Indulge in the sweet, heavenly delight of triple chocolate muffins. These muffins are an absolute treat for all the chocolate lovers out there. Loaded with semi-sweet chocolate, cocoa powder, and adorable chocolate chips, they are rich, moist, and incredibly chocolatey. A great option for breakfast or a dessert, these muffins are sure to elevate your baking skills.
The ingredients required for this recipe are usually found in a well-stocked pantry. However, you may need to purchase semisweet chocolate and unsweetened natural cocoa powder, if not already available at home. Chocolate chips, another key ingredient, come in various types – milk, dark, semi-sweet, and white. For this recipe, any type can be used depending on your preference. When buying sour cream, make sure it is fresh and has a thick consistency.
Ingredients for Triple Chocolate Muffins
Semisweet chocolate: A type of dark chocolate that is less sweet than milk chocolate, it adds depth and richness to the muffins.
Unsalted butter: Gives the muffins their soft, moist texture.
Granulated sugar: Adds sweetness to balance the bitterness of the chocolate.
Eggs: Provides structure and helps the muffins rise.
Vanilla extract: Enhances the flavor of the other ingredients.
Sour cream: Adds moisture and helps create a tender crumb in the muffins.
All purpose flour: Forms the base of the muffin batter.
Unsweetened natural cocoa powder: Adds a deep chocolate flavor.
Baking soda: A leavening agent that helps the muffins rise.
Salt: Enhances the flavors of the other ingredients.
Chocolate chips: Adds texture and extra chocolatey goodness to every bite.
One reader, Arnaldo Gingerich says:
These triple chocolate muffins are a chocolate lover's dream! The combination of semisweet chocolate, cocoa powder, and chocolate chips creates a rich and decadent treat. The muffins are moist and fluffy, and the burst of chocolate in every bite is simply irresistible. A must-try for all chocolate enthusiasts!
Techniques for Baking Perfect Muffins
How to melt chocolate and butter: Coarsely chop the chocolate and place it in a medium heat-proof bowl along with the butter. Microwave on high in 10-second increments, whisking after each until completely smooth.
How to incorporate wet and dry ingredients: Whisk the flour, cocoa powder, baking soda, and salt together in a large bowl. Add the wet ingredients and fold to completely combine, ensuring there are no flour spots at the bottom of the bowl.
How to check for doneness: Insert a toothpick into the center of the muffins to check for doneness. If it comes out clean, the muffins are ready.
How To Make Triple Chocolate Muffins
Start the day right with these triple chocolate muffins! These sweets are made with chocolate bars, cocoa powder, and chocolate chips for a luscious bite.
Serves:
Ingredients
- 4ozsemisweet chocolate,(1 bar)
- ½cupunsalted butter,(1 stick)
- ¾cupgranulated sugar
- 2large eggs,at room temperature
- 1tsppure vanilla extract
- ⅓cupsour cream,or plain yogurt, at room temperature
- ½cupall purpose flour,spoon and leveled
- ⅓cupunsweetened natural cocoa powder
- ½tspbaking soda
- ¼tspsalt
- 1cupchocolate chips,heaping, semisweet or dark, mini size works too
Instructions
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Preheat oven to 425 degrees F. Spray a 12-count muffin pan with nonstick spray or line with cupcake liners. Set aside.
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Coarsely chop the chocolate. Place in a medium heat-proof bowl along with the butter. Microwave on high in 10 second increments, whisking after each until completely smooth. Whisk in the sugar, eggs, vanilla, and sour cream. Set aside.
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Whisk the flour, cocoa powder, baking soda, and salt together in a large bowl. Add the wet ingredients and fold to completely combine. Make sure there are no flour spots at the bottom of the bowl. Fold in the chocolate chips. Batter will be thick.
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Spoon the batter evenly into each cup or liner, filling each all the way to the top. Bake the muffins for 5 minutes in the preheated oven then, keeping the muffins in the oven, reduce the oven temperature to 350 degrees F.
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Bake for an additional 15 to 17 minutes or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean. Allow the muffins to cool for 5 minutes in the muffin pan, then transfer to a wire rack to continue cooling.
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Serve and enjoy.
Nutrition
- Calories: 304.92kcal
- Fat: 17.30g
- Saturated Fat: 10.43g
- Trans Fat: 0.35g
- Monounsaturated Fat: 3.67g
- Polyunsaturated Fat: 0.62g
- Carbohydrates: 36.96g
- Fiber: 2.09g
- Sugar: 29.62g
- Protein: 3.55g
- Cholesterol: 57.46mg
- Sodium: 131.26mg
- Calcium: 42.67mg
- Potassium: 100.03mg
- Iron: 1.26mg
- Vitamin A: 89.27µg
- Vitamin C: 0.17mg
Key Technique for Achieving Moist and Fluffy Muffins
To ensure your triple chocolate muffins have a moist and tender crumb, avoid overmixing the batter. Overmixing can lead to a tough texture as it develops the gluten in the flour. Just mix until the dry ingredients are incorporated into the wet ingredients, and no more. Also, when folding in the chocolate chips, be gentle to prevent deflating the batter.
