The scent of freshly baked muffins wafted through my kitchen, pulling me into a sweet moment of joy. There’s something magical about Nutella Muffins, especially when you discover that gooey hazelnut center hiding within each delightful bite. Perfect for breakfast or a midday snack, these chocolate muffins bring a touch of indulgence without being overly sweet. With simple ingredients and an easy technique, I can whip them up in under an hour, making them a guilt-free treat to share with friends and family. Plus, the addition of white chocolate chips and a glittering Nutella swirl takes these muffins to a whole new level of deliciousness. Are you ready to fill your kitchen with that irresistible aroma? Let’s dive into this baking adventure together!

Why are these Nutella Muffins irresistible?

Decadent, the rich Nutella center creates an indulgent surprise in every bite, making it feel like a special treat. Effortless, thanks to quick prep and simple ingredients, even beginner bakers will shine in the kitchen. Versatile, you can customize with chocolate chips or nuts for a personal twist. Perfectly balanced, they strike that sweet spot—decadent yet not overwhelmingly sweet—ideal for breakfast or as a snack. Plus, they store well, so you can enjoy them fresh or reheated later! Embrace this bumptious indulgence and for another delightful treat, check out my Cornbread Muffins Moist or try the scrumptious Yogurt Raspberry Muffins for a flavorful variation.

Nutella Muffin Ingredients

• Here’s everything you need to create these delightful Nutella muffins!

For the Muffin Batter

All-Purpose Flour – Provides structure and texture; whole wheat flour may be used but can alter softness.
Granulated Sugar – Adds sweetness and helps create a tender crumb; no direct substitutions recommended.
Cornstarch – Contributes to a light and fluffy texture; can be omitted in a pinch.
Baking Powder – Essential for fluffy muffins as it provides leavening.
Baking Soda – Must be included to ensure proper rising, working with acidic ingredients.
Table Salt – Enhances flavor and is essential for balance.
Unsalted Butter – Adds moisture and flavor; consider substituting with coconut oil for a dairy-free option.
Vegetable Oil (Avocado/Canola) – Keeps muffins moist; melted coconut oil or applesauce can be good substitutes.
Large Egg – Binds ingredients together; use a flax egg for a vegan alternative.
Vanilla Extract – Infuses incredible flavor; no substitute yields the best results.
Sour Cream – Adds moisture with a pleasant tang; Greek yogurt can serve as a stand-in.
White Chocolate Chips – Offer bursts of sweetness and creaminess; can be replaced with milk chocolate or omitted.
Nutella – Creates the signature gooey center and swirled topping; no substitute, but other chocolate spreads can be alternatives.

For the Topping (Optional)

Coarse Sugar – Adds a sparkling finish when sprinkled on top before baking.

Now that you have all the necessary ingredients, your adventure in baking these mouthwatering Nutella muffins awaits! Prepare to entice your senses and enjoy every delightful bite of this easy baking treat!

Step‑by‑Step Instructions for Nutella Muffins

Step 1: Preheat the Oven
Begin by preheating your oven to 425°F (215°C). While the oven warms up, prepare a muffin tin by lining it with paper liners; this ensures easy removal of the muffins later. Take a moment to gather your ingredients so you’ll have everything handy during the mixing process.

Step 2: Mix the Dry Ingredients
In a large mixing bowl, whisk together all-purpose flour, granulated sugar, cornstarch, baking powder, baking soda, and salt until well combined. This dry mixture provides the essential structure and texture for your Nutella Muffins. Look for a consistent blend with no clumps before moving on to the wet ingredients.

Step 3: Combine Wet Ingredients
In a separate bowl, melt your unsalted butter and then mix it with vegetable oil, a large egg, vanilla extract, and sour cream. Whisk these ingredients until they form a cohesive mixture, ensuring that the butter slightly cools before adding the egg. The combination should be smooth and creamy for a rich muffin base.

Step 4: Fold Wet into Dry Mixture
Gently fold the wet mixture into the dry ingredients using a spatula until just combined. Avoid overmixing, as this can make the muffins dense. Once barely mixed, add in white chocolate chips, folding them in gently until evenly distributed throughout the batter. The textures and colors should be beautifully marbled.

Step 5: Prepare the Muffin Tin
Fill each muffin liner halfway with the batter, making sure to create a small divot in the center of each. This will be where you nestle a generous tablespoon of Nutella, creating that delectable gooey center when baked. The batter should look plump and inviting as you prepare to fill it.

