Camille carrot muffins

Camille are soft carrot-based muffins, a classic of Italian home baking. Rich and fragrant, they make an excellent treat for breakfast or an afternoon snack. Here is the recipe:

Ingredients

• 250 g carrots (already cleaned and grated)
• 200 g sugar
• 100 g chopped almonds (or almond flour)
• 80 g all-purpose flour
• 80 g cornstarch (or potato starch)
• 3 eggs
• Grated zest of 1 orange
• 100 ml vegetable oil
• 1 packet baking powder
• 1 pinch of salt
• Powdered sugar (optional, for dusting)

Preparation

1. Start by preheating the oven to 180°C.
2. Clean and finely grate the carrots, then set them aside.
3. In a bowl, beat the eggs with the sugar until the mixture is pale and frothy.
4. Gradually add the vegetable oil while continuing to beat.
5. Gently fold in the sifted flour mixed with the cornstarch and baking powder, followed by the chopped almonds, grated orange zest, and a pinch of salt.
6. Add the grated carrots to the batter and mix with gentle upward motions to avoid deflating the mixture.
7. Pour the batter into greased or paper-lined muffin tins, filling them about 3/4 full.
8. Bake for 20–25 minutes or until the muffins are golden and a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean.
9. Remove the camille from the oven and let them cool completely before dusting with powdered sugar, if desired.

Trivia

Their exact origin is uncertain, but camille are considered a staple of Italian home baking. They are also perfect for those seeking a slightly healthier treat, thanks to the carrots and almonds, which are rich in nutrients and vitamins.