What could be better than a rich, moist, chocolate muffin? How about a FAT-FREE version!! That’s right, at just under 200 calories for the jumbo muffin, these low calorie, Fat Free Chocolate Muffins are sure to please everyone in your family. The best part about this recipe is that since it is so low in calories, you can feel free to really “play around” with it. Toss a handful of dried fruit or nuts, mini-chocolate chips, or peanut butter chips into the baatter for a really delectable twist without even having to worry about blowing your diet.
Fat Free Chocolate Muffins
Equipment
- oven
- 6 cup jumbo (or 12 cup standard) muffin tin
- 1 large bowl
- 1 separate bowl
- 1 toothpick
Ingredients
- 1 cup whole wheat pastry flour
- ⅓ cup all purpose flour
- ⅓ cup unsweetened (preferably Dutch processed) cocoa powder
- ¾ cup sugar
- ¾ cup fat free vanilla yogurt
- ¾ cup skim milk
- 1¼ teaspoons baking soda
- 2 teaspoons baking powder
- 1 teaspoon pure vanilla extract
Instructions
- Preheat the oven to 400 degrees and generously grease a 6 cup jumbo (or 12 cup standard) muffin tin with nonstick cooking spray.
- Combine the flours, sugar, cocoa powder, baking soda and baking powder in a large bowl and mix well. In a separate bowl, combine the yogurt, milk and vanilla. Make a well in the center of the dry ingredients and pour the wet ingredients into the well. Stir until just moistened, being careful not to over mix.
- Divide the batter evenly among the muffin cups and bake for 18-22 minutes (or until a toothpick inserted in the center of a muffin comes out clean).
- If desired, once muffins are cool, sprinkle with a light dusting of powdered sugar or lightly glaze with fat-free chocolatefrosting.
Video
Notes
Alternative Method: Using an Air Fryer
If you’re looking for a quick and efficient way to make Fat Free Chocolate Muffins, using an air fryer is an excellent alternative to the traditional oven method. The air fryer provides even heat distribution and a faster cooking time, resulting in perfectly baked muffins with a delightful texture. Here’s how you can make Fat Free Chocolate Muffins using an air fryer:
- Preheat the air fryer: Preheat your air fryer to 350°F (175°C) for about 5 minutes. This will ensure that the air fryer is properly heated before you place the muffins inside.
- Prepare the muffin batter: Follow the same steps as the oven method to prepare the Fat Free Chocolate Muffin batter. Mix the dry ingredients in one bowl and the wet ingredients in another. Then combine the two mixtures until just combined, being careful not to overmix.
- Fill the muffin cups: Line the air fryer basket or tray with paper liners or silicone muffin cups. Fill each cup about 2/3 full with the prepared muffin batter. Leave a little room for the muffins to rise during baking.
- Air fry the muffins: Place the filled muffin cups in the preheated air fryer basket or tray. Close the air fryer and set the timer for 12-15 minutes. Check the muffins towards the end of the cooking time using a toothpick inserted into the center of a muffin. If it comes out clean or with a few moist crumbs, the muffins are done.
- Cool and serve: Once the muffins are cooked, carefully remove them from the air fryer and let them cool in the muffin cups for a few minutes. Then transfer them to a wire rack to cool completely before serving. Enjoy your delicious Fat Free Chocolate Muffins!
Note: Cooking times may vary slightly depending on the model and brand of your air fryer. It’s always advisable to check the muffins towards the end of the cooking time to ensure they are cooked to perfection.
Cooking Tips
Welcome to the cooking tips section, where I’ll share invaluable insights to ensure your Fat Free Chocolate Muffins turn out absolutely divine. From tried-and-true tricks to common pitfalls to avoid, these tips will elevate your baking game and result in the best possible outcome for your guilt-free indulgence.
- The Art of Mixing: To achieve tender and moist muffins, remember to mix the batter gently. Overmixing can lead to dense and tough muffins. Stir until the ingredients are just combined for light and fluffy results.
- Ingredient Temperature: Ensure that your eggs and milk are at room temperature before adding them to the batter. Cold ingredients can hinder proper mixing and may affect the texture of the muffins.
