Cozy evenings call for warm, freshly baked treats that fill your home with delightful aromas. These Schmand Muffins are a perfect combination of tender crumb and a hint of tanginess, thanks to the addition of Schmand, a rich and creamy German cultured cream. These muffins are simple to make and are sure to become a favorite in your baking repertoire, perfect for serving at breakfast, brunch, or as a sweet afternoon snack.
**Schmand Muffins**
**Ingredients:**
– 2 cups all-purpose flour
– 1/2 cup granulated sugar
– 2 teaspoons baking powder
– 1/2 teaspoon baking soda
– 1/4 teaspoon salt
– 1 cup Schmand (German cultured cream)
– 2 large eggs
– 1/3 cup vegetable oil
– 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
– Zest of one lemon
– 1/2 cup fresh blueberries
**Instructions:**
1. Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C) and line a 12-cup muffin tin with paper liners or grease the cups with non-stick cooking spray.
2. In a large mixing bowl, whisk together the flour, sugar, baking powder, baking soda, and salt until well combined.
3. In a separate bowl, combine the Schmand, eggs, vegetable oil, vanilla extract, and lemon zest. Whisk until smooth.
4. Pour the wet ingredients into the dry ingredients and gently fold them together with a spatula. Be careful not to overmix; a few lumps are perfectly fine.
5. Gently fold in the fresh blueberries until evenly distributed throughout the batter.
6. Using an ice cream scoop or a spoon, divide the batter evenly among the prepared muffin cups, filling each about three-quarters full.
7. Bake in the preheated oven for 18-20 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center of a muffin comes out clean.
8. Remove the muffin tin from the oven and allow the muffins to cool for a few minutes before transferring them to a wire rack to cool completely.
9. Serve these Schmand Muffins warm or at room temperature. They can be stored in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days. For longer storage, you can freeze them for up to a month. Simply thaw at room temperature or reheat in the microwave if desired.
Enjoy the delightful combination of flavors and textures in these Schmand Muffins. They are a wonderful addition to any cozy gathering or simply as a sweet treat to brighten your day. Experiment with different mix-ins like raspberries, chocolate chips, or chopped nuts to make these muffins your own. Happy baking!
