Hot Chocolate Muffins
Hot chocolate muffins are the perfect way to combine two beloved comfort foods into one irresistible treat. Whether you’re craving a cozy snack on a chilly evening or looking for a crowd-pleaser for your next gathering, these muffins are guaranteed to hit the spot. Soft, rich, and loaded with chocolatey goodness, hot chocolate muffins bring together the warmth of cocoa and the fluffiness of a bakery-style muffin—all in one bite.
These easy-to-make muffins require simple ingredients and can be adapted for gluten-free or vegan diets. Let’s explore how to make the best hot chocolate muffins from scratch, along with tips to enhance flavor and texture.
What Can You Use Instead of Hot Cocoa Mix?
Don’t have hot cocoa mix on hand? No problem! Try one of these alternatives to keep your hot chocolate muffins delicious:
- Carob powder – Naturally sweet and less bitter than cocoa.
- Shaved chocolate – Melt into the batter for extra richness.
- Sweetened cocoa powder – A straightforward substitute with great flavor.
- Chocolate chips – Quick fix and always tasty.
How to Make Vegan and Gluten-Free Hot Chocolate Muffin
Want to make your hot chocolate muffins inclusive for everyone? Here’s how to modify the recipe:
Gluten-Free Options:
- Use gluten-free flour, coconut flour, or almond flour in place of all-purpose flour.
Vegan Options:
- Replace dairy milk with almond or oat milk.
- Swap eggs with a flax egg (1 tbsp flaxseed + 3 tbsp water = 1 egg).
- Use plant-based butter for richness.
These substitutions ensure your muffins stay moist, fluffy, and full of flavor.
How to Add More Flavor to Hot Chocolate Muffins
Take your hot chocolate muffins to the next level with these flavor boosters:
- Spices: Add ground cinnamon, nutmeg, cardamom, or even a pinch of cayenne.
- White chocolate chips: Add sweetness and contrast.
- Caramel chips: For a gooey, toffee-like texture.
Topping Ideas for Hot Cocoa Muffins
Dress up your hot chocolate muffins for any occasion with these creative toppings:
- Chocolate drizzle or glaze
- Sprinkles for festive flair
- Chopped nuts for crunch
- Candied fruits like ginger or orange peel
Hot Chocolate Muffins – Foolproof Recipe
Prep Time: 10 minutes
Cook Time: 20 minutes
Total Time: 30 minutes
Servings: 12 muffins
Ingredients:
- ¾ cup hot cocoa mix
- 1 ½ cups all-purpose flour
- ½ cup sugar
- 2 tsp. baking powder
- ½ tsp. salt
- 2 eggs
- ¾ cup milk
- ½ cup butter, melted and cooled
- 1 ½ tsp. vanilla extract
- ¾ cup mini chocolate chips
Directions:
- Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C). Grease a 12-cup muffin tin or line with paper liners.
- In a large bowl, whisk together flour, sugar, baking powder, salt, and hot cocoa mix.
- In a separate bowl, beat eggs, milk, butter, and vanilla extract until well blended.
- Pour wet ingredients into dry mixture and stir gently until just combined.
- Fold in mini chocolate chips.
- Scoop batter evenly into the muffin tin.
- Bake for 15–20 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean.
- Cool in the pan for 10 minutes, then transfer to a wire rack to cool completely.
Enjoy your warm and indulgent hot chocolate muffins with a glass of milk or—of course—hot chocolate!
Conclusion: A Cozy Treat Worth Making
Whether you’re hosting a brunch, planning holiday treats, or simply looking for something sweet and cozy, these hot chocolate muffins are a must-try. Easy, customizable, and full of rich cocoa flavor, they’re bound to become a favorite in your baking rotation.
