Name: Olympic Chocolate Muffins Recipe – How to Make the Viral Olympic Muffins
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 20 min
Total time: 35 min
Yield: Servings: 12 muffins
Ingredients: All-purpose flour 250 g (2 cups); Unsweetened cocoa powder 50 g (½ cup); Baking powder 12 g (1 tbsp); Baking soda 5 g (1 tsp); Salt 1 g (¼ tsp); Granulated sugar 200 g (1 cup); Brown sugar 50 g (¼ cup); Eggs (size L) 2; Whole milk 240 ml (1 cup); Vegetable oil 120 ml (½ cup); Vanilla extract 5 ml (1 tsp); Sour cream 120 g (½ cup); Dark chocolate chips 180 g (1 cup); Melted dark chocolate 100 g (3.5 oz)

Olympic Chocolate Muffins Recipe – How to Make the Viral Olympic Muffins

Irresistibly Moist Chocolate Muffins Inspired by Olympic Glory

A rich and decadent treat that has taken the world by storm

Few things ignite passion like food and sports, and when the two collide, magic happens. Enter the Olympic Chocolate Muffins – a delightful creation that captured hearts and palates around the globe during the Paris 2024 Olympics. These muffins are more than just a recipe; they’re a moment, a memory, and a movement. First spotlighted by Norwegian swimmer Henrik Christiansen in a viral TikTok, these luscious muffins have become a symbol of indulgence, joy, and the simple pleasures that unite us.

With their deep chocolate flavor, moist crumb, and iconic domed tops, these muffins deliver the ultimate chocolate experience. Whether you're a seasoned baker or a weekend hobbyist, these muffins bring a touch of the extraordinary to your kitchen. Inspired by the unity and energy of the Olympic Games, they represent more than just taste – they evoke celebration, tradition, and togetherness.

Unlike standard chocolate muffins, the Olympic version is packed with multiple layers of chocolate – rich cocoa powder, melted chocolate, and chunks that melt into pools of goodness as they bake. This triple-chocolate approach is what gives these muffins their unforgettable texture and intense depth of flavor. The result? A moist interior, slightly crisp exterior, and an aroma that fills your kitchen with anticipation.

Perfect for breakfast, snack time, or dessert, these muffins are as versatile as they are delicious. They pair beautifully with a cup of coffee or a glass of milk, and their portability makes them ideal for picnics, lunchboxes, or post-workout treats. In fact, their energetic boost and satisfying taste have even earned them the nickname “athlete’s indulgence” among fans.

What truly sets these muffins apart, however, is their global appeal. Just like the Olympic Games, they cross borders and cultures, embraced by chocolate lovers from all walks of life. From family kitchens in Europe to bakeries in North America, the trend has spread like wildfire, with home bakers eager to recreate the exact muffin that sparked a viral sensation.

Their visual appeal is undeniable too. The signature rise, glossy cracked tops, and specks of melted chocolate throughout make them incredibly photogenic – a key reason why they’ve dominated social media feeds. But beyond their looks lies a well-balanced flavor profile that leans into cocoa richness without overwhelming sweetness. A pinch of salt enhances the depth, while the balance between moisture and structure is simply masterful.

These muffins are also incredibly customizable. While the classic recipe features chocolate chips, variations with nuts, berries, or even espresso powder have emerged, each adding a unique twist while retaining the core essence. Whether you prefer a simple chocolate fix or a gourmet twist, there’s room for creativity within this already elevated base.

When you bite into an Olympic Chocolate Muffin, you’re not just enjoying a dessert – you’re tasting a moment that’s part of a larger story. One that began on the global stage, passed through the hands of enthusiastic bakers, and ended up right in your home. This isn’t just baking. This is baking with purpose, memory, and emotion.

So if you’ve been looking for the perfect chocolate muffin recipe – one that’s as rich in history as it is in flavor – this is it. The Olympic Chocolate Muffins are here to stay, and once you’ve made them, they’ll have a permanent spot in your repertoire. Prepare to fall in love with every bite.

