Banana Nut Muffins are a delightful and moist treat that combines the natural sweetness of ripe bananas with the crunch of nuts. Perfect for breakfast, a snack, or dessert, these muffins are easy to make and can be enjoyed fresh or stored for later. They’re a great way to use up overripe bananas and are sure to please everyone!

Ingredients List

For the Muffins

• 3 ripe bananas (mashed)
• 1/3 cup melted butter
• 1 teaspoon baking soda
• Pinch of salt
• 3/4 cup sugar (or brown sugar)
• 1 large egg (beaten)
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
• 1 1/2 cups all-purpose flour
• 1/2 cup chopped walnuts or pecans (optional)

Timing

Preparing Banana Nut Muffins takes about 10 minutes for prep and 20-25 minutes for baking, totaling approximately 30-35 minutes.

Step-by-Step Instructions

Step 1: Preheat the Oven

1. Preheat Oven: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Line a muffin tin with paper liners or grease it lightly.

Step 2: Mix the Wet Ingredients

1. Mash the Bananas: In a large mixing bowl, mash the ripe bananas with a fork until smooth.
2. Add Butter: Stir in the melted butter until well combined.
3. Mix in Other Wet Ingredients: Add the baking soda and salt. Mix in the sugar, beaten egg, and vanilla extract until smooth.

Step 3: Combine the Dry Ingredients

1. Add Flour: Gently fold in the all-purpose flour until just combined. Be careful not to overmix; some lumps are okay.
2. Add Nuts: If using, fold in the chopped walnuts or pecans.

Step 4: Fill the Muffin Tin

1. Scoop Batter: Divide the batter evenly among the muffin cups, filling each about 2/3 full.

Step 5: Bake the Muffins

1. Bake: Bake in the preheated oven for 20-25 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.
2. Cool: Remove from the oven and let the muffins cool in the pan for about 5 minutes, then transfer them to a wire rack to cool completely.

Step 6: Serve

1. Plate and Enjoy: Serve the muffins warm or at room temperature. Enjoy your delicious Banana Nut Muffins!

Nutritional Information

Here’s a quick glance at the nutritional profile of Banana Nut Muffins (per muffin, assuming 12 muffins):

Nutrient	Amount per Serving
Calories	180
Protein	3g
Fat	7g
Carbohydrates	28g
Fiber	1g

Tips for Customization

• Add Chocolate Chips: For a sweeter treat, mix in some chocolate chips.
• Use Different Nuts: Substitute walnuts or pecans with almonds or hazelnuts for a different flavor.
• Spices: Add a pinch of cinnamon or nutmeg for extra warmth and flavor.

Serving Suggestions

Banana Nut Muffins pair well with:

• A cup of coffee or tea for a delightful breakfast experience.
• A side of yogurt or fresh fruit for a balanced meal.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

1. Using Unripe Bananas: Make sure your bananas are ripe for the best flavor and sweetness.
2. Overmixing the Batter: Mix just until combined to keep the muffins tender and fluffy.

Storing Tips for the Recipe

Banana Nut Muffins can be stored in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days or in the refrigerator for up to a week. They can also be frozen for up to 3 months. To freeze, place muffins in a freezer bag or container, and thaw at room temperature when ready to enjoy.

Conclusion

In just about 30-35 minutes, you can create Banana Nut Muffins, a delicious and comforting treat that’s perfect for any time of day. With their moist texture and nutty flavor, these muffins are sure to become a favorite in your household!

FAQs

Can I use whole wheat flour?

Yes! You can substitute half or all of the all-purpose flour with whole wheat flour for a healthier option.

Can I make these muffins vegan?

To make vegan banana nut muffins, substitute the egg with a flax egg (1 tablespoon ground flaxseed mixed with 2.5 tablespoons water) and use a plant-based butter alternative.

What can I do with leftover muffins?

Leftover muffins can be stored in the freezer. They also make great additions to lunchboxes or can be crumbled over yogurt for a tasty snack.