Irresistible Mini Chocolate Chip Muffins: Your Ultimate Guide to Baking Sweet Perfection
Welcome to the world of miniature delights! These **Soft, tender, and packed with mini chocolate chips in every bite, these Mini Chocolate Chip Muffins** are more than just a treat; they’re a bite-sized joy that your entire family will absolutely adore. Forget complicated recipes or store-bought imitations – these homemade wonders come together with surprising ease, making them the perfect solution for a quick breakfast, a satisfying mid-afternoon snack, or a delightful dessert any time of day. If you have a soft spot for classic chocolate chip cookies, prepare to fall in love with these fluffy, rich muffins that capture all that beloved flavor in a convenient, portable package. Get ready to bake up a batch of happiness!
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About These Mini Chocolate Chip Muffins
In the whirlwind of daily life, finding a moment to enjoy a homemade treat can feel like a luxury. That’s precisely where these delightful **mini chocolate chip muffins** come into their own! They’re not just a recipe; they’re your secret weapon for a quick, comforting breakfast, a satisfying mid-afternoon energy boost, or a sweet, guilt-free dessert. With a total preparation and bake time of just 30 minutes, you’re never far from experiencing the warm, comforting aroma of freshly baked goods filling your home. It’s nearly impossible to stop at just one of these perfectly portioned, chocolate-studded gems!
Each **mini muffin** offers a delightful contrast: a beautifully golden brown exterior that provides a subtle hint of crispiness, yielding to an interior that is incredibly soft, fluffy, and bursting with rich, melted chocolate chips. This isn’t just any muffin; it’s a miniature masterpiece that delivers that timeless, universally loved chocolate chip flavor. It’s a taste that transcends generations, making these muffins a guaranteed hit with both picky eaters and sophisticated palates alike. Their small size makes them incredibly versatile—perfect for little hands, ideal for grab-and-go convenience, and an excellent addition to any lunchbox or picnic basket.
Whether you need a simple yet delicious breakfast to kickstart your morning, a sweet pick-me-up to conquer the afternoon slump, or a no-fuss dessert to end your day on a high note, this **easy mini chocolate chip muffin recipe** is your ultimate answer. They are the kind of homemade baked goods that vanish almost as quickly as they appear, leaving behind only crumbs and happy memories. Prepare yourself for compliments, requests for more batches, and the sheer joy of biting into a perfect mini muffin!
Ingredients for Perfect Mini Muffins
Crafting the perfect batch of **mini chocolate chip muffins** starts with a handful of simple, readily available ingredients. Each component plays a crucial role in achieving that desirable light texture, rich flavor, and satisfying sweetness. Here’s what you’ll need to gather:
- All-purpose flour. This is the backbone of our muffins, providing structure. While standard all-purpose flour works beautifully, you can easily adapt this recipe to be gluten-free by opting for a 1:1 gluten-free flour blend. Ensure your chosen blend already contains xanthan gum for optimal texture.
- Granulated sugar and light brown sugar. The combination of these two sugars is key to the muffins’ sweetness and moisture. Granulated sugar provides clean sweetness and helps with browning, while light brown sugar adds a deeper, more caramel-like flavor and contributes significantly to the muffins’ tender, moist crumb.
- Baking powder. This leavening agent is essential for creating those wonderfully light and fluffy muffins. It reacts during baking to produce carbon dioxide, giving our muffins their perfect rise and airy texture. Always check that your baking powder is fresh for the best results.
- Salt. A small amount of salt is a secret weapon in baking. It doesn’t just add its own flavor; it balances and enhances all the other sweet flavors in the muffins, preventing them from tasting flat. For best baking practices, fine kosher salt is recommended.
- Vegetable oil. I prefer using vegetable oil in this recipe for its ability to create incredibly moist and tender muffins. Oil contributes to a softer texture that lasts longer than butter-based muffins. However, if you prefer the rich, buttery flavor, you can substitute softened unsalted butter in an equal amount. Just ensure it’s at room temperature for smooth incorporation.
- Large egg. The egg acts as a crucial binder, holding all the ingredients together and providing additional structure and richness to the batter. Using a large egg at room temperature ensures it emulsifies properly with the other wet ingredients, leading to a smoother, more consistent batter.
