As I stand in my kitchen, the sweet aroma of baking fills the air. Every time I make Peppermint Hot Chocolate Muffins, I am transported back to my childhood. I remember cozy winter evenings with my family, when the snow blanketed the ground outside. We gathered around the kitchen table, sipping hot chocolate and sharing stories. Those warm, delightful moments always called for something sweet.

This recipe holds a special place in my heart because it combines everything I love: the rich flavor of chocolate, the refreshing hint of peppermint, and the warmth of family traditions. As I bake these muffins, I feel that same joy and warmth, and I know that sharing them will create new memories for others. The first bite always brings a smile, just like those family gatherings did. So let’s dive into making our Peppermint Hot Chocolate Muffins, shall we?

why make this recipe

Muffins always make people happy, and Peppermint Hot Chocolate Muffins are no exception. They bring a burst of flavor with each bite, combining chocolatey goodness with a cool hint of peppermint. Imagine the joy on your loved ones’ faces when you serve these delightful treats. Furthermore, they are perfect for any occasion—whether it’s a cozy morning at home or a festive holiday gathering.

Peppermint Hot Chocolate Muffins also offer convenience. You can whip them up in under an hour, making them great for both busy weekdays and lazy weekends. The recipe uses simple ingredients, so you do not need to search for anything exotic. Moreover, they are versatile; you can enjoy them plain or dress them up with toppings like whipped cream and crushed candy canes to create a festive treat.

Most importantly, these muffins carry that warm, comforting flavor that many people love during the winter months. They make your home smell delightful as they bake. So, get ready to pair Peppermint Hot Chocolate Muffins with a warm drink of your choice and savor the moment. You will see how this simple recipe can brighten your day and create cherished memories with every bite.

how to make Peppermint Hot Chocolate Muffins

Ingredients:

2 large Eggs
1 1/2 cups All purpose flour
1 tbsp Baking powder
1/2 tsp Baking soda
1/2 cup Unsweetened cocoa powder
1 cup Granulated sugar
1 tsp Peppermint extract
1 cup Powdered sugar
1/2 tsp Salt
1/2 cup Semi-sweet chocolate chips
1 tsp Vanilla extract
1/2 cup Vegetable oil
1 cup Buttermilk
2 tbsp Milk
1 Candy cane

Directions:

Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and line a muffin tin with paper liners.
In a large bowl, whisk together the flour, baking powder, baking soda, cocoa powder, granulated sugar, and salt.
In another bowl, beat the eggs and then mix in the vegetable oil, buttermilk, peppermint extract, and vanilla extract until well combined.
Pour the wet ingredients into the dry ingredients and mix until just combined. Avoid overmixing.
Fold in the semi-sweet chocolate chips.
Divide the batter into the prepared muffin tin, filling each cup about 2/3 full.
Crush the candy cane and sprinkle a little on top of each muffin.
Bake for 18-20 minutes or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean.
Allow the muffins to cool in the pan for 5 minutes, then transfer to a wire rack to cool completely.
Once cooled, you can dust with powdered sugar before serving.

how to serve Peppermint Hot Chocolate Muffins

Serving Peppermint Hot Chocolate Muffins is all about creating a cozy experience. You can serve them warm or at room temperature, depending on your preference. A little dusting of powdered sugar on top makes them look effortlessly elegant. This adds a touch of sweetness and is visually appealing.

Pair these muffins with a warm beverage like hot chocolate or coffee for a delightful treat. When hosting friends or family, place the muffins on a beautiful platter and let everyone grab their favorite muffin. They make for a lovely addition to a brunch spread or a festive holiday table.

Consider adding toppings to enhance the experience. For instance, you can whip some cream and pipe it on top of the muffins. Crushed candy canes go wonderfully as a garnish, giving each muffin a festive touch. The combination of flavors will surely brighten your guests’ spirits.

how to store Peppermint Hot Chocolate Muffins

Storing Peppermint Hot Chocolate Muffins is easy and effective. These muffins last about 3-4 days at room temperature. Make sure to place them in a sealed container to maintain their freshness.

If you want to store them longer, consider freezing them. Simply wrap each muffin individually in plastic wrap and place them in a freezer-safe bag. They will keep well for up to three months in the freezer. When you’re ready to enjoy them, just thaw them at room temperature or warm them in the microwave for a few seconds.

If you want to keep their texture fresh, avoid refrigerating them, as this can make the muffins dry. Always let them cool completely before sealing them in a container. Following these simple steps will ensure that your Peppermint Hot Chocolate Muffins remain delicious for days!

Tips to Make Peppermint Hot Chocolate Muffins

Room Temperature Ingredients: Use room temperature ingredients for better mixing. Cold eggs or buttermilk can impact the batter consistency. Allow these ingredients to sit out for about 30 minutes before you begin.
Do Not Overmix: Overmixing can lead to dense muffins. Mix the wet and dry ingredients until just combined; a few lumps are okay. This will keep the muffins light and fluffy.
Check Oven Temperature: Oven temperatures can vary. Always use an oven thermometer to ensure accurate heating. This small tool helps prevent muffins from being under or overcooked.
Use Quality Chocolate: Invest in good quality semi-sweet chocolate chips. Their flavor adds richness and enhances the chocolatey taste of your muffins.
Be Creative with Toppings: Get creative with your toppings! Besides crushed candy canes, consider drizzling melted chocolate or adding mini marshmallows for a fun touch.
Experiment with Flavors: While this recipe is delightful as is, consider adding your twist. Swapping peppermint extract with orange or almond extract can give a new flavor profile to your muffins.
Check for Doneness: Every oven bakes differently. Start checking your muffins a little early, around 16 minutes. The toothpick should come out clean or with a few moist crumbs.
Keep Muffins Soft: For softer muffins, try adding a bit of applesauce to the batter. This small addition keeps them moist and rich in flavor.

