Coffee Chip Muffins

I had my first day of school today. I'm taking a couple of summer classes and I started my month-long, accelerated photo class today. It was only a few hours long but it was just a repeat of everything I knew, but once we get into the darkroom I'll be right at home again. But I came home, and my boyfriend, the laziest man in the world, fell asleep for two hours. I was craving something sweet and I was itching to bake, so off to foodgawker I went!

I found these promising-looking muffins by Sweet Pea's Kitchen. I had all of the ingredients on hand except for the instant espresso powder (!), but I figured I would just use ground coffee instead. I have never actually baked with coffee before but I wanted the boy to wake up to warm muffins so I figured I'd give it a try!

Recipe adapted from Sweet Pea's Kitchen with minor changes
You will need...
2 cups all-purpose flour
1/3 cup sugar
1/3 cup brown sugar
1 tablespoon ground coffee
1 tablespoon baking powder
1/2 teaspoon ground cinnamon
1/2 cup mini chocolate chips
1 cup strong coffee, cooled
8 tablespoons butter, melted & cooled
1 egg
1 teaspoon vanilla extract
1/2 teaspoon cinnamon extract (optional)

Start by whisking together the flour, both sugars, ground coffee, baking powder, cinnamon, and chocolate chips in a large bowl. Set aside. In a smaller bowl, mix together the brewed coffee, butter, egg, and extracts. Add to dry ingredients and mix until incorporated. Pour batter into lined, 12 cup muffin tin and evenly distribute (about 2/3rds way full for each cup). Bake for 20 minutes and let cool for 5-10 minutes.

My father and boyfriend both loved these. They must be good if my dad likes them! He's critical of everything I make but he had four of these. ;) They're definitely great for a small but filling breakfast, or a sweet, strong dessert!