Nutella Stuffed Chocolate Muffins with Molten Centers
Rich chocolate muffins hide a molten Nutella center that oozes when you bite into them. The cocoa-forward batter creates a tender crumb while the hidden hazelnut spread provides an indulgent surprise. Perfect for breakfast treats, afternoon snacks, or dessert, these bakery-style muffins start at high heat to create that signature dome top, then finish at lower temperature for even baking. The two-temperature method ensures the outside sets properly while keeping the Nutella filling perfectly gooey.
Ingredients
- 2 ½ cup all-purpose flourgluten-free flour blend1:1gluten_freegluten-free
use certified blend
- ½ cup cocoa powder
- 1 tablespoon baking powder
- ½ teaspoon baking soda
- ½ teaspoon table salt
- 2 large eggs
- 1 cup granulated sugar
- 1 cup whole milk
- ½ cup vegetable oil
- ⅓ cup sour cream
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 22 heaping teaspoon Nutella
- decorators sugar, for garnish(optional)
Instructions
- 1
Preheat oven and spray muffin tins with baking spray or add liners
- 2
Stir together flour, cocoa powder, baking powder, baking soda, and salt in medium bowl
- 3
Whisk eggs and sugar until smooth in large bowl
- 4
Add milk, oil, sour cream, and vanilla to egg mixture and whisk until smooth
- 5
Add dry ingredients to wet ingredients and stir until no dry patches remain
- 6
Add batter to bottom of muffin sections using cookie scoop
- 7
Place heaping teaspoon of Nutella in center of each muffin
- 8
Top with remaining batter ensuring Nutella is completely covered
- 9
Bake at high temperature for 5 minutes
- 10
Lower oven temperature and continue baking until muffins puff up and crack slightly on top
- 11
Cool in tin for 5 minutes then transfer to wire rack
Tips
Use a cookie scoop to evenly distribute batter and ensure consistent muffin sizes.
Make sure the top layer of batter completely covers the Nutella to prevent it from leaking out during baking.
Insert toothpick halfway between center and edge to test doneness while avoiding the Nutella center.
Good to Know
Store covered at room temperature for up to 3 days or refrigerate for up to 1 week.
Can be made 1 day ahead and stored covered at room temperature.
Serve warm or at room temperature. Gently warm in microwave for 10-15 seconds to soften Nutella center.
Common Mistakes
Don't overmix the batter to avoid tough muffins.
Ensure Nutella is completely covered by top batter layer to prevent leaking.
Don't open oven door during first 10 minutes to avoid collapsed muffins.
Substitutions
Dairy-Free Swaps
Gluten-Free Swaps
use certified blend
General Alternatives
FAQ
Can I use a different chocolate spread instead of Nutella?
Yes, any chocolate hazelnut spread or even peanut butter will work. Adjust quantity as needed for consistency.
What if I don't have two muffin tins?
Bake in batches, keeping remaining batter covered at room temperature between batches.
How long do these muffins stay fresh?
They're best within 2-3 days at room temperature, but can be refrigerated for up to a week.