Welcome to the delightful world of Festive Peppermint Chocolate Chunk Muffins! If you’re a fan of rich chocolate flavor paired with the refreshing taste of peppermint, this recipe is sure to become a holiday favorite. These Peppermint Chocolate Chunk Muffins are not only a treat for the taste buds but also visually festive, with peppermint candies adding a pop of color to every muffin. Whether you’re preparing for a holiday gathering or looking for a cozy treat to enjoy by the fireplace, these muffins are the perfect choice. Let’s dive in and bring the flavors of the season right to your kitchen!
Introduction
Festive Peppermint Chocolate Chunk Muffins bring together the classic holiday flavors of chocolate and peppermint in a delightful, fluffy muffin. Originating as a twist on traditional chocolate chunk muffins, these treats capture the holiday spirit with crushed peppermint candy bits and generous chocolate chunks. This recipe is perfect for winter gatherings, adding a touch of festive charm to any occasion. The combination of smooth chocolate and refreshing peppermint is truly irresistible, making these muffins a must-try for anyone who enjoys holiday baking.
Ingredients for Festive Peppermint Chocolate Chunk Muffins
Here’s a list of everything you need to whip up these Peppermint Chocolate Chunk Muffins. This recipe is simple and uses easily accessible ingredients:
- 1 ¾ cups all-purpose flour
- ¾ cup granulated sugar
- 1 tsp baking powder
- ½ tsp baking soda
- ¼ tsp salt
- ½ cup unsalted butter, melted and cooled
- 2 large eggs
- 1 tsp vanilla extract
- ½ cup buttermilk
- 1 cup chocolate chunks (semi-sweet or dark)
- ½ cup crushed peppermint candies, plus extra for topping
Optional Substitutions:
- For a dairy-free version, substitute the butter with coconut oil and use almond milk with a tablespoon of lemon juice as a buttermilk replacement.
- Use gluten-free all-purpose flour if you need a gluten-free option.
How to Make Festive Peppermint Chocolate Chunk Muffins – Step by Step
Follow this easy, step-by-step guide to make these Festive Peppermint Chocolate Chunk Muffins:
Step 1: Preheat and Prepare the Oven
Begin by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C) and line a muffin tin with paper liners. This will ensure your muffins bake evenly and are easy to remove.
Step 2: Combine the Dry Ingredients
In a large mixing bowl, whisk together the flour, sugar, baking powder, baking soda, and salt. Mixing these ingredients thoroughly will help the muffins rise evenly.
Step 3: Mix the Wet Ingredients
In a separate bowl, combine the melted butter, eggs, vanilla extract, and buttermilk. Be sure the butter has cooled slightly before adding it to prevent curdling with the eggs.
Step 4: Combine Wet and Dry Ingredients
Pour the wet ingredients into the bowl with the dry ingredients. Gently mix until just combined; overmixing can result in a dense muffin texture.
Step 5: Add the Chocolate Chunks and Peppermint Candies
Fold in the chocolate chunks and crushed peppermint candies until evenly distributed throughout the batter. This will ensure every bite has a mix of chocolatey and peppermint goodness.
Step 6: Fill the Muffin Cups
Divide the batter evenly among the muffin cups, filling each about ¾ of the way full. Sprinkle additional crushed peppermint candies on top of each muffin to add a festive touch.
Step 7: Bake and Cool
Bake in the preheated oven for 18-20 minutes or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean. Allow the muffins to cool in the pan for 5 minutes, then transfer them to a wire rack to cool completely.
Helpful Tips for Festive Peppermint Chocolate Chunk Muffins
- Room Temperature Ingredients: Ensure your butter, eggs, and buttermilk are at room temperature. This helps achieve a smoother batter and fluffier muffin texture.
- Avoid Overmixing: Mix the batter until the ingredients are just combined. Overmixing can lead to tough muffins.
- Even Muffin Sizes: Use an ice cream scoop to portion out the batter evenly. This ensures all muffins bake at the same rate.
Cooking Tips for the Best Festive Peppermint Chocolate Chunk Muffins
- Chocolate Variations: Try using dark chocolate chunks for a more intense flavor or white chocolate for a sweeter twist.
- Peppermint Strength: For a stronger peppermint flavor, add a few drops of peppermint extract to the wet ingredients.
- Perfect Muffin Tops: Bake the muffins at a slightly higher temperature (375°F) for the first 5 minutes, then reduce to 350°F. This will give you nicely domed muffin tops.
Serving Suggestions for Festive Peppermint Chocolate Chunk Muffins
Pair these Festive Peppermint Chocolate Chunk Muffins with a warm mug of hot chocolate or peppermint tea for a cozy winter treat. These muffins also make a lovely addition to a holiday brunch spread, alongside savory breakfast items and fresh fruit. For an extra festive touch, drizzle the muffins with melted chocolate and sprinkle with crushed peppermint before serving.
Nutritional Information
These Peppermint Chocolate Chunk Muffins offer a delicious balance of indulgence and comfort. The peppermint brings a fresh touch, while the chocolate provides a satisfying richness.
