Introduction
There’s nothing quite like the warm, comforting aroma of freshly baked banana bread muffins wafting through your kitchen. Perfectly moist and bursting with flavor, these muffins are a delightful way to use up those overripe bananas that seem to linger on your counter. Whether you enjoy them for breakfast, as a mid-afternoon snack, or even as a sweet treat to share with friends, you’ll find that each bite is a scrumptious celebration of banana goodness. Let’s dive into this simple yet delightful recipe!
Ingredients
- 2 to 3 overripe bananas, mashed
- 1/3 cup melted butter
- 1 large egg, beaten
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1 teaspoon baking soda
- Pinch of salt
- 3/4 cup sugar
- 1 cup all-purpose flour
- 1/2 teaspoon cinnamon (optional)
- 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 prepare a muffin tin by lining it with paper liners or giving it a light coat of cooking spray.
- In a mixing bowl, take those overripe bananas and mash them thoroughly with a fork until you have a smooth, creamy consistency.
- Stir in the melted butter, blending it well into the mashed banana mixture until fully combined.
- Next, add the beaten egg and the fragrant vanilla extract, stirring gently until incorporated.
- Sprinkle the baking soda and a pinch of salt over the mixture, then stir again to combine everything beautifully.
- Now it’s time for the sweet stuff! Add the sugar and flour, along with cinnamon if you’re using it, and gently mix until just combined — being careful not to overmix
- If you’re feeling adventurous, fold in the chopped walnuts or chocolate chips at this stage for an extra special touch.
- Divide the luscious batter evenly among the muffin cups, filling each about two-thirds full for the perfect rise.
- Bake in the preheated oven for 18-22 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center of a muffin comes out clean, signaling golden perfection.
- Once baked, let the muffins cool in the pan for a few minutes before transferring them to a wire rack to cool completely, filling your kitchen with heavenly scents.
Notes or Tips
To enhance the flavor, try adding a pinch of nutmeg or a handful of dried fruit along with your mix-ins. For an extra touch, consider drizzling a simple icing over the cooled muffins for added sweetness!
Cooking Techniques
This recipe makes use of simple mixing techniques that keep the muffins light and fluffy. Be sure not to overmix the batter after adding the flour, as this can lead to dense muffins. The key is to stir just until the ingredients are blended together — a few lumps are perfectly acceptable!
FAQ
Can I freeze these muffins? Absolutely! These banana bread muffins freeze wonderfully. Just wrap them individually in plastic wrap and place them in an airtight container. They’ll keep for about 2-3 months. Just thaw at room temperature or pop them into the microwave for a quick reheat.
How can I tell when they are done baking? A toothpick inserted into the center should come out clean or with a few moist crumbs attached, but no wet batter. Your muffins should also spring back lightly when touched.
Conclusion
There you have it! A simple, delightful recipe for banana bread muffins that’s sure to become a staple in your baking repertoire. Perfectly warm from the oven or enjoyed later in the day, these muffins offer a rich and satisfying treat that brings a smile to everyone’s face. Gather your ingredients and get ready to bake up a batch of joy in no time!