Muffins with nuts and chocolate - vegan

Enjoy a sweet and fluffy treat – vegan hazelnut and chocolate muffins! This recipe is not only simple and quick, but it also offers a unique culinary experience, perfect for your mornings, whether you enjoy them alongside a fragrant coffee or a comforting tea. Additionally, it's an excellent choice for those following a vegan diet, without compromising on taste.

The history of muffins is fascinating, with origins dating back to centuries ago when these pastries were considered delicacies reserved for special occasions. Over time, recipes have diversified, giving rise to numerous variations. If you are a cooking enthusiast, get ready to impress your family and friends with this vegan version that brings a touch of joy in every bite.

Preparation time: 15 minutes
Baking time: 30-35 minutes
Total time: 50 minutes
Number of servings: 12 muffins

Ingredients
- 100 ml oil (preferably sunflower oil or light olive oil)
- 1 cup sugar (approximately 250 ml)
- 1 cup sparkling water (for an extra fizz)
- 1 tablespoon vinegar (preferably apple cider vinegar)
- 2 cups flour (approximately 250 g)
- 1 teaspoon baking soda
- 1/2 teaspoon baking powder
- a pinch of salt
- 50 g raw hazelnuts (unroasted)
- 100 g vegan chocolate (coating), cut into cubes
- grated zest of one orange (for a fresh taste)

Preparation
1. Preheat the oven: Start by preheating the oven to 180 degrees Celsius (medium heat). This step is essential to ensure that the muffins rise evenly.

2. Mix the wet ingredients: In a large bowl, combine the oil with the sugar. Use a whisk or fork to mix well until the sugar slightly dissolves. Then add the sparkling water and vinegar. Continue mixing until the mixture is smooth.

3. Add the flavors: Incorporate the grated orange zest into the wet mixture. This will add a wonderful fragrance and a pleasant citrus note to your muffins.

4. Combine the dry ingredients: In another bowl, mix the flour with the salt, baking soda, and baking powder. This will help evenly distribute the leavening agents in the batter.

5. Incorporate the ingredients: Gradually add the flour mixture to the wet composition, gently mixing with a spatula or whisk until a smooth batter forms. Do not overmix to avoid dense muffins.

6. Prepare the muffin cups: Place paper liners in the muffin tray. Use a spoon to fill each liner with batter, leaving about 1/4 of the liner empty to allow the muffins to rise.

7. Add the filling: Place 3 whole hazelnuts and a few pieces of chocolate in each liner, then fill with batter up to 3/4 of the height of the liner. Sprinkle a few pieces of chocolate on top for an appetizing look.

8. Bake the muffins: Place the tray in the preheated oven and bake for 30-35 minutes. You can check if they are done by doing the toothpick test: if it comes out clean, the muffins are ready!

9. Cool and serve: Once the muffins are baked, let them cool in the tray for 5-10 minutes, then transfer them to a wire rack to cool completely. These delicious muffins are perfect served warm, but they are just as tasty at room temperature.

Serving suggestions
To add extra flavor, you can serve the muffins with a vegan chocolate glaze or a berry sauce. They pair perfectly with a fragrant coffee or herbal tea, making them an excellent choice for breakfast or a snack.

Variations and tips
- Other nuts: You can replace hazelnuts with walnuts, almonds, or pistachios, depending on your preferences.
- Chocolate: Experiment with different types of chocolate (dark, milk, or white) to achieve diverse flavors.
- Flavors: Add a pinch of cinnamon or vanilla for an extra flavor boost.

Nutritional benefits
These muffins are an excellent choice for those looking to reduce their intake of animal products. Hazelnuts are rich in protein, healthy fats, and fiber, while dark chocolate brings essential antioxidants. Additionally, whole wheat flour can be used instead of white flour to increase the nutrient content.

Frequently asked questions
1. Can I use other types of flour?
Yes, you can experiment with whole wheat or gluten-free flour, but make sure to adjust the liquid quantities.

2. How can I keep the muffins fresh longer?
Store the muffins in an airtight container at room temperature. If you want them to stay fresh for longer, you can freeze them.

3. What can I do with leftover batter?
If you have leftover batter, you can use it to make cookies or pancakes.

In conclusion, these vegan hazelnut and chocolate muffins are a simple and quick treat to prepare that will surely become your favorite. Enjoy every bite and savor your culinary indulgence! Bon appétit!