Recipe Ingredients

All-purpose flour 250 g (2 cups)

Unsweetened cocoa powder 50 g (½ cup)

Baking powder 12 g (1 tbsp)

Baking soda 5 g (1 tsp)

Salt 1 g (¼ tsp)

Granulated sugar 200 g (1 cup)

Brown sugar 50 g (¼ cup)

Eggs (size L) 2

Whole milk 240 ml (1 cup)

Vegetable oil 120 ml (½ cup)

Vanilla extract 5 ml (1 tsp)

Sour cream 120 g (½ cup)

Dark chocolate chips 180 g (1 cup)

Melted dark chocolate 100 g (3.5 oz)

The quantity produced by the recipe

Servings: 12 muffins

Preparation instructions

Preheat the oven to 200°C (392°F) and line a 12-cup muffin tin with paper liners.
In a large bowl, sift together the flour, cocoa powder, baking powder, baking soda, and salt. Mix well to ensure even distribution.
In another bowl, whisk the eggs with granulated sugar and brown sugar until the mixture becomes pale and creamy.
Add the milk, vegetable oil, vanilla extract, and sour cream to the egg mixture. Stir until smooth.
Pour the wet ingredients into the dry ingredients and gently mix with a spatula until just combined.
Fold in the melted dark chocolate followed by the chocolate chips, ensuring the batter remains thick and lumpy – do not overmix.
Spoon the batter evenly into the muffin liners, filling each about ¾ full. Optionally, sprinkle a few extra chocolate chips on top.
Bake for 18–20 minutes or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out with a few moist crumbs.
Remove from the oven and allow the muffins to cool in the pan for 5 minutes, then transfer to a wire rack to cool completely.

Preparation

15 minutes

Cooking / Baking

20 minutes

Total Time

35 minutes

Creative Ways to Enhance Your Chocolate Muffins at Home

Expert tips to elevate flavor, texture, and nutritional value in every bite

Chocolate muffins are already a beloved classic, but with a few intentional tweaks, the Olympic Chocolate Muffins can reach even greater heights. Whether you’re aiming for deeper flavor, improved texture, or healthier ingredients, understanding how each component contributes to the final product empowers you to experiment confidently in your kitchen.

Flavor-enhancing ingredient swaps

One of the easiest ways to transform these muffins is to adjust the type and quality of chocolate used. While the original recipe includes dark chocolate chips and melted dark chocolate, swapping some of the chocolate chips for semi-sweet or even ruby chocolate can introduce unexpected layers of complexity. Ruby chocolate, in particular, brings a subtle tartness and beautiful pink hue, which creates both visual appeal and an exciting taste contrast.

Adding a pinch of espresso powder to the dry ingredients is a professional trick that doesn’t make the muffins taste like coffee, but rather intensifies the chocolate flavor. Just 1 gram (¼ tsp) can make a noticeable difference.

You can also incorporate a small amount of orange zest or ground cinnamon to bring a new dimension of aroma. These warm, fragrant notes make the muffins feel even more indulgent, especially in colder seasons.

Improving moisture and texture

The original recipe includes sour cream, which contributes to a moist crumb. However, if you’re looking to make your muffins even more luscious, consider replacing the sour cream with Greek yogurt. Not only does it maintain moisture, but it also adds a light tang and increases the protein content.

Another tip is to use buttermilk instead of regular milk, which enhances both flavor and tenderness. Buttermilk reacts with baking soda to create a lighter texture, perfect for tall, fluffy muffins with a delicate crumb.

For a softer bite and richer mouthfeel, try swapping part of the all-purpose flour for cake flour. A 50/50 blend of cake and all-purpose flour reduces gluten development, resulting in a tender and melt-in-your-mouth experience.

Healthier alternatives without sacrificing flavor

If you're looking for health-conscious variations, consider using whole wheat flour for half of the flour amount. It will add fiber and nutrients while still maintaining a satisfying texture if balanced properly with moist ingredients like oil and yogurt.

