Chocolate Ricotta Muffins, a delectable creation that seamlessly blends rich cocoa flavor with the creamy wholesomeness of ricotta cheese and milk, is a delightful treat for any occasion. These muffins, with their deeply chocolatey essence, are not only bursting with flavor but also surprisingly low in fat, making them an irresistible option for those seeking a guilt-free indulgence.
Preparation for these scrumptious muffins takes just a mere 15 minutes, with a total cooking time of 25 minutes, ensuring that you can enjoy these mouthwatering delights in less than an hour. With their quick and easy preparation, they’re perfect for busy mornings, afternoon snacks, or as a sweet addition to any potluck spread.
To embark on this culinary journey, gather your ingredients: unbleached all-purpose flour, salt, baking powder, sugar, ricotta cheese, eggs, 2% low-fat milk, vanilla extract, unsalted butter, and of course, rich cocoa for that unmistakable chocolatey taste. With these simple yet essential ingredients, you’re well on your way to creating a batch of heavenly muffins that will leave your taste buds singing with joy.
Start by preheating your oven to 350°F, ensuring the perfect temperature for baking these delightful treats to perfection. Lightly spray 12 standard-sized muffin cups with nonstick spray, preparing them for the delicious batter that will soon grace their interiors.
In a medium-sized bowl, combine the flour, salt, baking powder, cocoa, and sugar, blending them together to create a harmonious mixture of dry ingredients. In a separate bowl of equal size, place the ricotta cheese, adding the eggs one at a time while vigorously whisking after each addition. Incorporate the milk and vanilla extract into the ricotta mixture, whisking until thoroughly blended and infused with flavor.
Now, it’s time to marry the wet and dry ingredients. Pour the ricotta mixture, along with the melted butter, into the bowl of dry ingredients, gently stirring from the bottom of the bowl until all ingredients are just moistened. Be cautious not to overmix; a few lumps in the batter are perfectly acceptable and contribute to the muffins’ delightful texture.
To enhance the decadence of these muffins, fold in the chocolate chips, ensuring they’re evenly distributed throughout the batter. With your batter ready, spoon it into the prepared muffin cups, filling them either 4/5 of the way for smaller muffins or even with the top of the pan for larger, more indulgent treats. If you find yourself with excess batter, simply spray one or two additional muffin cups with nonstick spray and distribute the remaining batter accordingly.
Now, it’s time to let the magic happen. Place the muffin-filled pan in the middle of your preheated oven and bake for 20 to 25 minutes, or until the muffins are lightly browned on top and a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean. Once baked to perfection, remove the pan from the oven and transfer the muffins to a cooling rack, allowing them to cool for at least 30 minutes before serving.
With each bite, you’ll experience a symphony of flavors – the deep richness of chocolate, the creamy texture of ricotta cheese, and the comforting familiarity of classic muffins. These Chocolate Ricotta Muffins, with their enticing aroma and irresistible taste, are sure to become a beloved favorite among family and friends alike. Whether enjoyed as a morning pick-me-up, an afternoon treat, or a delightful dessert, these muffins are bound to bring joy to every palate they encounter.
