Captivating Peppermint Hot Chocolate Mini Muffins: Your Ultimate Guide to a Cozy, Low-Calorie Holiday Treat
There’s something truly magical about the combination of a cold, snowy day and a steaming cup of peppermint hot chocolate. It’s the epitome of cozy comfort, a warm embrace in a mug that instantly evokes the spirit of the holiday season. What if you could capture that same comforting essence, that delightful blend of rich chocolate and refreshing peppermint, in a bite-sized treat? That’s exactly what we set out to do with these irresistible Peppermint Hot Chocolate Mini Muffins.
Imagine: soft, fluffy mini muffins bursting with festive flavor, finished with a delicate drizzle of white chocolate and a sprinkle of crushed candy cane. They’re not just incredibly delicious; they’re also surprisingly light. We’ve crafted this recipe with no added sugar, making it a guilt-free indulgence at just 30 calories and 1 Weight Watchers Smart Point per muffin. These mini delights are the perfect companion to your favorite hot beverage, a stellar addition to any holiday spread, or a simple, joyful treat to brighten an ordinary day. Prepare to bake up a batch this holiday season, and we promise, you won’t be disappointed!
Peppermint hot chocolate mini muffins
Ingredients
- 1 egg
- 2 Tbsp liquid egg whites
- 1/3 cup unsweetened apple sauce
- 1/4 cup 0% plain yogurt, greek or reg
- 1/3 cup milk, I used 1%
- 2 tsp peppermint extract
- 2 packs Swiss light hot chocolate, 1/4 cup.. (bought in U.S, in Canada some brands make a light hot chocolate so you can use that)
- 1 tsp baking powder
- 1/2 tsp baking soda
- 1/4 cup unsweetened cocoa powder
- 1 cup flour
- 2 Tbsp white chocolate chips
- Crushed candy cane for topping
Instructions
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Preheat oven to 350F, spray a mini muffin pan with non stick spray, do not use liners.
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In a bowl whisk your egg and egg whites together, add in apple sauce, yogurt, milk and peppermint.
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Stir in your hot chocolate, flour, cocoa powder, baking soda and powder.
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Mix well and pour into your mini muffin pan.
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Bake in oven for approx 16 minutes.
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While muffins are cooling place your 2 Tbsp white chocolate chips in a small zip lock bag, place in microwave for 35 seconds, turn bag over then heat again another 35 seconds, repeat if not melted yet. Cut of a tiny tip and drizzle onto muffins, sprinkle with crushed candy cane bits.
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*Note, don’t drizzle with chocolate til you are ready to serve, best stored in fridge after day 1.
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Makes 30 mini muffins at 1 smart point each or 1 points plus.
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Nutritional info per muffin.. Calories 30.. Fat 0.6g..Sat fat 0.4g… Carbs 5.1g…Fiber 0.4g…Sugar 1.3g…Protein 1.2g
Additional Info
Beyond the Recipe: Why These Peppermint Hot Chocolate Mini Muffins Shine
These aren’t just any muffins; they’re a celebration of flavor and mindful eating. The delicate balance of rich chocolate and vibrant peppermint creates a taste sensation that’s both comforting and exciting. Each mini muffin is incredibly moist and tender, a testament to the carefully selected ingredients that contribute to their delightful texture without compromising on your health goals. The mini size makes them perfect for portion control, allowing you to enjoy a sweet treat without overindulging. They’re fantastic for breakfast on the go, a delightful afternoon snack, or a light dessert to round off a meal. Their small stature also makes them ideal for holiday cookie exchanges, gift baskets, or a festive spread where guests can sample a variety of treats.
The Festive Appeal of Peppermint
Peppermint is synonymous with the holiday season, its crisp and refreshing notes instantly transporting us to festive cheer. In these mini muffins, the peppermint extract isn’t just an afterthought; it’s a star ingredient that perfectly cuts through the richness of the chocolate, creating a dynamic and balanced flavor profile. This makes each bite a delightful surprise, invigorating your senses and leaving a pleasant, cool aftertaste. It’s the perfect way to infuse your baking with holiday spirit, offering a refreshing contrast to the often heavy flavors of traditional holiday desserts.
