If you adore anything with a rich chocolatey twist and a gooey surprise tucked inside, then you absolutely must try this Nutella Muffins Recipe. These muffins are utterly irresistible, combining a tender, moist crumb with a luscious swirl of Nutella that melts perfectly as they bake. Imagine biting into a warm muffin with the tiniest hint of cocoa and then reaching the luscious center of Nutella that just makes your taste buds sing. It’s a simple yet incredibly satisfying treat that feels homemade but is sure to impress any guest or satisfy your own sweet tooth cravings.
Ingredients You’ll Need
Gathering the right ingredients is key to creating the perfect Nutella Muffins Recipe. Each element plays a vital role, from the fluffiness given by the baking powder to the rich flavor depth brought by cocoa powder and the creamy texture thanks to sour cream. Don’t skip on the quality of the Nutella, as it’s the star that makes these muffins truly memorable.
- 2 cups All-purpose flour: The foundation that supports the muffin’s structure and softness.
- 1/2 cup Unsweetened cocoa powder: Brings that deep chocolate flavor that perfectly balances the Nutella.
- 2 1/2 tsp Baking powder: Helps the muffins rise high and fluffy.
- 1/2 tsp Baking soda: Adds extra lift and ensures a tender crumb.
- 1/2 tsp Salt: Enhances all the sweet flavors in the batter.
- 1 cup White granulated sugar: Sweetens the muffins just right without overpowering.
- 1/2 cup Unsalted butter (melted and cooled): Brings moistness and richness for a tender bite.
- 1/2 cup Sour cream (room temperature): Adds humidity and a slight tang that balances sweetness.
- 1 tsp Pure vanilla extract: Gives the batter a lovely aromatic depth.
- 2 Large eggs (room temperature): Bind everything together and add richness.
- 3/4 cup Buttermilk (room temperature): Keeps the muffins soft and tender while adding a subtle tang.
- 2/3 cup Nutella: The luscious, creamy center and swirl that makes these muffins unforgettable.
How to Make Nutella Muffins Recipe
Step 1: Freeze the Nutella Dollops
This is a crucial step that ensures your Nutella center stays beautifully intact while baking. Using a tablespoon, scoop out 12 generous dollops of Nutella onto a cookie sheet lined with wax paper. Spread them out so they don’t stick together, then pop the tray into the freezer for at least one hour until they are solid. This way, when you add them to your batter, they won’t melt into just a smear but will create delightful pockets of creamy goodness.
Step 2: Mix the Dry Ingredients
In a large bowl, sift together the all-purpose flour, unsweetened cocoa powder, baking powder, and baking soda. Sprinkle in the salt and sugar. These dry ingredients form the essence of the batter’s structure and flavor. Sifting helps avoid lumps and ensures everything is thoroughly combined for a smooth batter.
Step 3: Combine the Wet Ingredients
In a separate bowl, whisk together the melted and cooled butter, sour cream, vanilla extract, eggs, and buttermilk. It’s important that these ingredients are at room temperature to mix evenly and avoid curdling. The mix becomes the rich, tender liquid base that will turn into the soft muffin texture we all love.
Step 4: Blend Wet and Dry Mixtures
Pour the wet mixture into the dry ingredients and gently fold together with a rubber spatula just until combined. Be careful not to over mix; a few lumps are okay. Over mixing can make the muffins tough, and that’s definitely not what we want here! Once mixed, cover the bowl and let the batter rest for 30 minutes to hydrate and develop flavor.
Step 5: Prepare for Baking
Preheat the oven to 400 degrees Fahrenheit. Line a 12-cup muffin pan with liners. To achieve those beautifully domed tops, an insider trick is to fill every other muffin cup with batter. This allows the heat to circulate better and encourages a higher rise. Using a small cookie scoop, drop one dollop of the batter in each liner.
Step 6: Add Frozen Nutella and More Batter
Press the frozen Nutella dollops firmly into the center of each muffin mound. Then scoop another dollop of batter right on top to seal in that delectable filling. Gently spread to even out the surface so the muffin bakes evenly around its ooey-gooey core.
Step 7: Swirl Nutella on Top
For that signature look and extra chocolate hit, scoop a teaspoon of Nutella on top of each muffin and use a butter knife to swirl it around just lightly. This not only adds flair but also gives a wonderful Nutella aroma as they bake.
Step 8: Bake the Muffins
Pop the muffins into the oven. Bake first at 400°F for 6 minutes to jump-start the rising, then lower the temperature to 350°F and continue baking for 10 minutes more. This two-stage baking gives you the perfect lift and moist crumb.
Step 9: Cooling
Once out of the oven, don’t rush to remove them. Let the muffins sit in the hot pan for 10 minutes so they firm up a bit, making it easier to remove without breaking. Then transfer to a cooling rack to cool completely or enjoy warm for a melty experience.
How to Serve Nutella Muffins Recipe
Garnishes
Simple garnishes like a dusting of powdered sugar or a sprinkle of crushed hazelnuts can add a touch of elegance and texture. If you want to get fancy, a drizzle of melted chocolate or a few fresh raspberries add a wonderful contrast to the rich Nutella flavor.
Side Dishes
Nutella Muffins pair wonderfully with a hot cup of coffee or a cold glass of milk—classic and comforting combinations. For a brunch spread, serve alongside fresh fruit salad or a creamy yogurt parfait to balance the decadence.
Creative Ways to Present
For a party, arrange the muffins on a tiered cake stand with small bowls of Nutella for extra dipping. You can also insert a decorative paper liner or topper for themed occasions. Cut them in half and spread with a little extra Nutella or cream cheese frosting for a snack that feels extra special.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
After baking, keep leftover Nutella Muffins in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days. This keeps them moist and fresh, perfect for quick grab-and-go treats or snacks throughout the week.
