There’s something undeniably comforting about a warm, fresh-from-the-oven muffin. Add chocolate, crunchy walnuts, and a buttery streusel topping, and you’ve got a masterpiece that’s part breakfast, part dessert, and entirely irresistible. Chocolate Walnut Streusel Muffins are the ultimate treat for those who crave rich flavor, satisfying texture, and a touch of indulgence in their day.
With a moist chocolate base, toasted walnut pieces for crunch, and a golden streusel crown, these muffins strike a perfect balance between tender and crumbly, sweet and nutty. Whether you enjoy them as a grab-and-go breakfast, a sweet snack, or a thoughtful gift, they’re easy to make and guaranteed to please.
Why You’ll Love These Muffins
- Deep Chocolate Flavor: Cocoa powder and chocolate chips provide a rich, satisfying base.
- Crunchy Walnut Texture: Toasted walnuts bring nutty depth and a subtle bitterness to balance the sweetness.
- Streusel Topping: A buttery, sugary crumble bakes into a golden, crisp topping for bakery-style muffins.
- Perfectly Portable: Great for lunchboxes, brunch spreads, or freezing for later enjoyment.
- Versatile: Swap in other nuts or add spices to suit your taste.
Ingredients
For the Muffins:
- 1½ cups all-purpose flour
- ½ cup unsweetened cocoa powder
- 1 tsp baking powder
- ½ tsp baking soda
- ¼ tsp salt
- ½ cup granulated sugar
- ½ cup brown sugar, packed
- ½ cup vegetable oil or melted butter
- 2 large eggs
- ¾ cup sour cream or plain Greek yogurt
- 1 tsp vanilla extract
- ½ cup milk
- ¾ cup chopped walnuts (toasted if desired)
- ½ cup semi-sweet chocolate chips or chunks
For the Streusel Topping:
- ⅓ cup all-purpose flour
- 3 tbsp brown sugar
- 3 tbsp cold butter, cubed
- ¼ cup chopped walnuts
- Optional: pinch of cinnamon for warmth
Prep & Bake Time
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Bake Time: 18–22 minutes
- Total Time: ~35 minutes
- Servings: 12 muffins
Step-by-Step Instructions
1. Preheat and Prep
Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Line a 12-cup muffin tin with paper liners or grease well.
2. Make the Streusel Topping
In a small bowl, mix flour and brown sugar. Cut in cold butter using a fork or pastry cutter until the mixture resembles coarse crumbs. Stir in chopped walnuts and cinnamon (if using). Refrigerate while you make the muffin batter.
3. Mix Dry Ingredients
In a large bowl, whisk together flour, cocoa powder, baking powder, baking soda, and salt.
4. Mix Wet Ingredients
In a separate bowl, whisk sugar, oil (or melted butter), eggs, sour cream, milk, and vanilla until smooth and creamy.
5. Combine Wet and Dry
Pour wet ingredients into the dry. Mix gently until just combined—don’t overmix. Fold in chopped walnuts and chocolate chips.
6. Fill Muffin Cups
Spoon batter evenly into prepared muffin cups, filling about ¾ full. Top each with a generous spoonful of streusel.
7. Bake
Bake for 18–22 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out with a few moist crumbs. The tops should be puffed and slightly cracked with golden streusel.
8. Cool and Serve
Let muffins cool in the tin for 5 minutes, then transfer to a wire rack to cool completely (or enjoy slightly warm!).
Nutrition Info (Per Muffin)
- Calories: ~300
- Fat: 18g
- Carbohydrates: 30g
- Sugar: 16g
- Protein: 5g
- Fiber: 2g
These muffins are a rich, filling treat with the added nutritional benefit of walnuts, which are packed with healthy fats and antioxidants.
Serving and Presentation Ideas
- For Breakfast: Pair with a hot cup of coffee or tea for a satisfying start to your day.
- Brunch Boards: Serve alongside fruit, scones, and cheeses for a gorgeous brunch spread.
- Gifting: Wrap cooled muffins in parchment and twine for a thoughtful homemade gift.
- Dessert Option: Warm slightly and top with a scoop of vanilla ice cream for a decadent dessert.
Storage and Freezing
- Store at room temperature in an airtight container for up to 3 days.
- Freeze for up to 2 months. Wrap each muffin individually, then place in a freezer-safe bag. Reheat in the microwave or oven before serving.
Recipe Variations
- Nut-Free: Omit walnuts and use mini chocolate chips or crushed pretzels instead.
- Spiced Version: Add ½ teaspoon cinnamon or a pinch of nutmeg to the batter.
- Mocha Muffins: Add 1 tablespoon of instant espresso powder to the batter for a coffee kick.
- Double Chocolate: Stir in dark chocolate chunks or white chocolate chips for contrast.
- Banana Boost: Replace half the sour cream with mashed ripe banana for extra moisture and flavor.
Tips for Perfect Muffins
- Don’t Overmix: Mix just until ingredients are combined to keep muffins tender.
- Toast the Walnuts: For deeper flavor, toast walnuts in a dry skillet or 350°F oven for 5–7 minutes before using.
- Room Temp Ingredients: Ensure eggs and dairy are at room temperature for smoother mixing.
- Streusel Tip: Chill the streusel before topping the muffins—it will hold its shape better during baking.