Chocolate Babka Muffins with Espresso Crumble – A Decadent Homemade Treat

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When you think of comfort baking, few things can match the intoxicating aroma of warm chocolate paired with the subtle bitterness of espresso. If you’ve ever dreamed of bringing the rich, swirled goodness of babka into an easy-to-enjoy individual treat, this recipe for Chocolate Babka Muffins with Espresso Crumble is about to become your new favorite. Imagine biting into a tender, yeasty muffin bursting with luscious layers of milk and bittersweet chocolate, enhanced by a fragrant coffee crumble topping. These muffins are perfect for weekend brunches, cozy afternoons, or simply whenever you crave a sweet pick-me-up.

In this guide, you’ll learn how to create these decadent muffins step by step — from mixing the tender dough and crafting a deeply flavorful chocolate-espresso filling to adding the irresistible crumble that makes every bite a textural delight. By the time you’re done, you’ll have a batch of twelve stunning muffins that look and taste like something from a boutique bakery but made with your own hands.  Indulge in gourmet dining at home with our Baked Spinach Mushroom Quesadillas

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Why You’ll Fall in Love with These Chocolate Babka Muffins

Before diving into the how-to, let’s talk about why this recipe stands out. If you’ve tried traditional babka before, you know it’s beloved for its tender layers of dough wrapped around a rich filling. But turning babka into muffins adds convenience and a fun twist to this classic treat. Here’s what makes these muffins a must-try:

• Perfect bite-sized indulgence: Unlike large babka loaves, these muffins let you savor the chocolate and coffee flavor in every bite without the commitment of a whole loaf.
• Balanced chocolate blend: Combining milk chocolate’s creamy sweetness with bittersweet chocolate’s deep richness creates a nuanced flavor that pleases every palate.
• Espresso crumble topping: The addition of coffee grounds and cocoa nibs in the crumble offers a contrasting crunch and a subtle bitterness that keeps your taste buds engaged.
• Ideal for any occasion: Whether you’re hosting brunch, celebrating a special moment, or simply want a cozy treat with your morning coffee, these muffins deliver comfort and sophistication.
• Make-ahead friendly: You can prepare the dough or filling in advance, refrigerate overnight, and bake fresh the next day, making your mornings easier and tastier.

Understanding these points will help you appreciate the thoughtfulness behind each element in this recipe, and why you’ll want to keep it in your baking repertoire.

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Ingredients You’ll Need for Chocolate Babka Muffins with Espresso Crumble

Gathering ingredients is the first exciting step toward your baking success. To keep things clear and organized, here’s a detailed breakdown of everything you’ll need, including quantities and tips.

Dough Ingredients

Ingredient	Quantity	Notes
Whole milk	1/2 cup	Warmed with butter
Unsalted butter	4 tablespoons (2 oz)	Melted
Vanilla extract	1 teaspoon	Adds aroma
Active dry yeast	2 1/4 teaspoons (1 envelope)	Proofed in warm water
Warm water	2 tablespoons	Slightly warmer than body temperature
Pinch of sugar	For activating yeast
All-purpose flour	3 to 3 1/2 cups (divided)	Use high-quality flour
Granulated sugar	1/4 cup	Sweetens dough
Kosher salt	3/4 teaspoon	Enhances flavor
Large eggs	2, room temperature	Ensures dough texture

Filling Ingredients (Enough for Two Batches)

Ingredient	Quantity	Notes
Milk chocolate	9 ounces	Chopped
Bittersweet chocolate	3 ounces	Chopped
Unsalted butter	1 1/2 sticks (6 1/2 ounces)	Melts into filling
Pinch of salt	To balance sweetness
Ground espresso or instant coffee	1 tablespoon	Adds rich coffee flavor
Ground cinnamon	1/4 teaspoon	Warm spice
Light brown sugar	2 tablespoons	Moistens and sweetens filling
Honey	2 tablespoons	Natural sweetness
Dark rum (optional)	1 tablespoon	Adds complexity, can omit
Finely ground chocolate wafer cookies (cream removed)	1 1/2 cups	Adds texture and chocolate depth
Cocoa nibs	1/4 cup	Crunchy topping

Crumble Topping Ingredients (Enough for Two Batches)

Ingredient	Quantity	Notes
All-purpose flour	1/2 cup	Base of crumble
Light brown sugar	1/2 cup, packed	Sweetness and texture
Ground cinnamon	1/2 teaspoon	Adds warmth
Freshly grated nutmeg	1/4 teaspoon	Adds aroma and subtle spice
Salt	1/4 teaspoon	Enhances flavors
Cold unsalted butter	4 tablespoons, cubed	Creates crumbly texture

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Step-by-Step Instructions: Crafting Your Chocolate Babka Muffins

Let’s break down the process into manageable parts, ensuring you feel confident at every stage.

