Banana Raisin Walnut Muffins

Banana Raisin Walnut Muffins Recipe - Delicious and Easy-to-Make

Preparation time: 20 minutes | Cooking time: 15 minutes | Servings: 12

Introduction

Banana Raisin Walnut Muffins are a delightful treat that combines the sweetness of bananas and raisins with the crunchy texture of walnuts. This recipe offers a perfect balance of flavors and textures, making it an ideal choice for breakfast, snacks, or even as a dessert. These muffins are not only delicious but also relatively easy to make, requiring simple ingredients that are commonly found in most kitchens.

History

The concept of muffins dates back to the 18th century in England, but the addition of bananas, raisins, and walnuts to muffins is a more modern innovation. This combination likely emerged from the American tradition of adding fruits and nuts to baked goods to enhance their flavor and nutritional value. Over time, Banana Raisin Walnut Muffins have become a popular variation among home bakers and in cafes due to their delightful taste and texture.

Ingredients

1 cup + 2 tsp flour
2 tsp
0.5 cup non-fat dry milk powder
0.25 cup firmly packed brown sugar
2 tsp baking powder
0.25 tsp nutmeg
0.5 tsp baking soda
1 cup + 2 tsp buttermilk
1 lightly beaten egg
0.25 cup less 2 tsp vegetable oil
2 tbsp melted whipped butter
1 ripe banana, mashed
0.5 cup plumped golden raisins
1 oz (28 g) chopped walnuts

How to prepare

Preheat the oven to 400°F (204°C).
Spray 12 muffin cups with nonstick spray.
In a medium mixing bowl, combine flour, milk powder, sugar, baking powder, baking soda, and nutmeg. Stir to combine and set aside.
In a small bowl, combine buttermilk, egg, oil, and butter. Stir until blended, then stir in the dry ingredients.
Add banana, raisins, and walnuts. Stir to combine (the mixture will be lumpy).
Fill each baking cup with an equal amount of batter and bake for 15 minutes, or until golden brown and a toothpick inserted in the center comes out dry.
Transfer the muffins from the pan to a wire rack and let them cool.

Variations

1. Substitute the walnuts with pecans or almonds for a different nutty flavor.
2. Add a teaspoon of vanilla extract or cinnamon for extra flavor.
3. Use whole wheat flour instead of all-purpose flour for a fiber boost.

Cooking Tips & Tricks

1. Ensure all ingredients are at room temperature to achieve a smooth batter.

2. Do not overmix the batter; stir until just combined to keep the muffins light and fluffy.

3. Use ripe bananas for the best flavor and natural sweetness.

4. Plump the raisins in warm water for a few minutes before adding them to the batter to make them juicier.

5. Toast the walnuts slightly before adding them to the batter to enhance their flavor.

Serving Suggestions

Serve these muffins warm with a pat of butter or a drizzle of honey for added sweetness. They also pair well with a cup of coffee or tea for a comforting breakfast or snack.

Cooking Techniques

This recipe uses the creaming method to combine the wet and dry ingredients, ensuring a light and fluffy texture. Baking at a high temperature initially helps the muffins rise quickly, creating a nice dome shape.

Ingredient Substitutions

1. Almond milk or soy milk can replace buttermilk for a dairy-free version.

2. Use a flax egg instead of a regular egg to make the recipe vegan.

3. Swap the brown sugar with maple syrup or honey for a natural sweetener option.

Make Ahead Tips

Prepare the dry and wet ingredients separately the night before, and store them in the refrigerator. In the morning, simply combine them and bake for fresh muffins in no time.

Presentation Ideas

Serve the muffins on a rustic wooden board with a side of fresh fruits and nuts for a visually appealing breakfast or snack platter.

Pairing Recommendations

Pair these muffins with a smoothie or yogurt for a nutritious and satisfying breakfast. For a dessert option, serve with a scoop of vanilla ice cream or a dollop of whipped cream.

Storage and Reheating Instructions

Store the muffins in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days or freeze for up to a month. 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 Raisin Walnut Muffin contains approximately 180 calories. This makes it a relatively low-calorie option for a snack or part of a balanced breakfast.

Carbohydrates

Each serving of Banana Raisin Walnut Muffins contains approximately 27 grams of carbohydrates. The carbohydrates come from the flour, brown sugar, bananas, and raisins, providing energy to start your day.

