Chocolate and cranberry muffins

Chocolate and Cranberry Muffins

Who can resist a fluffy muffin with melted chocolate and a hint of cranberry? These muffins are not just a quick dessert, but a true delicacy that combines the sweetness of chocolate with the tartness of cranberries, creating an explosion of flavors in every bite. Plus, they are perfect for a sweet snack at breakfast or to be enjoyed alongside a cup of tea during a gathering with friends.

Preparation time: 15 minutes
Baking time: 20-25 minutes
Total time: 40 minutes
Servings: 12 muffins

Ingredients:
- 4 large eggs
- 20 tablespoons of sugar
- 20 tablespoons of flour
- 16 tablespoons of oil
- 16 tablespoons of milk
- 1 packet of baking powder
- Juice of one lemon
- 100 g dark chocolate
- 2 packets of vanilla sugar
- 1 tablespoon of brandy
- A handful of dried cranberries

To make the most delicious chocolate and cranberry muffins, follow the steps below and enjoy every moment of the cooking process.

Step 1: Preparing the cranberries

Start by preparing the cranberries. Place them in a small bowl with warm water and add a teaspoon of brandy. This will not only help hydrate the fruits but will also give them a subtle, rich flavor. Let them soak for about 15 minutes, then drain and gently dry them with a kitchen towel.

Step 2: Melting the chocolate

In a small saucepan, break the dark chocolate into pieces and place it over low heat. Stir constantly until it melts completely. Once melted, let it cool slightly. It is important not to add hot chocolate to the muffin mixture as it could cook the eggs.

Step 3: Mixing the dry ingredients

In a large bowl, combine the flour with the baking powder and add the lemon juice, sugar, and vanilla sugar. Mix the dry ingredients well to ensure the baking powder is evenly distributed.

Step 4: Preparing the wet mixture

In another bowl, beat the eggs well. Gradually add the oil while continuously mixing, just like making mayonnaise. This technique will help emulsify the ingredients and give the muffins a fluffy texture. Then, pour in the milk and melted chocolate, mixing until you obtain a homogeneous mixture.

Step 5: Combining the ingredients

Add the wet mixture over the dry ingredients. Mix gently but thoroughly to ensure there are no lumps. Finally, add the drained and dried cranberries, folding them in gently to integrate them into the mixture.

Step 6: Baking the muffins

Preheat the oven to 180 degrees Celsius. Fill the muffin tins with the obtained mixture, making sure to fill them halfway. Bake the muffins for 20-25 minutes or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean.

Step 7: Cooling and serving

After baking, let the muffins cool in the pan for a few minutes, then carefully remove them and let them cool completely on a wire rack.

These muffins are delicious both warm and cold, and can be served plain or with a chocolate glaze on top. A personal suggestion would be to serve them with a scoop of vanilla ice cream on the side for a warm-cold contrast that will delight your taste buds.

Nutritional benefits

These muffins contain dark chocolate, known for its rich antioxidant content. Cranberries are excellent for the immune system, being rich in vitamins and minerals. Additionally, the oil and eggs provide healthy fats and essential proteins.

Frequently asked questions

1. Can I use white chocolate instead of dark chocolate?
- Yes, white chocolate will provide a greater sweetness, but the final taste will be different.

2. What other fruits can I use instead of cranberries?
- You can experiment with blueberries, raspberries, or even apple pieces for another delicious flavor.

3. How can I make the muffins less sweet?
- Reduce the amount of sugar in the recipe and opt for dark chocolate with a high cocoa content.

4. Can I freeze the muffins?
- Absolutely! The muffins freeze very well. Make sure they are completely cooled before storing them in airtight containers.

5. What drinks can I serve with the muffins?
- These muffins pair perfectly with a fruit tea or a flavored coffee. A warm drink will enhance the sweet and fruity flavors.

These chocolate and cranberry muffins are an excellent choice for any occasion, bringing a touch of joy in every bite. Feel free to play with the ingredients and personalize the recipe to your taste. Enjoy!