Moscow Creamers

Introduction to Moscow Creamers

Born out of the fusion of Western and Russian culinary traditions, the Moscow Creamers are delightful pastry-like creations, embodying the richness of Russian cream-filled delicacies and the precision of European pastry techniques. These desserts made their appearance in Moscow's upscale cafes during the late 19th century and quickly became a staple for anyone with a sweet tooth.

Moscow, being a melting pot of cultures during the Tsarist times, saw chefs incorporating elements from different gastronomies. The rich cream used in Moscow Creamers is derived from the traditional Russian smetana, offering a comforting yet luxurious texture that pairs perfectly with a cup of Russian tea or coffee.

Ingredients

• All-purpose flour - 200 grams
• Unsalted butter - 100 grams
• Granulated sugar - 150 grams
• Vanilla extract - 1 teaspoon
• Eggs - 2 large
• Baking powder - 1 teaspoon
• Salt - 1/2 teaspoon
• Sour cream - 150 ml
• Cream cheese - 100 grams
• Powdered sugar - 50 grams
• Lemon zest - 1 tablespoon

Preparation

Prepare the Batter

Begin by sifting the flour, baking powder, and salt together in a large mixing bowl. Mix these dry ingredients thoroughly to ensure even distribution of the baking powder which will help in proper rising of the Moscow Creamers.

In a separate bowl, cream the butter and sugar together until light and fluffy. This process typically takes around 3-4 minutes using an electric mixer. Add the vanilla extract and eggs one at a time, ensuring each is well incorporated before the next addition. Slowly fold in the dry ingredients from the first mixing bowl, alternating with the sour cream, beginning and ending with the dry mixture.

Prepare the Filling

For the filling, beat the cream cheese with the powdered sugar until smooth and creamy. Stir in the lemon zest, which adds a hint of tartness to balance the rich creamy flavors. Set this filling aside for later use.

Cooking Process

Forming the Creamers

Preheat your oven to 180°C (350°F). Prepare a muffin tin by greasing it well or by lining with paper muffin liners. Spoon a small amount of the batter into each muffin cup, forming a base layer about 1.5 cm thick.

Add a tablespoon of the prepared cream cheese filling to the center of each base layer, ensuring it does not touch the sides of the cup. Cover the filling with additional batter until each muffin cup is 3/4 full.

Bake the Creamers

Place the muffin tin into the preheated oven and bake for approximately 20-25 minutes. Set a cooking timer to help monitor the baking time. The Moscow Creamers are done when they are golden brown on top and a toothpick inserted near the edge (not the center where the filling is) comes out clean.

Once baked, remove the tin from the oven and let the creamers cool in the tin for about 10 minutes before transferring them to a wire rack to cool completely.

Serving Suggestions

Once cooled, serve the Moscow Creamers on a beautiful platter. These can be enjoyed alone or with a light dusting of additional powdered sugar on top.

Pair your Moscow Creamers with a refreshing hot beverage, such as traditional Russian tea. The sweet creaminess of the creamer complements the robust flavors of a well-brewed tea, offering a complete sensory delight. These little darlings are perfect for teatime, serving as a delightful centerpiece for your gathering.