Step 6: Add Nutella Filling
Spoon the Nutella into the divots that you made in each muffin liner. The decadent hazelnut spread should be nestled right into the middle of the batter for that indulgent surprise. After adding Nutella, cover each one with the remaining muffin batter, ensuring they are filled to about ¾ full.

Step 7: Swirl and Bake
Drizzle any leftover Nutella on top of each filled muffin, then use a toothpick or skewer to create a lovely swirl. Slide the muffin tin into your preheated oven and bake at 425°F (215°C) for 8 to 9 minutes. Do not open the oven door, as we want to create a beautiful rise during this initial stage.

Step 8: Lower Temperature and Finish Baking
Once the initial baking time is complete, lower the oven temperature to 350°F (175°C) without opening the door. Bake for an additional 10 to 12 minutes, or until the tops of the muffins are lightly golden and a toothpick inserted in the center comes out mostly clean, with a few moist crumbs indicating that gooey center.

Step 9: Cool Before Serving
Let the Nutella Muffins cool in the tin for about 5 to 10 minutes after removing them from the oven. This cooling period helps them set and makes them easier to transfer. Once cooled slightly, carefully move the muffins to a wire rack to cool completely before enjoying. Their tender crumb and gooey center will be ready to delight everyone!

Expert Tips for Nutella Muffins

Avoid Overmixing: Mixing too much can lead to dense muffins; stir just until combined for a lighter texture in your Nutella Muffins.
Right Temperature Timing: Keep the oven door closed during the first baking phase to achieve those lovely tall muffin tops—patience pays off!
Perfectly Swirled Nutella: Use a toothpick or skewer to gently swirl the Nutella on top after drizzling, ensuring a beautiful pattern and extra flavor.
Rest Before Serving: Allow your muffins to cool slightly before diving in; this helps the flavors develop and enhances the gooey center experience.
Storage Secrets: Keep your Nutella Muffins in an airtight container at room temperature, or freeze for later indulgence—just reheat to enjoy that fresh-baked taste!

Make Ahead Options

These Nutella Muffins are perfect for meal prep enthusiasts looking to save time during busy mornings! You can prepare the muffin batter and refrigerate it up to 24 hours in advance. To do this, simply mix the dry and wet ingredients separately, then combine them without folding in the Nutella or white chocolate chips. Store the combined batter in an airtight container in the fridge. When you’re ready to bake, fold in the chocolate chips and Nutella, and proceed with the baking instructions. This way, you’ll have warm, gooey muffins fresh from the oven with minimal effort, making breakfast a breeze!

How to Store and Freeze Nutella Muffins

Room Temperature: Store your Nutella Muffins in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days. This keeps them fresh while maintaining their moist texture.
Freezer: For longer storage, freeze the muffins by wrapping each in plastic wrap and placing them in a freezer-safe bag. They can be enjoyed up to 3 months later!
Reheating: To revive the muffins, simply microwave them for about 15-20 seconds or warm them in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for 5-10 minutes until warmed through for that gooey Nutella center.
Thawing: When ready to eat, remove them from the freezer and let them thaw on the countertop for about 30 minutes before reheating. Enjoy every indulgent bite!

Nutella Muffins Variations That Delight

Feel free to explore your creativity and customize these muffins to suit your taste buds and dietary needs!

Gluten-Free: Use a gluten-free flour blend instead of all-purpose flour for a wheat-free treat. The result will still be a tender muffin, perfect for sharing.
Nut-Free: Replace Nutella with sunflower seed butter or a homemade chocolate fudge sauce for a delicious nut-free option. The creamy texture will still provide a delightful center.
Dairy-Free: Swap unsalted butter and sour cream with coconut oil and dairy-free yogurt. You’ll enjoy muffins bursting with tropical flavor that everyone can relish.
Chocolate Boost: Add 1/4 cup of cocoa powder to the dry ingredients for deep, chocolatey muffins. Think of the rich, chocolate goodness you’ll create with each bite!
Spiced Twist: Add a pinch of cinnamon or nutmeg to the batter for a warm, cozy flavor. This simple twist will wrap your muffins in a delightful hug of spices.
Fruit Infusion: Fold in fresh raspberries or mashed bananas for a fruity surprise that beautifully contrasts the richness of Nutella. The sweetness of the fruit will elevate each muffin.
Vegan: For a completely plant-based muffin, use a flax egg and plant-based yogurt in place of dairy ingredients. These muffins will still satisfy your sweet cravings without the guilt.
Extra Crunch: Toss in some granola or chopped nuts for an unforgettable crunchy texture. The added crunch will take each muffin to a whole new level of delightful contrast.

