As a self-proclaimed Muffin Queen, I have a soft spot for delightful muffin recipes, and these Cappuccino Muffins are a crown jewel in my collection. With a delicate coffee flavor and a hint of chocolate from the tiny chips, these muffins strike the perfect balance without overwhelming your taste buds. The crispy exterior adds a satisfying texture to each bite, making them ideal for breakfast or a cozy tea-time treat.
Ingredients
Muffin Ingredients
- 2 cups all-purpose flour
- ¾ cup granulated sugar
- 2½ tsp baking powder
- 1 tsp ground cinnamon
- ½ tsp salt
- ¾ cup miniature chocolate chips
- 1 cup milk
- 2 Tbsp instant coffee granules
- ½ cup butter
- 1 egg, beaten
- 1 tsp vanilla extract
- 4 oz cream cheese, softened and cubed
- 1 Tbsp sugar
- ½ tsp instant coffee granules
- ½ tsp vanilla extract
- ¼ cup miniature chocolate chips
Equipment Needed
To make these delectable Cappuccino Muffins, you’ll need a few essential pieces of equipment. Here’s what you’ll need to prepare these dreamy breakfast treats:
1. Mixing Bowls:
You’ll need a few mixing bowls to combine the dry and wet ingredients for the muffin batter. Make sure they are large enough to accommodate all the ingredients.
2. Muffin Pan:
A standard 12-count muffin pan will be required to bake the muffins. You may also want to line the pan with muffin liners for easier cleanup.
3. Whisk or Electric Mixer:
A whisk or an electric mixer will come in handy to ensure all the ingredients are well combined, especially when mixing the wet and dry ingredients.
4. Measuring Cups and Spoons:
Accurate measurement is essential in baking, so having a set of measuring cups and spoons will help you add the right amounts of each ingredient.
5. Oven:
Of course, you’ll need an oven to bake these delightful muffins. Preheat it to the specified temperature to ensure they bake perfectly.
Preparation Steps
Prepping the Muffin Batter
To start preparing the cappuccino muffins batter, first, preheat your oven to 375°F and position a rack towards the top third. Then, line 18 muffin cups with paper liners. In a large bowl, combine softened butter, granulated sugar, instant espresso powder, and salt. Mix until smooth. In a separate small dish, whisk together the whole egg and egg yolk. Add this mixture to the batter along with half and half and vanilla. Blend everything together. Next, add all-purpose flour, baking powder, and mini chocolate chips to the batter. Mix until all ingredients are well combined. Fill the prepared muffin cups about ¾ of the way up. Remember, the batter may not look smooth, but that’s absolutely fine as it will even out during baking.
Preparing the Cream Cheese Spread
For the cream cheese spread, combine cream cheese, sugar, and espresso powder in a bowl. Mix until smooth and creamy. Once the muffins are baked and slightly cooled, spread a generous amount of this delightful cream cheese mixture on top of each muffin. Enjoy the perfect blend of cappuccino flavors with a creamy and decadent finish.
Baking Instructions
- Preheat the Oven
- Preheat the oven to 375°F and adjust the rack towards the top third position. This ensures even baking and a perfectly risen muffin.
- Prepare Muffin Liners
- Place 18 muffin liners in the muffin pans. For larger muffins, use tulip-shaped muffin papers, as they hold more batter than regular liners, creating a bigger muffin.
- Make the Batter
- In a large bowl, combine softened butter, granulated sugar, instant espresso powder, and salt. Mix until smooth.
- In a separate dish, whisk the whole egg and egg yolk, then add it to the batter along with half and half and vanilla. Blend until smooth.
- Add all-purpose flour, baking powder, and mini chocolate chips to the mixture. Mix until just combined.
- Fill the Muffin Liners
- Fill the 18 muffin cups about ¾ of the way up. The batter may not look smooth, but it will level out during baking.
- Bake the Muffins
- For large muffins, bake at 425°F for about 20 minutes. The high temperature allows the muffins to rise quickly and form a cracked top.
- The muffins are ready when they rise, crack at the top, and the mini chocolate chips peek through, creating a beautiful presentation.
- Serve
- Once baked, let the muffins cool before serving. Optionally, dust with powdered sugar for a finishing touch.
By following these simple baking instructions, you can enjoy delicious cappuccino muffins with a delightful coffee flavor and bursts of chocolate chips in every bite.
Serving and Presentation
How to Serve Cappuccino Muffins
When serving cappuccino muffins, it’s best to enjoy them warm. They pair perfectly with a cup of your favorite coffee or tea, enhancing the delightful coffee essence in the muffins. For an extra treat, serve these muffins alongside a dollop of Espresso Cream Cheese spread, elevating the overall flavor experience.
Garnishing Tips
To add an extra touch of elegance to your cappuccino muffins, consider dusting the tops with a light sprinkling of powdered sugar. This simple garnish not only enhances the visual appeal of the muffins but also adds a hint of sweetness to each bite. Additionally, you can sprinkle a mixture of sugar and espresso powder on top before baking for a beautiful finish that complements the rich coffee flavor of the muffins.
Storage and Freshness
If you have any leftover cappuccino muffins, it’s best to store them in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 2-3 days. Make sure they are completely cooled before storing to prevent moisture buildup, which can affect their freshness.
Conclusion
I hope this detailed guide on cappuccino muffins has inspired you to try out this delicious recipe at home. With the perfect blend of coffee essence, chocolate chips, and cream cheese filling, these muffins are sure to become a favorite treat for any coffee lover. Remember to follow the baking instructions carefully to achieve that cracked top and rich flavor. Pair your cappuccino muffins with a warm cup of coffee or tea for the ultimate indulgence. Whether you choose to enjoy them fresh out of the oven or with an Espresso Cream Cheese spread, these muffins are bound to impress your taste buds. Don’t forget to store any leftovers properly to maintain their freshness and savor the delightful taste for days to come. Happy baking!