- Proper Pan Preparation: Grease your muffin tin or use paper liners to prevent the muffins from sticking. For an extra non-stick surface, lightly dust the muffin liners with cocoa powder before pouring in the batter.
- Baking Temperature and Time: Preheat your oven to the recommended temperature stated in the recipe. Keep a close eye on the muffins during baking, as oven temperatures may vary. Insert a toothpick into the center of a muffin to check for doneness. If it comes out clean or with a few moist crumbs, they are ready to be enjoyed.
- Cool and Store: Once baked, allow the muffins to cool in the pan for about 5 minutes. Then transfer them to a wire rack to cool completely. Store any leftovers in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days or in the refrigerator for up to a week.
Serving Suggestions
Now that you have your freshly baked Fat Free Chocolate Muffins ready, let’s explore various serving suggestions to enhance your culinary experience. From delightful accompaniments to creative ways of presenting this decadent treat, these suggestions will elevate your enjoyment to new heights.
- Perfect Pairings: Serve these luscious muffins with a cup of freshly brewed coffee or a tall glass of cold milk for a classic combination that never fails to satisfy. The rich cocoa flavors beautifully complement the mild bitterness of coffee or the creamy sweetness of milk.
- Whipped Cream and Berries: Add a dollop of homemade whipped cream to each muffin and garnish with a few fresh berries like raspberries or strawberries. The creamy and fruity elements create a delightful balance and add a touch of elegance to your presentation.
- Ice Cream Delight: Take your indulgence to the next level by serving a warm Fat Free Chocolate Muffin with a scoop of your favorite low-fat or dairy-free ice cream. The contrast between the warm muffin and the cold, creamy ice cream is simply heavenly.
- Nutty Crunch: Sprinkle a handful of chopped nuts, such as toasted almonds or hazelnuts, on top of the muffins before baking. The nutty crunch adds texture and an extra layer of flavor that perfectly complements the rich chocolatey goodness.
- Chocolate Drizzle: For an extra touch of decadence, melt some dark chocolate and drizzle it over the cooled muffins. The glossy chocolate drizzle not only enhances the visual appeal but also intensifies the chocolate experience.
FAQs about Fat Free Chocolate Muffins
In this section, I’ll address the most common questions that may arise while preparing and enjoying your Fat Free Chocolate Muffins. From storage tips to ingredient substitutions, find answers to these FAQs and ensure a smooth baking journey.
Can I substitute whole wheat flour for all-purpose flour in this recipe?
Absolutely! Whole wheat flour can be substituted for all-purpose flour in a 1:1 ratio. However, keep in mind that the texture and taste may vary slightly, resulting in denser muffins.
Can I freeze the muffins for later consumption?
Yes, you can freeze the muffins. Allow them to cool completely, then place them in a freezer-safe container or zip-top bag. They can be stored in the freezer for up to three months. Thaw them at room temperature or reheat in a microwave or oven before serving.
Can I use regular cocoa powder instead of unsweetened cocoa powder?
Yes, regular cocoa powder can be used as a substitute for unsweetened cocoa powder. Just be aware that regular cocoa powder may contain added sugar, which can slightly alter the sweetness of the muffins.
How do I store any leftover muffins?
To store any leftover muffins, place them in an airtight container at room temperature for up to three days. For longer storage, refrigerate them for up to a week. Bring them to room temperature or reheat them before serving.
Can I add additional mix-ins, such as chocolate chips or dried fruits?
Absolutely! Feel free to customize your Fat Free Chocolate Muffins with your favorite mix-ins. Stir in a handful of chocolate chips, chopped nuts, or dried fruits like cranberries or raisins to add extra texture and flavor to the muffins.
Looking for a quick and efficient way to bake Fat Free Chocolate Muffins? This blog post introduces the use of an air fryer as an alternative kitchen appliance. The step-by-step instructions guide you through the process, from preheating the air fryer to cooling the muffins. The post concludes with a compelling CTA, inviting readers to share the recipe with others and subscribe to the blog for more delectable recipes.