Raspberry Chocolate Muffin Recipe from the kitchen of The Speckled Hen Inn

Raspberry Chocolate Muffin Recipe from the kitchen of The Speckled Hen Inn

Raspberry Chocolate Muffins

1 2/3 cup flour

3/4 cup oatmeal

2/3 cup sugar

2 teaspoons baking powder

1 teaspoon baking soda

1/2 teaspoon cinnamon

1 egg lightly beaten

3/4 cup milk

1/3 cup canola oil

2 Tablespoons orange juice

1 teaspoon vanilla

3/4 cup fresh or frozen raspberries

1/2 cup miniature semisweet chocolate chips

Combine the first 6 ingredients in a medium bowl.  In another bowl combine the egg, milk, oil, orange juice and vanilla.  Add the chocolate chips and raspberries to the dry ingredients and toss lightly to combine. (If you are using frozen raspberries,do not thaw them). Add the wet ingredients and stir just until all are moistened.  Spoon into 12 paper lined muffin cups.  Sprinkle tops with coarse sugar if desired.  Bake for 20 minutes at 375 degrees.  Enjoy your Raspberry Chocolate Muffins for breakfast, coffee break or anytime.

A Wisconsin Summer favorite is raspberries straight off the bush and their tiny thorns are usually no challenge for someone on a mission for their unique flavor. Since the crop is now in harvest, it is the perfect time to come enjoy some for yourself.

Because many berries, including raspberries grow wild, many of the locals, including myself, have nostalgic memories of picking raspberries while camping or hiking as children. If seeking the wild berries isn’t in the cards for you, you can still get fresh Raspberries. One option is the famous Dane County Farmers Market on Madison’s Capital Square.  In addition to the selection of fresh berries, you will find a broad assortment of fresh fruits and vegetables, houseplants, organic meats and the best bakery the area has to offer. Like most things Madison, this farmers market isn’t just about the food, it’s about the experience. While you are wandering around the square, you will find locally handcrafted jewelry and gifts, professional and amateur musicians, and food carts and cafes. Truly, it’s an event to behold.

It might not equal the magic of childhood, but you can pick your own raspberries at the certified organic Blue Skies Berry Farm. It is a family owned and operated farm that has achieved the goal of producing a quality product with sustainable integrity giving their produce and sales a personal touch. Similar to the farmers market, you can find other pre-picked fruits and vegetables that are in season at the same time. Similar to most small family farms, here at the Speckled Hen Inn we have planted and cultivated several varieties of raspberries for optimal flavor and bounty. We’ve been fortunate enough to have a continual harvest allowing us to include them in our breakfasts and baked goods.  This is one of our favorite recipes evoking fond memories. Hopefully, it will bring a similar sense of comfort to your home and loved ones.