Vegan Chocolate Chip Muffins

I'll use any justification I can find to eat chocolate for breakfast and these Vegan Chocolate Chip Muffins are the perfect excuse. Fluffy, butter batter filled with gooey chocolate chips make for the most heavenly breakfast. Let's learn how to make them!

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Ingredients in Vegan Chocolate Chip Muffins

Dry Ingredients

• All-Purpose Flour (2 cups): All-purpose flour serves as the base for the muffins, providing structure and also texture. It contains gluten, which helps the muffins rise and hold their shape.
• Sugar (¾ cup): Sugar adds sweetness to the muffins, making them enjoyable and satisfying. It also contributes to the texture by helping to create a tender crumb.
• Baking Powder (1 tsp): Baking powder is a leavening agent that helps the muffins rise. It reacts with liquid and heat to produce carbon dioxide, which expands the batter and makes the muffins light and fluffy.
• Baking Soda (½ tsp): Baking soda is another leavening agent that reacts with acidic ingredients like yogurt in this recipe. It helps to create a rise and contributes to the overall texture.
• Salt (½ tsp): Salt enhances the flavor of the muffins and balances the sweetness. It also plays a role in strengthening the gluten structure in the flour.

Wet Ingredients

• Non-dairy Yogurt (½ cup, plain and unsweetened): Non-dairy yogurt adds moisture to the muffins while providing a creamy texture. It also contributes to the leavening process and adds a tangy flavor.
• Non-dairy Milk (¾ cup): Non-dairy milk is a liquid component that helps to bring the batter together. It adds moisture and richness to the muffins.
• Vegan Butter (½ cup, melted): Vegan butter adds richness and flavor to the muffins, similar to traditional butter. It also contributes to the overall moisture content.
• Vanilla Extract (1 tsp): Vanilla extract enhances the flavor profile of the muffins, providing a warm and aromatic essence.
• Non-dairy Chocolate Chips (1 cup): Non-dairy chocolate chips add sweetness, richness, and bursts of chocolate flavor throughout the muffins. They are a classic inclusion in chocolate chip muffins.

Steps for Making Vegan Chocolate Chip Muffins (with pictures)

1. Prep: Preheat oven to 425 degrees F (218 C) and line every other space in a cupcake pan with a paper liner. This will allow more heat to reach each individual muffin and they will get a better rise. Set aside.
2. Make the Batter: In a large bowl whisk together the flour, sugar, baking powder, baking soda and salt. In a separate bowl whisk together the yogurt, nondairy milk, vegan butter and vanilla until completely smooth. Pour wet ingredients into dry ingredients and mix until just combined. Do not over-mix. Fold in the chocolate chips.
3. Bake: Fill each paper liner ¾ of the way full with batter. Generously sprinkle the top of each muffin with coarse sugar. Place pan on center rack of preheated oven and bake for 5 minutes. Turn the heat in the oven down to 375 degrees F (190 C) (*do not open the oven door!*) and continue to bake for another 13-14 minutes or until a toothpick inserted into the center of a muffin comes out clean. Allow muffins to cool in pan for 5 minutes before transferring to a wire rack to cool completely. Repeat process for remaining batter.

Tips for Making Vegan Chocolate Chip Muffins

1. Use Quality Ingredients: Opt for high-quality non-dairy milk, yogurt, and chocolate chips to enhance the flavor of your muffins.
2. Sift Dry Ingredients: Sift the all-purpose flour, baking powder, baking soda, and salt together to ensure even distribution and a smoother texture in the muffins.
3. Do Not Over-mix: Mix the batter until just combined. Over-mixing can lead to dense muffins. It's okay if there are a few lumps in the batter.
4. Melt Vegan Butter Properly: Melt the vegan butter gently to avoid overheating. Use a microwave or stovetop on low heat and let it cool slightly before adding to the batter.
5. Use an Ice Cream Scoop for Uniform Muffins: For evenly sized muffins, use an ice cream scoop to portion the batter into the muffin cups.
6. Add Chocolate Chips Last: Fold in the non-dairy chocolate chips at the end to ensure they are evenly distributed throughout the batter.
7. Don't Over-bake: Keep a close eye on the muffins while baking to prevent over-baking. Over-baked muffins can be dry. A toothpick inserted into the center should come out with a few moist crumbs, but not wet batter.
8. Cool Properly: Allow the muffins to cool in the muffin tin for about 5-10 minutes before transferring them to a wire rack to cool completely. This helps them set and prevents them from becoming too moist.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I substitute all-purpose flour with a different type of flour in vegan chocolate chip muffins?

