Who doesn’t love a rich, chocolatey treat that’s both delicious and packed with protein? Our Kodiak Dark Chocolate Muffins are the perfect balance of indulgence and nourishment, making them a go-to snack or breakfast option. Made with Kodiak Cakes’ protein-packed mix, these muffins are as satisfying as they are simple to whip up.
Kodiak Dark Chocolate Muffins Recipe
Let’s dive into creating these irresistible Kodiak Dark Chocolate Muffins. Bursting with rich chocolate flavor and a boost of protein, they’re perfect for breakfast or as a satisfying snack. Follow our step-by-step guide below to whip up these delicious muffins with ease.
Ingredients
Here’s everything we need to make these muffins. Gather the following:
- 1 ½ cups Kodiak Cakes Dark Chocolate Protein Pancake Mix
- ⅓ cup unsweetened cocoa powder
- ½ cup granulated sugar (or substitute with coconut sugar)
- 1 tsp baking powder
- ½ tsp baking soda
- 1 cup non-dairy or regular milk
- ½ cup plain Greek yogurt
- 2 large eggs
- 1 tsp vanilla extract
- ⅓ cup melted coconut oil (or substitute with vegetable oil)
- ½ cup dark chocolate chips (reserve some for topping)
Step-by-Step Instructions
- Preheat the Oven
Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C). Line a 12-muffin tin with paper liners or lightly grease each cup for easy release.
- Combine Dry Ingredients
In a large mixing bowl, whisk together Kodiak Cakes Dark Chocolate Mix, cocoa powder, granulated sugar, baking powder, and baking soda. Ensure they’re thoroughly combined to avoid lumps.
- Mix Wet Ingredients
In another bowl, whisk the milk, Greek yogurt, eggs, vanilla extract, and melted coconut oil until smooth. The Greek yogurt adds moisture and keeps the muffins tender.
- Incorporate Wet and Dry
Gradually pour the wet ingredients into the bowl of dry ingredients. Using a spatula or wooden spoon, gently fold the mixture until just combined. Do not overmix, or the muffins may turn dense.
- Add Chocolate Chips
Fold in ½ cup of dark chocolate chips to the batter. These will create pockets of molten chocolate in every bite. Save a few chips to sprinkle on top.
- Fill the Muffin Tin
Divide the batter evenly among the prepared muffin cups, filling each about ¾ full. Sprinkle the reserved chocolate chips on top for a visually appealing finish.
- Bake to Perfection
Place the muffin tin on the center rack of the preheated oven. Bake for 16-18 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out with a few moist crumbs (not wet batter).
- Cool and Enjoy
Let the muffins cool in the tin for 5 minutes, then transfer them to a wire rack to cool completely. Serve warm for a gooey chocolate experience or store for later.
Quick Tip
- For extra indulgence, drizzle the muffins with melted dark chocolate once cooled.
- To store, keep them in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days or freeze for longer shelf life.
Bakery-Worthy Results
| Steps | Key Tips for Success |
|---|---|
| Mix Dry Ingredients | Whisk thoroughly for no lumps. |
| Mix Wet Ingredients | Ensure Greek yogurt and eggs are at room temp. |
| Bake Muffins | Avoid overbaking to keep muffins moist. |
With these clear and detailed steps, our Kodiak Dark Chocolate Muffins come out beautifully moist, rich, and protein-packed every time.
Ingredients
Let’s gather everything we need to create these indulgent, protein-packed Kodiak Dark Chocolate Muffins. Below, we’ve separated the ingredients into dry, wet, and optional add-ins for easy preparation.
Dry Ingredients
- 1 cup Kodiak Cakes Dark Chocolate Protein Pancake Mix
- 2 tablespoons unsweetened cocoa powder
- 1 teaspoon baking powder
- 1/4 teaspoon baking soda
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
Pro Tip: Sift the dry ingredients for an extra-light texture.
Wet Ingredients
- 1/2 cup Greek yogurt (plain or vanilla, room temperature)
- 1/3 cup honey or maple syrup
- 1/4 cup unsalted butter, melted and cooled
- 2 large eggs, room temperature
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1/3 cup milk of choice (we recommend unsweetened almond milk or regular milk)
Keeping wet ingredients at room temperature allows them to blend smoothly without clumps.