Time-Saving Tips for Making Triple Chocolate Muffins
Prep ahead: Prepare the dry and wet ingredients the night before and store them separately. This will save time on the day of baking. Use a food processor: Utilize a food processor to quickly chop and mix ingredients such as chocolate and butter, saving time and effort. Organize ingredients: Before starting, organize all ingredients and equipment to streamline the baking process and minimize time spent searching for items. One-bowl method: Opt for recipes that use the one-bowl method to minimize cleanup and save time on washing multiple dishes. Set up a baking station: Designate a specific area for baking with all necessary tools and ingredients to avoid time-consuming trips back and forth in the kitchen.
Substitute Ingredients For Triple Chocolate Muffins Recipe
Semisweet chocolate - Substitute with bittersweet chocolate: Bittersweet chocolate has a slightly higher cocoa content and less sugar, which can provide a deeper chocolate flavor to the muffins.
Unsalted butter - Substitute with margarine: Margarine can be used as a substitute for unsalted butter in baking, providing a similar fat content and texture to the muffins.
Granulated sugar - Substitute with coconut sugar: Coconut sugar can be used as a natural alternative to granulated sugar, adding a hint of caramel flavor to the muffins.
Large eggs - Substitute with applesauce: Applesauce can be used as a vegan-friendly substitute for eggs, adding moisture and binding the ingredients together in the muffins.
Sour cream - Substitute with Greek yogurt: Greek yogurt can be used as a substitute for sour cream, providing a similar tangy flavor and moisture to the muffins.
All purpose flour - Substitute with whole wheat flour: Whole wheat flour can be used to add a nutty flavor and extra fiber to the muffins, making them a bit healthier.
Unsweetened natural cocoa powder - Substitute with Dutch-processed cocoa powder: Dutch-processed cocoa powder has a smoother flavor and darker color, which can enhance the richness of the chocolate muffins.
Baking soda - Substitute with baking powder: Baking powder can be used as a substitute for baking soda, providing the necessary leavening agent for the muffins.
Chocolate chips - Substitute with chopped nuts: Chopped nuts can be used as a crunchy and flavorful alternative to chocolate chips, adding a different texture to the muffins.
Presentation Ideas for Triple Chocolate Muffins
Elevate the plating: When presenting the triple chocolate muffins, consider using a minimalist approach to plating. Opt for a sleek, white plate to allow the rich, dark color of the muffins to stand out. The contrast will create a visually striking presentation that emphasizes the indulgent nature of the dessert.
Garnish with elegance: Add a touch of sophistication to the presentation by garnishing the muffins with a dusting of cocoa powder and a sprinkle of edible gold flakes. This subtle yet luxurious touch will elevate the visual appeal and convey a sense of refinement.
Incorporate texture: Introduce a textural element to the plating by serving the muffins alongside a quenelle of silky chocolate ganache. The smooth, glossy ganache will provide a luscious contrast to the tender crumb of the muffins, creating a delightful sensory experience.
Artful drizzle: Enhance the presentation with an artful drizzle of chocolate sauce on the plate. Use a piping bag to create elegant, sweeping lines that not only add visual interest but also offer a hint of indulgence, enticing the diners with the promise of decadent chocolate flavor.
Accompany with a palate cleanser: To complement the richness of the triple chocolate muffins, consider serving them with a refreshing palate cleanser, such as a quenelle of tangy raspberry sorbet. This thoughtful addition will balance the dessert and leave a lasting impression on the discerning palates of the judges.
Essential Tools for Making Muffins
Mixing bowl: A mixing bowl is essential for combining ingredients and mixing the batter for the muffins.
Muffin pan: A muffin pan is used to bake the muffins and ensures they hold their shape while baking.
Whisk: A whisk is used to thoroughly combine the wet ingredients and create a smooth batter.
Medium heat-proof bowl: This bowl is used for melting the chocolate and butter in the microwave.
Spatula: A spatula is useful for folding in the chocolate chips and transferring the batter into the muffin pan.
Oven: The oven is used for baking the muffins at the specified temperature.
Storage and Freezing Instructions for Triple Chocolate Muffins
- Allow the muffins to cool completely before storing to prevent condensation from forming and making them soggy.
- Store the cooled muffins in an airtight container or resealable plastic bag at room temperature for up to 3 days.
- To keep the muffins fresh for longer, store them in the refrigerator for up to 1 week. Let them come to room temperature or warm them slightly in the microwave before serving.