- Vanilla extract. A splash of vanilla extract infuses the muffins with a warm, inviting, and sweet aroma that is quintessential to classic baked goods. For an extra special touch, consider making your own homemade vanilla extract.
- Milk. Whole milk is ideal here as its higher fat content adds significant richness and moisture, contributing to a more tender crumb. However, if whole milk isn’t available, any fat percentage of milk you have on hand will work. For a dairy-free option, unsweetened almond milk or soy milk can be used.
- Mini chocolate chips. This is the star ingredient! Mini chocolate chips are perfect for these bite-sized muffins as they ensure a delightful speck of chocolate in every single bite. Semi-sweet mini chocolate chips are highly recommended for a balanced chocolate flavor that isn’t overly sweet.
Essential Baking Tools (Must-Haves)
To make baking these **mini chocolate chip muffins** as smooth and enjoyable as possible, having the right tools at your fingertips can make all the difference. While you don’t need a professional kitchen, a few key items will ensure your success:
- Mixing Bowls: A set of sturdy mixing bowls of various sizes is invaluable in any kitchen. You’ll need at least one large bowl for your dry ingredients and a separate medium bowl for the wet components. If you don’t have a dedicated set, any large bowl you have on hand will work perfectly for combining ingredients with ease.
- Whisk: A good quality whisk is essential for thoroughly combining dry ingredients and achieving a smooth, lump-free wet mixture, which is crucial for the perfect muffin texture. If a whisk isn’t available, a wooden spoon or a rubber spatula can also be used, though a whisk typically provides the best aeration.
- Mini Muffin Pan: This is the star piece of equipment for these bite-sized treats! A mini muffin pan typically has 24 cups, allowing you to bake a full batch efficiently. To prevent sticking and ensure easy removal, lightly grease the cups with your favorite baking spray. Alternatively, for a cleaner bake and easier cleanup, we highly recommend using parchment paper mini cupcake liners. They add a charming touch and prevent any mess.
- Rubber Spatula: While mentioned as an alternative to a whisk for wet ingredients, a rubber spatula is indispensable for gently folding the wet and dry mixtures together. Its flexible head helps scrape down the sides of the bowl, ensuring all ingredients are incorporated without overmixing, which is key to tender muffins.
- Measuring Cups and Spoons: Accurate measurements are critical in baking. Make sure you have a reliable set of dry measuring cups, liquid measuring cups, and measuring spoons to ensure precise ingredient ratios for consistent results.
Having these simple tools prepared before you start baking will streamline the process and allow you to focus on the joy of creating delicious **mini chocolate chip muffins**!
Step-by-Step: How to Make Mini Chocolate Chip Muffins
Making these **easy mini chocolate chip muffins** is a straightforward process that yields incredibly satisfying results. Follow these simple steps, and you’ll have warm, fluffy muffins in no time:
Prepare Your Baking Station
Before you begin mixing, let’s get everything ready. First, preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). This ensures the oven is at the correct temperature when your batter is ready, promoting an even rise. Next, take your mini muffin tin and lightly spray each cup with cooking spray. If you prefer, line each cup with mini muffin liners; parchment paper liners are an excellent choice for easy release and a polished look.
Combine Dry and Wet Mixtures
In a large mixing bowl, combine all your dry ingredients: the all-purpose flour, granulated sugar, brown sugar, baking powder, and salt. Use a whisk to thoroughly mix them until they are well combined and there are no lumps of baking powder or brown sugar. Set this bowl aside. In a separate medium bowl, whisk together the wet ingredients: vegetable oil, large egg, vanilla extract, and milk. Whisk until the mixture is smooth and fully emulsified.
Gently Fold Ingredients
Now, it’s time to bring the two mixtures together. Pour the wet mixture into the bowl containing the dry ingredients. Using a spatula, gently fold the ingredients together just until combined. This step is crucial: avoid overmixing at all costs! Overmixing develops the gluten in the flour too much, which can result in tough, dense muffins instead of the desired soft and fluffy texture. A few lumps are perfectly fine and even preferred.
