These soufflé-style muffins are a delightful hybrid between a classic cupcake and a light-as-air soufflé. With a golden-brown top and a soft, cloud-like interior, they’re perfect for breakfast, tea time, or a gentle dessert. The batter is simple—eggs, milk, flour, and a touch of vanilla—but the magic lies in the technique: gentle folding and high-heat baking that gives them their signature puff. They’re best served warm, with a dusting of powdered sugar or a dollop of fruit compote. Whether you’re baking for guests or indulging solo, these muffins offer elegance and comfort in every bite.
🧂 INGREDIENTS:
- 3 large eggs (room temperature)
- ¾ cup whole milk
- ½ cup vegetable oil or melted butter
- 1 cup all-purpose flour
- ½ cup granulated sugar
- 1½ teaspoons baking powder
- ½ teaspoon salt
- 1½ teaspoons vanilla extract
- Optional: zest of 1 lemon or orange for brightness
- Butter or nonstick spray for greasing the muffin tin
👨🍳 INSTRUCTIONS:
Step 1: Prep the Oven & Pan Preheat your oven to 200°C (390°F). Grease a 12-cup muffin tin generously with butter or nonstick spray. This helps the muffins rise cleanly and release easily.
Step 2: Whisk the Wet Ingredients In a large mixing bowl, crack the eggs and whisk until frothy. Add the milk, oil (or melted butter), and vanilla extract. Whisk until the mixture is smooth and slightly thickened.
Step 3: Combine Dry Ingredients In a separate bowl, sift together the flour, sugar, baking powder, and salt. If using citrus zest, add it here for a fragrant lift.
Step 4: Fold Gently Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet mixture, folding gently with a spatula or whisk. Mix just until combined—overmixing will deflate the batter and compromise the soufflé-like texture.
Step 5: Fill the Muffin Tin Pour the batter evenly into the prepared muffin cups, filling each about ¾ full. The batter should be light and pourable, but not runny.
Step 6: Bake with Care Place the muffin tin in the preheated oven and bake for 15–18 minutes, or until the tops are puffed and golden brown. Avoid opening the oven during the first 10 minutes—this helps maintain the rise.
Step 7: Cool Slightly & Serve Remove from the oven and let the muffins cool in the tin for 5 minutes. Transfer to a wire rack to cool further, or serve warm for the best texture. Dust with powdered sugar or top with whipped cream and berries if desired.
🍽️ SERVING SUGGESTIONS:
- Serve warm with a drizzle of honey or maple syrup.
- Pair with fresh fruit or yogurt for a light breakfast.
- Add a spoonful of jam or lemon curd for a dessert-style twist.
🔄 VARIATIONS:
- Chocolate swirl: Add ¼ cup melted chocolate and swirl into the batter before baking.
- Savory version: Omit sugar and vanilla, add cheese and herbs for a brunch muffin.
- Gluten-free: Substitute with almond flour or a gluten-free blend.