Introduction
Banana muffins are a delightful treat that can be enjoyed at any time of the day. This easy-to-follow recipe uses ripe bananas to create moist and flavorful muffins that are perfect for breakfast or a snack. With the addition of warm spices and optional nuts, these muffins are sure to become a household favorite.
Detailed Ingredients with measures
– 4-5 ripe bananas
– 1 large egg
– ½ cup (1 stick) salted butter, melted
– 1 teaspoon pure vanilla extract
– ½ cup granulated sugar
– ½ cup light brown sugar
– 1½ cups all-purpose flour
– 1 teaspoon baking powder
– 1 teaspoon baking soda
– ½ teaspoon salt
– 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
– ½ teaspoon ground nutmeg
– ½ cup chopped nuts (optional; walnuts, pecans, almonds, or peanuts)
Prep Time
Approximately 15 minutes
Cook Time, Total Time, Yield
Cook Time: 18-22 minutes
Total Time: 35-40 minutes
Yield: About 12 muffins
Enjoy the wonderful aroma that fills your kitchen as you bake these delicious banana muffins, and savor each bite of this sweet, comforting treat.
Detailed Directions and Instructions
Step 1: Preheat the Oven
Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C). Line a muffin pan with cupcake liners and set aside.
Step 2: Mash the Bananas
In a large mixing bowl, mash the ripe bananas using a fork or masher until smooth.
Step 3: Combine Wet Ingredients
Add the large egg, melted butter, and pure vanilla extract to the mashed bananas. Stir until the egg is well incorporated.
Step 4: Mix in Sugars
Mix in the granulated sugar and light brown sugar until combined thoroughly.
Step 5: Prepare Dry Ingredients
In a separate bowl, whisk together the all-purpose flour, baking powder, baking soda, salt, ground cinnamon, and ground nutmeg until evenly mixed.
Step 6: Combine Wet and Dry Ingredients
Gradually add the dry ingredients to the banana mixture, stirring until just combined. Be careful not to overmix the batter.
Step 7: Add Nuts (Optional)
If using, fold in the chopped nuts until they are evenly distributed throughout the batter.
Step 8: Fill the Muffin Pan
Spoon the batter into the prepared muffin pan, filling each cup about ¾ full.
Step 9: Bake the Muffins
Bake in the preheated oven for 18-22 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center of a muffin comes out clean.
Step 10: Cool the Muffins
Remove the muffins from the oven and allow them to cool in the pan for 5 minutes. Then, transfer them to a wire cooling rack to cool completely.
Notes
Banana Ripeness
The riper the bananas, the sweeter the muffins will be. Look for bananas with lots of brown spots.
Butter Temperature
Ensure the melted butter is not too hot when adding to the other ingredients to prevent cooking the egg.
Mixing Technique
Avoid overmixing the batter to keep the muffins light and fluffy.
Nuts Variety
Feel free to use your favorite nuts, or omit them altogether if a nut-free version is preferred.
Storage Instructions
Store any leftover muffins in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days or in the refrigerator for up to a week.
Cook techniques
Mashing Bananas
Using a fork or a potato masher, thoroughly mash the ripe bananas in a large mixing bowl until they reach a smooth consistency without lumps.
Incorporating Wet Ingredients
After mashing the bananas, add the egg, melted butter, and vanilla extract. Stir the mixture until each ingredient is well blended, ensuring the egg is fully incorporated.
Mixing Sugars
Combine the granulated sugar and light brown sugar into the mixture, stirring until both types of sugar are dissolved and evenly distributed.
Whisking Dry Ingredients
In a separate bowl, whisk together the all-purpose flour, baking powder, baking soda, salt, ground cinnamon, and ground nutmeg to ensure an even mix of leavening agents and spices.
Combining Mixtures
Gradually add the dry mixture to the wet banana mixture. Gently stir until just combined, being careful not to overmix to avoid tough muffins.
Folding in Nuts
If desired, gently fold in the chopped nuts to the batter at this stage, ensuring they are evenly dispersed without stirring too vigorously.
Filling Muffin Pan
Spoon the batter into the prepared muffin pan, ensuring each cup is filled about three-quarters full for even baking.
Baking
Place the muffin pan in the preheated oven and bake for 18-22 minutes. Check for doneness by inserting a toothpick into the center of a muffin; it should come out clean.
Cooling Muffins
Once baked, remove the muffins from the oven and let them cool in the pan for 5 minutes. Then, transfer them to a wire cooling rack to cool completely.
FAQ
Can I use frozen bananas for this recipe?
Yes, you can use thawed frozen bananas; just ensure they are well-mashed and have excess moisture drained.
What can I substitute for the egg?
You can use a flaxseed meal egg (1 tablespoon ground flaxseed mixed with 3 tablespoons water) or unsweetened applesauce as an egg substitute.
Can I make these muffins gluten-free?
Yes, by replacing all-purpose flour with a gluten-free flour blend, you can make these muffins gluten-free.
How do I store leftover muffins?
Store muffins in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days, or refrigerate for a week.
Can I add chocolate chips?
Absolutely! Feel free to add chocolate chips for an additional sweet flavor to your muffins.
Conclusion
The combination of ripe bananas, eggs, and buttery sweetness creates a delightful muffin that is both moist and flavorful. The addition of spices like cinnamon and nutmeg, along with optional nuts, enhances the taste and texture, making these banana muffins a perfect treat for any occasion. Enjoy them warm for breakfast or as a tasty snack throughout the day.
More recipes suggestions and combination
Chocolate Chip Banana Muffins
Incorporate semi-sweet or dark chocolate chips into the batter for a rich, decadent twist on the classic banana muffin.
Banana Nut Bread
Use the same ingredients to make a loaf instead of muffins, adding more chopped nuts for a delicious banana nut bread.
Banana Oatmeal Muffins
Substitute ½ cup of flour with rolled oats for a healthy oatmeal variation that adds texture.
Banana Coconut Muffins
Add shredded coconut to the batter for a tropical flair, complementing the bananas beautifully.
Peanut Butter Banana Muffins
Swirl in some creamy peanut butter for added protein and a nutty flavor that pairs perfectly with bananas.
Banana Walnut Muffins
Enhance the recipe by adding walnuts to the batter, providing a nice crunch and depth of flavor.
Spiced Pumpkin Banana Muffins
Mix in pumpkin puree and extra spices to enjoy a seasonal variation that brings together the flavors of fall.
Banana Berry Muffins
Add fresh or frozen berries like blueberries or raspberries to create a fruity and vibrant muffin experience.
