Double Chocolate Espresso Muffins

A rich, perfectly moist, and super chocolaty muffin that bakes up in minutes, Double Chocolate Espresso Muffins are the perfect wake-up call any day of the week. They combine the bold flavor of espresso with decadent chocolate, making them a delightful treat for breakfast or dessert. Whether you’re hosting brunch or simply indulging yourself, these muffins will impress everyone with their luscious texture and deep cocoa flavor.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Quick to Make – With a total time of just 33 minutes, these muffins can be prepared in a flash.
• Rich Flavor – The combination of double chocolate and espresso creates a taste experience that’s both unique and satisfying.
• Perfectly Moist – Thanks to ingredients like buttermilk and melted butter, every bite is tender and moist.
• Versatile Treat – Enjoy them at breakfast, as an afternoon snack, or even as dessert; they’re great for any occasion.
• Easy to Customize – Feel free to experiment with different types of chocolate chips or other mix-ins for added flavor.

Tools and Preparation

Before you start baking your Double Chocolate Espresso Muffins, gather your tools. Having everything ready will make the process smooth and enjoyable.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Muffin tins
• Paper liners
• Mixing bowls
• Whisk
• Wooden spoon or spatula
• Measuring cups and spoons
• Ice cream scoop
• Wire rack for cooling

Importance of Each Tool

• Muffin tins – Ensure even baking and give your muffins the perfect shape.
• Mixing bowls – Provide ample space for combining dry and wet ingredients without spilling.
• Whisk – Helps incorporate air into the batter, resulting in light and fluffy muffins.
• Ice cream scoop – Allows for easy portioning of batter into muffin tins, ensuring consistent sizes.

REMEMBER

WANT TO SAVE THIS RECIPE? CLICK BELOW AND PIN IT

PIN

Ingredients

A rich, perfectly moist, and super chocolaty muffin that bakes up in minutes. These double chocolate espresso muffins are the perfect wake-up call any day of the week.

For the Muffins

• 1 1/2 cups all-purpose flour, spooned and leveled
• 1/2 cup unsweetened cocoa powder, sifted (Dutch process recommended)
• 3/4 tsp baking soda
• 1 tsp baking powder
• 1/2 tsp kosher salt
• 3 TBSP freshly brewed espresso, cooled slightly
• 1 1/2 tsp vanilla extract
• 3/4 cup granulated sugar
• 2 large eggs, room temperature
• 1 cup low-fat buttermilk, room temperature and stirred with a fork
• 8 TBSP (1 stick) unsalted butter, melted and slightly cooled
• 3/4 cup semisweet or dark chocolate chips, divided (use mini or regular)
• Confectioner’s sugar for dusting, optional

How to Make Double Chocolate Espresso Muffins

Step 1: Preheat the Oven

Preheat your oven to 425 degrees Fahrenheit. This high temperature helps create a nice dome on your muffins.

Step 2: Prepare Muffin Tins

Line two muffin tins with paper liners. If possible, space out the muffins to allow for even baking.

Step 3: Mix Dry Ingredients

In a medium bowl:
1. Whisk together the flour, cocoa powder, baking soda, baking powder, and salt until well combined.

Step 4: Combine Wet Ingredients

In another bowl:
1. Mix together the cooled espresso, vanilla extract, granulated sugar, eggs, and buttermilk until smooth.
2. Slowly stream in the melted butter while whisking to combine completely.

Step 5: Combine Dry and Wet Mixtures

1. Add the dry ingredients to the wet mixture.
2. Stir gently with a wooden spoon or spatula until just combined; it’s okay if there are a few streaks of flour remaining—do not overmix!

Step 6: Add Chocolate Chips

Gently fold in the chocolate chips, reserving about 3-4 tablespoons for topping if desired.

Step 7: Fill Muffin Cups

Using an ice cream scoop:
1. Divide the batter evenly among the muffin cups, filling each one to the top.

Step 8: Bake

Bake at 425 degrees Fahrenheit for 5 minutes.
Then reduce the oven temperature to 350 degrees Fahrenheit and bake for an additional 10-12 minutes. Check doneness by inserting a toothpick; it should come out clean.

Step 9: Finish Baking

For best results:
– Bake only six muffins per twelve-cup muffin pan to ensure proper heat circulation.
– After removing from oven, immediately place a few reserved chocolate chips on top of each hot muffin so they can melt while cooling.

Step 10: Cool

Allow muffins to cool in a draft-free area for about 5-10 minutes before transferring them to a wire rack to cool completely.

Step 11: Serve

Dust with confectioner’s sugar before serving if desired. Enjoy your delicious Double Chocolate Espresso Muffins!

How to Serve Double Chocolate Espresso Muffins

Double chocolate espresso muffins are delightful on their own, but pairing them with the right accompaniments can elevate your experience. Here are some serving suggestions to enjoy these rich, chocolaty treats.

With Fresh Berries

• Raspberries or strawberries add a bright, tart contrast that complements the sweetness of the muffins beautifully.

