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Rich cocoa muffins with mixed chocolate chunks and a hidden dark chocolate ganache center, baked high then low for tall bakery-style domes.
These muffins are designed for a bold chocolate profile and a soft molten center. The batter combines cocoa, espresso, and mixed chocolate chunks, then bakes with a high-heat start for a tall dome.
They work especially well for weekend baking or make-ahead snack boxes.
Resting the batter briefly hydrates flour and cocoa, helping with rise and texture. Starting at higher heat sets the top quickly, then a lower bake finishes the center without drying.
A chilled ganache cube creates a defined chocolate pocket inside each muffin.
Muscovado sugar adds moisture and mild caramel depth. Sour cream (or Greek yogurt) keeps the crumb tender and slightly tangy, which balances sweetness.
Espresso supports cocoa flavor rather than making the muffins taste like coffee.
Keep ganache cubes cold until the moment you fill the muffins. Fill liners generously to encourage taller muffin tops.
Pull muffins once domed and just firm; overbaking will dry the center.
For extra crunch, top with chopped toasted hazelnuts. For an all-dark profile, use only dark chocolate chunks.
Store airtight for 2-3 days at room temperature. Rewarm briefly before serving to soften the ganache center.
Serve one muffin as a dessert or occasional snack portion. For lighter intake, serve half a muffin with fruit.
Best warm on baking day, but also good as a planned treat during the week.
Pair with unsweetened coffee or milk and avoid stacking with other high-sugar snacks in the same sitting.
Rich cocoa muffins with mixed chocolate chunks and a hidden dark chocolate ganache center, baked high then low for tall bakery-style domes.

Chill ganache until firm enough to cut into neat cubes.
Resting batter briefly helps create taller muffin tops.
Bake hot first, then lower heat for even rise and moist centers.
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Heat cream to just below boiling.
Pour over chopped dark chocolate and rest 30 seconds.
Stir slowly until smooth and glossy.
Pour into a small lined container and refrigerate until firm.
Cut into 8-10 cubes.
Preheat oven to 220 C. Line a muffin pan with paper liners.
In a large bowl, whisk flour, cocoa powder, baking powder, baking soda, salt, and brown sugar.
In a second bowl, whisk eggs, oil, sour cream, milk, espresso, and vanilla.
Add wet mixture to dry ingredients and whisk until uniform.
Fold in two-thirds of chocolate chunks.
Cover and rest batter 25 minutes.
Fill liners with batter, place one ganache cube in each center, and cover lightly with more batter.
Sprinkle remaining chocolate chunks on top.
Bake 5 minutes at 220 C, then reduce to 180 C and bake 15-18 minutes more.
Cool briefly and serve warm.
9/28/2024
Made these twice already and they were perfect both times.
8/9/2024
Moist texture and rich chocolate flavor. Easy to follow.
8/6/2024
Great rise and the molten center is so good while warm.
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Serving Size: 1 large muffin
* Percent Daily Values are based on a 2,000 calorie diet. Your daily values may be higher or lower depending on your calorie needs.
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