Chocolate Fondant Muffins

Preparing the Muffin Batter

1. Preheat the Oven: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease a 12-cup muffin tin with butter and lightly dust with flour or cocoa powder, tapping out the excess.
2. Melt Chocolate and Butter: In a medium heatproof bowl, combine the chopped dark chocolate and 1 cup (2 sticks) of unsalted butter. Melt together over a pot of simmering water (double boiler method), stirring until smooth and completely melted. Alternatively, melt in the microwave in 30-second intervals, stirring between each until smooth.
3. Mix Sugar and Eggs: In a large bowl, whisk together the granulated sugar and eggs until light and fluffy. Add the vanilla extract and whisk to combine.
4. Combine Wet Ingredients: Gradually pour the melted chocolate and butter mixture into the egg mixture, whisking constantly to combine.
5. Add Dry Ingredients: Sift the flour, unsweetened cocoa powder, and salt into the bowl with the wet ingredients. Gently fold the dry ingredients into the wet mixture until just combined.

Baking the Muffins

6. Fill Muffin Tin: Divide the batter evenly among the prepared muffin cups, filling each about 3/4 full.
7. Bake: Bake in the preheated oven for 10-12 minutes, or until the edges are set but the centers are still soft. Be careful not to overbake, as you want the centers to remain gooey.
8. Cool Slightly: Remove the muffins from the oven and let them cool in the pan for about 5 minutes. Carefully run a knife around the edges of each muffin to loosen them, then gently remove from the pan.

Serving

9. Serve Warm: Serve the chocolate fondant muffins warm, dusted with powdered sugar if desired. Enjoy the molten chocolate center as it flows out with each bite.

Conclusion

Chocolate fondant muffins are a decadent and indulgent dessert that will impress any chocolate lover. With their rich, gooey centers and perfect balance of sweetness, these muffins are ideal for special occasions or whenever you’re in the mood for a luxurious treat. Enjoy them with a scoop of vanilla ice cream or a dollop of whipped cream for an extra special touch!