Name: Peppermint Hot Chocolate Muffins
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 20 min
Total time: 35 min
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: 1 cup all-purpose flour; 1/2 cup unsweetened cocoa powder; 1 tsp baking powder; 1/2 tsp baking soda; 1/4 tsp salt; 1/2 cup sugar; 1/2 cup brown sugar; 1/2 cup vegetable oil; 2 large eggs; 1 tsp vanilla extract; 1/2 cup milk; 1/4 cup peppermint extract; 1 cup chocolate chips; Crushed peppermint candies for topping

Why Make This Recipe

Peppermint Hot Chocolate Muffins bring the cozy flavors of winter into your kitchen. These muffins are perfect for the holiday season or any chilly day. The rich chocolate combined with refreshing peppermint creates a delightful treat. Plus, they’re easy to make and great for breakfasts, snacks, or even holiday parties!

How to Make Peppermint Hot Chocolate Muffins

Ingredients

1 cup all-purpose flour

1/2 cup unsweetened cocoa powder

1 tsp baking powder

1/2 tsp baking soda

1/4 tsp salt

1/2 cup sugar

1/2 cup brown sugar

1/2 cup vegetable oil

2 large eggs

1 tsp vanilla extract

1/2 cup milk

1/4 cup peppermint extract

1 cup chocolate chips

Crushed peppermint candies for topping

Directions

Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and line a muffin tin with paper liners.

In a bowl, whisk together the flour, cocoa powder, baking powder, baking soda, and salt.

In another bowl, mix the sugars, oil, eggs, vanilla extract, and peppermint extract until well combined.

Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet ingredients, mixing until just combined.

Stir in the milk until the batter is smooth.

Fold in the chocolate chips.

Divide the batter among the muffin liners, filling each about 3/4 full.

Top with crushed peppermint candies.

Bake for 18-20 minutes or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.

Let cool before serving.

How to Store Peppermint Hot Chocolate Muffins

Store the muffins in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days. If you want them to last longer, you can keep them in the refrigerator for about a week. For longer storage, consider freezing them. Just wrap each muffin individually in plastic wrap and place them in a freezer bag. They will stay fresh for about 2-3 months. When you want to enjoy them, simply thaw at room temperature or warm them in the oven.

Tips to Make Peppermint Hot Chocolate Muffins

Make sure your ingredients are at room temperature before mixing; this helps with the texture.

Don’t overmix the batter; mix until just combined for light and fluffy muffins.

Feel free to adjust the amount of peppermint extract based on your taste. You can use less for a milder peppermint flavor.

For added texture, toss the chocolate chips in a bit of flour before folding them in. This helps prevent them from sinking to the bottom.

FAQs

Can I use different types of flour?
Yes, you can use whole wheat flour or gluten-free flour, but the texture may change slightly.

Can I make these muffins ahead of time?
Absolutely! You can bake them a day in advance and store them in an airtight container.

What can I use if I don’t have peppermint extract?
If you don’t have peppermint extract, you can use vanilla extract or another flavored extract, but the minty flavor will be different.