Variation of Peppermint Hot Chocolate Muffins

Chocolate Chip Version: If you want an extra chocolate kick, add more semi-sweet chocolate chips or mix in some dark chocolate chunks. This variation will result in richer, gooey muffins.
Fruity Mint Muffins: For a fruity twist, fold in some raspberry or cherry preserves into the batter before baking. The fruity filling combined with the chocolate and peppermint gives a delicious tang.
Nutty Crunch Muffins: Add some chopped walnuts or pecans for a nutty crunch. This variation not only adds texture but also enhances the flavor of the muffins.
Dairy-Free Option: Substitute the buttermilk with a non-dairy milk alternative. Additionally, use dairy-free chocolate chips. This swap makes the muffins suitable for those with dietary restrictions.
Caramel Delight Muffins: Drizzle some caramel sauce on top before baking for a sweet, gooey finish. This adds a beautiful contrast to the peppermint flavor, making an indulgent treat.
Marshmallow Surprise Muffins: Place a mini marshmallow in the center of each muffin before baking. When the muffins bake, the marshmallow will melt, providing a sweet surprise in the middle.

FAQs Of Peppermint Hot Chocolate Muffins

1. Can I freeze Peppermint Hot Chocolate Muffins?
Yes, you can freeze these muffins! Wrap each muffin in plastic wrap and store them in a freezer bag for up to three months. Thaw them at room temperature or heat them in the microwave for a few seconds when you’re ready to enjoy.

2. What can I use if I don’t have buttermilk?
If you don’t have buttermilk, you can make a substitute. Mix 1 cup of milk with 1 tablespoon of vinegar or lemon juice. Let it sit for 5-10 minutes before adding it to your recipe. This will mimic the acidity of buttermilk and give you alike results.

3. How can I keep the muffins moist?
To keep your muffins moist, avoid overbaking and ensure they cool completely at room temperature before storing. Also, using ingredients like applesauce or yogurt can enhance moisture.

4. Can I substitute the peppermint extract?
Absolutely! You can swap peppermint extract with vanilla extract or another flavor like almond or orange for a different twist. Just keep in mind that it will change the flavor profile of the muffins.

5. What should I do if my muffins come out dense?
If your muffins are dense, it might be due to overmixing. Make sure to mix wet and dry ingredients until just combined. Additionally, check your baking powder for freshness; old or expired baking powder can affect the rise.

6. Can I make a mini muffin version?
Yes, you can! Simply pour the batter into a mini muffin tin instead. Keep an eye on the baking time as they may need only 10-12 minutes to bake. Enjoy these bite-sized delights!

Now you are all set to make your own Peppermint Hot Chocolate Muffins! Enjoy the joy of baking and the wonderful memories that come with it. Happy baking!

Peppermint Hot Chocolate Muffins

Author: imrane
Total Time: 35 minutes
Yield: 12 servings 1x
Diet: Vegetarian

Print Recipe

Description

Delicious and comforting muffins that combine rich chocolate flavor with a refreshing hint of peppermint, perfect for cozy gatherings.

Ingredients

Scale

2 large Eggs
1 1/2 cups All purpose flour
1 tbsp Baking powder
1/2 tsp Baking soda
1/2 cup Unsweetened cocoa powder
1 cup Granulated sugar
1 tsp Peppermint extract
1 cup Powdered sugar
1/2 tsp Salt
1/2 cup Semi-sweet chocolate chips
1 tsp Vanilla extract
1/2 cup Vegetable oil
1 cup Buttermilk
2 tbsp Milk
1 Candy cane

Instructions

Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and line a muffin tin with paper liners.
In a large bowl, whisk together the flour, baking powder, baking soda, cocoa powder, granulated sugar, and salt.
In another bowl, beat the eggs and then mix in the vegetable oil, buttermilk, peppermint extract, and vanilla extract until well combined.
Pour the wet ingredients into the dry ingredients and mix until just combined. Avoid overmixing.
Fold in the semi-sweet chocolate chips.
Divide the batter into the prepared muffin tin, filling each cup about 2/3 full.
Crush the candy cane and sprinkle a little on top of each muffin.
Bake for 18-20 minutes or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean.
Allow the muffins to cool in the pan for 5 minutes, then transfer to a wire rack to cool completely.
Once cooled, you can dust with powdered sugar before serving.

Notes

Serve warm or at room temperature. Consider adding whipped cream and crushed candy canes for a festive touch.

Prep Time: 15 minutes
Cook Time: 20 minutes
Category: Dessert
Method: Baking
Cuisine: American

Nutrition

Serving Size: 1 muffin
Calories: 250
Sugar: 20g
Sodium: 500mg
Fat: 10g
Saturated Fat: 2g
Unsaturated Fat: 7g
Trans Fat: 0g
Carbohydrates: 35g
Fiber: 2g
Protein: 5g
Cholesterol: 50mg

Keywords: muffins, peppermint, chocolate, dessert, holiday, baking