How to Master Cloud-Like Muffin Creation

Texture Foundation

Precise folding technique preserving air bubbles for ethereal crumb structure.

Temperature Management

Strategic ingredient tempering ensuring optimal chemical reactions during mixing and baking.

Structure Development

Careful balance between tenderness and stability through controlled gluten activation.

Moisture Balance

Multiple fat sources creating perfect harmony between moisture retention and crumb delicacy.

Baking Tips

Room temperature ingredients are crucial for achieving the proper consistency

For maximum volume, ensure your bowl is completely clean and dry when whipping egg whites

Fold gently using a wide spatula with a cutting and lifting motion to maintain air in the batter

Don't open the oven door during the first 15 minutes of baking to prevent muffins from collapsing

Muffins are best enjoyed fresh on the day they're made when they're at their fluffiest

For extra flavor, add 1 teaspoon of citrus zest (lemon, orange, or lime) to the batter

To test for doneness, the muffin tops should spring back when lightly touched

Store cooled muffins in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 2 days

For longer storage, freeze muffins individually wrapped for up to 1 month

Warm refrigerated or frozen muffins for 10-15 seconds in the microwave before serving

Cloud Muffin Magic

Name: Cloud Muffin Magic
Prep time: 25 min
Cook time: 22 min
Total time: 47 min
Yield: 12 muffins
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: For the Dry Ingredients:; 2 cups all-purpose flour; 2 teaspoons baking powder; 1/2 teaspoon baking soda; 1/2 teaspoon salt; 1/4 teaspoon ground nutmeg; For the Wet Ingredients:; 1/2 cup unsalted butter, melted and cooled; 3/4 cup granulated sugar; 1 tablespoon vanilla extract; 1/4 cup vegetable oil; 1/2 cup whole milk, room temperature; 1/4 cup sour cream, room temperature; 2 large egg yolks, room temperature; For the Cloud Element:; 3 large egg whites, room temperature; 1/4 teaspoon cream of tartar; 3 tablespoons powdered sugar; Optional Mix-ins (choose one):; 1 cup fresh blueberries; 1 cup chocolate chips; 3/4 cup chopped nuts (walnuts or pecans); For the Topping:; 3 tablespoons turbinado sugar; 1/4 teaspoon ground cinnamon; Powdered sugar for dusting

These Cloud Muffin Magic treats offer a perfectly light and airy texture that seems to float right off your plate. With a delicate vanilla base and optional mix-ins for customization, these medium-difficulty muffins require proper folding technique to maintain their signature cloudlike consistency. The recipe balances simplicity with sophistication, creating a versatile breakfast or snack option that's equally suited for casual mornings or elegant brunches. The secret incorporation of whipped egg whites results in an ethereal texture that melts in your mouth while still providing satisfying substance.

Prep Time

25 Minutes

Cook Time

22 Minutes

Total Time

47 Minutes

Chef

JUE

Ingredients

Custard Cream

For the Dry Ingredients:

2 cups all-purpose flour

2 teaspoons baking powder

1/2 teaspoon baking soda

1/2 teaspoon salt

1/4 teaspoon ground nutmeg

For the Wet Ingredients:

1/2 cup unsalted butter, melted and cooled

3/4 cup granulated sugar

1 tablespoon vanilla extract

1/4 cup vegetable oil

1/2 cup whole milk, room temperature

1/4 cup sour cream, room temperature

2 large egg yolks, room temperature

For the Cloud Element:

3 large egg whites, room temperature

1/4 teaspoon cream of tartar

3 tablespoons powdered sugar

Optional Mix-ins (choose one):

1 cup fresh blueberries

1 cup chocolate chips

3/4 cup chopped nuts (walnuts or pecans)

For the Topping:

3 tablespoons turbinado sugar

1/4 teaspoon ground cinnamon

Powdered sugar for dusting

Instructions

Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C). Line a 12-cup muffin tin with paper liners or spray with non-stick cooking spray.

In a large bowl, whisk together the flour, baking powder, baking soda, salt, and nutmeg until well combined.

In a separate medium bowl, whisk together the melted butter, granulated sugar, vanilla extract, and vegetable oil until smooth.

Add the milk, sour cream, and egg yolks to the wet ingredients. Whisk until completely incorporated and smooth.

Pour the wet ingredients into the dry ingredients and gently fold with a spatula just until barely combined (some flour streaks should remain visible). Do not overmix.

In a clean, dry bowl, use an electric mixer to beat the egg whites and cream of tartar until foamy. Gradually add the powdered sugar and continue beating until soft peaks form (about 3-4 minutes).

Using a spatula, gently fold one-third of the whipped egg whites into the batter to lighten it. Then carefully fold in the remaining egg whites until just incorporated. The batter should look light and airy with minimal streaks.

If using mix-ins, very gently fold them into the batter now.

Divide the batter evenly among the prepared muffin cups, filling each about 3/4 full.

Mix the turbinado sugar and cinnamon together and sprinkle over the tops of the muffins.

Bake for 20-22 minutes, or until the tops are golden and a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean or with a few moist crumbs.

Let the muffins cool in the pan for 5 minutes, then transfer to a wire rack to cool completely.

Just before serving, dust lightly with powdered sugar if desired.

Cloud Muffin Magic

JUE

Essential Ingredients Selection

Creating Your Masterpiece

How to Master Cloud-Like Muffin Creation

Cloud Muffin Magic

Ingredients

Instructions