Description
Have you ever found yourself with a bunch of overripe bananas languishing on your countertop, wondering how to transform them into a delightful treat? The answer lies in the delicious realm of Maple Banana Muffins! These mouthwatering muffins not only satisfy your sweet tooth but can also offer a healthy twist you’ll love. With rising interest in home-baking—up by over 40% since 2020—now is the perfect time to whip up a batch of these irresistible muffins. Let’s dive into this easy, delightful recipe that combines the rich flavors of maple syrup and tender bananas.
Ingredients
- 3 ripe bananas (mashed)
- 1/3 cup melted butter (or coconut oil for a vegan alternative)
- 1/2 cup maple syrup (grade A for a lighter flavor or grade B for a robust taste)
- 1 large egg (or a flax egg for vegans: 1 tablespoon flaxseed meal mixed with 3 tablespoons water)
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1 teaspoon baking soda
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1 cup all-purpose flour (or substitute with whole wheat for added nutrition)
- 1/2 teaspoon cinnamon (optional but adds a warm spice)
- 1/2 cup chopped walnuts or chocolate chips (for a delightful crunch or sweetness)
Instructions
Start by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). This ensures that your muffins bake evenly and rise beautifully.
While the oven is warming up, grease a muffin pan or line it with muffin liners. This prevents sticking and makes for easy cleanup later—always a win!
In a large mixing bowl, mash your ripe bananas with a fork. You want them to be smooth but still have some small lumps; this texture will give your muffins a wonderfully moist bite.
To your mashed bananas, add the melted butter, maple syrup, egg (or flax egg), and vanilla extract. Mix everything together until combined. The warmth of the melted butter helps incorporate the bananas and creates a luscious batter.
In a separate bowl, whisk together the baking soda, salt, flour, and cinnamon (if using). This ensures that the leavening agent is evenly distributed throughout your muffins.
Gradually fold the dry ingredients into the wet mixture, mixing gently until just combined. Be careful not to over-mix; a few lumps are perfectly fine.
If you’re adding walnuts or chocolate chips, fold them in gently at this stage. This adds extra flavor and texture to your Maple Banana Muffins.
Spoon the batter evenly into the prepared muffin cups, filling each about 2/3 full. This allows room for rising without overflowing.
Bake in your preheated oven for about 18-20 minutes. You’ll know your muffins are done when a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean or with a few moist crumbs.
Once baked, let the muffins cool in the pan for about 5 minutes before transferring them to a cooling rack. This helps them retain their moisture while cooling.
Nutrition
- Calories: 150
- Sugar: 8g
- Fat: 6g
- Saturated Fat: 2g
- Carbohydrates: 22g
- Protein: 2g