Bake to Golden Perfection
Once your batter is just combined, it’s time for the star of the show: the mini chocolate chips! Add them to the batter and gently fold them in until they are evenly distributed. Be careful not to stir too vigorously. Spoon the batter into your prepared muffin tin, filling each cup approximately ¾ full. This allows room for the muffins to rise beautifully without overflowing.
Place the muffin tin in the preheated oven and bake for 10 to 12 minutes. Baking times can vary, so keep an eye on them. You’ll know they’re done when the edges are just starting to turn a light golden brown, and a toothpick inserted into the center of a muffin comes out clean or with only a few moist crumbs attached.
Cool and Enjoy
Once baked, remove the muffin tin from the oven. Allow the **mini chocolate chip muffins** to cool in the tin for about 5 minutes. This brief resting period helps them set and makes them easier to remove without breaking. After 5 minutes, carefully transfer the muffins to a wire rack to cool completely. While they are delightful served warm, they are equally delicious cooled. Store them properly, or simply enjoy them fresh from the oven!
Expert Tips for the Best Mini Muffins
Achieving bakery-quality **mini chocolate chip muffins** at home is easier than you think with a few simple tricks up your sleeve. These expert tips will help ensure your muffins are perfectly tender, moist, and flavorful every single time:
- Room Temperature Ingredients: This is a golden rule in baking! Ensuring your eggs and milk are at room temperature allows them to emulsify more effectively with the other ingredients. This creates a smoother, more uniform batter, which in turn leads to a more consistent and tender muffin texture. Plan ahead and take them out of the fridge about 30 minutes before you start baking.
- Measure Flour Correctly: The way you measure flour significantly impacts your final product. Avoid scooping flour directly from the bag with your measuring cup, as this can compact the flour and lead to using too much. Instead, spoon the flour into your measuring cup and then level it off with the back of a knife. This method ensures an accurate measurement and prevents your muffins from becoming dense or dry.
- Don’t Overmix the Batter: This is arguably the most crucial tip for moist, fluffy muffins. Once you combine the wet and dry ingredients, mix them only until they are *just* incorporated. A few lumps are perfectly acceptable and even desirable. Overmixing develops the gluten in the flour, resulting in tough, chewy muffins. Gentle folding with a spatula is your best friend here.
- Portioning Made Easy: For consistently sized and baked muffins, use a small cookie dough scoop (about 1.5 tablespoons) to portion the batter evenly into each cup of your muffin tin. This not only makes the process quicker and less messy but also ensures all muffins bake at the same rate, preventing some from being over or underdone. Fill each cup about ¾ full.
- Don’t Overbake: Mini muffins bake much faster than their standard-sized counterparts. Keep a close eye on them during the last few minutes of baking. They can quickly go from perfectly soft and moist to dry and crumbly if left in the oven for too long. Test for doneness with a toothpick inserted into the center—it should come out clean or with minimal moist crumbs.
- Cool Properly: While it’s tempting to dive into warm muffins immediately, allowing them to cool in the pan for 5 minutes before transferring to a wire rack is important. This helps them set and prevents them from sticking to the pan or falling apart when you try to remove them.
By following these simple yet effective tips, you’ll be baking **mini chocolate chip muffins** that are consistently delicious and a joy to eat!
Creative Variations for Your Muffins
While classic **mini chocolate chip muffins** are undeniably delicious, this recipe is incredibly versatile, allowing for endless creative variations to suit any taste or dietary preference. Don’t be afraid to experiment and make these muffins uniquely yours!
- Add in your favorite mix-ins: Beyond classic mini chocolate chips, the possibilities are vast.
- Other Chocolates: Try tossing in some white chocolate chips, butterscotch chips, or even chopped milk chocolate for a different sweet profile. For a sophisticated touch, use dark chocolate chunks or finely chopped espresso beans.
- Nuts: Add a lovely crunch and earthy flavor with chopped walnuts, pecans, almonds, or even macadamia nuts. Toasting them lightly before adding can enhance their flavor.
- Dried Fruits: Introduce a chewy texture and fruity sweetness with dried cranberries, raisins, chopped apricots, or blueberries. Ensure they are lightly coated in flour before adding to prevent them from sinking to the bottom.
