Cappuccino Chocolate Chip Muffins

Cappuccino Chocolate Chip Muffins are soft, coffee-infused treats filled with melty chocolate chips and a touch of warm spice. These bakery-style muffins are ideal for breakfast, brunch, or an afternoon coffee break.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Coffee and chocolate combo: A rich blend that’s perfect for coffee lovers
• Moist and fluffy: Tender crumb with a slightly crisp top
• Quick to prepare: From mixing bowl to oven in just minutes
• Freezer-friendly: Make ahead and enjoy throughout the week
• Bakery-quality at home: Big flavor without complicated steps

ingredients

(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

• All-purpose flour
• Baking powder
• Baking soda
• Salt
• Ground cinnamon (optional)
• Instant espresso powder or instant coffee granules
• Granulated sugar
• Brown sugar (optional for deeper flavor)
• Milk (dairy or non-dairy)
• Vegetable oil or melted butter
• Large eggs
• Vanilla extract
• Mini or regular semi-sweet chocolate chips

directions

this recipe

1. Preheat oven to 375°F. Line a 12-cup muffin tin with paper liners or grease lightly.
2. Mix dry ingredients: In a large bowl, whisk together flour, baking powder, baking soda, salt, cinnamon, and espresso powder.
3. Combine wet ingredients: In a separate bowl, whisk together milk, oil (or butter), eggs, vanilla, and sugars until smooth.
4. Combine: Add wet ingredients to the dry ingredients and stir until just combined. Do not overmix.
5. Add chocolate chips: Gently fold in most of the chocolate chips, reserving a few to sprinkle on top.
6. Portion: Fill each muffin cup about ¾ full. Top with remaining chocolate chips.
7. Bake for 18–22 minutes or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean (avoid chocolate chips when testing).
8. Cool in the pan for 5 minutes, then transfer to a wire rack to cool completely.

Servings and timing

• Servings: 12 muffins
• Prep time: 10–15 minutes
• Bake time: 18–22 minutes
• Total time: ~30–35 minutes

Variations

• Double chocolate: Add 2 tablespoons cocoa powder to the batter
• Nutty: Stir in ½ cup chopped walnuts or pecans
• Dairy-free: Use plant-based milk and vegan chocolate chips
• Cinnamon sugar topping: Sprinkle cinnamon and sugar over each muffin before baking for extra crunch
• Mini muffins: Bake in a mini muffin tin for 10–12 minutes

storage/reheating

• Room temperature: Store in an airtight container for up to 3 days
• Refrigerator: Store for up to 1 week (warm before serving)
• Freezer: Freeze up to 3 months; thaw at room temperature or microwave briefly
• Reheating: Microwave for 15–20 seconds for a just-baked texture

FAQs

Can I use brewed coffee instead of instant?

No, brewed coffee will change the liquid ratio. Instant coffee or espresso powder gives a stronger, more concentrated flavor.

What chocolate works best?

Mini or regular semi-sweet chips blend well. You can also try dark or milk chocolate.

How strong is the coffee flavor?

It’s mild to moderate. Add extra espresso powder if you prefer a bolder taste.

Can I use espresso from a machine?

No, use instant espresso or coffee powder for proper flavor and consistency in the batter.

Are these muffins sweet?

Moderately sweet—balanced by the slight bitterness of espresso.

Can I make this recipe gluten-free?

Yes, use a 1:1 gluten-free flour blend.

Why is my muffin texture dense?

Overmixing the batter or using too much flour can lead to dense muffins. Stir gently and measure carefully.

Can I add a streusel topping?

Absolutely! A simple mix of flour, sugar, and butter adds texture and sweetness.

Are these muffins caffeinated?

Yes, due to the espresso powder, though the amount is small—generally safe for most people.

Can I make these without chocolate chips?

Yes, the muffins are still delicious on their own or with chopped nuts instead.

Conclusion

Cappuccino Chocolate Chip Muffins offer the perfect blend of coffeehouse flavor and homemade comfort. With their rich espresso undertone and bursts of chocolate, they’re a great way to start your day or enjoy a quiet moment with your favorite drink. Easy to make, easy to love, and hard to resist.

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