Christmas Muffins with Cottage Cheese Filling

Christmas Muffins with Cottage Cheese Filling are a delightful holiday treat that combines the rich flavors of honey, cocoa, and warming gingerbread spices with a creamy cottage cheese center. These muffins are a perfect blend of sweet and spice, bringing festive warmth in every bite. They are easy to make, requiring simple ingredients that you likely already have in your pantry. The muffins are light, fluffy, and filled with a creamy, sweet cottage cheese mixture that balances perfectly with the spices. They make a fantastic addition to any holiday spread, whether for breakfast, a dessert, or a snack. The use of cottage cheese in the filling not only adds a unique texture but also complements the muffin's flavors beautifully. With a preparation time under an hour, you can effortlessly create these delightful pastries for your family and friends. As they bake, your kitchen will be filled with the enchanting aroma of spices that truly encapsulates the holiday spirit. For an extra touch of elegance, a light dusting of powdered sugar over these muffins transforms them into a visually stunning treat fit for festive celebrations.

Ingredients

Main Ingredients

• 150 g honey
• 250 g flour
• 75 g butter
• 75 g brown sugar
• 4 tbsp milk
• 2 tsp baking powder
• 2 tbsp cocoa powder
• 1 tbsp gingerbread spice
• 2 eggs
• Powdered sugar (for dusting)

Filling Ingredients

• 100 g cottage cheese
• Sugar (to taste)
• 1 tsp vanilla sugar
• 2 tsp cornstarch
• 1 egg yolk

Preparation Time

Total Time: 40 minutes (including preparation and baking)

Step-by-Step Instructions

1. Prepare the Filling: In a medium bowl, mix cottage cheese, sugar to taste, vanilla sugar, cornstarch, and egg yolk until smooth and well combined. Set aside as you prepare the batter.
2. Mix Dry Ingredients: In a large bowl, combine flour, brown sugar, cocoa powder, baking powder, and gingerbread spice. Ensure these are well mixed to avoid clumps.
3. Create a Liquid Mixture: In a small saucepan, pour milk and add butter, honey, and sugar. Heat gently until the butter melts and the mixture becomes smooth. Allow it to cool slightly.
4. Combine Mixtures: Pour the cooled liquid mixture into the bowl with the dry ingredients. Mix thoroughly until unified.
5. Add Eggs: Incorporate the eggs one at a time, mixing until the batter reaches a smooth consistency without any lumps.
6. Layer Fillings in Molds: In muffin molds, place one tablespoon of batter at the bottom. Add a teaspoon of the cottage cheese filling, then cover with another tablespoon of batter.
7. Prepare for Baking: Preheat the oven to 200°C (approximately 392°F).
8. Baking Time: Bake the muffins in the preheated oven for about 18 minutes or until they are well-risen and slightly firm to the touch.
9. Allow to Cool: Once baked, let the muffins cool on a wire rack.
10. Final Touch: Dust with powdered sugar for a festive look.
11. Remember that the muffins will expand during baking, so fill the molds up to two-thirds full to allow room for rising.
12. Enjoy these muffins warm or at room temperature for a delightful holiday treat.

Tips

• Substitution: If you don't have cottage cheese, ricotta can be used as an alternative.
• Spice Variation: Enhance the gingerbread spice flavor by adding a pinch of nutmeg or clove.
• Storage: Store muffins in an airtight container to keep them fresh for up to 3 days.

Nutritions

• Calories: Approximately 250 per muffin
• Protein: 5g
• Fats: 10g
• Carbohydrates: 35g

Variations

• Dairy-Free Option: Use coconut oil in place of butter and a dairy-free milk alternative.
• Gluten-Free: Substitute regular flour with a gluten-free mix.
• Nutty Twist: Add chopped nuts to the batter for added texture and flavor.

Serving Suggestions

• Pair with a warm cup of spiced tea or hot chocolate for a cozy afternoon treat.
• Serve with fresh berries and whipped cream for an elevated dessert experience.

Best Places

1. Ladurée - World-renowned for macarons and pastries. Location: 16-18 Rue Royale, Paris, France.
2. Magnolia Bakery - Famous for classic American baked goods. Location: 401 Bleecker St, New York, USA.
3. Feya Cafe - Known for artistic cakes and pastries. Location: 23 James St, London, UK.
4. Demel - Historical pastry shop with classic Viennese treats. Location: Kohlmarkt 14, Vienna, Austria.
5. Pasticceria Marchesi - Chic and elegant bakery with Italian flair. Location: Via Monte Napoleone, Milan, Italy.
6. Annakoot - Specializes in traditional Indian sweets. Location: 27 Old Brompton Rd, London, UK.
7. Tatte Bakery & Cafe - Offers Mediterranean-inspired pastries. Location: 70 Charles St, Boston, USA.
8. Beard Papa's - Famous for cream puffs with various fillings. Location: 2132 Sawtelle Blvd, Los Angeles, USA.
9. Patisserie Sadaharu Aoki - Fusion of French and Japanese pastries. Location: 35 Rue de Vaugirard, Paris, France.
10. Suvlaki GR - Unique blend of Greek street food experience. Location: 116 Stanton St, New York, USA.