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There’s something magical about the aroma of freshly baked muffins wafting through your home. These Easy Zucchini-Chocolate Chip Muffins are the perfect blend of sweetness and healthiness, making them an ideal snack for kids and adults alike. If you’ve been searching for a recipe that’s simple, delicious, and nutritious, you’ve come to the right place.
Why You’ll Love These Muffins
Imagine biting into a moist, fluffy muffin studded with melty chocolate chips and crunchy walnuts, all while knowing it’s packed with the goodness of zucchini. These muffins are easy to make, customizable, and a great way to sneak veggies into your diet without anyone noticing.
Ingredients for Success
Here’s what you’ll need to make a batch of these delightful muffins. Most ingredients are pantry staples, so you might already have them on hand!
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Ingredient | Quantity |
---|---|
All-purpose flour | 1 1/2 cups |
White sugar | 3/4 cup |
Baking soda | 1 teaspoon |
Ground cinnamon | 1 teaspoon |
Salt | 1/2 teaspoon |
Vegetable oil | 1/2 cup |
Milk | 1/4 cup |
Egg (lightly beaten) | 1 |
Lemon juice | 1 tablespoon |
Vanilla extract | 1 teaspoon |
Shredded zucchini | 1 cup |
Miniature semisweet chocolate chips | 1/2 cup |
Chopped walnuts | 1/2 cup |
Step-by-Step Directions
1. Gather Your Ingredients
Start by gathering all your ingredients. Preparing everything in advance makes the baking process smoother and more enjoyable.
2. Preheat and Prepare
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease a 12-cup muffin tin or line it with paper liners for easy cleanup.
3. Mix Dry Ingredients
In a large mixing bowl, combine the following:
- Flour
- Sugar
- Baking soda
- Cinnamon
- Salt
Use a whisk to evenly distribute the ingredients.
4. Blend Wet Ingredients
In a separate bowl, whisk together:
- Vegetable oil
- Milk
- Lightly beaten egg
- Lemon juice
- Vanilla extract
5. Combine Wet and Dry Mixtures
Slowly pour the wet ingredients into the dry ingredients. Stir until just moistened. Avoid overmixing, as it can make the muffins dense.
6. Add the Stars of the Show
Gently fold in the shredded zucchini, chocolate chips, and chopped walnuts. These ingredients add texture, flavor, and a nutritional boost.
7. Fill the Muffin Cups
Using a spoon or scoop, divide the batter evenly among the prepared muffin cups, filling each about two-thirds full.
8. Bake to Perfection
Place the muffin tin in the preheated oven and bake for 20-25 minutes, or until the tops spring back when lightly pressed.
9. Cool and Enjoy
Allow the muffins to cool briefly in the tin before transferring them to a wire rack to cool completely. Enjoy warm or store them for later.
Nutritional Information
Nutrient | Per Muffin |
---|---|
Calories | 210 |
Total Fat | 12g |
Saturated Fat | 4g |
Cholesterol | 15mg |
Sodium | 150mg |
Total Carbohydrates | 25g |
Dietary Fiber | 1g |
Sugars | 15g |
Protein | 3g |
Tips for Perfect Muffins
1. Shredding Zucchini
- Use the fine side of a box grater for finely shredded zucchini.
- No need to peel the zucchini; the skin adds nutrients and blends seamlessly.
2. Customizing Your Muffins
- Swap walnuts for pecans or skip them entirely for a nut-free version.
- Replace chocolate chips with raisins or dried cranberries for a fruity twist.
3. Storage Tips
- Room Temperature: Store in an airtight container for up to 3 days.
- Freezing: Wrap muffins individually in plastic wrap and store in a freezer bag for up to 3 months. Thaw at room temperature or microwave for a quick treat.
FAQs About Easy Zucchini-Chocolate Chip Muffins
1. Can I make these muffins gluten-free?
Yes! Substitute all-purpose flour with a 1:1 gluten-free baking blend for similar results.
2. How do I prevent the muffins from being too dense?
Avoid overmixing the batter and ensure your baking soda is fresh.
3. Can I use another vegetable instead of zucchini?
Grated carrots work well as a substitute, offering a slightly sweeter flavor.
4. Are these muffins suitable for vegans?
You can make vegan muffins by using flax eggs (1 tablespoon ground flaxseed + 2.5 tablespoons water) and plant-based milk.
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5. What’s the best way to shred zucchini for muffins?
Use a box grater or food processor for fine shreds that blend seamlessly into the batter.
6. Can I reduce the sugar?
Absolutely! You can reduce the sugar by up to half or use a natural sweetener like honey or maple syrup.
The Final Touch – Try It Today!
Now that you have this foolproof recipe for Easy Zucchini-Chocolate Chip Muffins, it’s time to grab your apron and get baking. Share these delicious treats with family and friends, or enjoy them as a quick snack on busy days. Your kitchen will smell amazing, and your taste buds will thank you!
PrintEasy Zucchini-Chocolate Chip Muffins – A Sweet, Healthy Snack!
- Total Time: 35 minutes
- Yield: 12 muffins
Description
Turn fresh zucchini into a delectable treat with these Easy Zucchini-Chocolate Chip Muffins! Sweet, moist, and packed with chocolatey goodness, these muffins are a perfect balance of healthy and indulgent. Whether you’re whipping up a quick snack or a make-ahead breakfast, this recipe is sure to please everyone.
Ingredients
- All-purpose flour: 1 1/2 cups
- White sugar: 3/4 cup
- Baking soda: 1 teaspoon
- Ground cinnamon: 1 teaspoon
- Salt: 1/2 teaspoon
- Vegetable oil: 1/2 cup
- Milk: 1/4 cup
- Egg (lightly beaten): 1
- Lemon juice: 1 tablespoon
- Vanilla extract: 1 teaspoon
- Shredded zucchini: 1 cup
- Miniature semisweet chocolate chips: 1/2 cup
- Chopped walnuts (optional): 1/2 cup
Instructions
. Preheat and Prepare
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
- Grease a 12-cup muffin tin or line with paper liners.
2. Combine Dry Ingredients
- In a large bowl, whisk together flour, sugar, baking soda, cinnamon, and salt until well combined.
3. Mix Wet Ingredients
- In a separate bowl, whisk together vegetable oil, milk, lightly beaten egg, lemon juice, and vanilla extract.
4. Create the Batter
- Gradually pour the wet ingredients into the dry ingredients. Gently stir until just combined.
- Fold in the shredded zucchini, chocolate chips, and walnuts (if using).
5. Fill Muffin Cups
- Divide the batter evenly among the prepared muffin cups, filling each about two-thirds full.
6. Bake
- Place the muffin tin in the oven and bake for 20-25 minutes.
- Muffins are ready when the tops are golden and spring back when lightly pressed, or when a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean.
7. Cool and Serve
- Let the muffins cool in the tin for 5 minutes before transferring them to a wire rack to cool completely. Serve warm or store for later.
Notes
- Zucchini Preparation: No need to peel the zucchini. Grate finely for best results.
- Customizations: Substitute walnuts with pecans or omit entirely for nut-free muffins.
- Sweetness Adjustment: Reduce sugar or replace with honey or maple syrup for a less sweet option.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 20-25 minutes
- Category: Snack/Dessert
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American