muffins. . . or cupcakes?

I really could have sworn that I blogged about this amazing recipe, but I guess I haven't. So if you are needing something to make for a brunch. . . or a weekend treat. . . or just to bake something, I highly recommend these beauties. This recipe really made me think. . . what is the difference between a muffin and a cupcake? Quite honestly, after making these, I wasn't sure. So, here's my theory. . . frosting. Cupcakes have frosting, muffins don't. Sometimes, muffins have a glaze, but that doesn't count. What do you think?

These are amazing. . . what recipe with chocolate and peanut butter isn't though? I really suggest you go and get your pad of paper and start making a grocery list right now. . . especially if you are out of peanut butter. . . you are going to need it. Dieting? weekend don't count, right?

Here are ten reasons why you should make muffins this weekend:

1. You worked hard this week and deserve a treat.

2. It's going to start getting hot and this cooler weather is a treat. Make something yummy before it is too hot to bake.

3. You might be able to give some friends as a surprise. . . it just might make their day.

4. Have a friend over for some coffee and muffins.

5. You are due any day and need something to kill the time. . . it just might get those contractions to 5 minutes apart (yes, Steph. . . this one is for you)

6. It's a great teacher appreciation gift. . . the school year is coming to a close . . . Bring on the Summer!

7. First day of summer breakfast treat. . . Bring on heat, swimming, and ice cream!

8. Your family probably would like to eat something other than cereal.

9. You're PMSing and are in need of something filled with chocolate

10. Peanut Butter and Chocolate. . . how can you not?

Chocolate Peanut Butter Swirl Muffins

source: Annie's Eats

Ingredients:

:: For the muffins ~

6 tbs unsalted butter, at room temperature

2/3 cup chocolate chips, divided

2 cups flour

2/3 cup sugar

1/3 cup baking cocoa

1 tbs baking powder

1/2 tsp baking soda

1/2 tsp salt

1 1/4 cup buttermilk*

1 large egg

2 tsp vanilla

:: For the swirl ~

1/3 cup creamy peanut butter

1 tbs unsalted butter

1/2 cup powdered sugar

1 tbs milk

Directions:

:: Preheat oven to 350 degrees.

:: Line muffins with liners.

:: Combine butter and 1/3 cup chocolate chips in microwave safe bowl. Heat for 20 seconds, stir, heat again until melted and combined. DON'T OVER HEAT. Set aside.

:: In mixing bowl, combine dry ingredients. Whisk to mix briefly.

:: In a liquid measuring cup, combine buttermilk, egg and vanilla. Whisk until combined.

:: Slowly add buttermilk mixture and mix on low speed. Then add melted chocolate mixture.

:: Stir in chocolate chips with spatula.

:: Divide batter between muffin cups. Don't fill more than 2/3 because these rise a lot.

:: Combine peanut butter and butter in a heatproof bowl. Microwave briefly until smooth. Whisk in powdered sugar and milk until smooth.

:: Drop a spoonful into each chocolate cup. Take a knife or skewer and swirl muffin.

:: Bake 20-22 minutes. Let cool for 10 minute before taking out of tin.

:: eat one. . . maybe another one. . . let me know what you did with the rest.

* I never buy buttermilk. I find it easier to just add a bit of vinegar to my milk (I use whole milk) and my muffins turn out fine.

** Remember that these are muffins and NOT cupcakes. . . don't over mix.

******************QUESTION????*****************

What is the difference between a muffin and a cupcake?

Did you make this recipe. . . what'd ya think?