Replace a portion of the sugar with mashed ripe bananas or unsweetened applesauce. This not only reduces refined sugar but also introduces natural sweetness and additional moisture. Note, however, that these substitutions may slightly alter the crumb and density, so small test batches are recommended.

Using coconut sugar or maple syrup as sweeteners can add caramel-like undertones that deepen the flavor profile. They also have a lower glycemic index than white sugar, making them a preferred choice for those managing blood sugar levels.

For a healthier fat source, substitute half of the vegetable oil with avocado oil or melted coconut oil, both of which offer healthy unsaturated fats and a subtle flavor that complements chocolate.

Why homemade beats store-bought

Baking these muffins at home allows full control over ingredient quality, freshness, and sweetness levels. Store-bought options often include preservatives, artificial flavors, and lower-quality chocolate. By preparing your own, you ensure every bite is crafted with care and integrity.

Moreover, homemade muffins can be customized to dietary needs and personal preferences – from dairy-free to gluten-free options – all without compromising taste. They’re also more cost-effective in the long run and offer the satisfaction of a freshly baked treat that’s still warm from the oven.

Common mistakes to avoid

One of the most frequent errors in muffin baking is overmixing the batter. Doing so develops too much gluten, resulting in dense, chewy muffins rather than the light and fluffy texture desired. Stir only until the ingredients are just combined, even if the batter appears slightly lumpy.

Another common pitfall is improper oven temperature. If the oven is too cool, the muffins won’t rise properly. Too hot, and the tops may brown too quickly while the center remains undercooked. Always preheat your oven fully and consider using an oven thermometer to ensure accuracy.

Filling muffin cups too much or too little can also affect the shape and texture. Aim to fill each cup about three-quarters full to achieve the ideal domed top without overflow.

Don’t forget to measure your ingredients accurately. Using a kitchen scale is the most precise method and ensures consistent results every time.

Special tips for visual and sensory appeal

To achieve that signature glossy, cracked top, reserve a few chocolate chips to sprinkle on top of the muffins just before baking. These not only enhance the appearance but also create melty pockets of chocolate that make each bite irresistible.

A light sprinkle of coarse sea salt on top before baking adds a burst of contrast that amplifies the chocolate richness while giving the muffins a gourmet touch. For a more festive presentation, edible gold pearls or shavings can add sparkle and elegance – especially when serving at celebrations or holiday gatherings.

For an elevated aroma, add a few drops of almond extract or hazelnut extract in place of some of the vanilla. These flavors pair beautifully with chocolate and make the muffins smell as indulgent as they taste.

Crafting the perfect chocolate muffin

The key to perfecting your chocolate muffins lies in understanding each ingredient’s role and experimenting with balance. Whether you're looking for a decadent dessert, a healthier breakfast option, or something to impress guests, adapting the classic Olympic Chocolate Muffin recipe gives you the freedom to create something uniquely yours.

With thoughtful adjustments, the humble muffin can become a bakery-worthy masterpiece – full of texture, bursting with flavor, and tailored exactly to your preferences.

Serving size

Nutritional values per muffin

Calories (kcal)

320

Carbohydrate (g)

Cholesterol (mg)

Fiber (g)

Proteins (g)

Sodium (mg)

140

Sugar (g)

Fat (g)

Saturated fat (g)

Unsaturated fat (g)

Trans fat (g)

0.1

Allergens

Gluten (wheat flour)
Eggs
Milk (dairy: sour cream, milk, chocolate)
Soy (if present in chocolate chips)

Allergen-free substitutions:

Replace all-purpose flour with gluten-free flour blend for a gluten-free version.
Use plant-based sour cream and plant milk (e.g., oat or almond milk) for a dairy-free option.
Substitute eggs with chia eggs (1 tbsp chia seeds + 3 tbsp water per egg) for an egg-free alternative.
Ensure dairy-free, soy-free chocolate chips are used if needed.

Vitamins and minerals