If you’ve been surfing the net on food blogs or TikTok, then there’s absolutely no chance you’ve not heard about Olympic Chocolate Muffins. These rich, extremely chocolatey muffins have taken over the internet — and for a seriously good reason! With their rich, chocolate-filled center and slightly crumbly top, they’re the ultimate treat for anyone with a sweet tooth for chocolate. And the best part? You don’t need a gold medal to make them up — just a few simple ingredients and about 30 minutes of your time.
With this easy-to-follow tutorial, we’ll walk you through everything you need to know in order to recreate the viral Olympic Chocolate Muffins recipe in your own home. Whether you’re making something special for a holiday or are just treating yourself to something yummy, these muffins will wow.
Why Are They Called “Olympic” Muffins?
There is no official legend to the name, but foodies believe the name originates from the muffins’ “gold-standard” flavor and perfectly domed top, reminiscent of the peak of Olympic achievement — in dessert form. Others suggest the name gained traction during Olympic season, when athletes and spectators alike were reaching for something comforting and energizing. Either way, these muffins are champions all the way.
Ingredients You’ll Need
Before we begin the recipe, here is the ingredient list:
Dry Ingredients:
- 1 and ¾ cups (220g) all-purpose flour
- ½ cup (45g) unsweetened cocoa powder
- 1 tsp baking soda
- 1 tsp baking powder
- ¼ tsp salt
Wet Ingredients:
- 2 large eggs
- ½ cup (120ml) vegetable oil
- ¾ cup (180ml) buttermilk (or substitute with milk + 1 tbsp vinegar)
- 1 cup (200g) granulated sugar
- 1 tsp vanilla extract
Add-Ins:
- 1 cup (175g) semi-sweet chocolate chips
- Optional: dark chocolate chopped for extra gooieness
Step-by-Step Recipe
Step 1: Prep Your Tools
Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C). Line a 12-cup muffin pan with paper liners or spray with cooking spray lightly.
Step 2: Mix Dry Ingredients
Sift together the flour, cocoa powder, baking soda, baking powder, and salt in a big bowl. This gets your muffins light and properly risen.
Step 3: Combine Wet Ingredients
In a separate bowl, whisk the eggs, sugar, vanilla, and oil together until light and fluffy. Gradually add the buttermilk slowly.
Step 4: Bring It All Together
Folding the dry ingredients into the wet ingredients slowly, be cautious not to overmix – simply stir until streaks of flour disappear. Add in the chocolate chips and fold gently.
Step 5: Fill the Muffin Cups
Fill the batter evenly into the muffin tin, filling them approximately ¾ of the way full. If making a bakery-top muffin, sprinkle some extra chocolate chips on top of each one.
Step 6: Bake!
Bake 18–22 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted in the center of a muffin comes out all but clean (the few moist crumbs are acceptable).
Step 7: Cool and Serve
Let them cool in the tin for 5 minutes then cool them on a wire rack. Serve warm or at room temperature!
Pro Tips for Perfect Muffins
Room Temperature Ingredients: Use room temperature eggs and milk for a smooth batter.
Don’t Overmix: Over stirring will make the muffins dense.
Double Chocolate: Add dark chocolate chunks for gooey bits.
Muffin Dome Trick: Bake the muffins at 400°F (205°C) for the first 5 minutes, and then switch to 375°F (190°C) for the rest of the baking time. This helps create a high-domed top.
Variations to Try
- Nutty Delight
Add chopped hazelnuts or walnuts to the batter for a crunchy muffin. - Mocha Muffins
Add 1 tbsp of instant coffee powder to the batter to add a hint of coffee flavor. - Stuffed Surprise
Add a spoonful of peanut butter or Nutella in the center of each muffin before baking. - Vegan Version
Replace eggs with flax eggs and almond milk + vinegar for buttermilk. - Gluten-Free Option
Replace with a 1:1 gluten-free flour blend for all-purpose flour.
Why These Muffins Went Viral
The beauty of Olympic Chocolate Muffins lies in their blend of high-endness and ease. They’re easy to make for a novice but decadent for a professional baker. Food bloggers and social media personalities love them because they:
- Are visually striking
- Look great in photos
- Have the flavor of a decadent bakery treat
- Add a speedy prep time and inexpensive ingredients, and it’s no wonder they’re popular.
Storage & Reheating
- Room Temperature: Store in an airtight container for 3 days.
- Fridge: Refrigerate and consume within a week.
- Freezer: Wrap each muffin in plastic and freeze for 2 months. Microwave or bake to reheat.
Final Thoughts
Olympic Chocolate Muffins are not a passing trend — they’re a new baking benchmark with rich, chocolatey flavor, soft texture, and unbeatable chocolatey goodness. Whatever you’re making for — family, friends, or your Instagram followers — this recipe is a sure crowd-pleaser. And the best part? You can finish it off any way you desire to satisfy your cravings.
Now that you’ve learned the secret to the internet’s favorite dessert, it’s time to dig out your mixing bowl and have a go at these yourself. Let the sweet aroma waft through your kitchen — and don’t forget to get a photo in before they’re all devoured!