Introduction
There’s something undeniably comforting about the smell of freshly baked banana bread muffins wafting through your kitchen. These delightful treats are not only simple to make but also a fantastic way to use up those ripe bananas sitting on your counter. Perfect for breakfast, a snack, or even dessert, these muffins are a family favorite that are sure to bring smiles to everyone’s faces.
Ingredients
- 3 ripe bananas
- 1/3 cup melted butter
- 1 teaspoon baking soda
- Pinch of salt
- 3/4 cup sugar
- 1 large egg, beaten
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1 cup all-purpose flour
- 1/2 cup chopped walnuts or chocolate chips (optional)
Prep Time, Cook Time, Total Time, Yield
Prep Time: 10 minutes
Cook Time: 20 minutes
Total Time: 30 minutes
Yield: 12 muffins
Directions and Instructions
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and line a muffin tin with paper liners or grease it.
- In a mixing bowl, mash the ripe bananas with a fork until smooth.
- Stir in the melted butter until well combined.
- Mix in the baking soda and salt.
- Add the sugar, beaten egg, and vanilla extract; stir until combined.
- Gently fold in the flour until just incorporated.
- If using, add the chopped walnuts or chocolate chips and fold in.
- Spoon the batter into the prepared muffin tin, filling each about 2/3 full.
- Bake in the preheated oven for 18-20 minutes or until a toothpick comes out clean.
- Allow the muffins to cool in the pan for a few minutes before transferring them to a wire rack to cool completely.
Notes or Tips
- For extra flavor, consider adding a teaspoon of cinnamon to the batter.
- Be careful not to overmix the batter; this helps keep the muffins light and fluffy.
- These muffins can be frozen for up to three months for a quick and easy treat later.
Cooking Techniques
Creating the perfect banana bread muffins involves a few key techniques. Be sure to mash the bananas well for a smooth batter, and gently fold in the flour to maintain a light texture. Properly greasing or lining the muffin tin will ensure easy removal after baking.
FAQ
- Can I use frozen bananas? Yes, just thaw and drain any excess liquid before using.
- How can I make these muffins healthier? Substitute some of the all-purpose flour for whole wheat flour or reduce the sugar slightly.
- What can I use instead of eggs? A flaxseed meal or applesauce can be good substitutes for egg in this recipe.
Conclusion
Whether you enjoy them warm from the oven or packed in a lunchbox, these banana bread muffins are a delightful treat that will brighten up your day. With their moist, sweet flavor and the option for added nuts or chocolate, they’re sure to become a staple in your baking repertoire. Enjoy every bite!