. Overmixing activates the gluten and makes the final result chewy.
Storage: The muffins can be stored for 2-3 days at room temperature in an airtight container.
FAQ – Orange and Almond Muffins
Can I substitute oil for butter?
Yes, you can use 80g of melted butter instead of oil. The result will still be excellent, but the muffins will be slightly less fluffy.
Why did my muffins turn out hard?
Most likely, you overmixed them or baked them for too long.
Can I use chopped almonds?
Sure, you can finely chop the almonds and add them to the batter for a different texture.
These muffins are a true embrace of flavor and aroma. Try them and you will feel the difference of a homemade sweet with love. Whether you enjoy them for breakfast or as a snack, they will give you a moment of pure pleasure.
