Cranberry Chocolate Muffins

Cranberry Chocolate Muffins are a delightful treat combining the sweet richness of chocolate with the tart zing of cranberries. Perfect for any occasion, these muffins are moist, flavorful, and sure to satisfy your sweet cravings. Made from a simple batter enriched with creamy butter and a hint of vanilla, each bite melts in your mouth. The surprise of soft chocolate pieces and juicy cranberries makes these muffins an irresistible favorite. Whether you want to enjoy them for breakfast, as a snack, or as a dessert, they are quick and easy to prepare. With just a few ingredients and simple steps, you can create bakery-quality muffins at home. These muffins are an excellent way to use up any frozen cranberries you might have in the freezer. Plus, they can easily be customized with different mix-ins to suit your taste. Enjoy these muffins warm with a sprinkle of powdered sugar on top for an elegant finish.

Ingredients

Main Ingredients

• 2 large or 3 small eggs
• 275 g all-purpose flour
• 175 g sugar
• 125 g softened butter
• 100 ml 35% heavy cream
• 1 tsp vanilla sugar
• 1.5 tsp baking powder
• 1 bar of milk chocolate
• Frozen cranberries

Preparation Time

• Total Time: 50 minutes (prep and cook time)

Step-by-Step Instruction

1. Prepare the Ingredients: Chop the butter into small pieces and place it in a mixing bowl. Add the sugar.
2. Cream the Butter and Sugar: Beat the butter and sugar together until the mixture is creamy and smooth.
3. Add Eggs: Crack the eggs into the butter and sugar mixture. Beat well until fully incorporated.
4. Mix Dry Ingredients: In a separate bowl, mix the flour with vanilla sugar and baking powder, using your hands to combine them thoroughly.
5. Sift the Dry Mixture: Sift one-third of the flour mixture into the butter and egg mixture, stirring gently.
6. Add Cream: Pour one-third of the heavy cream into the batter, mixing well. Repeat the process by alternating the flour and cream until all ingredients are used.
7. Fold in the Add-ins: Chop the milk chocolate and fold it into the batter along with the frozen cranberries. Mix gently to ensure even distribution.
8. Prepare the Muffin Tins: Line or grease your muffin tins. Fill each tin just below full, as the batter will rise during baking.
9. Bake the Muffins: Preheat your oven to 180-200 degrees Celsius. Place the muffin tins on a baking sheet and bake for 15-20 minutes.
10. Check for Doneness: Insert a wooden toothpick into the center of a muffin. If it comes out clean, the muffins are done.
11. Cool and Serve: Allow the muffins to cool, then lightly dust them with powdered sugar before serving.
12. Optional Variations: Replace chocolate and berries with any available chocolate or fruits as per your preference.
13. Serve and Enjoy: Serve these muffins on their own or with a dollop of whipped cream for a more decadent treat.
14. Storage: Store leftover muffins in an airtight container to maintain freshness for up to 3 days.

Tips

• Substitutions: You can use dark chocolate or white chocolate instead of milk chocolate.
• Fruits: Try swapping cranberries with blueberries, raspberries, or any berries you prefer.
• Flour: If you want a gluten-free version, use an all-purpose gluten-free flour blend.

Nutritions

• Calories: 220 per muffin
• Protein: 3 g
• Fats: 10 g
• Carbs: 30 g

Variations

• For a nutty twist: Add a handful of chopped walnuts or almonds.
• For a citrusy note: Add lemon or orange zest to the batter for a refreshing touch.

Serving Suggestions

• With Breakfast: Pair these muffins with a hot cup of coffee or tea for a delightful morning treat.
• As a Dessert: Serve with a dollop of vanilla ice cream or whipped cream on the side.
• For Special Occasions: Garnish with fresh cranberries or chocolate shavings for an elegant presentation.

Best Places

1. Blueberry Hill Bakery - Offers a cozy environment to enjoy freshly baked goodies. Location: 93 3rd Ave, New York, USA.
2. Muffin Heaven Café - Known for a wide selection of muffins and pastries. Location: 4 Camden Rd, London, UK.
3. Choco Delight Corner - Specializes in chocolate-infused treats. Location: 22 Champs-Élysées, Paris, France.
4. Cranberry Bliss - Famous for their fruity and innovative muffin flavors. Location: 189 Queen St W, Toronto, Canada.
5. La Casa del Muffin - An Italian bakery with a wide variety of authentic muffins. Location: Via della Scala, 40, Florence, Italy.
6. Bake & Joy - A quaint spot with delicious daily fresh bakes. Location: 117 Collins St, Melbourne, Australia.
7. Muffin Magic - A bakery offering a fine selection of muffins and cupcakes. Location: 5 Shibuya, Tokyo, Japan.
8. The Muffin Shop - Selling unique and artisanal muffins. Location: 12 Carrer de Mallorca, Barcelona, Spain.
9. Sweet Bites Bakery - Known for their creative takes on classic flavors. Location: Lange Lozanastraat 68, Antwerp, Belgium.
10. Kaffeehaus - Offers a blend of Viennese pastries and muffins. Location: Kärntnerring 16, Vienna, Austria.