Banana Nut Muffins

Name: Banana Nut Muffins
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 25 min
Total time: 35 min
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 walnuts (chopped)

Looking for a tasty treat to brighten your morning? These banana nut muffins are the perfect choice! Moist, flavorful, and packed with crunchy nuts, they make for a delightful breakfast or snack. Easy to whip up, this recipe will have your kitchen smelling heavenly in no time. Whether enjoyed fresh out of the oven or as an on-the-go snack, these muffins are sure to please everyone in your household. Let’s dive into the recipe!

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 walnuts, chopped

Servings and Cooking Time

This recipe makes 12 muffins. Preparation time is about 10 minutes, and cooking time is 20-25 minutes.

Nutritional Value

Each serving (1 muffin) contains approximately:
– Calories: 150
– Total Fat: 7g
– Saturated Fat: 1g
– Cholesterol: 20mg
– Sodium: 125mg
– Total Carbohydrates: 20g
– Dietary Fiber: 1g
– Sugars: 8g
– Protein: 2g

Step-by-Step Cooking Process

1. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and line a muffin tin with paper liners.
2. In a mixing bowl, mash the ripe bananas with a fork until smooth.
3. Stir in the melted butter until well combined.
4. Mix in the baking soda and salt.
5. Add the sugar, beaten egg, and vanilla extract; mix until smooth.
6. Gradually add the flour, mixing just until incorporated.
7. Fold in the chopped walnuts gently.
8. Spoon the batter into the muffin liners, filling each about 2/3 full.
9. Bake in the preheated oven for 20-25 minutes or until a toothpick comes out clean.
10. Allow to cool in the pan for 5 minutes before transferring to a wire rack to cool completely.

Alternative Ingredients

You can substitute the all-purpose flour with whole wheat flour for a healthier option. Additionally, maple syrup can replace sugar for a natural sweetener, and pecans can be used instead of walnuts for a different flavor.

Serving and Pairings

These banana nut muffins are perfect on their own or paired with a dollop of cream cheese. Enjoy them with a hot cup of coffee or tea for a delightful breakfast experience.

Storage and Reheating

Store the muffins in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days. For longer storage, freeze them for up to 3 months. Reheat in the microwave for 15-20 seconds or in the oven at 350°F until warmed through.

Cooking Mistakes

Don’t overmix the batter; it can lead to dense muffins.
Use ripe bananas for the best flavor and moisture.
Check muffins a few minutes before the end of baking time.
Ensure your oven is properly preheated.
Don’t skip the nuts; they add essential texture and flavor.
Let the muffins cool before storing to avoid sogginess.
Measure flour correctly; too much can lead to dry muffins.

Helpful Tips

Use a toothpick to check for doneness.
For extra flavor, add a sprinkle of cinnamon to the batter.
Try adding chocolate chips for a decadent twist.
Let the muffins rest before serving for improved flavor.
Experiment with different nuts or dried fruits.

FAQs

How can I make banana nut muffins healthier?

You can use whole wheat flour instead of all-purpose flour, reduce sugar, and add oats for extra fiber. Incorporating unsweetened applesauce is also a great way to cut calories and add moisture.

Can I use frozen bananas for this recipe?

Yes, frozen bananas work well in banana nut muffins. Just thaw them and mash them well before mixing them into your batter.

What can I use instead of walnuts?

If you’re not a fan of walnuts, you can substitute them with pecans, almonds, or even chocolate chips for a different flavor profile.

Can I double the recipe?

Absolutely! Just double the ingredients and use multiple muffin tins or bake them in batches. Ensure even cooking by checking them a few minutes early.

How do I know when my muffins are done?

Insert a toothpick into the center; if it comes out clean or with a few crumbs, your muffins are ready. If it comes out wet, bake for a few more minutes.

Conclusion

Banana nut muffins are a delightful addition to your breakfast table or snack time. Their moist texture and nutty crunch make them an irresistible treat. Whether you enjoy them fresh or stored for later, these muffins are sure to become a favorite in your home. Give this recipe a try and savor the deliciousness!