Craft these superior homemade hazelnut muffins that surpass anything you'll find at Starbucks or McDonald's. Featuring a rich, fluffy base filled with mascarpone and swirled with a nutty chocolate spread, these muffins are the epitome of indulgence. Each muffin is studded with dark chocolate chips and crowned with crushed hazelnuts, creating a treat that's not just delicious but also visually stunning.
Why You’ll Love This: These muffins offer a gourmet twist on a classic treat with their creamy texture and deep chocolate flavor. The surprise center of chocolate spread adds a delightful contrast, making every bite an adventure. Perfect for those who appreciate a sophisticated spin on a familiar favorite.
Perfect Occasion: Ideal for brunches, coffee breaks, or as a special treat during gatherings. These muffins can also serve as an elegant homemade gift or a luxurious treat for a weekend breakfast.
Decoration Tips: To enhance their gourmet look, top each muffin with a whole hazelnut before baking. After baking, a light drizzle of melted chocolate or a dusting of powdered sugar can add an extra touch of glamour.
Ingredients:
- 2 eggs
- 1/2 cup light brown sugar
- 1 tbsp vanilla extract
- 1/2 cup vegetable oil
- 1/2 cup milk
- 1/2 cup mascarpone
- 2 cups all-purpose flour
- 2 tsp baking powder
- 1/4 cup unsweetened cocoa powder
- Chocolate spread (for filling)
- Dark chocolate chips
- Crushed hazelnuts
Instructions:
- Begin by placing small dollops of chocolate spread on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper. Freeze these while you prepare the batter.
- In a bowl, whisk together the eggs, vanilla extract, and sugar until well combined.
- Add the oil, milk, and mascarpone, mixing thoroughly.
- In a separate bowl, sift together the flour, cocoa powder, and baking powder. Gradually add these dry ingredients to the wet mixture, combining until the batter is smooth. Season with a pinch of salt.
- Spoon a layer of the muffin batter into each muffin cup. Place a frozen dollop of chocolate spread in the center, then cover with more batter.
- Top each muffin with crushed hazelnuts and dark chocolate chips.
- Bake in a preheated oven at 350°F (180°C) for 20 minutes for small molds or 35 minutes for larger ones.
Enjoy these exquisite hazelnut muffins, a luxurious treat that offers a rich, satisfying taste and a delightful surprise with every bite!