Are you craving a delicious treat but hesitant about the sugar and refined flour? Then you've come to the right place! This recipe for banana oat muffins is a perfect example of how easy it is to enjoy healthy baking. These muffins are naturally sweetened, packed with fiber, and surprisingly moist and delicious. They're perfect for a quick breakfast, a healthy snack, or even a delightful dessert. Get ready to experience homemade cooking at its finest with this easy recipe!
Ingredients:
- 1 ½ cups rolled oats (old-fashioned or quick-cooking)
- 1 teaspoon baking soda
- ½ teaspoon ground cinnamon
- ¼ teaspoon ground nutmeg
- Pinch of salt
- ¾ cup mashed ripe bananas (about 2-3 medium bananas)
- ⅓ cup unsweetened applesauce
- ⅓ cup milk (dairy or non-dairy)
- 1 large egg (or flax egg for vegan option)
- ¼ cup honey or maple syrup (adjust to your sweetness preference)
- ½ cup chopped walnuts or pecans (optional)
- ¼ cup chocolate chips (optional, use dark chocolate for a healthier option)
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. This simple step ensures your muffins bake evenly and are easy to remove.
Step 2: Combine Dry Ingredients
In a large bowl, whisk together the rolled oats, baking soda, cinnamon, nutmeg, and salt. Mixing the dry ingredients first prevents lumps and ensures even distribution of leavening agents.
Step 3: Combine Wet Ingredients
In a separate bowl, mash the bananas until smooth. Add the applesauce, milk, egg (or flax egg), and honey or maple syrup. Whisk until well combined. A flax egg is a great vegan substitute – simply mix 1 tbsp flaxseed meal with 3 tbsp water and let it sit for 5 minutes.
Step 4: Combine Wet and Dry
Gradually add the wet ingredients to the dry ingredients, mixing gently until just combined. Be careful not to overmix; a few lumps are okay. Overmixing can result in tough muffins.
Step 5: Add Mix-ins (Optional)
Stir in the chopped nuts and/or chocolate chips, if desired.
Step 6: Bake
Fill each muffin liner about ¾ full. Bake for 18-20 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean. Keep an eye on them during the last few minutes, as ovens can vary.
Step 7: Cool & Enjoy
Let the muffins cool in the tin for a few minutes before transferring them to a wire rack to cool completely. Enjoy these delicious and healthy banana oat muffins warm or at room temperature.
Cooking Tips for Perfect Muffins:
- Ripe Bananas are Key: Use very ripe bananas for the best flavor and sweetness. The riper, the better!
- Don't Overmix: Overmixing develops gluten and results in tough muffins. Mix until just combined.
- Check for Doneness: Use a toothpick to check if the muffins are baked through. If it comes out clean, they're ready.
- Storage: Store leftover muffins in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days or in the freezer for up to 2 months.
Variations:
- Spiced Muffins: Add a pinch of ginger, cardamom, or allspice for a warm, comforting flavor.
- Blueberry Muffins: Substitute blueberries for the nuts and/or chocolate chips.
- Cranberry Orange Muffins: Add dried cranberries and the zest of one orange.
Nutritional Information (per muffin, approximate):
Calories: Around 150-200 (depending on additions) Fiber: High Sugar: Naturally occurring from bananas and added sweetener (adjust to your preference)
This recipe offers a fantastic way to enjoy delicious and healthy baked goods without compromising on taste or convenience. These quick dinner ideas are also perfect for meal prep! These muffins are a delicious and nutritious addition to any meal plan. They're a perfect example of easy recipes that deliver big on flavor and health benefits. Enjoy!