These Chocolate Nut Muffins with Raisins are a deliciously indulgent treat that combines rich cocoa, crunchy almonds, walnuts, and chewy raisins, all in a perfectly baked muffin. With a light and fluffy texture, these muffins are a delightful snack for any time of the day—whether you need a quick breakfast or a comforting dessert. The addition of dark chocolate chunks enhances the flavor, giving each bite a burst of sweetness and richness. These muffins are simple to make and can be customized with your favorite mix-ins. Perfect for sharing with family and friends, these chocolatey treats are sure to become a favorite in your baking repertoire.
Ingredients
For the Batter:
- 1 egg
- 80g sugar
- 8g vanilla sugar
- Pinch of salt
- 50ml vegetable oil
- 100ml milk
- 20g bitter cocoa
- 120g flour
- 8g baking powder
For the Topping and Mix-ins:
- Almonds (to taste)
- Raisins (to taste)
- Walnuts (to taste)
- Dark chocolate chunks (to taste)
Directions
1. Prepare the Mold:
- Grease a muffin mold with butter and lightly flour it to prevent the muffins from sticking.
2. Prepare the Batter:
- In a mixing bowl, beat the egg until smooth. Add the sugar, vanilla sugar, and a pinch of salt, and mix well until the sugar is dissolved.
- Gradually add the vegetable oil and milk while mixing continuously to ensure a smooth batter.
- In a separate bowl, combine the flour, bitter cocoa, and baking powder.
- Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet ingredients, stirring gently until just combined. Be careful not to overmix, as this could affect the texture of the muffins.
3. Add Mix-ins:
- Stir in the almonds, raisins, walnuts, and dark chocolate chunks. You can adjust the quantities based on your personal preferences or add any other mix-ins you like.
4. Assemble the Muffins:
- Pour the batter into the prepared muffin mold, filling each cup about 2/3 full. This will allow space for the muffins to rise while baking.
5. Bake:
- Preheat the oven to 180°C (350°F).
- Bake the muffins for approximately 20 minutes or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean. Keep an eye on them toward the end to avoid overbaking.
6. Let Cool:
- Allow the muffins to cool in the mold for a few minutes before transferring them to a wire rack to cool completely. This helps them maintain their shape and prevents them from becoming soggy.
Serving Suggestions
- Enjoy with a hot beverage: These muffins pair wonderfully with coffee, tea, or hot chocolate, making them an excellent choice for breakfast or a cozy snack.
- Serve with a dollop of whipped cream: For an extra treat, serve them with whipped cream or a scoop of vanilla ice cream.
- Add fresh fruit: Serve with fresh berries or a slice of banana for a refreshing contrast to the rich chocolate flavor.
Tips
- Customize the mix-ins: Feel free to experiment with other nuts like pecans or hazelnuts, or try adding dried cranberries or coconut for different flavors.
- Use a spoon to add the batter: If you’re worried about overflowing, use a spoon to carefully fill each muffin cup rather than pouring directly from the bowl.
- Check doneness with a toothpick: If you’re unsure if the muffins are fully baked, insert a toothpick into the center. It should come out clean or with just a few moist crumbs.
Nutritional Benefits
While these muffins are a treat, they do offer some nutritional benefits, especially from the nuts and raisins. Almonds and walnuts provide healthy fats, protein, and fiber, while raisins contribute natural sweetness and are a good source of iron and antioxidants. Cocoa powder is rich in antioxidants and may help improve heart health. Though these muffins should be enjoyed in moderation, they offer a balance of flavor and nutrition that can make for a satisfying snack or breakfast.
Conclusion
Chocolate Nut Muffins with Raisins are an easy-to-make, indulgent treat that combines rich flavors and textures. Whether you enjoy them as a snack, breakfast, or dessert, these muffins will quickly become a favorite in your baking collection. With the addition of nuts, raisins, and dark chocolate chunks, every bite is packed with flavor, making these muffins perfect for any occasion.
Frequently Asked Questions
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Can I use different nuts in this recipe? Yes, you can substitute almonds or walnuts with other nuts like pecans, cashews, or hazelnuts for a unique flavor.
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Can I use milk chocolate instead of dark chocolate? Yes, feel free to use milk chocolate if you prefer a sweeter taste.
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How can I store the muffins? Store the muffins in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days. You can also freeze them for up to 1 month.
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Can I make these muffins without the raisins? Absolutely! If you don’t like raisins, you can leave them out or substitute with other dried fruits, such as cranberries or chopped apricots.
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Can I add a little spice to the batter? Yes, you can add a pinch of cinnamon, nutmeg, or even cardamom to enhance the flavor of the muffins.
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Can I make these muffins healthier? To make them healthier, you can use whole wheat flour instead of all-purpose flour, and reduce the sugar content by using a sugar substitute or natural sweeteners like honey or maple syrup.
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Can I make mini muffins with this recipe? Yes, you can make mini muffins by reducing the baking time. Bake them for about 12-15 minutes, checking for doneness with a toothpick.
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Can I use gluten-free flour for this recipe? Yes, you can use gluten-free flour blends, but be sure to check the consistency and adjust the baking time accordingly.
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Can I double the recipe? Yes, you can easily double the recipe to make more muffins. Just be sure to adjust the baking time if you’re using a larger batch.
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Can I make the batter ahead of time? Yes, you can prepare the batter and store it in the refrigerator for up to a day before baking. Let it come to room temperature before baking.