Mint Chocolate Chip Muffins

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Refreshing Flavor: Fresh mint leaves provide a natural and vibrant minty taste without the use of artificial flavorings.
• Moist and Fluffy Texture: The combination of plant milk and avocado oil ensures each muffin is tender and moist.
• Chocolatey Delight: Generous amounts of chocolate chips and a crunchy cookie topping satisfy any chocolate craving.
• Easy to Prepare: With straightforward steps and common ingredients, these muffins come together quickly.

Ingredients

For the Muffins:

• 150 grams all-purpose flour (about 1 cup)
• 1 teaspoon baking powder
• ½ cup granulated sugar (coconut sugar or cane sugar can be used)
• 1/8 teaspoon salt
• 10 tablespoons oat milk or any plant-based milk
• 2½ tablespoons avocado oil (or another neutral-tasting oil like canola)
• ½ teaspoon peppermint extract
• ½ cup fresh mint leaves

For the Chocolate Cookie Topping:

• ¼ cup flax meal
• 3 tablespoons Dutch-process cocoa powder
• 1½ tablespoons maple syrup

(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

Directions

1. Prepare the Wet Ingredients: In a blender, combine the oat milk, avocado oil, peppermint extract, and fresh mint leaves. Blend until smooth and green in color.
2. Mix Dry Ingredients: In a large bowl, whisk together the all-purpose flour, baking powder, sugar, and salt.
3. Combine Wet and Dry Ingredients: Gradually add the wet mixture to the dry ingredients, stirring until just combined. Do not overmix.
4. Prepare the Chocolate Cookie Topping: In a small bowl, mix together the flax meal and cocoa powder. Add the maple syrup and stir until the mixture resembles crumbly cookie dough.
5. Assemble the Muffins: Line a 6-cup muffin tin with liners or parchment paper. Divide the muffin batter evenly among the cups. Sprinkle about ½ tablespoon of the chocolate cookie mixture on top of each muffin. Use a toothpick to swirl the topping into the batter.
6. Bake: Preheat the oven to 425°F (220°C). Bake the muffins for 5 minutes. Then, without opening the oven door, reduce the temperature to 375°F (190°C) and bake for an additional 15 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.
7. Cool: Allow the muffins to cool in the tin for about 10 minutes before transferring them to a wire rack to cool completely.

Servings and Timing

• Servings: This recipe yields 6 muffins.
• Prep Time: Approximately 10 minutes.
• Cook Time: 20 minutes (5 minutes at 425°F and 15 minutes at 375°F).
• Total Time: Around 30 minutes, plus cooling time.

Variations

• Vegan Option: Use plant-based milk and flaxseed meal as an egg substitute to make these muffins vegan-friendly.
• Gluten-Free Option: Substitute the all-purpose flour with a 1:1 gluten-free flour blend.
• Nut-Free: Ensure that the plant-based milk and oil used are free from nuts if allergies are a concern.

Storage/Reheating

• Storage: Store the muffins in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days. For longer freshness, refrigerate them for up to a week.
• Freezing: Place cooled muffins in a freezer-safe bag and freeze for up to 3 months. Thaw at room temperature or warm in the microwave before serving.

FAQs

How can I enhance the mint flavor in these muffins?

Using fresh mint leaves imparts a natural mint flavor. If you desire a stronger taste, consider adding a few extra mint leaves or increasing the peppermint extract slightly.

Can I use dairy milk instead of plant-based milk?

Yes, you can substitute any milk of your choice, whether dairy or plant-based.

Is it necessary to use avocado oil?

Avocado oil is recommended for its neutral taste and health benefits, but you can substitute it with other neutral oils like canola or vegetable oil.

Can I make these muffins without the chocolate cookie topping?

The topping adds a delightful crunch and extra chocolate flavor, but the muffins will still be delicious without it.

How do I prevent the muffins from sticking to the tin?

Using muffin liners or parchment paper and lightly greasing them will help prevent sticking.

Can I use dried mint instead of fresh mint?

Fresh mint provides a vibrant flavor, but if using dried mint, reduce the quantity to about 1/3, as dried herbs are more potent.

Are these muffins suitable for people with nut allergies?

Yes, as long as you ensure that the plant-based milk and oil used are free from nuts.

How can I make these muffins sweeter?

You can increase the sugar by 1-2 tablespoons if you prefer a sweeter muffin.

Can I add nuts or other mix-ins to the batter?

Certainly! Adding chocolate chunks, nuts, or dried fruits can customize the muffins to your taste.

Conclusion

These Mint Chocolate Chip Muffins are the perfect balance of minty freshness and chocolatey sweetness. With their light texture and flavorful topping, they make for a satisfying snack or dessert. Whether you’re enjoying them with a cup of tea or as a quick breakfast, these muffins are sure to become a family favorite.