Fats

These muffins contain about 9 grams of fat per serving, with the primary sources being vegetable oil, whipped butter, and walnuts. The use of non-fat dry milk powder and buttermilk helps to keep the fat content lower than many traditional muffin recipes.

Proteins

Each muffin offers around 4 grams of protein, contributed by the non-fat dry milk powder, egg, and walnuts. This amount of protein makes the muffins a good snack option, providing a feeling of fullness.

Vitamins and minerals

Banana Raisin Walnut Muffins are a good source of several vitamins and minerals, including potassium from bananas, iron and calcium from the dry milk powder, and antioxidants from the walnuts.

Alergens

This recipe contains common allergens such as nuts (walnuts), eggs, and gluten (flour). Those with allergies to these ingredients should avoid this recipe or find suitable substitutions.

Summary

Overall, Banana Raisin Walnut Muffins offer a balanced nutritional profile, with a good mix of carbohydrates, proteins, and fats, along with essential vitamins and minerals. They are a healthier option compared to many store-bought muffins due to the controlled amount of sugar and fat.

Summary

Banana Raisin Walnut Muffins are a versatile and delicious option for any time of the day. With their perfect blend of sweetness, nuttiness, and a hint of spice, they are sure to be a hit with everyone. This recipe not only provides a tasty treat but also offers nutritional benefits, making it a guilt-free indulgence. Whether you're a novice baker or a seasoned pro, these muffins are simple to make and are sure to become a staple in your baking repertoire.

How did I get this recipe?

The first time I saw this recipe, I was immediately hooked. It was a warm summer day, and I had gone to visit my friend Martha, who was known for her delicious baked goods. As soon as I walked into her kitchen, the smell of cinnamon and bananas hit me, and I knew I was in for a treat.

Martha was busy mixing ingredients in a large bowl, her hands moving deftly as she added in ripe bananas, plump raisins, and crunchy walnuts. I watched in awe as she poured the batter into muffin tins and popped them into the oven, the scent of sweetness filling the room.

As we waited for the muffins to bake, Martha told me the story behind the recipe. She had learned it from her own grandmother, who had passed it down through the generations. It was a family favorite, always a hit at gatherings and potlucks.

When the muffins were finally done, Martha pulled them out of the oven, their golden tops glistening with a light dusting of sugar. She handed me one, still warm from the oven, and I took a bite. The flavors exploded in my mouth - the sweetness of the bananas, the chewiness of the raisins, and the crunch of the walnuts. It was perfection.

From that moment on, I knew I had to learn how to make these muffins myself. Martha graciously shared the recipe with me, and I went home that day with a piece of paper covered in scribbled notes and measurements.

I decided to try my hand at making the muffins the very next day. I gathered all the ingredients together - ripe bananas, sweet raisins, and crunchy walnuts. As I mixed everything together, memories of Martha's kitchen flooded back to me. I could almost hear her voice guiding me through the steps.

When the muffins came out of the oven, I couldn't believe how perfect they looked. The tops were golden brown, just like Martha's, and the smell wafting from the kitchen made my mouth water. I took a bite, and it was like I was back in Martha's kitchen, savoring every delicious bite.

I brought some of the muffins over to Martha as a thank you for sharing her recipe with me. She took one bite and smiled, nodding in approval. "You've got the touch, just like your grandmother," she said.

From that day on, I made the banana raisin walnut muffins whenever I needed a taste of nostalgia. They became a staple in my kitchen, a recipe that I knew by heart. And every time I made them, I thought of Martha and her grandmother, thankful for the delicious gift they had shared with me.

Years passed, and I continued to make the muffins, passing the recipe down to my own children and grandchildren. It became a tradition in our family, a way to remember the women who had come before us and the love they had poured into their baking.

Now, as I stand in my kitchen, mixing together the familiar ingredients, I can't help but smile. The scent of cinnamon and bananas fills the air, and I know that Martha and her grandmother are with me, guiding my hands as I create something delicious to share with my loved ones.

And as I take a bite of a warm banana raisin walnut muffin, I am filled with gratitude for the recipes and memories that have shaped me into the cook I am today. Cooking has always been a way for me to connect with the past, to honor the traditions that have been passed down through my family.

These muffins will always hold a special place in my heart, a reminder of the love and friendship that can be found in a simple recipe. And as I continue to bake them for years to come, I know that I am carrying on a legacy that was started long ago, one delicious muffin at a time.