Optional Add-ins
Elevate your muffins by folding in these delectable add-ins:
- 1/2 cup dark chocolate chips or chunks
- 1/4 cup chopped nuts (like walnuts or pecans) for crunch
- 1/4 teaspoon instant espresso powder to intensify the chocolate flavor
Tools And Equipment
Creating Kodiak Dark Chocolate Muffins is a breeze, but having the right tools on hand is crucial for a smooth and efficient baking process. Here’s a list of essential tools and equipment we’ll need to whip up these protein-packed treats. Keeping these items ready will ensure consistent results and make the process enjoyable.
1. Mixing Bowls
We recommend using at least two mixing bowls:
- One large bowl for combining dry ingredients like the Kodiak Cakes Dark Chocolate Protein Pancake Mix and cocoa powder.
- One medium-sized bowl for whisking together the wet ingredients such as Greek yogurt, eggs, and melted butter.
2. Measuring Cups and Spoons
Accurate measurements are key to baking success. Equip yourself with:
- Dry measuring cups for ingredients like the pancake mix and cocoa powder.
- Liquid measuring cups for milk or melted butter.
- Measuring spoons for smaller quantities like vanilla extract and baking powder.
3. Sifter (Optional but Recommended)
A sieve or sifter helps eliminate lumps from the dry ingredients, ensuring a fluffier muffin texture. While optional, it’s a great tool for achieving bakery-quality results.
4. Whisk and Spatula
- A whisk is essential for combining wet ingredients seamlessly while blending air into the mixture for lighter muffins.
- A rubber spatula is ideal for folding in add-ins like dark chocolate chips without overmixing the batter.
5. Muffin Tin and Liners
Prepare a 12-cup standard muffin tin and line it with paper cupcake liners for easy removal and cleanup. Greasing the liners lightly with nonstick spray can prevent sticking.
6. Ice Cream Scoop or Spoon
A medium-sized ice cream scoop or spoon makes portioning the batter easy and ensures all muffins are of equal size, contributing to uniform baking.
7. Cooling Rack
After baking, a wire cooling rack allows air to circulate around the muffins, preventing them from becoming soggy and preserving their delicious texture.
8. Oven Mitts or Silicone Gloves
Don’t forget oven mitts to safely handle the hot muffin tin when removing it from the oven.
Summary Table:
| Tool/Equipment | Purpose |
|---|---|
| Mixing Bowls | For mixing dry and wet ingredients separately |
| Measuring Cups & Spoons | For accurate measurements of all ingredients |
| Sifter | To create smooth, lump-free dry ingredients |
| Whisk & Spatula | For blending and folding the batter perfectly |
| Muffin Tin & Liners | For shaping and baking the muffins |
| Ice Cream Scoop | To portion the batter evenly |
| Cooling Rack | To cool muffins and maintain texture |
| Oven Mitts | For safe handling of the hot muffin tin |
Using these essential tools and equipment simplifies the process and ensures our Kodiak Dark Chocolate Muffins turn out perfectly every time.
Directions
Let’s dive into crafting these delicious Kodiak Dark Chocolate Muffins. Follow the steps below to keep the process effortless and enjoyable.
Prep
- Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C). Line a 12-cup muffin tin with paper liners or lightly grease with non-stick spray.
- Gather all your tools and ingredients to ensure a smooth workflow. Bring all wet ingredients, such as Greek yogurt, eggs, milk, and melted butter, to room temperature for better mixing.
Mix The Batter
- In a large mixing bowl, whisk together the dry ingredients:
- 1 ½ cups Kodiak Cakes Dark Chocolate Protein Pancake Mix
- ¼ cup cocoa powder
- 1 tsp baking powder
- ½ tsp baking soda
- ¼ tsp salt
Ensure everything is evenly combined.
2. In a separate bowl, combine wet ingredients:
- ¾ cup Greek yogurt
- ⅓ cup honey or maple syrup
- 2 large eggs, lightly beaten
- ¼ cup melted butter (cooled slightly)
- 1 tsp vanilla extract
- ½ cup milk
Whisk until smooth.
3. Slowly add the wet mixture into the dry ingredients. Use a spatula or whisk to mix until just combined. Do not overmix.
4. Gently fold in ¾ cup dark chocolate chips (or your chosen add-ins) for extra richness.
Fill The Muffin Tin
- Use an ice cream scoop or a spoon to evenly distribute the batter into the prepared muffin tin. Fill each cup about ¾ full to allow room for rising.