- Spices: For a warm, aromatic twist, add a dash of cinnamon, nutmeg, or even a pinch of ground ginger to the dry ingredients. These spices complement the chocolate beautifully.
- Citrus Zest: A little lemon or orange zest can brighten the flavor profile and add a delightful aroma.
- Dietary adaptations: This recipe is flexible enough to accommodate various needs.
- Gluten-Free: As mentioned, easily go gluten-free by substituting the all-purpose flour with a high-quality 1:1 gluten-free flour blend that already includes xanthan gum. The texture will be remarkably similar!
- Reduced Sugar: If you prefer your muffins a little less sweet, feel free to cut the total sugar amount by 25%. You can adjust this to your personal preference, remembering that sugar also contributes to moisture and browning.
- Dairy-Free: Swap out the whole milk for an unsweetened plant-based milk like almond milk, soy milk, or oat milk. Ensure you choose a plain variety to avoid altering the flavor.
- Egg Substitute: For an egg-free version, you can try a flax egg (1 tablespoon ground flaxseed meal mixed with 3 tablespoons water, let sit for 5 minutes) or a commercial egg replacer, though results may vary slightly.
These easy tweaks ensure you can enjoy these delicious **mini chocolate chip muffins** no matter your preferences, maintaining the same delightful taste and texture you love!
More flavorful muffin recipes: Red Velvet Muffins l Honey Blackberry Oatmeal Muffins I Lemon Poppy Seed Muffins I One Bowl Banana Nutella Muffins
Can I Use Different Types of Chocolate?
Absolutely! One of the wonderful things about these **mini chocolate chip muffins** is their adaptability. While semi-sweet mini chocolate chips are a classic choice and highly recommended for their balanced flavor, you are definitely encouraged to experiment with your favorite types of chocolate. Feel free to swap them out entirely or use a combination to create your own signature muffin!
- Dark Chocolate: For a more intense and less sweet flavor, dark chocolate chips or finely chopped dark chocolate bars (aim for 60-70% cacao) work beautifully, creating a sophisticated contrast with the sweet muffin base.
- White Chocolate: If you enjoy a sweeter, creamier profile, white chocolate chips are a fantastic addition. They melt into pockets of buttery sweetness within the muffin.
- Milk Chocolate: For a familiar and comforting sweetness that many children adore, milk chocolate chips are a perfect alternative.
- Chocolate Chunks: Instead of chips, you can use chocolate chunks for larger, more decadent pools of melted chocolate in each bite. Just chop a bar of your favorite chocolate into small pieces.
No matter which chocolate you choose, the key is to use mini-sized pieces if possible to ensure an even distribution throughout the small muffins. Enjoy customizing your batch!
What Other Mix-ins Can I Add?
Yes, absolutely! These **mini chocolate chip muffins** are a blank canvas for your culinary creativity. Beyond chocolate, there are numerous delicious mix-ins you can incorporate to add extra flavor, texture, and excitement. Getting creative with mix-ins is a great way to personalize your muffins and try new flavor combinations.
- Nuts: Add a delightful crunch with finely chopped nuts like walnuts, pecans, almonds, or even pistachios. Toasting the nuts lightly before adding them can deepen their flavor profile. About ¼ to ½ cup of chopped nuts would be a good starting point.
- Dried Fruit: Introduce bursts of fruity sweetness and chewiness with dried cranberries, raisins, chopped apricots, or even finely diced candied ginger. Remember to toss dried fruits lightly in a tablespoon of flour before adding them to the batter; this helps prevent them from sinking to the bottom during baking.
- Citrus Zest: A touch of finely grated lemon, orange, or lime zest can elevate the muffins with a bright, aromatic lift, cutting through the sweetness and adding a lovely fragrance.
- Spices: Beyond vanilla, you can introduce warm spices like a pinch of cinnamon, nutmeg, or cardamom for an extra layer of cozy flavor, especially delicious during colder months.
- Coconut Flakes: Shredded or desiccated coconut can add a tropical twist and pleasant texture.
- Peanut Butter Swirl: For a truly decadent treat, swirl a teaspoon of softened peanut butter into each muffin cup just before baking. This creates pockets of gooey peanut butter throughout the muffins.
