Nutella Muffins With Cinnamon Sugar Recipe

All-purpose flour: The base for the muffin batter, providing structure and texture.

Sugar: Adds sweetness to the muffins and helps with browning.

Baking powder: A leavening agent that helps the muffins rise.

Baking soda: Another leavening agent that works with the baking powder for a light texture.

Salt: Enhances the flavors of the other ingredients.

Milk: Adds moisture and richness to the batter.

Vegetable oil: Provides fat for a tender crumb and keeps the muffins moist.

Vanilla extract: Adds a warm, sweet flavor to the muffins.

Egg: Binds the ingredients together and adds structure.

Nutella: The star ingredient, adding a rich, chocolate-hazelnut flavor.

Ground cinnamon: Mixed with sugar for the topping, adding a warm, spicy note.

Sugar: Used again for the cinnamon sugar topping.

When incorporating the wet ingredients into the dry ingredients, be careful not to overmix. Overmixing can lead to dense and tough muffins. Stir just until the ingredients are combined and no large streaks of flour remain. This will ensure your Nutella muffins are light and fluffy.

• all-purpose flour - Substitute with whole wheat flour: Whole wheat flour adds more fiber and nutrients, though it may make the muffins denser.

• sugar - Substitute with honey: Honey provides natural sweetness and moisture, but reduce the liquid in the recipe slightly.

• baking powder - Substitute with baking soda and cream of tartar: Use ¼ teaspoon baking soda and ½ teaspoon cream of tartar to mimic the leavening effect.

• baking soda - Substitute with baking powder: Use 2 teaspoon of baking powder for every 1 teaspoon of baking soda, but the texture may vary slightly.

• salt - Substitute with sea salt: Sea salt can be used in the same quantity and provides a slightly different flavor profile.

• milk - Substitute with almond milk: Almond milk is a dairy-free alternative that works well in baking.

• vegetable oil - Substitute with coconut oil: Coconut oil adds a subtle coconut flavor and is a healthier fat option.

• vanilla extract - Substitute with almond extract: Almond extract provides a different but pleasant flavor, use half the amount as it is stronger.

• egg - Substitute with flax egg: Mix 1 tablespoon ground flaxseed with 3 tablespoon water for a vegan alternative.

• nutella - Substitute with peanut butter: Peanut butter offers a different nutty flavor and similar texture.

• sugar - Substitute with coconut sugar: Coconut sugar has a lower glycemic index and adds a caramel-like flavor.

• ground cinnamon - Substitute with pumpkin pie spice: Pumpkin pie spice includes cinnamon and adds additional warm spices for a richer flavor.

• Allow the muffins to cool completely on a wire rack before storing. This prevents condensation from forming inside the storage container, which can make the muffins soggy.

• Place the cooled muffins in an airtight container. If you need to stack them, place a sheet of parchment paper between each layer to prevent sticking.

• Store the container at room temperature for up to 3 days. For longer storage, consider refrigerating them, but note that this may slightly alter the texture.

• To freeze, wrap each muffin individually in plastic wrap or aluminum foil. This helps to maintain their freshness and prevents freezer burn.

• Place the wrapped muffins in a freezer-safe zip-top bag or airtight container. Label the bag with the date to keep track of their freshness.

• Freeze the muffins for up to 3 months. When you're ready to enjoy them, thaw at room temperature or warm them in the microwave for about 20-30 seconds.

• For an extra treat, reheat the muffins in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for 5-10 minutes to regain that freshly-baked texture.

• Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Place the leftover Nutella muffins on a baking sheet. Cover them loosely with aluminum foil to prevent them from drying out. Heat for about 10-15 minutes or until they are warmed through. This method helps maintain the muffins' moist texture and ensures the cinnamon sugar topping stays slightly crisp.

• For a quick reheat, use a microwave. Place a Nutella muffin on a microwave-safe plate. To keep it from drying out, you can place a damp paper towel over the muffin. Microwave on medium power for 20-30 seconds. Check if it's warm enough; if not, continue in 10-second intervals. Be cautious not to overheat, as this can make the muffin rubbery.

• If you have an air fryer, preheat it to 300°F (150°C). Place the Nutella muffins in the air fryer basket, ensuring they are not touching each other. Heat for 3-5 minutes, checking halfway through to ensure they are warming evenly. This method can help retain the muffins' slightly crispy exterior while warming the inside.

• For a stovetop method, use a steamer. Boil a small amount of water in a pot and place a steamer basket over it. Arrange the Nutella muffins in the basket, ensuring they are not touching the water. Cover and steam for about 5-7 minutes. This method helps keep the muffins moist and soft.

• If you prefer a toaster oven, preheat it to 325°F (160°C). Place the Nutella muffins on a baking tray and cover them loosely with foil. Heat for about 10 minutes or until warmed through. This method is great for maintaining the muffins' texture and flavor without drying them out.

• For a more indulgent option, slice the Nutella muffins in half and toast them in a skillet with a little butter. Heat a skillet over medium heat, add a small amount of butter, and place the muffin halves cut-side down. Toast for 2-3 minutes until they are golden brown and warmed through. This adds a delightful buttery crispness to the muffins.

• Oven: Used to bake the muffins at the specified temperature of 375°F (190°C).

• Muffin tin: Holds the muffin batter in individual portions for baking.

• Paper liners: Placed in the muffin tin to prevent the muffins from sticking to the tin.

• Large bowl: Used to mix the dry ingredients together.

• Another bowl: Used to mix the wet ingredients together.

• Whisk: Helps to combine the dry ingredients thoroughly.

• Mixing spoon: Used to stir the wet and dry ingredients together until just combined.

• Teaspoon: Measures the Nutella to be added to each muffin cup.

• Small bowl: Used to mix the sugar and ground cinnamon for the topping.

• Measuring cups: Used to measure out the flour, sugar, milk, and vegetable oil.

• Measuring spoons: Used to measure the baking powder, baking soda, salt, vanilla extract, and ground cinnamon.

• Toothpick: Used to check if the muffins are baked through by inserting it into the center of a muffin.

• Wire rack: Allows the muffins to cool completely after baking.

Prepare ingredients in advance: Measure and set out all ingredients before starting to streamline the process.

Use a stand mixer: A stand mixer can quickly combine wet ingredients and dry ingredients.

Preheat the oven early: Start preheating the oven while gathering ingredients to save time.

Use an ice cream scoop: An ice cream scoop ensures even batter distribution in the muffin tin.

Melt Nutella slightly: Slightly warming Nutella makes it easier to add to the muffin cups.

Mix cinnamon sugar ahead: Prepare the cinnamon sugar topping in advance to save time during assembly.