Description
Indulgent chocolate orange muffins bring Mediterranean citrus zest dancing with rich cocoa notes in one irresistible bite. Moist crumb and intense flavor promise delightful moments savored with morning coffee or afternoon tea.
Ingredients
Scale
Main Ingredients:
- 250 g plain flour
- 5 tablespoons cocoa powder
- 100 g sugar
- 1 egg
- 250 milliliters (8.45 fluid ounces) orange juice
Wet Ingredients:
- 2 oranges (zest and juice)
- 90 milliliters (3.04 fluid ounces) vegetable oil
Leavening and Seasoning:
- 2 teaspoons baking powder
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 teaspoon bicarbonate of soda
Instructions
- Prepare the oven by heating to 190°C and line a muffin tray with paper cases.
- In a jug, combine orange zest, orange juice, egg, and vegetable oil, whisking until thoroughly blended.
- Sift flour, baking powder, bicarbonate of soda, salt, and cocoa powder into a separate mixing bowl, then incorporate sugar evenly.
- Create a gentle well in the dry ingredients and pour the liquid mixture into the center.
- Carefully fold the wet and dry ingredients together using a spatula, ensuring minimal stirring to maintain a light texture – some small lumps are acceptable.
- Distribute the batter evenly among the prepared muffin cases, filling approximately three-quarters full.
- Place the tray in the preheated oven and bake for 20-25 minutes, checking for doneness by pressing the center – it should spring back when lightly touched.
- Remove from oven and allow muffins to cool completely on a wire rack before storing or serving.
- For optimal flavor, consider enjoying these muffins within 2-3 days of baking, storing in an airtight container at room temperature.
Notes
- Ensure orange zest is finely grated to distribute flavor evenly throughout the muffins.
- Use room temperature ingredients for smoother batter and better rising.
- Swap vegetable oil with melted coconut oil for a subtle tropical twist and healthier fat option.
- For gluten-free version, replace wheat flour with almond or gluten-free blend, maintaining same measurement proportions.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 20-25 minutes
- Category: Breakfast, Snacks, Desserts
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: British
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 6
- Calories: 135
- Sugar: 9 g
- Sodium: 200 mg
- Fat: 5 g
- Saturated Fat: 1 g
- Unsaturated Fat: 4 g
- Trans Fat: 0 g
- Carbohydrates: 22 g
- Fiber: 2 g
- Protein: 2 g
- Cholesterol: 20 mg