- Mini Candies or Sprinkles: If you’re baking for a celebration or just want to add a festive touch, mini M&Ms, sprinkles, or other small candies can be folded into the batter.
When adding mix-ins, aim for about ½ to ¾ cup total to avoid overloading the delicate muffin batter. Have fun experimenting and discovering your favorite flavor combinations!
Need some inspiration for muffin recipes? Check out my breakfast recipes page!
What to Serve with Mini Chocolate Chip Muffins
These versatile **mini chocolate chip muffins** are delightful on their own, but they also pair wonderfully with a variety of accompaniments, making them suitable for any meal or occasion. Here are some serving suggestions to elevate your mini muffin experience:
- For Breakfast:
- Coffee or Tea: Nothing says a perfect morning like a warm, freshly baked muffin alongside your favorite cup of coffee, a creamy latte, or a soothing mug of hot tea.
- Fresh Fruit: Complement the sweetness of the muffins with a refreshing side of fresh berries (strawberries, blueberries, raspberries), sliced bananas, or a vibrant fruit salad. This adds a touch of freshness and nutritional balance.
- Yogurt: Pair them with a bowl of Greek yogurt, perhaps with a drizzle of honey or a sprinkle of granola, for a more substantial and protein-rich breakfast.
- A Special Treat: For the grown-ups looking for an extra indulgent start to the day, consider serving these mini muffins with a classic Irish coffee.
- For Snacks:
- Lunchbox Treat: Their bite-sized nature makes them perfect for packing into lunchboxes for school or work, offering a sweet surprise to brighten the midday meal.
- Afternoon Pick-Me-Up: Enjoy them solo with a glass of milk or a quick iced coffee as a delightful way to refuel and recharge during an afternoon slump.
- Playdate or Party Snack: Serve them on a platter for kids’ playdates or as a party snack – they’re always a crowd-pleaser and easy for guests to grab and enjoy.
- For Dessert:
- With Ice Cream: Warm them slightly and serve alongside a scoop of vanilla ice cream for a simple, yet satisfying, dessert.
- Dust with Powdered Sugar: For an elegant touch, dust cooled muffins with a light sprinkle of powdered sugar just before serving.
However you choose to enjoy them, these **mini chocolate chip muffins** are sure to bring a smile to everyone’s face!
How to Store and Freeze Your Muffins
One of the best things about these **mini chocolate chip muffins** is how well they store, allowing you to enjoy fresh-tasting treats for days or even months! Proper storage is key to maintaining their delicious flavor and tender texture. Here’s how to do it:
- Storing at Room Temperature:
- Ensure the muffins are completely cooled before storing. Warm muffins will create condensation inside the container, leading to sogginess.
- Place the cooled muffins in an airtight container or a large zip-top bag.
- Store them at room temperature, away from direct sunlight or heat.
- They will maintain their freshness and delicious taste for up to 5 to 7 days. For best results, place a paper towel at the bottom of the container to absorb any excess moisture and keep them from getting too soft.
- Freezing for Longer Freshness:
- Freezing is an excellent option for extending the life of your **mini chocolate chip muffins** and having a quick treat on hand whenever a craving strikes.
- Once the muffins are completely cooled, arrange them in a single layer on a baking sheet or plate. This prevents them from sticking together.
- Place the baking sheet in the freezer for at least 1 hour, or until the muffins are frozen solid. This step is called flash-freezing and helps maintain their individual shape.
- Once solid, transfer the frozen muffins to a freezer-safe zip-top bag or an airtight container. Remove as much air as possible from the bag to prevent freezer burn.
- Store them in the freezer for up to 3 months.
- Thawing & Reheating:
- To thaw frozen muffins, simply transfer them from the freezer to the refrigerator overnight.
- Once thawed, you can enjoy them at room temperature.
- For that delightful fresh-from-the-oven experience, reheat them in the microwave for about 15-30 seconds (for mini muffins, adjust for larger ones) until just warm, or in a preheated oven at 300°F (150°C) for 5-7 minutes.
With these storage tips, you can always have a batch of delectable **mini chocolate chip muffins** ready to enjoy, whether for an impromptu breakfast or a sweet snack!
