M&M Muffins

Muffins with M&M: An explosion of flavor and color for unforgettable moments

Preparation time: 15 minutes
Baking time: 30 minutes
Total time: 45 minutes
Number of servings: 12 muffins

Who doesn't love muffins? These fluffy and flavorful delights are perfect for a quick snack, a savory breakfast, or a colorful dessert. M&M muffins are a true feast, not just for the taste buds but also for the eyes, thanks to the colorful candies that envelop them. Plus, they are easy to prepare and will bring a smile to anyone who enjoys them.

A bit of history: Muffins have a long tradition in kitchens around the world, with roots that go back in time. From British muffins to American ones, each culture has adapted recipes to the available ingredients, giving rise to various versions. The combination with chocolate and M&Ms is a modern innovation that transforms a classic recipe into an attractive and irresistible dessert.

Here’s how you can treat your family or friends to these delicious muffins.

Ingredients
- 100 g milk chocolate (for a creamy texture and sweet taste)
- 100 g sugar (you can adjust the amount according to your preferences)
- 50 g butter (make sure it’s at room temperature)
- 150 ml milk (you can use almond milk for a vegan option)
- 2 eggs (at room temperature for better emulsification)
- 2 tablespoons ground walnuts (adds a crunchy note and special flavor)
- 1 teaspoon baking powder (to make them fluffy)
- Flour as needed (about 150 g; add gradually until you get a batter slightly thicker than pancake batter)
- M&Ms (for decoration and a splash of joy)

Step-by-Step Instructions

1. Prepare the ingredients: Make sure you have all the ingredients at hand. It’s important to prepare everything before you start cooking to avoid any hassle.

2. Beat the eggs: In a large bowl, beat the eggs with a pinch of salt. Use an electric mixer to achieve a frothy mixture. Continue mixing until the volume of the eggs doubles and they become slightly pale.

3. Add the sugar: While continuing to mix, gradually add the sugar. This will help create an airy texture and enhance the flavor of the muffins.

4. Melt the chocolate: In another bowl, melt the chocolate together with the butter and milk. You can do this in a double boiler or in the microwave, making sure not to burn it. Once the chocolate has melted, let it cool slightly.

5. Combine the ingredients: Add the cooled chocolate mixture to the beaten eggs and mix with a spatula. Make sure there are no lumps.

6. Adding the dry ingredients: In another bowl, mix the flour with the baking powder and ground walnuts. Start gradually adding the dry ingredient mixture to the wet one, mixing carefully to avoid developing gluten.

7. Fill the muffin cups: Preheat the oven to 180 degrees Celsius. Fill the muffin cups up to 2/3 full (leave room for rising). You can use silicone or metal muffin pans, but make sure to grease them with a little butter or cooking spray to prevent sticking.

8. Baking: Place the pans in the oven and bake for about 30 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean. This step is essential to ensure the muffins are baked evenly.

9. Cooling and decorating: After removing them from the oven, let them cool in the pans for 5-10 minutes, then transfer them to a wire rack. Once completely cooled, brush them with a little honey for a shiny appearance and sprinkle M&Ms on top.

Serving and ideal combinations
These M&M muffins are excellent served warm, alongside a glass of cold milk or a cup of hot chocolate. You can also offer them as dessert alongside vanilla ice cream or a dollop of whipped cream for an extra treat.

Useful tips
- Variations: You can experiment with different types of chocolate (dark or white) or even with other types of sweets, such as nuts or raisins, instead of M&Ms.
- Calories and nutritional benefits: Each muffin has about 180-200 calories, depending on the ingredients used. Nuts provide a good source of protein and healthy fats, while chocolate can contribute to a sense of well-being due to its antioxidant content.

Frequently asked questions
- Can I use whole wheat flour? Yes, but keep in mind that the texture will be slightly different, and the muffins will be denser.
- How can I store them? Keep the muffins in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days, or you can freeze them to keep them longer.

These M&M muffins are not just a simple recipe, but also a wonderful way to share pleasant moments with loved ones. Experiment, adapt, and most importantly, enjoy every bite!