Yes, you can experiment with alternative flours like whole wheat flour, spelt flour, or also a gluten-free flour blend. Keep in mind that different flours may affect the texture, so it's best to start with a smaller batch for testing.

Can I use any non-dairy milk for vegan chocolate chip muffins?

Yes, you can use any non-dairy milk of your choice, such as almond milk, soy milk, coconut milk, or oat milk.

Are there any alternatives to vegan butter in this recipe?

Yes, you can substitute melted coconut oil or vegetable oil for vegan butter. Keep in mind that this may slightly alter the flavor and texture of the muffins.

How do I make sure my vegan chocolate chip muffins are moist?

Using non-dairy yogurt, non-dairy milk, and melted vegan butter contributes to the moisture in the muffins. Also, be careful not to over-bake, as over-baking can lead to dry muffins.

FAQ's Continued

Can I add nuts or other mix-ins to the muffins?

Absolutely! Feel free to add chopped nuts, dried fruits, or even shredded coconut to the batter for added flavor and texture.

What's the best way to incorporate the chocolate chips into the batter?

Fold in the chocolate chips gently at the end of the mixing process to ensure even distribution. To explain, this helps prevent over-mixing and ensures that the chocolate chips are evenly distributed throughout the batter.

Can I make mini muffins with this recipe?

Yes, you can adapt this recipe to make mini muffins. Adjust the baking time accordingly, as mini muffins will require less time in the oven compared to regular-sized muffins.

Can I make the batter ahead of time and bake later?

It's generally best to bake the muffins immediately after preparing the batter for optimal rise. However, if needed, you can refrigerate the batter for a short period before baking, but be aware that the texture may be slightly different.

How to Serve Vegan Chocolate Chip Muffins

Serving vegan chocolate chip muffins is a delicious experience, and there are various ways to enhance them. Here are some suggestions on how to serve vegan chocolate chip muffins:

1. Plain and Simple: Serve the muffins as they are for a classic and delicious treat. They are also perfect for breakfast, snacks, or dessert.
2. Warm with Vegan Butter: Warm the muffins slightly and serve them with a spread of vegan butter for an added layer of richness.
3. Accompanied by Non-Dairy Milk: Pair the muffins with a glass of your favorite non-dairy milk, such as almond milk, soy milk, or oat milk.
4. Drizzled with Vegan Chocolate Sauce: Elevate the indulgence by drizzling vegan chocolate sauce over the muffins for a decadent touch.
5. Serve with Fresh Fruit: Accompany the muffins with fresh fruit slices or berries for a refreshing contrast to the sweetness of the chocolate chips.
6. Yogurt Parfait: Serve the muffins alongside a yogurt parfait. To illustrate, layer non-dairy yogurt, fresh fruit, and crumbled muffin pieces for a delightful and satisfying dessert.

Feel free to mix and match these ideas based on your preferences and the occasion. Whether enjoyed on their own or with complementary accompaniments, vegan chocolate chip muffins are sure to be a crowd-pleaser!

How to Store Vegan Chocolate Chip Muffins

Proper storage is essential to keep your vegan chocolate chip muffins fresh and delicious. Here's a guide on how to store them:

1. Room Temperature: If you plan to consume the muffins within 1-2 days, you can store them at room temperature in an airtight container. Further, make sure the container is sealed well to prevent them from drying out.
2. Refrigeration: For longer storage, especially in warmer climates, you can refrigerate the muffins. Place them in an airtight container or wrap them individually with plastic wrap. This helps to maintain moisture and prevent them from spoiling.
3. Freezing: Muffins freeze well, making them convenient for future use. Allow the muffins to cool completely before freezing. Wrap each muffin individually with plastic wrap and place them in a freezer-safe bag or container. Also label with the date for reference. To thaw, leave the muffins at room temperature or reheat in a microwave or oven. If reheating, wrap them in a damp paper towel and microwave for a short time or alternatively warm them in the oven at a low temperature.
4. Avoid Moisture: Regardless of the storage method, ensure the muffins are completely cool before sealing them in containers or wrapping. Moisture can lead to mold growth.
5. Avoid Sunlight and Heat: Store muffins away from direct sunlight and heat sources to maintain their freshness.

By following these storage tips, you can enjoy your vegan chocolate chip muffins for an extended period while ensuring they remain moist and flavorful.

If you make this recipe be sure to tag @censoredbaker on Instagram!

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