Vegan chocolate oatmeal muffins are a delightful treat that perfectly combines the goodness of oats and the richness of chocolate while remaining entirely plant-based. These muffins are not only delicious but also wholesome, making them a favorite among vegans and non-vegans alike.
These oatmeal chocolate chip muffins are perfect for a snack or dessert. They make a great combo with any hot drink. Made with rolled oats, dark chocolate chips and sour milk they are chewy, moist and tender.
Oats are nutritionally rich and contain beta-glucan soluble fibre which are very beneficial for a healthy gut.
Each ingredient in vegan chocolate oatmeal muffins contributes its own set of health benefits, making these muffins not only delicious but also nutritious.
Rolled Oats:
Rich in fiber: Rolled oats are an excellent source of soluble fiber, which can help regulate digestion, promote satiety, and stabilize blood sugar levels.
Heart-healthy: Oats contain beta-glucans, a type of soluble fiber that has been shown to lower cholesterol levels, thereby reducing the risk of heart disease.
Nutrient-packed: Oats are also a good source of vitamins, minerals, and antioxidants, including manganese, phosphorus, magnesium, and zinc.
All-Purpose Flour (or Whole Wheat Flour):
Provides energy: Flour serves as the main source of carbohydrates in the muffins, supplying the body with the energy needed for daily activities.
Contains some essential nutrients: While refined flours lack the nutrients found in whole grains, some varieties may be enriched with vitamins and minerals like iron and B vitamins.
Dark Chocolate:
Rich in antioxidants: Dark chocolate contains flavonoids, potent antioxidants that help reduce inflammation, improve heart health, and protect cells from oxidative damage.
Supports brain health: The flavonoids in dark chocolate have been associated with improved cognitive function and may help enhance mood and reduce stress.
Contains minerals: Dark chocolate is a good source of minerals such as iron, magnesium, and copper, which are important for various bodily functions.
Soy Milk:
High in protein: Soy milk is a plant-based milk alternative that provides a complete source of protein, containing all nine essential amino acids necessary for muscle repair and growth.
Heart-healthy: Soy milk is low in saturated fat and cholesterol-free, making it beneficial for heart health and reducing the risk of cardiovascular disease.
Fortified with nutrients: Many varieties of soy milk are fortified with calcium, vitamin D, and vitamin B12, which are essential for bone health, immune function, and nerve health.
Applesauce:
Low in calories: Applesauce is naturally low in calories and fat, making it a healthier alternative to oil or butter in baking recipes.
Provides vitamins and fiber: Applesauce is a good source of vitamin C and dietary fiber, which promote immune function and aid in digestion, respectively.
Adds natural sweetness: Using applesauce as a sweetener reduces the need for added sugars in recipes, contributing to better blood sugar control and overall health.
By incorporating these wholesome ingredients into vegan chocolate oatmeal muffins, you can enjoy a delicious treat that not only satisfies your taste buds but also nourishes your body with essential nutrients and health-promoting compounds.
Rolled oats, also known as old-fashioned oats, are a nutritious and versatile ingredient with a wide range of health benefits. Here's a closer look at why rolled oats are considered a nutritional powerhouse and how they can be used in various dishes:
Health Benefits:
Rich in Fiber: Rolled oats are an excellent source of dietary fiber, both soluble and insoluble. This fiber content aids digestion, promotes regular bowel movements, and helps you feel fuller for longer periods, which can assist in weight management.
Heart Health: The soluble fiber in rolled oats, specifically a type called beta-glucan, has been linked to improved heart health. Beta-glucan helps reduce LDL cholesterol levels, thus lowering the risk of cardiovascular diseases like heart attacks and strokes.
Blood Sugar Regulation: The fiber and complex carbohydrates in rolled oats help stabilize blood sugar levels by slowing down the absorption of glucose into the bloodstream. This makes rolled oats a suitable choice for individuals with diabetes or those looking to manage their blood sugar levels.
Nutrient Density: Rolled oats are packed with essential nutrients, including manganese, phosphorus, magnesium, iron, zinc, and B vitamins such as thiamine and folate. These nutrients play vital roles in various bodily functions, including energy metabolism, bone health, and immune function.
Antioxidant Properties: Rolled oats contain antioxidants, such as avenanthramides and tocotrienols, which help protect cells from oxidative damage caused by free radicals. Antioxidants are believed to have anti-inflammatory and anti-cancer properties, contributing to overall health and well-being.
Versatility:
Breakfast Dishes: Rolled oats are commonly used to make oatmeal, porridge, and overnight oats. They can be cooked on the stovetop or in the microwave and customized with various toppings such as fruits, nuts, seeds, and sweeteners like honey or maple syrup.
Baking: Rolled oats are a popular ingredient in baked goods such as cookies, muffins, granola bars, and bread. They add texture, flavor, and nutritional value to recipes while also providing moisture and chewiness.
Smoothies: Rolled oats can be blended into smoothies to add thickness, creaminess, and nutritional content. They're particularly useful for creating hearty and filling breakfast or post-workout smoothies.
Savory Dishes: Rolled oats can be used in savory dishes like veggie burgers, meatloaf, and savory oatmeal bowls. They provide a hearty texture and help bind ingredients together without overpowering the dish's flavor.
Snacks: Rolled oats can be toasted and seasoned to make savory or sweet snack mixes. They can also be used as a crunchy topping for yogurt, ice cream, or fruit crisps.
Overall, rolled oats are a versatile and nutritious ingredient that can be enjoyed in numerous ways, making them a staple in many kitchens worldwide. Whether you're looking for a healthy breakfast option, a satisfying snack, or an ingredient to enhance your favorite recipes, rolled oats are sure to deliver both flavor and nutrition.
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OATMEAL CHOCOLATE CHIP MUFFINS RECIPE
Prep time: 15 mins Cook time: 24-26 mins
Total time: 40 mins
Servings: 12 muffins
Wet ingredients:
1 cup original soy milk (or sub for your favorite plant milk)
2 tbs apple cider vinegar
1/3 cup applesauce
1 tsp vanilla extract
2 tbs avocado oil
Dry ingredients:
1 cup all purpose flour (I use a gluten free blend)
1 cup rolled oats
1/2 tsp baking powder
1/4 tsp baking soda
1/3 cup coconut sugar
3/4 cup bittersweet or dark chocolate chip
pinch of salt
How to make it:
Pre-heat the oven at 350 F. Lightly grease a 12-cup muffin pan with cooking spray, or use muffins cups, or a silicone muffin pan.
In a small bowl, combine the milk and apple cider vinegar to create your sour milk. Allow to sit for 5 minutes.
In a medium bowl, combine all the dry ingredients except for the chocolate chips.
Add the rest of the wet ingredients to your sour milk (vanilla, applesauce, oil). Whisk to combine.
Stir the wet ingredients into the dry ingredients until well combined. Fold in the chocolate chips.
Divide the batter evenly in the muffin pan. Add a few more chocolate chips on top of each muffin.
Bake for 24-26 minutes or until muffins start to turn golden on top.
Let rest for 10 minutes and enjoy while the chocolate is still warm inside!
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