Banana Oat Muffins

Banana Oat Muffins Recipe - Easy-to-Make and Delicious

Region / culture: USA | Preparation time: 15 minutes | Cooking time: 20 minutes | Servings: 12

Introduction

Banana Oat Muffins are a delightful and nutritious treat perfect for breakfast, snacks, or even as a dessert. This recipe transforms simple, wholesome ingredients into moist, flavorful muffins that are easy to make and loved by all ages. With the natural sweetness of ripe bananas and the heartiness of oats, these muffins offer a satisfying texture and taste that pairs wonderfully with your morning coffee or tea.

History

The concept of combining bananas and oats into a baked good has roots in both traditional and modern culinary practices. Bananas have been used in baking for their natural sweetness and moisture since they became widely available. Oats, on the other hand, have been a staple in many diets for their nutritional benefits and versatility. The banana oat muffin, as we know it today, likely evolved from the popularization of healthier baking alternatives, seeking to reduce refined ingredients and incorporate more whole foods.

Ingredients

2 cups crushed oat circles (such as cheerios)
1.25 cups flour
0.33 cup packed brown sugar
1 tsp baking powder
0.75 tsp baking soda
1 cup mashed very ripe bananas (2 – 3 medium)
0.67 cup low-fat milk
3 tbsp oil
1 egg

How to prepare

Preheat the oven to 400°F (204°C).
Spray 12 regular-sized muffin cups with cooking spray, or grease the bottoms only of the muffin cups.
In a large bowl, combine the cereal, flour, brown sugar, baking powder, and baking soda.
Add the bananas, milk, oil, and egg.
Stir the mixture just until moistened.
Divide the batter evenly among the twelve muffin cups.
Bake for 18 – 22 minutes or until the muffins turn golden brown.

Variations

Add a handful of dark chocolate chips or walnuts into the batter for added texture and flavor.
Substitute the brown sugar with maple syrup or honey for a different type of sweetness.
For gluten-free muffins, use a gluten-free flour blend instead of regular flour.

Notes

Cook Time:
Serves: 12

Cooking Tips & Tricks

To ensure your Banana Oat Muffins turn out perfectly every time, consider the following tips:

- Use very ripe bananas for the best sweetness and moisture.

- Do not overmix the batter to avoid dense muffins; just stir until the ingredients are combined.

- For a crunchier top, sprinkle a mixture of oats and a little brown sugar on the muffins before baking.

- If using paper muffin liners, lightly spray them with cooking spray to prevent sticking.

Serving Suggestions

These muffins are delicious on their own or served with a spread of almond butter for extra protein. They also pair beautifully with a side of Greek yogurt and fresh berries for a more filling breakfast or snack.

Cooking Techniques

This recipe uses the muffin method of mixing, which involves combining all dry ingredients and then adding the wet ingredients. This technique helps to keep the muffins light and fluffy.

Ingredient Substitutions

For a dairy-free version, substitute the low-fat milk with almond, soy, or oat milk.

- If you're out of oil, unsweetened applesauce can be used as a healthier alternative that also adds moisture.

Make Ahead Tips

Banana Oat Muffins can be made ahead and stored in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days or frozen for up to 3 months. Simply thaw overnight or warm briefly in the microwave before serving.

Presentation Ideas

Serve these muffins on a rustic wooden board with a dusting of powdered sugar and a few banana slices for a simple yet elegant presentation.

Pairing Recommendations

Pair these muffins with a cup of strong coffee or a chai latte for a comforting breakfast or snack. For a refreshing twist, try them with a cold glass of milk or a smoothie.

Storage and Reheating Instructions

Store leftover muffins in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days. For longer storage, freeze them in a zip-lock bag. Reheat in the microwave for 20-30 seconds or in the oven at 350°F (177°C) for 5-10 minutes.

Nutrition Information

Calories per serving

A single Banana Oat Muffin contains approximately 150 calories, making it a moderate option for a snack or part of a meal.

Carbohydrates

Each Banana Oat Muffin contains approximately 27 grams of carbohydrates. The carbohydrates come from the flour, oats, bananas, and brown sugar, providing a good mix of simple and complex carbs for energy.

Fats

These muffins are relatively low in fat, with about 5 grams per serving. The fats are primarily unsaturated, coming from the oil and the natural content in the oats, contributing to a healthier heart.

