Hot Chocolate Muffin Tops

Muffin tops? Check!

Hot cocoa? Check!

Marshmallows? Check!

I mean, who can resist these comforting, oh-so-yummy goodies, right? So, I found myself on a quest for the ultimate hot cocoa-inspired dessert. You know, the kind you can bundle up as a sweet little holiday surprise that screams, "I'm delicious and I care." And guess what? I've hit the jackpot! Let me introduce you to these Hot Chocolate Muffin Tops.

They're everything your winter dessert dreams are made of: luxuriously rich, full of fudgy goodness, and exploding with that irresistible cocoa and marshmallow combo. It's like sipping on your favorite hot chocolate, but in a handy, dandy muffin form

Ingredients:

• 2 cups all-purpose flour

• 1/2 cup unsweetened cocoa powder (preferably Dutch-processed)

• 1 teaspoon baking soda

• 1/2 teaspoon salt

• 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened

• 1 cup granulated sugar

• 1/2 cup packed brown sugar

• 2 large eggs

• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract

• 1 cup sour cream (or full-fat Greek yogurt)

• 1/2 cup hot chocolate mix (such as Swiss Miss or a similar brand)

• 1 cup semisweet chocolate chips (or mini chocolate chips for extra chocolatey goodness)

• 1/2 cup mini marshmallows (optional, but highly recommended for that classic hot chocolate feel!)

  
  

Instructions:

Step 1: Preheat the Oven - Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper or silicone baking mats to prevent sticking.

Step 2: Mix Dry Ingredients - In a medium bowl, whisk together the flour, unsweetened cocoa powder, baking soda, salt, and hot chocolate mix until well combined. Set aside.

Step 3: Cream the Butter and Sugars - In a large mixing bowl, beat the unsalted butter, granulated sugar, and brown sugar together until light and fluffy. This will take about 3-4 minutes with an electric mixer on medium speed. Scrape down the sides of the bowl to ensure everything is evenly mixed

Step 4: Add the Wet Ingredients - Add the eggs, one at a time, beating well after each addition. Stir in the vanilla extract and sour cream (or Greek yogurt). The sour cream will help keep the muffin tops moist and give them a tender crumb.

Step 5: Combine Wet and Dry Ingredients - Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet ingredients, mixing until just combined. Be careful not to overmix, as this can lead to dense muffin tops. The batter should be thick and slightly fluffy.

Step 6: Fold in the Chocolate Chips and Marshmallows - Gently fold in the semisweet chocolate chips and mini marshmallows (if using). The marshmallows will melt slightly during baking, adding that delightful hot chocolate feel to each bite.

Step 7: Scoop the Batter - Scoop out generous amounts of batter (about 2 tablespoons per muffin top) and drop them onto your prepared baking sheet, spacing them about 2 inches apart. The batter will spread slightly as it bakes, so don’t worry if they’re a little thick.

Step 8: Bake - Bake in the preheated oven for about 12-15 minutes, or until the tops of the muffins look set and a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean or with just a few moist crumbs (but no wet batter). Keep an eye on them during the last few minutes to prevent overbaking.

Step 9: Cool - Allow the muffin tops to cool on the baking sheet for 5 minutes before transferring them to a wire rack to cool completely. The tops will firm up as they cool, giving you that signature chewy texture.

Optional Toppings:

For an extra indulgent treat, consider adding the following toppings before or after baking:

• Whipped cream: A dollop of whipped cream can give it that classic hot chocolate vibe.

• Chocolate drizzle: Melt some additional chocolate chips and drizzle over the cooled muffin tops for a fancy touch.

• More mini marshmallows: Sprinkle extra marshmallows on top before baking for a gooey, melty finish.

Storage and Gifting:

• Storage: These muffin tops are best enjoyed fresh, but they can be stored in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days. If you want to keep them for longer, you can freeze them for up to 3 months.

• Gift Packaging: These muffin tops make a great gift! Pack them in a clear cellophane bag or a festive tin with a cute ribbon for a thoughtful and delicious present. You can even pair them with a packet of hot chocolate mix for the ultimate hot cocoa experience!

  
  

Enjoy these Hot Chocolate Muffin Tops with a steaming cup of cocoa, or as a sweet treat any time of year. They’re guaranteed to warm your heart, especially on those chilly winter days!