- For longer storage, freeze the muffins:
- Wrap each muffin individually in plastic wrap or aluminum foil, ensuring a tight seal.
- Place the wrapped muffins in a freezer-safe container or resealable plastic bag, removing as much air as possible.
- Label the container or bag with the date and contents for easy reference.
- Freeze the muffins for up to 3 months.
- To thaw frozen muffins:
- Remove the desired number of muffins from the freezer and let them thaw at room temperature for about an hour.
- Alternatively, unwrap the frozen muffins and microwave them on high for 30-45 seconds or until warmed through.
- Refrain from refreezing previously frozen muffins, as this may affect their texture and quality.
How To Reheat Leftover Muffins
The best way to reheat leftover triple chocolate muffins is to warm them up in the oven. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and place the muffins on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper. Bake for 5-7 minutes, or until they are heated through and the chocolate chips are melted and gooey.
Another option is to use the microwave. Place the muffin on a microwave-safe plate and heat it on high for 15-20 seconds. Be careful not to overheat the muffin, as it can become rubbery or dry out quickly. If the muffin is not warm enough after 20 seconds, continue to heat it in 10-second intervals until it reaches your desired temperature.
For a crispy exterior, you can also reheat the muffins in a toaster oven. Cut the muffin in half and place it cut-side up on the toaster oven rack. Toast for 2-3 minutes, or until the edges are crispy and the inside is warm and soft.
If you want to add some extra flavor to your reheated muffins, try slicing them in half and spreading a little butter or cream cheese on the inside before warming them up. You can also sprinkle some extra chocolate chips or cocoa powder on top for an extra chocolatey kick.
Lastly, if you have an air fryer, you can use it to reheat your muffins. Preheat the air fryer to 350°F (175°C) and place the muffins in the basket. Cook for 2-3 minutes, or until they are heated through and the tops are slightly crispy. This method is quick and easy, and it helps to restore some of the original texture of the muffins.
Interesting Trivia About Chocolate Muffins
Triple chocolate muffins are a delicious treat that can be enjoyed any time of day. They are a great way to satisfy a chocolate craving and can be a fun baking project for kids and adults alike.
Is Making Triple Chocolate Muffins at Home Cost-Effective?
The cost-effectiveness of this triple chocolate muffins recipe largely depends on the availability and cost of ingredients. While chocolate and butter can be pricier, the recipe yields a dozen muffins, making it suitable for a family. The approximate cost for a household of 4 people would be around $10-$15. The indulgent nature of this dessert may not make it a regular household treat, but it's a delightful occasional indulgence. Overall Verdict: 8/10
Are Triple Chocolate Muffins Healthy or Unhealthy?
This triple chocolate muffin recipe is undeniably delicious but, from a nutritional standpoint, it falls into the unhealthy category. The main culprits are the high amounts of sugar, butter, and chocolate, which contribute to excessive calories, saturated fat, and added sugars. While the recipe does include some beneficial ingredients like eggs and sour cream, which provide protein and calcium, respectively, the overall nutritional balance is skewed towards the indulgent side.
To make this recipe healthier without compromising too much on taste, consider the following suggestions:
- Reduce the amount of sugar by 1/4 to 1/3 cup and replace it with natural sweeteners like applesauce or mashed bananas
- Swap out half of the all-purpose flour with whole wheat flour or oat flour for added fiber and nutrients
- Use dark chocolate (70% or higher) instead of semisweet chocolate for a richer flavor and potential health benefits
- Replace half of the butter with Greek yogurt or mashed avocado for a healthier fat profile
- Add in some grated zucchini or carrots for extra moisture and hidden vegetables
- Reduce the number of chocolate chips or use a sugar-free variety to cut back on added sugars
Editor's Opinion on This Decadent Muffin Recipe
The triple chocolate muffins recipe is a decadent delight, combining rich semisweet chocolate, cocoa powder, and chocolate chips for an indulgent treat. The addition of sour cream adds a moist and tender crumb, while the high initial baking temperature creates a beautiful domed top. The balance of sweetness and deep chocolate flavor makes these muffins a perfect choice for any chocolate lover. Enjoy these muffins as a delightful dessert or a special breakfast treat.
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Why trust this Triple Chocolate Muffins Recipe:
This recipe guarantees a decadent treat with triple chocolate goodness. The use of high-quality semisweet chocolate and cocoa powder ensures rich and indulgent flavor. The addition of sour cream creates a moist and tender crumb, while the chocolate chips provide delightful bursts of sweetness. The meticulous instructions and precise measurements guarantee a perfect outcome, earning the trust of home bakers. With a balance of flavors and textures, this recipe promises to satisfy any chocolate lover's cravings.
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