Introduction
There’s something incredibly comforting about the smell of freshly baked muffins wafting through the house. These Banana Bread Muffins are the perfect blend of sweet and savory, making them an ideal breakfast treat or afternoon snack. With their golden tops and soft, moist interiors, each bite offers a delightful burst of banana flavor that will leave you reaching for more. Plus, they come together so quickly, you’ll find yourself baking a batch whenever the craving hits!
Ingredients
- 3 ripe bananas, mashed
- 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 nuts 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 prepare a muffin pan by lining it with paper liners or greasing it lightly.
- In a mixing bowl, mash the ripe bananas with a fork until smooth and creamy, leaving a few small chunks for added texture.
- Stir the melted butter into the mashed bananas, allowing it to blend seamlessly for a rich flavor.
- Mix in the baking soda and a pinch of salt, ensuring that these ingredients are well combined.
- Add the sugar, beaten egg, and vanilla extract; stir until all the ingredients are nicely incorporated into a luscious batter.
- Gently fold in the all-purpose flour, taking care not to overmix—just until the flour disappears.
- If you choose to, fold in the chopped nuts or chocolate chips for a delightful surprise in every bite.
- Divide the batter evenly among the muffin cups, filling each about 2/3 full for that perfect puff.
- Bake in the preheated oven for 18-20 minutes, or until golden and a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.
- Let the muffins cool in the pan for a few minutes before transferring them to a wire rack, allowing them to cool completely.
Notes or Tips
For an extra touch of flavor, consider adding a sprinkle of cinnamon or nutmeg to the batter. If you’re a chocolate lover, chocolate chips are a fabulous addition that makes these muffins even more indulgent. Don’t worry if your bananas aren’t perfectly ripe; the riper they are, the sweeter and more flavorful your muffins will be!
Cooking Techniques
Mashed bananas create the moisture that makes these muffins delectable. The key to successful muffins is to avoid overmixing the batter — this keeps them tender and light. Always check for doneness a few minutes before the timer goes off, as oven temperatures can vary.
FAQ
Can I use frozen bananas? Yes! Just make sure to thaw and drain any excess moisture before using them.
How do I store leftover muffins? Keep them in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days or in the refrigerator for up to a week.
Can I freeze these muffins? Absolutely! Wrap them individually in plastic wrap and then place them in a freezer bag. They’ll last for about 3 months in the freezer.
Conclusion
These Banana Bread Muffins are a delightful treat that bring a sense of home into any kitchen. Soft, moist, and bursting with flavor, they’re perfect for cozy breakfasts or an on-the-go snack. So go ahead, whip up a batch, and enjoy the comforting aroma as you savor each delicious bite!