Chocolate muffins

Chocolate Muffins – A Delight That Brings a Smile to Your Face

Who doesn’t love a sweet snack that brightens up your day? Chocolate muffins are not just a quick dessert, but also a perfect choice for breakfast or a coffee break. These fluffy treats are easy to make and can be easily adapted to your preferences. I invite you to discover this delicious recipe that will bring you not only satisfaction but also beautiful memories.

Total preparation time: 45 minutes
- Preparation time: 15 minutes
- Baking time: 30 minutes
- Servings: 10-12 muffins

Necessary ingredients

- 260 g flour
- 1/2 packet of baking powder (about 7 g)
- 2 tablespoons cocoa powder
- 150 g sugar
- 2 whole eggs
- 250 ml milk
- 80 g grated dark chocolate
- 80 ml sunflower oil
- Butter for greasing the molds

Necessary utensils

- Large mixing bowl
- Small bowl
- Wooden spoon
- Muffin tray
- Muffin molds (or cupcake liners)

Step-by-step instructions

1. Preheat the oven: Start by preheating the oven to 180°C. This step is crucial for achieving fluffy and evenly baked muffins.

2. Mixing dry ingredients: In a large bowl, sift together the flour, cocoa powder, baking powder, and sugar. Sifting the ingredients not only helps to combine them but also eliminates any lumps, ensuring a smooth texture.

3. Preparing the wet mixture: In a small bowl, beat the eggs together with the milk and sunflower oil. The oil adds moisture to the muffins, making them softer and tastier. Ensure that the mixture is well combined.

4. Combining ingredients: Add the wet mixture to the bowl with the dry ingredients. Use a wooden spoon to mix everything together, being careful not to form lumps. Gentle mixing is key to achieving fluffy muffins.

5. Adding the chocolate: Now is the time to add the grated dark chocolate. It will melt during baking, providing an explosion of flavor in every bite. Stir gently to evenly distribute the chocolate throughout the batter.

6. Preparing the molds: Grease the muffin molds with butter and dust them with flour. This method will prevent the muffins from sticking, ensuring a perfect result.

7. Filling the molds: Pour the batter into the molds, leaving a little space at the top, as the muffins will rise during baking. Make sure to distribute the batter evenly to achieve muffins of equal size.

8. Baking: Place the tray in the preheated oven and bake for about 30 minutes. Check if they are done by inserting a toothpick into the center of a muffin; if it comes out clean, the muffins are ready.

9. Cooling and serving: Let the muffins cool in the tray for 5-10 minutes, then transfer them to a cooling rack. Once completely cooled, dust them with sugar. This detail not only makes them look more appetizing but also adds a touch of sweetness.

Useful tips

- Delicious variations: You can replace dark chocolate with milk chocolate or even white chocolate chips for a sweeter option. Additionally, adding nuts, hazelnuts, or dried fruits can diversify the recipe.
- Keeping them fresh: Muffins store very well in an airtight container for a few days. If you want to keep them longer, you can freeze them. This way, you can enjoy them anytime.

Nutritional benefits

These chocolate muffins are not only delicious but also offer some nutritional benefits. Cocoa contains antioxidants that can contribute to heart health, and eggs provide quality protein. However, it is good to know that they are also an indulgent dessert, so enjoy them in moderation.

Serving

These muffins are perfect to be enjoyed alongside a cup of coffee or a cappuccino. You can also try serving them with a dollop of cream or a fruit sauce for an extra burst of flavor.

Frequently asked questions

- Can I use whole wheat flour?
Yes, you can replace part of the flour with whole wheat flour to add fiber, but make sure to adjust the liquid amounts, as whole wheat flour absorbs more moisture.

- What else can I add to the batter?
You can experiment with spices like cinnamon or vanilla to add another layer of flavor. Additionally, you can add pieces of fresh fruit, such as raspberries or bananas, for an interesting texture.

- Can muffins be made without eggs?
Yes, you can use an egg substitute, such as mashed banana or a mixture of chia seeds with water, to create a vegan alternative.

I wish you much inspiration in the kitchen and hope you enjoy every delicious bite! These chocolate muffins are more than just a simple dessert; they are an invitation to unforgettable moments with loved ones. Prepare them with love and enjoy the delicious outcome!