Chocolate Muffins with Cherry Jam

Chocolate muffins with cherry jam are a delightful treat perfect for any celebration. These mouth-watering muffins are infused with the richness of chocolate and a hint of rum, making them a unique dessert that stands out. They have a moist and tender texture, enhanced by the lusciousness of cherry jam. The combination of dark and white chocolate creates a beautiful contrast that is sure to please any chocolate lover. With a touch of sour cream, the muffins have an incredibly soft crumb that melts in your mouth. Easy to make, these muffins are perfect for both beginner and advanced bakers. The aroma of vanilla and chocolate fills the kitchen as they bake, which makes the entire experience even more enjoyable. Whether you're making these for a family gathering, a party, or just to enjoy at home, they are sure to impress. Serve them slightly chilled for a delightful treat that everyone will love.

Ingredients

Main Ingredients:

• 150 g all-purpose flour
• 100 g white chocolate
• 120 g butter
• 65 g dark chocolate
• 20 ml rum
• 2 eggs
• 3 tbsp sugar
• 3 tbsp thick cherry jam (or other red jam)
• 1 tsp vanilla sugar
• 1 tbsp sour cream
• 1 tsp baking powder

Preparation Time

Total Time: 40 minutes (20 minutes prep, 20 minutes cook time)

Step-by-Step Instructions

1. Cream the Butter: In a large mixing bowl, beat together the butter, sugar, vanilla sugar, and a pinch of salt until light and fluffy.
2. Melt the Dark Chocolate: Using a double boiler, melt the dark chocolate until smooth, then let it cool slightly.
3. Combine Ingredients: Gradually add the melted chocolate to the creamed butter, mixing well to ensure a smooth blend.
4. Add Liquids: Stir in the eggs, rum, and sour cream until the mixture is homogeneous.
5. Prepare the Dry Ingredients: In another bowl, combine the flour and baking powder. Sift this mixture into the wet ingredients.
6. Mix the Batter: Carefully fold the dry ingredients into the wet mixture, being careful not to overmix, which can make the muffins tough.
7. Prepare the Muffin Tins: Grease the muffin tins, ensuring they are well-coated to prevent sticking.
8. Fill the Tins: Divide the batter evenly among the muffin tins, filling each about two-thirds full to allow room for rising.
9. Add Jam: Place a small spoonful of cherry jam on top of each muffin, pressing it slightly into the batter.
10. Bake the Muffins: Preheat the oven to 180°C (350°F) and bake the muffins for about 20 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted comes out clean.
11. Cool the Muffins: Once baked, remove the muffins from the oven and let them cool in the tins for a few minutes before transferring them to a wire rack.
12. Prepare the White Chocolate: Melt the white chocolate gently over a double boiler, ensuring it does not overheat.
13. Slice the Muffins: When the muffins are completely cool, slice them horizontally to separate the tops from the bases.
14. Layer with White Chocolate: Spread a small amount of melted white chocolate on the bottom half of each muffin.
15. Reassemble the Muffins: Place the tops back onto the muffins, pressing gently to secure.
16. Chill for Best Results: Allow the muffins to chill in the refrigerator to set the chocolate and enhance their texture.
17. Serve and Enjoy: Serve the muffins chilled or at room temperature for optimal flavor and texture.
18. Storage Tips: Store leftover muffins in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days.
19. Reheat: Before serving leftover muffins, allow them to come to room temperature or warm them slightly for the best taste.
20. Presentation Tip: For an elegant presentation, dust the tops with a little powdered sugar before serving.

Tips

• Substitutions: You can substitute rum with an equal amount of apple juice for a non-alcoholic version.
• Spices: Add a pinch of cinnamon for extra warmth and flavor.
• Texture: For extra crunch, sprinkle chopped nuts on top before baking.

Nutritions (per serving)

• Calories: 280
• Protein: 4g
• Fats: 18g
• Carbs: 25g

Variations

• Gluten-Free: Substitute all-purpose flour with a gluten-free flour blend.
• Vegan: Use vegan butter and a flax egg (1 tbsp flaxseed meal + 2.5 tbsp water) to make the recipe vegan-friendly.
• Fruit Swaps: Substitute cherry jam with raspberry or strawberry jam for a different flavor profile.

Serving Suggestions

• Serve with a dollop of whipped cream or a scoop of vanilla ice cream.
• Pair with a cup of hot coffee or a glass of cold milk for a delightful treat.

Best Places

1. The Chocolate Room - A cozy spot known for its wide selection of chocolate-based desserts. Location: 2039 Union St, San Francisco, USA.
2. Patisserie Valerie - Classic French pastries and desserts with a charming atmosphere. Location: 44 Old Compton St, Soho, London, UK.
3. ChocoMuseo - Offers unique chocolate experiences including tastings and workshops. Location: Calle Colón 200, Cusco, Peru.
4. Maison Cailler - Switzerland's oldest chocolate brand offering tours and tastings. Location: Rue Jules Bellet 7, Broc, Switzerland.
5. Neuhaus Chocolatier - Renowned for fine Belgian chocolates. Location: Galerie de la Reine 25, Brussels, Belgium.
6. Max Brenner - Inventive chocolate creations served in a vibrant setting. Location: 841 Broadway, New York, USA.
7. Amelia's Chocolate - Specializing in handcrafted chocolates. Location: 11A Victoria Rd, Scarborough, UK.
8. Défoncé Chocolatier - Known for luxurious, artisanal chocolates with a twist. Location: 473 9th St, San Francisco, USA.
9. La Maison du Chocolat - Classic Parisian chocolate shop with high-quality treats. Location: 225 rue du Faubourg Saint-Honoré, Paris, France.
10. Haigh's Chocolates - A quintessentially Australian chocolate experience. Location: 218 Burke St, Melbourne, Australia.