Making the Dough

1. Warm the milk and butter:
   In a small saucepan, gently heat the whole milk and butter just until the butter melts. Remove from heat and stir in the vanilla extract. Let this cool to about 115–125°F, which is warm enough to activate yeast but not so hot it kills it.
2. Proof the yeast:
   In a small bowl, mix the yeast, warm water, and a pinch of sugar. Let this sit for about 5 minutes until the mixture becomes foamy — this signals the yeast is active and ready.
3. Combine dry ingredients:
   In a large bowl, whisk together 2 cups of the flour, granulated sugar, and kosher salt.
4. Add wet ingredients:
   Whisk the eggs separately. Then add the cooled milk mixture, the yeast mixture, and the eggs into the dry ingredients. Stir until combined.
5. Incorporate the rest of the flour:
   Gradually add the remaining 1 to 1 1/2 cups flour. Use a stand mixer fitted with a dough hook, or mix by hand with a sturdy spoon, until the dough forms a soft, slightly sticky ball.
6. Knead:
   Knead the dough for about 5 minutes until it’s smooth and elastic.
7. Let the dough rise:
   Transfer the dough to a greased bowl. Cover it tightly with plastic wrap and a kitchen towel. Set it in a warm spot to rise for about 1 hour or until nearly doubled in size.

Preparing the Chocolate-Espresso Filling

1. Melt chocolate and butter:
   In a heatproof bowl set over simmering water (a double boiler), gently melt the milk and bittersweet chocolate with butter. Stir until smooth.
2. Flavor the filling:
   Remove from heat. Stir in salt, cinnamon, ground espresso or instant coffee, brown sugar, honey, and the optional rum.
3. Cool and thicken:
   Let the filling cool to room temperature, about 30 minutes. Once cooled, stir in the finely ground chocolate wafer cookies until the mixture thickens to a spreadable consistency.

Creating the Crumble Topping

1. Mix dry ingredients:
   In a bowl, combine the flour, light brown sugar, cinnamon, nutmeg, and salt.
2. Work in butter:
   Add cold, cubed butter. Using your fingers or a pastry cutter, work the butter into the dry mixture until it resembles coarse crumbs.
3. Set aside:
   Keep the crumble topping in the fridge until ready to use.

Assembling the Muffins

1. Prepare dough:
   Once the dough has risen, gently punch it down and turn it onto a floured surface.
2. Roll out:
   Roll the dough into an 18×12-inch rectangle with the long side facing you.
3. Spread filling and add nibs:
   Evenly spread half the chocolate filling over the dough. Sprinkle cocoa nibs on top for extra crunch.
4. Fold and cut:
   Fold the dough into fourths lengthwise (like folding a letter), creating a flat log. Cut the log in half vertically, then slice each half into 12 strips for a total of 24 pieces.
5. Twist and place:
   Lightly grease a muffin tin. Take two strips, twist them together while criss-crossing, and press them into a muffin cup. Repeat for all cups.
6. Add crumble:
   Sprinkle each muffin with the crumble topping.

Baking Your Muffins

• You have the option to refrigerate the assembled muffins overnight, which deepens the flavor and makes baking fresh muffins in the morning effortless. If you do so, remove the muffins from the fridge and let them come to room temperature while you preheat the oven.
• Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
• Bake the muffins for 16 to 18 minutes, until golden, risen, and bubbling with delicious chocolate.
• Let cool for at least 15 minutes before carefully removing from the pan using a butter knife.
• Serve warm or the same day for the best experience.

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Tips for Baking Perfect Chocolate Babka Muffins Every Time

Your success matters, so here are some insider tips to get bakery-quality results:

• Use room temperature eggs to ensure even mixing and optimal dough texture.
• Keep butter cold for the crumble to achieve that perfect crumbly texture.
• Don’t overproof your yeast; wait until it nearly doubles but not more, or the dough may become too sour or over-fermented.
• Experiment with additions: Try adding chopped nuts like walnuts or pecans to the filling or topping.
• Store properly: Keep muffins in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 2 days or freeze for longer storage.
• Reheat gently: Use a microwave or oven for a few seconds to bring back freshness without drying.

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Nutrition Overview

Each muffin clocks in at approximately 390 calories. They’re rich in fats and sugars from the chocolate, butter, and honey, so these muffins are best enjoyed as an occasional treat or special indulgence.

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Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

What sets these muffins apart from regular chocolate muffins?

These muffins use a yeast-based dough inspired by babka, layered with a chocolate-espresso filling and topped with a crunchy crumble, creating a more complex texture and flavor profile than standard quick muffins.

Can I make the dough or filling in advance?

Absolutely! The dough can be refrigerated overnight before baking, and the filling can be made ahead and refrigerated for up to two days.

Are there substitutions for ingredients?

You can replace bittersweet chocolate with dark chocolate or omit the rum without losing the signature flavor. Instant coffee works well if you don’t have ground espresso.

How do I store leftovers?

Keep leftovers in an airtight container at room temperature for 1-2 days or freeze for up to a month. Reheat gently before serving.

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Conclusion: Start Baking Your Decadent Treat Today!

Now that you have everything you need, why wait? This recipe brings together the best of babka and muffins with an espresso crumble twist — guaranteed to delight anyone lucky enough to taste them. Whether you bake for yourself, friends, or family, these Chocolate Babka Muffins with Espresso Crumble offer a delicious way to elevate your homemade baking.

Grab your ingredients, put on your apron, and get ready to create something truly special. Don’t forget to share your baking adventures and tag your creations on social media — I’d love to see how your muffins turn out!

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