Crafting Your Perfect Batch: Tips for Success
Ingredient Insights for Flawless Muffins
Our choice of ingredients is key to the success of these healthy muffins. Using unsweetened applesauce and 0% plain yogurt (Greek or regular) not only keeps the calories and fat low but also ensures the muffins remain incredibly moist and tender. These ingredients act as natural binders and moisteners, eliminating the need for excessive oil or butter. The liquid egg whites add structure and protein without extra fat, contributing to a light, airy crumb. And, of course, the light hot chocolate mix and unsweetened cocoa powder provide that deep, satisfying chocolate flavor without the added sugars typically found in conventional hot chocolate mixes. Opting for a quality peppermint extract will make a significant difference in the final taste, delivering that authentic, bright minty punch.
Baking Excellence: Achieving the Ideal Texture
Baking mini muffins is a quick and rewarding process, but a few tips can elevate your results from good to exceptional. First, ensure your oven is accurately preheated to 350°F. An oven thermometer can be a great tool for this. When mixing, be careful not to overmix the batter. Overmixing can lead to tough muffins, so stir just until the dry ingredients are combined with the wet. The batter will be slightly thick. For consistent baking and easy removal, remember to generously spray your mini muffin pan with non-stick spray; this recipe is designed not to use liners, which helps achieve a perfectly crisp edge. Baking for approximately 16 minutes should yield perfectly golden and set muffins. Keep an eye on them towards the end, as oven temperatures can vary.
The Drizzle & Topping Detail: A Sweet Finish
The white chocolate drizzle and crushed candy cane topping are not just for decoration; they add layers of flavor and texture that complete the peppermint hot chocolate experience. Melting the white chocolate chips in a small Ziploc bag in the microwave is a brilliant hack for easy drizzling with minimal cleanup. Heat in short bursts, flipping the bag, and kneading gently until smooth. Once melted, snip a tiny corner off the bag to create a precise piping tool. Drizzle generously over the cooled muffins. The crushed candy cane bits provide a beautiful festive look and a delightful crunchy texture, along with an extra burst of peppermint. Remember the note: it’s best to add the chocolate drizzle and candy cane topping just before serving to maintain their crispness and visual appeal. For longer storage, you can add them when reheating or just before eating.
Serving Suggestions & Storage
Perfect Pairings
These Peppermint Hot Chocolate Mini Muffins are incredibly versatile. Of course, they are phenomenal paired with a warm cup of hot chocolate, enhancing the thematic experience. They also go wonderfully with a morning coffee, a soothing cup of tea, or even a glass of cold milk. Serve them on a holiday platter alongside other festive treats, or include them in a brunch spread for a sweet, refreshing option. They’re also an excellent choice for a potluck or party, as their mini size makes them easy for guests to enjoy without a plate and fork. Consider bagging a few up with a pretty ribbon for a charming homemade gift.
Keeping Them Fresh
To ensure your muffins stay as fresh and delicious as possible, proper storage is key. While they are delightful on the day they are baked, any leftovers should be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator after the first day. This helps maintain their moisture and keeps the ingredients fresh, especially with the dairy components. They typically stay fresh for up to 3-4 days in the fridge. For longer storage, these muffins freeze beautifully. Place them in a single layer in an airtight freezer-safe bag or container for up to 2-3 months. Thaw them at room temperature or gently warm them in the microwave for a quick treat. If freezing, consider adding the white chocolate drizzle and candy cane topping after thawing and just before serving for the best presentation and texture.
Nutritional Advantage: Guilt-Free Indulgence
One of the most remarkable aspects of these Peppermint Hot Chocolate Mini Muffins is their impressive nutritional profile. At just 30 calories and 1 Smart Point per muffin, they stand out as a truly guilt-free indulgence, especially during a season often characterized by high-calorie treats. This makes them an excellent choice for anyone managing their weight or simply looking for healthier dessert options. The minimal fat and sugar content, combined with a good amount of protein and fiber for their size, means these muffins offer sustained energy and satiety without the sugar crash associated with many traditional baked goods. Enjoying these muffins means you can partake in the festive spirit of holiday baking without derailing your healthy eating habits.
These Peppermint Hot Chocolate Mini Muffins are more than just a recipe; they’re an invitation to savor the simple joys of the holiday season. Easy to make, wonderfully delicious, and remarkably light, they offer the perfect way to enjoy festive flavors without compromise. Whether you’re baking for yourself, your family, or sharing with friends, these mini muffins are sure to bring smiles and a touch of cozy holiday magic. So go ahead, preheat your oven, gather your ingredients, and fill your home with the delightful aroma of chocolate and peppermint. Happy baking!