Pairing with Coffee

• Enjoy these muffins with a hot cup of brewed coffee. The espresso in the muffins will enhance the coffee flavor, creating a perfect morning pick-me-up.

Whipped Cream Topping

• Add a dollop of whipped cream on top for an extra creamy texture that balances the richness of the chocolate.

Ice Cream Delight

• Serve warm muffins with a scoop of vanilla or chocolate ice cream for an indulgent dessert that’s sure to impress.

Drizzle of Chocolate Sauce

• A light drizzle of chocolate sauce over the top enhances the chocolate flavor and adds visual appeal.

Nut Butter Spread

• Spread some almond or hazelnut butter on a muffin half for added nutty flavor and creaminess.

How to Perfect Double Chocolate Espresso Muffins

To ensure your double chocolate espresso muffins turn out perfectly every time, follow these handy tips.

• Use room temperature ingredients: Ensure eggs and buttermilk are at room temperature for better mixing and consistency.
• Do not overmix: Gently fold in the dry ingredients until just combined. Overmixing can lead to dense muffins.
• Cool espresso slightly: Allow your brewed espresso to cool before adding it to prevent cooking the eggs in the batter.
• Fill muffin cups generously: Fill each muffin cup all the way to the top for that bakery-style dome shape.
• Check doneness carefully: Use a toothpick to check if they’re done; it should come out clean or with a few moist crumbs attached.
• Let them cool properly: Allow muffins to cool in a draft-free area before removing them from the pan for best results.

Best Side Dishes for Double Chocolate Espresso Muffins

Pairing side dishes with double chocolate espresso muffins can enhance your meal experience. Here’s a selection of delicious options.

1. Greek Yogurt Parfait
   A layered parfait with yogurt, honey, and granola adds texture and nutrition alongside your sweet muffins.
2. Fruit Salad
   A refreshing fruit salad made with seasonal fruits can balance out the richness of chocolate.
3. Scrambled Eggs
   Light and fluffy scrambled eggs provide protein and make for a satisfying breakfast combination.
4. Cheese Platter
   A variety of cheeses can complement the sweetness while adding savory elements to your meal.
5. Smoothie Bowl
   A thick smoothie bowl topped with nuts and seeds offers a healthy, vibrant side that pairs well with muffins.
6. Chia Seed Pudding
   Creamy chia pudding provides fiber and omega-3s, making it a nutritious side option next to rich chocolate flavors.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Baking these Double Chocolate Espresso Muffins can be fun, but some common mistakes can lead to less-than-perfect results. Here are a few tips to avoid them:

• Overmixing the batter: Mixing too much can lead to tough muffins. Stir gently until just combined for a light texture.
• Not measuring flour correctly: Using too much flour makes muffins dense. Spoon and level the flour for accurate measurement.
• Skipping room temperature ingredients: Cold eggs and buttermilk affect the batter’s consistency. Let them sit out for about 30 minutes before using.
• Ignoring oven temperature: Baking at incorrect temperatures can spoil your muffins. Always preheat and use an oven thermometer for accuracy.
• Underbaking or overbaking: Not checking doneness can result in dry or gooey muffins. Use a toothpick to test; it should come out clean when done.

REMEMBER

WANT TO SAVE THIS RECIPE? CLICK BELOW AND PIN IT

PIN

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store muffins in an airtight container for up to 3 days.
• Place parchment paper between layers if stacking to prevent sticking.

Freezing Double Chocolate Espresso Muffins

• Wrap each muffin tightly in plastic wrap and place them in a freezer-safe bag.
• They can be frozen for up to 3 months without losing flavor.

Reheating Double Chocolate Espresso Muffins

• Oven: Preheat to 350°F (175°C) and warm for about 5-7 minutes for best results.
• Microwave: Heat one muffin at a time on high for about 15-20 seconds.
• Stovetop: Use a skillet on low heat, covering it with a lid for 2-3 minutes until warmed through.

Frequently Asked Questions

These muffins are sure to intrigue many! Here are some common questions about Double Chocolate Espresso Muffins:

Can I make these muffins gluten-free?

Yes, you can substitute all-purpose flour with a gluten-free blend that measures cup-for-cup.

How do I store Double Chocolate Espresso Muffins?

Store them in an airtight container at room temperature for up to three days or freeze them for longer storage.

Can I use milk instead of buttermilk?

You can use milk mixed with one teaspoon of vinegar or lemon juice as a substitute for buttermilk.

What chocolate chips work best?

Semisweet or dark chocolate chips are great choices, offering rich flavor. Mini chips also add more chocolatey goodness!

How can I customize this recipe?

Feel free to add nuts, dried fruits, or different types of chocolate chips for unique flavors!

Final Thoughts

These Double Chocolate Espresso Muffins are incredibly rich and moist, making them the perfect treat any time of day. Their versatility allows you to customize flavors and ingredients, so get creative! Whether enjoyed as breakfast or an afternoon snack, these muffins will surely satisfy your sweet tooth.