Flourless Chocolate Mandarin Muffins

Deliciously moist and gluten-free chocolate muffins made with fresh mandarins and nut flour, offering a rich, fruity flavor with a tender crumb.

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Why You’ll Love This Recipe

These Flourless Chocolate Mandarin Muffins are a perfect balance of rich chocolate and fresh citrusy mandarin flavor. The use of nut flour gives them a wonderfully tender texture while making them gluten-free. With the added bonus of a simple preparation process, they make for a delicious, healthy treat, ideal for breakfast, snack time, or dessert.

Ingredients

For the Muffins:

400 g mandarins (peeled and deseeded)
6 large eggs
200 g ground almonds or hazelnuts (nut flour)
50 g cocoa powder
200 g sugar
1 1/2 teaspoons baking powder
1/2 teaspoon baking soda

(Tip: You can find the complete list of ingredients and their measurements in the recipe card below.)

Directions

Prepare the Mandarins

In a food processor, blend the peeled mandarins until smooth.

Mix the Batter

In a large bowl, beat the eggs and sugar until light and fluffy.
Add the blended mandarins and mix well.
In a separate bowl, sift together the nut flour, cocoa powder, baking powder, and baking soda.
Gradually fold the dry ingredients into the wet mixture until fully combined.

Bake the Muffins

Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C).
Line a muffin tin with paper liners or grease well.
Pour the batter into the muffin cups, filling about 2/3 full.
Bake for 25–30 minutes or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.

Cool and Serve

Let the muffins cool in the tin for 10 minutes, then transfer to a wire rack.
Serve warm or at room temperature.

Servings and timing

Makes 12 muffins
Prep time: 15 minutes
Cooking time: 30 minutes
Total time: 45 minutes
Calories: Approximately 220 kcal per muffin

Variations

• Add chopped dark chocolate or chocolate chips for extra richness.
• Replace mandarins with oranges or clementines for a different citrus twist.
• Add a sprinkle of cinnamon or cardamom for added warmth.
• Use honey or maple syrup instead of sugar for a natural sweetener option.

Storage/Reheating

Store muffins in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days. You can also refrigerate them for up to 5 days. Reheat briefly in the microwave or oven before serving.

FAQs

Can I use almond meal instead of ground almonds?

Yes, almond meal works well as a substitute for ground almonds.

Can I freeze these muffins?

Yes, these muffins freeze well. Wrap them tightly and store them in the freezer for up to 2 months.

How can I make these muffins dairy-free?

The recipe is already dairy-free, but make sure to double-check the labels of your nut flour and cocoa powder.

Can I replace mandarins with other fruits?

Yes, other citrus fruits like oranges or even berries can be used instead.

Why are the muffins flourless?

These muffins use nut flour instead of regular flour, making them gluten-free and adding a unique texture.

Conclusion

Flourless Chocolate Mandarin Muffins combine the rich flavor of chocolate with the freshness of mandarins for a light and moist gluten-free treat. Perfect for any occasion, they’re a great way to enjoy a healthy yet indulgent snack. With simple ingredients and minimal effort, they’re a go-to recipe for those looking to add a bit of fruity sweetness to their baking.

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