Step 1

Preheat oven to 370 degrees F, and locate a standard muffin pan.

Step 2

In a medium-size bowl whisk together the dry ingredients. In a large mixing bowl whisk together the wet ingredients. Pour dry into wet, and whisk to create a batter.

Step 3

If using walnuts and/or chocolate chips, fold those in now, reserving a palmful of each for the tops of the muffins. Divide the batter evenly among the muffin pan, using approximately ⅓ cup batter per muffin. Decorate the tops with more chocolate chips and/or walnut pieces, if desired.

Step 4

Bake for 18 to 20 minutes or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean. Let the muffins cool in the pan for 10 minutes, then transfer to a cooling rack. Tip: if you included chocolate chips, these are especially amazing when the muffins are still warm and the chocolate is melty!