Are you craving a delicious and healthy treat that's quick and easy to make? Look no further! These Banana Muffins with Greek Yogurt are the perfect solution. Fluffy, moist, and bursting with banana flavor, these muffins are a fantastic breakfast, snack, or even a delightful dessert. Forget those store-bought, overly-sweet muffins; this recipe delivers homemade goodness without compromising on taste or health. Get ready to enjoy a guilt-free indulgence!
Ingredients:
- 1 ½ cups all-purpose flour
- 1 teaspoon baking soda
- ½ teaspoon baking powder
- ½ teaspoon salt
- ½ cup granulated sugar (or less, to taste)
- ½ cup packed light brown sugar
- 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
- ¾ cup plain Greek yogurt (full-fat recommended for best results)
- 2 large eggs
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1 cup mashed ripe bananas (about 2-3 medium bananas)
- ¼ cup vegetable oil (or melted coconut oil for a healthier twist)
- Optional: ½ cup chocolate chips, chopped walnuts, or pecans
Instructions:
Step 1: Preheat & Prep: Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Line a 12-cup muffin tin with paper liners or grease it well.
Step 2: Dry Ingredients: In a large bowl, whisk together the flour, baking soda, baking powder, salt, granulated sugar, brown sugar, and cinnamon.
Step 3: Wet Ingredients: In a separate bowl, combine the Greek yogurt, eggs, vanilla extract, mashed bananas, and oil. Mix until well combined.
Step 4: Combine: Gently pour the wet ingredients into the dry ingredients and stir until just combined. Do not overmix; a few lumps are okay. If adding mix-ins like chocolate chips or nuts, fold them in now.
Step 5: Fill & Bake: Fill each muffin cup about ¾ full. Bake for 18-20 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.
Step 6: Cool & Enjoy: Let the muffins cool in the tin for a few minutes before transferring them to a wire rack to cool completely.
Tips for Perfect Banana Muffins:
- Ripe Bananas are Key: The riper your bananas, the sweeter and more flavorful your muffins will be.
- Don't Overmix: Overmixing develops gluten, resulting in tough muffins. Mix until just combined.
- Check for Doneness: Start checking for doneness around the 18-minute mark to avoid overbaking.
- Storage: Store leftover muffins in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days or in the refrigerator for up to a week.
Variations:
- Spiced Banana Muffins: Add a pinch of nutmeg or cardamom for a warm, comforting flavor.
- Oatmeal Banana Muffins: Stir in ½ cup rolled oats for added texture and fiber.
- Lemon Poppy Seed Banana Muffins: Add the zest of one lemon and 1 tablespoon of poppy seeds for a bright, citrusy twist.
Nutritional Information (per muffin, approximate):
Calories: Approximately 250-300 Fat: 8-10g Protein: 4-5g Carbohydrates: 40-45g Fiber: 2-3g
This easy banana muffin recipe is perfect for busy weeknights or a weekend baking project. The combination of wholesome ingredients and delightful banana flavor makes these muffins a healthy and delicious treat the whole family will love. Enjoy!