Brisiliense muffins (Bolo de Milho)
Bolo de Milho, or Brazilian corn muffins, are a traditional and beloved treat in Brazilian cuisine. These muffins are known for their moist texture, sweet flavor, and comforting taste, making them a favorite for breakfast, a mid-afternoon snack, or dessert. They are easy to make and always a hit. Let’s dive into how to prepare these delightful treats that will add a Brazilian twist to your table.
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Key Ingredients
| Ingredient | Quantity |
|---|---|
| Whole or partially dried maize grains | 2 tablespoons |
| Milk | 1 tablespoon |
| Coconut milk | 1 tablespoon |
| Granulated sugar | 1 tablespoon |
| Vegetable oil | ½ teaspoon |
| Finely powdered milk | 1 tablespoon |
| All-purpose flour | 1 tablespoon |
| Baking powder | 1 tablespoon |
| Salt | ½ teaspoon |
| Eggs | 3 large |
| Chocolate (optional) | 1 tablespoon |
Instructions
Prepare the Oven
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) before you start baking. This ensures the oven is at the right temperature when you’re ready to bake the muffins.
Whisk Together the Wet Ingredients
- In a mixing bowl, mash the maize grains with the milk, coconut milk, sugar, vegetable oil, and eggs. Whisk until the mixture is frothy and well-combined.
Combine the Dry Ingredients
- In a large mixing bowl, combine the cornmeal, all-purpose flour, baking powder, and salt. Mix thoroughly to ensure even distribution of the ingredients.
Incorporate the Coconut
- If using, chop the coconut finely and mix it into the dry ingredients using a mortar and pestle. This step adds texture and flavor to the muffins.
Mix the Ingredients
- Gradually add the wet mixture to the bowl with the dry ingredients. Gently fold the ingredients together with a spatula until just combined. Be careful not to overmix to keep the muffins light and fluffy.
Fill the Muffin Cups
- Fill each muffin cup two-thirds full with the batter. This allows room for the muffins to rise without overflowing.
Bake the Muffins
- Insert a toothpick into the center of a muffin and bake in the preheated oven for 20 to 25 minutes, or until the toothpick comes out clean and the tops are golden brown.
Cool and Serve
- Allow the muffins to cool in the pan for about 10 minutes before transferring them to a wire rack to cool completely. These muffins are best served warm or at room temperature, either on their own or with a dollop of butter for extra richness.
Tips for Perfect Brazilian Corn Muffins
Using Fresh Maize
- If you are using fresh maize, remove the kernels from the cob and follow the same steps. Fresh maize has a milder, more vibrant flavor that enhances the overall taste of the muffins.
Adjusting Texture
- For a chunkier texture, mix the maize grains less thoroughly to retain some whole pieces in the batter. This adds a delightful crunch to the muffins.
Sweetness Level
- Adjust the amount of sugar to suit your taste. Brazilian muffins are typically on the sweeter side, but you can modify the sweetness according to your preference.
Storage
- Store the muffins in an airtight container at room temperature for up to three days. Alternatively, you can freeze them for longer storage.
