Chocolate Mint Muffins

1 1/2 cups flour
1/2 cup sugar
4 tablespoons cocoa powder
1 1/2 teaspoons baking powder
1/2 teaspoon salt (optional)
1/2 teaspoon baking soda
1 egg
3/4 cup milk
1/4 cup oil
1/4 teaspoon peppermint extract
12 small peppermint patty candies
2 ounces unsweetened chocolate, melted

Preheat oven to 375�F; line muffin pan with paper liners or spray with nonstick cooking spray. In large bowl, combine flour, sugar, cocoa powder, baking powder, salt and baking soda. Stir to blend.

Make a well in center of dry ingredients. In small bowl, whisk the egg, milk, oil, unsweetened chocolate and peppermint extract. Pour into the well in dry ingredients. Stir til just mixed, don't overmix.

Divide 1/2 of batter among the 12 muffin cups. Place 1 unwrapped mint patty in center of each muffin, and cover with remaining batter. Bake for 20 minutes. Sprinkle tops with powdered sugar. Let cool for 5 minutes before serving.

Makes 12 muffins.

Black Dog Inn