More Irresistible Chocolate Recipes
If you’re anything like us, your love for chocolate doesn’t stop at these amazing **mini chocolate chip muffins**. Chocolate is a versatile ingredient that can elevate any meal, from breakfast to dessert. Here are a few more of our favorite chocolate-infused recipes that are sure to satisfy your cravings and bring a little extra sweetness to your day:
- Banana Chocolate Chip Waffles: Start your day off right with these fluffy and flavorful Banana Chocolate Chip Waffles. Bursting with the sweet, comforting goodness of ripe bananas and melty chocolate chips, they’re a delightful way to kickstart any morning. Plus, these are always a huge hit with the kiddos!
- Raspberry Chocolate Croissant French Toast Bake: For something a little extra indulgent and perfect for a special brunch or a decadent dessert, try the Raspberry Chocolate Croissant French Toast Bake. This recipe is a sophisticated blend of rich chocolate, tart fruity flavors from fresh raspberries, and the luxurious texture of buttery croissants. It’s truly an unforgettable dish.
- Orange Dark Chocolate Chip Scones: If you’re a fan of citrus and chocolate, you absolutely must try these Orange Dark Chocolate Chip Scones. They offer a zesty, bright twist on a classic favorite, with the deep intensity of dark chocolate perfectly balanced by the fragrant zest of fresh oranges. Ideal for an afternoon tea or a cozy morning treat.
Explore these recipes and let your chocolate journey continue! Each one offers a unique and delicious way to enjoy the magic of chocolate in your home.
Finally, if you make this **Mini Chocolate Chip Muffins recipe**, please be sure to give this recipe a star recipe rating on the recipe card and/or leave a comment! We absolutely love to hear when you all make our recipes, and we genuinely take the time to respond to every single comment. Your feedback means the world to us and helps others discover these delicious treats too.
Feel free to drop any questions below as well; we’re always happy to help!
Oh, and be sure to tag us on Instagram, Facebook, or Pinterest if you make the recipe! We absolutely cherish seeing these recipes come to life in your homes – it’s truly our favorite thing to look through those beautiful photos. It really means the world to us to be a part of your baking adventures!
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Mini Chocolate Chip Muffins
ingredients
- 1 ½ cups all-purpose flour
- ½ cup granulated sugar
- ¼ cup light brown sugar
- 2 tsp baking powder
- ½ tsp salt
- ⅓ cup vegetable oil can use softened unsalted butter
- 1 large egg room temperature
- 2 tsp vanilla extract
- ½ cup whole milk
- ½ cup mini chocolate chips
instructions
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Preheat the oven to 375˚F (190˚C). Lightly spray the inside of a mini muffin tin with cooking spray, or line with mini parchment liners if preferred.
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In a large bowl, combine flour, granulated sugar, brown sugar, baking powder, and salt. Whisk these dry ingredients together until thoroughly combined and free of lumps. Set aside.
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In a separate medium bowl, stir together the vegetable oil (or softened butter), room temperature egg, vanilla extract, and milk until all the wet ingredients are well combined and smooth.
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Pour the wet ingredients mixture into the bowl containing the dry ingredients. Use a spatula to gently fold the ingredients together until just combined. Be careful not to overmix the batter; a few lumps are perfectly fine and will result in tender muffins.
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Gently fold in the mini chocolate chips until they are evenly distributed throughout the batter.
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Spoon the prepared batter into your mini muffin tin, filling each muffin cup about 3/4 full to allow for proper rising.
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Bake for 10 to 12 minutes, or until the muffins are cooked through, the edges are lightly golden brown, and a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.
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Allow the muffins to cool in the tin for 5 minutes before carefully removing them to wire cooling racks to cool completely.
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Store cooled muffins in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 5 to 7 days, or follow freezing instructions for longer storage.
Video Guide
Storage Notes
Freeze. To freeze, place cooled mini muffins in a single layer on a cookie sheet and freeze for at least 1 hour until solid. Once frozen through, transfer them to a freezer-safe bag and store in the freezer for up to 3 months.
Thaw & Reheat. Thaw frozen muffins in the fridge overnight. Enjoy at room temperature, or reheat in the microwave for about 30 seconds to enjoy warm.
Nutrition Information