Freezing
To extend their life, you can freeze Nutella Muffins easily. Wrap each muffin tightly in plastic wrap and place in a freezer-safe bag or container. They stay delicious for up to 2 months. When ready to enjoy, simply thaw at room temperature or gently warm in an oven or microwave.
Reheating
For that fresh-baked feel, reheat muffins in a 350°F oven for about 5–7 minutes or microwave them for about 15 seconds. This revives the soft crumb and melty Nutella center beautifully, making each bite just as irresistible as the first.
FAQs
Can I use regular milk instead of buttermilk?
Yes, you can substitute regular milk mixed with a teaspoon of lemon juice or vinegar to mimic buttermilk’s acidity, which helps with the muffin’s tenderness and lift.
Is it necessary to freeze the Nutella dollops?
Freezing is key to keeping the Nutella from melting too much into the batter during baking, so you get those lovely little pockets of creamy filling that are the hallmark of this Nutella Muffins Recipe.
Can I make these muffins vegan?
This recipe relies on eggs, butter, sour cream, and buttermilk, so significant ingredient swaps are needed to make it vegan-friendly. You’d want to experiment with vegan substitutes for each while keeping the texture in mind.
What’s the best way to prevent the muffins from sticking to the pan?
Using muffin liners is the easiest method, but if you don’t have any, be sure to grease your pan well with butter or non-stick spray before adding the batter.
How can I make the muffins more domed on top?
Filling every other muffin cup and starting the bake at a higher temperature like 400°F helps create a beautiful dome. The quick initial heat jumpstarts the rise before lowering it for even baking.
Final Thoughts
There is something incredibly comforting about homemade baked goods, and this Nutella Muffins Recipe hits all the right notes—easy prep, rich chocolate flavor, and that magical oozing Nutella center. Whether you’re whipping these up for breakfast, a snack, or dessert, they’re guaranteed to bring joy to anyone lucky enough to taste them. Go ahead and bake a batch—you’ll be sharing smiles, I promise!
Print
Delicious Recipe
- Prep Time: 20 minutes
- Cook Time: 16 minutes
- Total Time: 56 minutes
- Yield: 12 muffins
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Description
Delight in these rich and moist Nutella Muffins, featuring a luscious Nutella center and a beautifully swirled topping. Made with cocoa powder, buttermilk, and sour cream for extra tenderness, these muffins offer a perfect balance of chocolate flavor and creamy Nutella goodness, ideal for breakfast or a decadent snack.
Ingredients
Dry Ingredients
- 2 cups All-purpose flour
- 1/2 cup Unsweetened cocoa powder
- 2 1/2 tsp Baking powder
- 1/2 tsp Baking soda
- 1/2 tsp Salt
- 1 cup White granulated sugar
Wet Ingredients
- 1/2 cup Unsalted butter (melted and cooled)
- 1/2 cup Sour cream (room temperature)
- 1 tsp Pure vanilla extract
- 2 Large eggs (room temperature)
- 3/4 cup Buttermilk (room temperature)
Nutella Filling & Topping
- 2/3 cup Nutella
Instructions
- Freeze Nutella Dollops: On a cookie sheet lined with wax paper, scoop heaping tablespoons of Nutella into 12 separate dollops. Spread them out to prevent sticking. Freeze for 1 hour or until solid.
- Mix Dry Ingredients: In a large bowl, sift together the all-purpose flour, unsweetened cocoa powder, baking powder, and baking soda. Stir in the salt and white granulated sugar. Set this mixture aside.
- Mix Wet Ingredients: In a separate small bowl, whisk together melted and cooled unsalted butter, sour cream at room temperature, pure vanilla extract, large eggs at room temperature, and buttermilk also at room temperature until well combined.
- Combine Wet and Dry Mixtures: Pour the wet ingredient mixture into the dry ingredients. Using a rubber spatula, gently mix just until combined. Avoid overmixing to prevent tough muffins. Cover the batter and let it rest for 30 minutes.
- Prepare Muffin Pan & Preheat Oven: Preheat your oven to 400°F (204°C). Line a 12-cup muffin pan with muffin liners. For extra domed tops, fill every other muffin cup only.
- Scoop Batter & Add Nutella Center: Using a small cookie scoop, spoon a dollop of muffin batter into each liner. Place a frozen Nutella drop firmly into the center of the batter. Then scoop another dollop of batter on top, spreading it evenly to cover the Nutella.
- Create Nutella Swirl: Place 1 teaspoon of Nutella on the top of each muffin. Using a butter knife, gently swirl the Nutella on top to create a marbled effect.
- Bake Muffins: Bake the muffins at 400°F for 6 minutes. Then reduce the oven temperature to 350°F (177°C) and bake for an additional 10 minutes until the muffins are set and a toothpick inserted near the edge comes out clean.
- Cool Muffins: Remove the muffins from the oven and let them sit in the hot pan for 10 minutes. Then transfer them to a cooling rack to cool completely before serving.
Notes
- Using room temperature eggs, sour cream, and buttermilk helps achieve a smoother batter and better rise.
- Freezing Nutella dollops is key to prevent the filling from melting into the batter during baking.
- Do not overmix the batter to keep the muffins tender and light.
- Filling every other muffin cup allows the muffins to develop extra domed tops.
- Swirling Nutella on top adds a beautiful look and additional flavor burst.
- Muffins can be stored in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days or refrigerated for up to a week.
