If you’re looking to add a touch of Russian tradition to your Christmas baking repertoire, then Tvorozhnye Maffiny, or Cottage Cheese Muffins, are just the treat you need. These delightful muffins are a popular choice during the festive season in Russia, known for their moist and fluffy texture, with a hint of sweetness that is sure to please your taste buds. Whether you enjoy them for breakfast, as a snack, or as part of your holiday dessert spread, these Tvorozhnye Maffiny will surely become a new favorite in your baking rotation.
**Tvorozhnye Maffiny Cottage Cheese Muffins**
**Ingredients:**
– 2 cups of cottage cheese
– 1 cup of granulated sugar
– 3 eggs
– 1/2 cup of butter, melted
– 1 teaspoon of vanilla extract
– 1/2 cup of raisins (optional)
– 2 cups of all-purpose flour
– 1 tablespoon of baking powder
– Powdered sugar for dusting (optional)
**Instructions:**
1. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and line a muffin tin with paper liners or grease them lightly.
2. In a mixing bowl, combine the cottage cheese and granulated sugar, mixing well until smooth and creamy.
3. Add the eggs one at a time, mixing after each addition until well incorporated.
4. Stir in the melted butter and vanilla extract until evenly combined.
5. If using raisins, fold them into the batter at this point.
6. In a separate bowl, whisk together the flour and baking powder.
7. Gradually add the flour mixture to the wet ingredients, stirring gently until just combined. Be careful not to overmix.
8. Spoon the batter into the prepared muffin tin, filling each cup about three-quarters full.
9. Bake in the preheated oven for 20-25 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center of a muffin comes out clean.
10. Remove the muffins from the oven and allow them to cool in the pan for a few minutes before transferring them to a wire rack to cool completely.
11. Once cooled, you can dust the muffins with powdered sugar for a decorative touch, if desired.
These Tvorozhnye Maffiny Cottage Cheese Muffins are best enjoyed fresh out of the oven, when they are still warm and fragrant. They make a wonderful addition to your holiday table, whether you serve them alongside a cup of tea or as a sweet treat after a festive meal. The combination of creamy cottage cheese, subtle sweetness, and tender crumb is sure to win over your family and friends this holiday season.
So, why not transport yourself to a Russian winter wonderland with these delicious and comforting muffins? Whip up a batch of Tvorozhnye Maffiny Cottage Cheese Muffins and let the warm, cozy flavors of the season fill your home with joy and cheer. Happy baking!