Whichever variation you choose, these Nutella Muffins are sure to be a hit! If you’re in the mood for something else sweet, don’t forget to check my Banana Walnut Muffins for another delightful option or try the Cornbread Muffins Moist for a savory twist!

What to Serve with Nutella Muffins

Indulging in Nutella Muffins creates a delightful opportunity to create a wholesome and delicious meal experience.

Fresh Berries: The tangy sweetness of fresh berries, like strawberries or raspberries, balances the rich chocolate flavor, adding a refreshing note to your muffin enjoyment.
Coffee or Espresso: A warm cup of coffee or a rich espresso complements the chocolate, enhancing the overall flavors while giving you that comforting caffeine boost.
Ice Cream Scoop: Adding a scoop of vanilla ice cream on the side transforms these muffins into a delectable dessert, perfect for sharing or enjoying alone.
Whipped Cream: Light and airy whipped cream adds a lovely texture that contrasts with the muffins. Drizzle some over the top for an extra indulgent touch!
Creamy Yogurt: A dollop of Greek yogurt on the side not only adds creaminess but also brings a slight tang that enhances the muffins’ sweetness—it’s a match made in heaven!
Chocolate Milk: For an extra chocolaty experience, pair these muffins with a glass of rich chocolate milk. This playful twist will surely delight both kids and adults alike!
Nutty Granola: A handful of nutty granola can give you that satisfying crunch alongside the soft muffins, creating a delightful contrast and an energizing breakfast.
Chai Latte: The warmed spices of a chai latte harmonize with the sweet nuttiness of the muffins, creating an inviting atmosphere that feels like a warm hug on a cozy day.
Fruit Compote: A luscious fruit compote, such as raspberry or berry, drizzled over the muffins adds a vibrant flavor kick, making every bite even more irresistible.
Sparkling Water: Light and refreshing, sparkling water cleanses your palate and refreshes, ensuring each muffin tastes just as delightful as the first one!

Nutella Muffins Recipe FAQs

What type of Nutella works best for these muffins?
Absolutely, you should use the classic Nutella hazelnut spread for these muffins! Its creamy texture and rich flavor create that signature gooey center that makes these muffins so irresistible. Other chocolate spreads can be used, but they won’t deliver the same delightful experience.

How should I store Nutella Muffins for freshness?
To keep your Nutella Muffins fresh, store them in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days. This prevents them from drying out while maintaining their moist and fluffy texture. If you plan on keeping them longer, freezing is a great option!

Can I freeze Nutella Muffins and how?
Certainly! To freeze your Nutella Muffins, wrap each muffin tightly in plastic wrap, and then place them in a freezer-safe bag. They can last up to 3 months in the freezer. When you’re ready to enjoy them, simply thaw at room temperature for about 30 minutes, then reheat in the microwave for 15-20 seconds or in a 350°F (175°C) oven for 5-10 minutes to restore that fresh-baked goodness.

What should I do if my muffins overflow?
If your muffins overflow during baking, it’s likely they were filled too high. For future batches, fill your muffin liners no more than ¾ full to prevent spilling. Additionally, make sure to avoid mixing the batter too much, as overmixing can also lead to overflowing muffins by creating excess air in the batter.

Are these muffins suitable for those with allergies?
While the Nutella Muffins contain common allergens like gluten, dairy, and eggs, you can make dietary considerations! Substitute the all-purpose flour with a gluten-free blend, use coconut oil instead of butter for a dairy-free option, and replace the egg with a flax egg (1 tablespoon of ground flaxseed mixed with 2.5 tablespoons of water) for a vegan alternative. Always check ingredient labels for your specific dietary needs!

How do I know when my muffins are done baking?
To test if your Nutella Muffins are done, insert a toothpick in the center of a muffin. It should come out mostly clean, with a few moist crumbs, signifying that the inside remains delightfully gooey from the Nutella. The tops should also be lightly golden and spring back when you gently press them. Trust your instincts; they’ll be worth the wait!

These Nutella Muffins Recipe FAQs should help answer your burning questions and ensure a delightful baking experience! Enjoy every gooey, chocolaty bite!