Proteins

Each muffin offers around 3 grams of protein, sourced from the milk, egg, and a small amount from the oats and flour. While not high in protein, these muffins can be part of a balanced meal when paired with a protein-rich side.

Vitamins and minerals

Banana Oat Muffins are a good source of several vitamins and minerals, including vitamin B6 from the bananas, vitamin D and calcium from the milk, and iron and magnesium from the oats. These nutrients support overall health, from bone strength to energy metabolism.

Alergens

This recipe contains common allergens such as wheat (flour), eggs, and milk. It's also important to check the labels of your oats and baking powder for potential cross-contamination with nuts or soy.

Summary

Overall, Banana Oat Muffins are a balanced option, offering carbohydrates for energy, a modest amount of healthy fats, and a variety of vitamins and minerals. They are a calorie-conscious choice that fits well into a balanced diet.

Summary

Banana Oat Muffins are a delightful, nutritious option for anyone looking for a quick breakfast or snack. This recipe not only offers a delicious way to enjoy the health benefits of bananas and oats but also provides flexibility for those with dietary restrictions through simple ingredient substitutions. Whether you're a baking novice or a seasoned pro, these muffins are sure to become a staple in your recipe collection.

How did I get this recipe?

I can still recall the sense of amazement I felt when I first saw this recipe for Banana Oat Muffins. It was a warm summer day, and I had decided to visit a dear old friend of mine who lived in a picturesque little cottage on the outskirts of town. As I walked into her cozy kitchen, the aroma of freshly baked goods greeted me, and I knew I was in for a treat.

My friend, Mrs. Jenkins, was a master in the kitchen. She had a knack for creating the most delicious dishes from scratch, using only the freshest ingredients. As I sat down at her kitchen table, she brought out a plate of golden-brown muffins that looked simply divine. I took a bite and instantly fell in love with the moist texture and the sweet, fruity flavor of the bananas.

"Mrs. Jenkins, these muffins are absolutely delightful! Would you mind sharing the recipe with me?" I asked eagerly.

She smiled and nodded, reaching for a worn, stained recipe card that she kept tucked away in a tin box on her countertop. As she handed it to me, she explained that she had acquired the recipe many years ago from her own grandmother, who had passed it down through the generations.

I studied the recipe card carefully, taking note of each ingredient and step. I could see that it was a simple yet wholesome recipe, perfect for a quick and satisfying breakfast or snack. As I thanked Mrs. Jenkins for her generosity, I knew that I had to make these muffins for my own family.

When I returned home, I wasted no time in gathering the necessary ingredients and preheating my oven. The kitchen soon filled with the warm scent of cinnamon and ripe bananas as I mixed the batter together. I could feel a sense of nostalgia wash over me, as memories of my own grandmother's kitchen came flooding back to me.

I remembered how she would spend hours in the kitchen, teaching me the secrets of her favorite recipes and passing down her culinary wisdom. I could still hear her voice, gentle and patient, guiding me through each step and encouraging me to experiment and make the recipes my own.

As I poured the batter into the muffin tins and popped them into the oven, I couldn't help but feel a sense of pride and accomplishment. The aroma that filled the kitchen was intoxicating, and I couldn't wait to share these muffins with my own family.

When the muffins were finally ready, I pulled them out of the oven and let them cool on a wire rack. The golden tops glistened in the soft light of the kitchen, and I knew they were going to be a hit. I called my family to the table and watched as they eagerly reached for a muffin, their eyes lighting up with delight as they took their first bite.

The taste of the Banana Oat Muffins was everything I had hoped for – sweet, moist, and bursting with flavor. My family couldn't get enough, and soon the plate was empty, with only a few crumbs remaining as evidence of their deliciousness.

As I sat back and watched my loved ones enjoy the muffins, I felt a sense of satisfaction and contentment wash over me. I realized that these recipes, passed down through the generations, were not just about food – they were about love, family, and the joy of sharing something special with those we care about.

And so, as I savor the memory of that day and the taste of those delectable Banana Oat Muffins, I am reminded of the precious gift that my grandmother and Mrs. Jenkins have given me – the gift of good food, shared with those we love. And for that, I am truly grateful.