| Prep: 10 mins | Cook: 20 mins | Difficulty: Easy | Serves: 6 |
| kcal | fat | saturates | carbs |
| 200 | 10g | 6g | 24g |
| sugars | fibre | protein | salt |
| 12g | 1g | 3g | 0.3g |
There’s something truly magical about Cloudberry Muffins that transports me back to my childhood in Montana. The first time I tasted a cloudberry, I was captivated by its unique flavor—a harmonious blend of tangy and sweet that is unlike any other fruit. As someone who finds inspiration in new and distinctive ingredients, incorporating cloudberries into one of my favorite comfort foods, muffins, was an exciting endeavor.
The health benefits of cloudberries are just as impressive as their taste. Rich in vitamin C, these berries act as a powerful antioxidant, helping to boost your immune system and promote healthy skin. They’re also a good source of dietary fiber, which aids in digestion and keeps you feeling full longer.
A Taste of Tradition and Innovation
What I love about these Cloudberry Muffins is how they bring together elements of tradition with a touch of modern culinary flair. The warmth of the melted butter and the creamy richness of sour cream create a tender, moist texture that’s accentuated by the slight tartness of the cloudberries. Add in a burst of fresh lemon zest, and you’ve got a muffin that’s both comforting and refreshing.
Although cloudberries may not be as widely known as blueberries or raspberries, their flavor is reminiscent of a mix between the two, but with a distinct edge. This makes these muffins not only unique but also versatile. They pair wonderfully with a hot cup of tea or coffee, and can serve as a delightful companion to a brunch spread that includes dishes like lemon ricotta pancakes or even savory options like a well-seasoned bison sausage.
More Than Just a Muffin
What makes this recipe even more appealing is its adaptability. You can swap out the cloudberries for other berries if they’re hard to find, but I urge you to give them a try if you have the chance. Their rarity and unique flavor make for a muffin that’s truly special and memorable.
On a nutritional note, using whole milk and unsalted butter adds to the depth of flavor while keeping things natural. The granulated sugar provides just enough sweetness without overpowering the natural taste of the berries, and the sour cream ensures a delightfully tender crumb that holds together beautifully.
For those who enjoy experimenting in the kitchen, this recipe could even inspire you to explore other native fruits and berries in your baking. Imagine the possibilities!
In conclusion, these Cloudberry Muffins are more than just a delicious treat; they’re a testament to the joy of discovering new ingredients and blending them into familiar, comforting recipes. Their unique flavor profile and numerous health benefits make them a must-try, whether you’re a seasoned baker or a curious home cook looking to expand your culinary repertoire.
What You’ll Need
Method
Step One
Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Line a muffin tin with paper liners or lightly grease with butter or non-stick spray.
Step Two
In a large bowl, whisk together the all-purpose flour, granulated sugar, salt, baking powder, and baking soda until well combined.
Step Three
In a separate medium bowl, whisk together the whole milk, melted unsalted butter, large egg, and vanilla extract until smooth.
Step Four
Pour the wet ingredients into the dry ingredients and gently stir until just combined. Be careful not to overmix the batter.
Step Five
Fold in the cloudberries, lemon zest, and sour cream until evenly distributed throughout the batter.
Step Six
Evenly divide the muffin batter among the prepared muffin cups, filling each about two-thirds full.
Step Seven
Bake in the preheated oven for 18-20 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center of a muffin comes out clean.
Step Eight
Allow the muffins to cool in the tin for 5 minutes before transferring them to a wire rack to cool completely. Enjoy your Cloudberry Muffins!