- For a bakery-style touch, sprinkle additional dark chocolate chips or a pinch of coarse sugar on top before baking.
Bake The Muffins
- Place the muffin tin in the preheated oven and bake for 18–22 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean or with a few moist crumbs.
- Monitor the muffins closely towards the end of the baking time to avoid overbaking and ensure they stay moist.
| Bake Time | Temperature | Result |
|---|---|---|
| 18–22 minutes | 350°F (175°C) | Moist, fluffy muffins |
Cooling And Storage
- Remove the muffins from the oven and allow them to rest in the tin for 5 minutes.
- Transfer them to a cooling rack to cool completely. This prevents overcooking from residual heat in the pan.
- Storage Tips:
- Store at room temperature in an airtight container for up to 3 days.
- For longer storage, freeze in a sealed bag or container for up to 3 months. Thaw at room temperature or reheat gently in the microwave for a fresh-out-of-the-oven feel.
Make-Ahead Instructions
Planning ahead makes enjoying these Kodiak Dark Chocolate Muffins even easier. Whether you’re prepping for a busy week or stocking the freezer for future cravings, we’ve got you covered with simple steps to keep your muffins fresh and delicious.
Making Muffins Ahead of Time
- Bake Now, Enjoy Later: Prepare the muffins as outlined in the recipe. Let the muffins cool completely on a cooling rack to avoid condensation when stored.
- Store Short-Term: Place the cooled muffins in an airtight container. Keep them at room temperature for up to 3 days. Ensure the container is tightly sealed to maintain moisture and texture.
Freezing Muffins
If you want your muffins to last longer, freezing is an excellent option:
- Wrap Individually: Wrap each muffin tightly in plastic wrap or aluminum foil to protect it from freezer burn.
- Place in Freezer Bag or Container: Transfer the wrapped muffins to a resealable freezer bag or an airtight container. Label it with the date for easy tracking.
- Freeze Duration: Store the muffins in the freezer for up to 3 months.
Reheating Frozen Muffins
When you’re ready to enjoy a frozen muffin:
| Reheating Method | Steps |
|---|---|
| Microwave | Unwrap the muffin and place it on a microwave-safe plate. Heat for 20–30 seconds, checking for desired warmth. |
| Oven | Preheat to 300°F (150°C). Place muffins in the oven for 10–15 minutes or until heated through. |
Prepare the Batter Ahead
For fresh-baked muffins without the prep hassle, consider making the batter in advance:
- Refrigerate Batter: Mix the batter, cover tightly with plastic wrap, and refrigerate for up to 24 hours.
- Bake Directly: When ready to bake, let the batter sit at room temperature for 10–15 minutes before scooping into the muffin tin and baking as instructed.
By following these make-ahead tips, we can enjoy Kodiak Dark Chocolate Muffins anytime with minimal effort.
Tips For Perfect Muffins
Achieving bakery-style Kodiak Dark Chocolate Muffins at home is simple, but a few expert tips can make all the difference in flavor, texture, and appearance. Whether you’re a beginner or an experienced baker, these tips will ensure your muffins come out moist, fluffy, and irresistible every time.
1. Measure Ingredients Accurately
Baking is a science, so precise measurements are crucial. Use measuring cups and spoons for accuracy and level off dry ingredients with a straight edge. For liquids, use a liquid measuring cup placed on a flat surface and view it at eye level for exact amounts.
2. Always Preheat the Oven
A properly preheated oven ensures the muffins bake evenly and develop a slight dome on top. Set your oven to 350°F (175°C) and allow it to fully come to temperature before placing the muffin tin inside.
3. Avoid Overmixing the Batter
Gently mix wet and dry ingredients until just combined. Overmixing develops too much gluten, making muffins dense. We recommend a whisk for wet ingredients and a spatula for folding in the dry mix, stopping as soon as you see no streaks of flour.
4. Use Liners or Grease the Pan Liberally
To prevent sticking and make cleanup hassle-free, line your muffin tin with parchment or cupcake liners. If you skip liners, grease each cup thoroughly with butter or non-stick spray.
5. Fill Muffin Cups Properly
For consistently-sized muffins, fill each cup ¾ full using an ice cream scoop. This ensures each muffin bakes evenly without overflowing or underfilling. For a taller rise, sprinkle a small amount of batter on top after filling.