Nutritional Information (Per Serving)
- Calories: 280 kcal
- Total Fat: 13g
- Saturated Fat: 8g
- Cholesterol: 50mg
- Sodium: 150mg
- Total Carbohydrates: 35g
- Dietary Fiber: 2g
- Sugars: 15g
- Protein: 4g
Storage and Leftovers for Festive Peppermint Chocolate Chunk Muffins
To keep your muffins fresh:
- Room Temperature: Store in an airtight container for up to 2 days.
- Refrigerator: Store for up to 5 days for prolonged freshness.
- Freezing: Wrap muffins individually in plastic wrap and freeze for up to 3 months. Thaw at room temperature or reheat in the microwave for a few seconds.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs) for Festive Peppermint Chocolate Chunk Muffins
1. Can I use peppermint extract instead of peppermint candies?
Yes! Add about ½ teaspoon of peppermint extract to the wet ingredients for a stronger minty flavor.
2. Can I make these muffins dairy-free?
Absolutely. Substitute butter with coconut oil and buttermilk with almond milk and lemon juice for a dairy-free option.
3. Can I use mini chocolate chips instead of chunks?
Yes, mini chocolate chips work well and will distribute more evenly throughout the muffins.
4. How do I prevent the peppermint candies from melting?
If you’re concerned about candy melt, place crushed peppermint only on top of the muffins, or sprinkle after baking for a decorative touch.
Related Recipes for Festive Muffin Lovers
Explore these festive variations to add even more seasonal flavors to your baking lineup:
Gingerbread Cupcakes with Creamy Cinnamon Frosting
S’mores Cupcakes: Decadent Marshmallow Surprise Treat
Conclusion
Thank you for joining us on this festive baking journey! These Peppermint Chocolate Chunk Muffins are a seasonal delight that combines the richness of chocolate with the refreshing taste of peppermint. Perfect for holiday gatherings or as a treat by the fireplace, these muffins are sure to be a hit. Try out the recipe, share it with loved ones, and don’t forget to let us know your thoughts in the comments below. Enjoy your holiday baking and happy holidays!
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Peppermint Chocolate Chunk Muffins: Festive Treat
Description
Welcome to the delightful world of Festive Peppermint Chocolate Chunk Muffins! If you’re a fan of rich chocolate flavor paired with the refreshing taste of peppermint, this recipe is sure to become a holiday favorite. These Peppermint Chocolate Chunk Muffins are not only a treat for the taste buds but also visually festive, with peppermint candies adding a pop of color to every muffin. Whether you’re preparing for a holiday gathering or looking for a cozy treat to enjoy by the fireplace, these muffins are the perfect choice. Let’s dive in and bring the flavors of the season right to your kitchen!
Ingredients
- 1 ¾ cups all-purpose flour
- ¾ cup granulated sugar
- 1 tsp baking powder
- ½ tsp baking soda
- ¼ tsp salt
- ½ cup unsalted butter, melted and cooled
- 2 large eggs
- 1 tsp vanilla extract
- ½ cup buttermilk
- 1 cup chocolate chunks (semi-sweet or dark)
- ½ cup crushed peppermint candies, plus extra for topping
Optional Substitutions:
- For a dairy-free version, substitute the butter with coconut oil and use almond milk with a tablespoon of lemon juice as a buttermilk replacement.
- Use gluten-free all-purpose flour if you need a gluten-free option.
Instructions
Step 1: Preheat and Prepare the Oven
Begin by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C) and line a muffin tin with paper liners. This will ensure your muffins bake evenly and are easy to remove.
Step 2: Combine the Dry Ingredients
In a large mixing bowl, whisk together the flour, sugar, baking powder, baking soda, and salt. Mixing these ingredients thoroughly will help the muffins rise evenly.
Step 3: Mix the Wet Ingredients
In a separate bowl, combine the melted butter, eggs, vanilla extract, and buttermilk. Be sure the butter has cooled slightly before adding it to prevent curdling with the eggs.
Step 4: Combine Wet and Dry Ingredients
Pour the wet ingredients into the bowl with the dry ingredients. Gently mix until just combined; overmixing can result in a dense muffin texture.
Step 5: Add the Chocolate Chunks and Peppermint Candies
Fold in the chocolate chunks and crushed peppermint candies until evenly distributed throughout the batter. This will ensure every bite has a mix of chocolatey and peppermint goodness.
Step 6: Fill the Muffin Cups
Divide the batter evenly among the muffin cups, filling each about ¾ of the way full. Sprinkle additional crushed peppermint candies on top of each muffin to add a festive touch.
Step 7: Bake and Cool
Bake in the preheated oven for 18-20 minutes or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean. Allow the muffins to cool in the pan for 5 minutes, then transfer them to a wire rack to cool completely.
Equipment
2Pcs Heart Shape Cake Pans, Aluminum Heart Cake Mold, Reusable 10 inch
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Kids Chill Leak-Proof Lunch Box – Included Reusable Ice Pack Keeps Food Cold
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- Room Temperature Ingredients: Ensure your butter, eggs, and buttermilk are at room temperature. This helps achieve a smoother batter and fluffier muffin texture.
- Avoid Overmixing: Mix the batter until the ingredients are just combined. Overmixing can lead to tough muffins.
- Even Muffin Sizes: Use an ice cream scoop to portion out the batter evenly. This ensures all muffins bake at the same rate.
