Introduction
There’s something truly heartwarming about the smell of freshly baked banana bread muffins wafting through your home. These delightful treats are moist, flavorful, and so easy to make. Perfect for breakfast, a snack, or even dessert, they are an excellent way to use up those overripe bananas sitting on your counter. With a burst of sweetness and a tender crumb, these muffins will surely become a family favorite.
Ingredients
- 3 ripe bananas, mashed
- 1/3 cup melted butter
- 1/2 cup sugar
- 1 egg, beaten
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1 teaspoon baking soda
- Pinch of salt
- 1 cup all-purpose flour
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 pan with paper liners to prevent sticking and make cleanup a breeze.
- In a mixing bowl, take those ripe bananas and mash them with a fork until they’re smooth and creamy. This is where the magic begins!
- Pour in the melted butter and give it a good stir to combine it with the banana puree.
- Next, mix in the sugar, beaten egg, and vanilla extract. Stir until everything is well combined and you have a lovely mixture.
- Sprinkle the baking soda and a pinch of salt over the mixture, then fold them in gently.
- Now it’s time to add the flour. Mix until just combined; be careful not to overmix, as we want our muffins to be tender.
- Divide the batter evenly among the muffin cups, filling each about two-thirds full to allow room for rising.
- Bake in the preheated oven for 18-22 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean, signaling that your muffins are ready.
- Once baked, allow the muffins to cool in the pan for a few minutes before transferring them to a wire rack to cool completely. The aroma will be irresistible!
Notes or Tips
For an extra flavor twist, consider adding a handful of chocolate chips or walnuts to the batter before baking. The richness of chocolate or the crunch of nuts pairs wonderfully with the soft banana muffins. If you prefer a sweeter muffin, feel free to increase the sugar slightly.
Cooking Techniques
When mixing your batter, it’s important not to overmix after adding the flour. Overmixing can lead to dense, tough muffins. Instead, stir just enough to incorporate the ingredients until you see no dry flour. Also, using ripe bananas not only adds natural sweetness but also contributes to a more mushy and flavorful muffin texture.
FAQ
Can I use frozen bananas?
Absolutely! Just thaw them and drain any excess liquid before mashing. They’re perfect for baking!
How should I store the muffins?
These muffins can be stored at room temperature in an airtight container for up to three days or in the fridge for a week. They also freeze beautifully!
Can I double the recipe?
Sure! Just make sure you adjust your baking time as needed and keep an eye on the muffins as they bake.
Conclusion
These banana bread muffins are a sweet, comforting treat that brings a smile with every bite. They are perfect for sharing or enjoying all by yourself with a cup of coffee or tea. So the next time you have overripe bananas, don’t hesitate to whip up a batch of these delightful muffins. They’re simple, satisfying, and oh-so-delicious!