6. Add a Bakery-Style Finish
Sprinkle dark chocolate chips or a pinch of coarse sugar on top before baking for a professional look. For an indulgent twist, drizzle melted dark chocolate after the muffins cool.
7. Check for Doneness
Avoid overbaking, as it dries out the muffins. Begin checking after 18 minutes. Insert a toothpick into the center of a muffin; if it comes out with only a few crumbs, the muffins are ready. Overbaking by just a minute can lead to drier muffins.
| Temperature | Baking Time | Doneness Test |
|---|---|---|
| 350°F (175°C) | 18–22 minutes | Toothpick with few crumbs |
8. Let Muffins Cool Properly
Allow muffins to cool in the tin for 5 minutes before transferring to a cooling rack. This prevents them from continuing to bake in the hot pan and losing their moisture.
9. Experiment with Add-Ins
Enhance your muffins with optional flavors like chopped nuts, instant espresso powder, or a pinch of cinnamon. Add-ins should be folded in during the final mixing stage to maintain a balanced texture.
10. Store Correctly
To keep muffins fresh, store them in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days. For longer storage, wrap muffins tightly in plastic wrap, place them in a freezer-safe bag, and freeze for up to 3 months. Reheat in the oven or microwave for that fresh-from-the-oven taste.
Each of these tips ensures a perfectly moist and flavorful muffin every time. Follow these guidelines, and your Kodiak Dark Chocolate Muffins will look and taste as though they came straight from a bakery case.
Conclusion
Kodiak Dark Chocolate Muffins strike the perfect balance between indulgence and nourishment, making them a must-try for any baking enthusiast. With their rich flavor, protein-packed ingredients, and easy preparation, they’re a versatile treat that fits seamlessly into busy lifestyles.
Whether you’re enjoying them fresh out of the oven or reheating a batch from the freezer, these muffins deliver bakery-quality results every time. By following the tips and steps we’ve shared, you’ll create moist, flavorful muffins that are as satisfying as they are simple to make. Let’s get baking!
Frequently Asked Questions
What makes Kodiak Dark Chocolate Muffins a healthy option?
Kodiak Dark Chocolate Muffins are made with Kodiak Cakes Dark Chocolate Protein Pancake Mix, which is rich in protein. Combined with ingredients like Greek yogurt and dark chocolate chips, they offer a balance of indulgence and nourishment, making them a healthier choice for breakfast or snacks.
How can I keep my Kodiak muffins moist and tender?
To keep your muffins moist, avoid overmixing the batter and bake them just until a toothpick comes out clean. Additionally, use Greek yogurt and room-temperature ingredients to achieve a smoother texture.
Can I prepare Kodiak Dark Chocolate Muffins in advance?
Yes! You can bake and store muffins in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days or freeze them for longer storage. The batter can also be refrigerated for up to 24 hours before baking.
What are some optional add-ins for Kodiak muffins?
You can enhance the flavor and texture by adding dark chocolate chips, chopped nuts, or instant espresso powder. These add-ins make the muffins more indulgent and customizable.
What tools do I need to make Kodiak Dark Chocolate Muffins?
You’ll need mixing bowls, measuring cups, a sifter for dry ingredients, a whisk, a spatula, a muffin tin with liners, an ice cream scoop for portioning, a cooling rack, and oven mitts for safe handling.
How do I store Kodiak muffins to keep them fresh?
Store the muffins in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days or freeze them individually wrapped for longer storage. Reheat frozen muffins in the microwave or oven before serving.
How full should I fill the muffin cups?
Fill each muffin cup about ¾ full to allow room for the muffins to rise evenly. This ensures a uniform, bakery-style appearance.
What are the baking instructions for Kodiak Dark Chocolate Muffins?
Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C) and bake the muffins for 18–22 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean. Let them cool on a rack for the best texture.
Why should I use room-temperature ingredients?
Using room-temperature ingredients ensures smoother blending and better texture. It helps the batter mix evenly and prevents clumps in the final product.
Can I freeze Kodiak Dark Chocolate Muffins?
Yes! Let the muffins cool completely, then wrap them individually in plastic wrap and place them in a freezer-safe container. They can be stored for up to 3 months and reheated in the microwave or oven.