Chocolate Spinach Muffins Recipe

If you’ve been craving a treat that brilliantly combines indulgence with a sneaky boost of nutrition, these Chocolate Spinach Muffins are about to become your new best friend. Imagine biting into a soft, moist muffin brimming with rich cocoa flavor and melty dark chocolate chips, all while sneaking in a generous helping of vibrant baby spinach. These muffins are perfect for breakfast, an afternoon snack, or even dessert, offering a delightful way to enjoy chocolate without the guilt. Once you try this recipe, you’ll see how effortlessly healthy ingredients can transform classic chocolate muffins into something surprisingly wholesome and delicious.

Ingredients You’ll Need

Gathering simple, quality ingredients is key to making these Chocolate Spinach Muffins shine. Each component brings something special: ripe bananas add natural sweetness and moisture, spinach delivers that vibrant green boost without overwhelming flavor, and cocoa powder provides the deep chocolate foundation that will satisfy your cravings.

• Very ripe bananas: These infuse natural sweetness and moisture, making the muffins tender and flavorful.
• Baby spinach: Adds vibrant color and nutrients without a strong taste, perfectly hidden in the batter.
• Milk (almond or regular): Helps blend ingredients smoothly for a soft texture.
• Egg: Binds everything together for perfect muffin structure.
• Sugar: Sweetens the batter just right, balancing the bitterness of cocoa.
• Vanilla extract: Adds a warm, inviting aroma boosting the chocolate flavor.
• Greek yogurt (full fat): Adds creaminess and moisture plus a bit of protein.
• Oil: Keeps the muffins soft and tender, preventing dryness.
• White whole wheat flour: Provides a wholesome texture and subtle nuttiness.
• Baking soda: Helps the muffins rise beautifully and stay fluffy.
• Cocoa powder: Delivers that rich, chocolatey depth everyone loves.
• Sea salt: Enhances all the flavors and balances sweetness.
• Dark chocolate chips: Create pockets of melty, decadent chocolate throughout.

How to Make Chocolate Spinach Muffins

Step 1: Blend the Base

Start by preheating your oven to 350°F so it’s ready when you are. Then, add the very ripe bananas, baby spinach, and milk into a high-powered blender. Blend until the mixture is mostly smooth but a few small lumps are perfectly fine, as they add texture. Pour this vibrant green-banana blend into a large mixing bowl – this will be the delicious base of your muffins!

Step 2: Mix Wet Ingredients

Next, whisk in the egg right into the bowl with your banana-spinach blend until combined. Stir in the sugar, vanilla extract, oil, and creamy Greek yogurt. These ingredients bring moisture, sweetness, and richness, setting the stage for perfectly tender and flavorful muffins.

Step 3: Combine Dry Ingredients

In a separate smaller bowl, sift together the flour, baking soda, cocoa powder, and sea salt. Mixing these dry ingredients evenly ensures every bite has that perfect chocolate balance. Gradually add this blend to your wet ingredients, folding gently to combine without overmixing.

Step 4: Add Chocolate Chips

Fold in most of the dark chocolate chips, saving a handful for the tops of the muffins if you want that extra melty chocolate on display. The chips melt during baking creating irresistible pockets of chocolate throughout each muffin.

Step 5: Bake

Line your muffin tin with liners and spoon the batter evenly into all 12 cups. Sprinkle the reserved chocolate chips on top for a gorgeous finish. Bake for 18 to 22 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean. Let your kitchen fill with the heavenly aroma of chocolate and warm vanilla – your Chocolate Spinach Muffins are almost ready!

Step 6: Cool and Enjoy

Allow the muffins to cool for a few minutes in the pan before transferring them to a wire rack. This short rest time helps them set perfectly without falling apart. Then, dive in and enjoy the surprise of moist chocolate goodness with a nutritious twist.

How to Serve Chocolate Spinach Muffins

Garnishes

While these muffins are fantastic on their own, adding a light dusting of powdered sugar or a dollop of whipped cream can elevate their presentation for guests. Fresh berries or a sprinkle of chopped nuts on top also add vibrant color and texture, making each bite even more enjoyable.

Side Dishes

Pairing Chocolate Spinach Muffins with a simple cup of coffee or a creamy latte creates a delightful breakfast or afternoon snack experience. For a more substantial meal, serve alongside a fruit salad or a bowl of yogurt topped with granola to balance out the chocolate indulgence.

Creative Ways to Present

For special occasions, serve these muffins on a tiered stand garnished with fresh mint leaves or edible flowers to impress your guests. You can also slice them in half and add a smear of nut butter or cream cheese for a unique twist that turns the muffin into a delicious little sandwich.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Once cooled completely, store your Chocolate Spinach Muffins in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days. This keeps them moist and fresh, perfect for quick grab-and-go treats throughout your busy week.

Freezing

If you want to enjoy these muffins any time, freeze them in a freezer-safe bag or container after cooling. They’ll keep well for up to 3 months. Just thaw overnight in the fridge or at room temperature before enjoying.

Reheating

To warm your muffins, pop them in the microwave for 15 to 20 seconds or heat in a 325°F oven for about 5 minutes. This brings back that freshly baked softness and lets the chocolate chips become again wonderfully gooey.

FAQs

Can I use regular spinach instead of baby spinach?

Absolutely! Just be sure to use fresh regular spinach and wash it well before blending. You might want to roughly chop it beforehand so it blends more easily.

Can I substitute the eggs?

Yes! For a vegan option, try using a flax egg (1 tablespoon ground flaxseed mixed with 3 tablespoons water) or an egg replacer of your choice. The texture will still be deliciously moist.

Is it okay to use almond milk instead of dairy milk?

Definitely! Almond milk works wonderfully and adds a subtle nutty flavor that complements the chocolate and spinach perfectly.

Are these muffins kid-friendly?

Yes, these are a fantastic way to sneak in some greens while keeping the kids happy with chocolatey goodness. The spinach flavor is very mild, so most kids won’t even notice it’s there.

Can I add other mix-ins?

Feel free! Chopped nuts, dried fruit, or even shredded coconut can add extra texture and flavor. Just fold them in along with the chocolate chips for a fun twist.

Final Thoughts

Making these Chocolate Spinach Muffins is a joyful experience that results in a delicious, healthier treat you can feel good about. They perfectly blend the nourishing power of spinach and bananas with the rich allure of chocolate, creating a muffin that’s just as satisfying as your favorite dessert. Give this recipe a try – I promise it’ll become a treasured staple in your kitchen and a surprising hit among family and friends.

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