Craving a wholesome treat? These Dark Chocolate Chip Banana Oat Muffins are a delicious way to enjoy a healthy start to your day or a satisfying snack. You’ll love how easy it is to make these moist, flavorful muffins that fit perfectly into your healthy banana oat recipes collection.
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
- Ripe Bananas: Essential for sweetness and moisture.
- Rolled Oats: The base for a hearty texture. Use quick oats in a pinch, but rolled oats give a better chew.
- Whole Wheat Flour: Adds fiber and a nutty flavor. All-purpose flour works too.
- Dark Chocolate Chips: For a touch of indulgence. Use semi-sweet or chopped dark chocolate.
Ingredients
- 1 ½ cups rolled oats
- 1 cup whole wheat flour
- ½ cup packed brown sugar
- 1 teaspoon baking powder
- ½ teaspoon baking soda
- ½ teaspoon ground cinnamon
- ¼ teaspoon salt
- 2 large ripe bananas, mashed
- ½ cup milk (dairy or non-dairy)
- ¼ cup melted coconut oil (or vegetable oil)
- 1 large egg
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- ¾ cup dark chocolate chips
How Much Time Will You Need?
- Total Time: 30 minutes
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Servings: 12 muffins
- Calories per serving: Approximately 220 calories
- Tools Needed: Muffin tin, mixing bowls, whisk
Step-by-Step Instructions
1. Prepare Your Muffin Tin
Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Line a 12-cup muffin tin with paper liners or lightly grease it. This ensures your muffins won’t stick.
2. Combine Dry Ingredients
In a large bowl, whisk together the rolled oats, whole wheat flour, brown sugar, baking powder, baking soda, cinnamon, and salt. Make sure everything is evenly distributed.
3. Mix Wet Ingredients
In a separate medium bowl, mash the ripe bananas until smooth. Add the milk, melted coconut oil, egg, and vanilla extract to the mashed bananas. Whisk until well combined.
4. Combine Wet and Dry Mixtures
Pour the wet banana mixture into the dry oat mixture. Stir gently with a spoon or spatula until just combined. Be careful not to overmix, as this can make your muffins tough.
5. Fold in Chocolate Chips
Gently fold in the dark chocolate chips until they are evenly distributed throughout the batter. Save a few for sprinkling on top if you like.
6. Fill Muffin Cups and Bake
Divide the batter evenly among the 12 prepared muffin cups, filling each about two-thirds full. Bake for 18-22 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center of a muffin comes out clean.
7. Cool and Enjoy
Let the muffins cool in the muffin tin for a few minutes before transferring them to a wire rack to cool completely. These Healthy Banana Oat Muffins are best enjoyed warm or at room temperature.
Variation Ideas
- Add a handful of chopped nuts like walnuts or pecans.
- Stir in a tablespoon of chia seeds or flax seeds for extra nutrition.
- Swap out dark chocolate chips for white chocolate or a mix of both.
- Add a teaspoon of orange zest for a bright, citrusy flavor.
Storage Instructions
Store your Dark Chocolate Chip Banana Oat Muffins in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days. For longer storage, freeze them in a freezer-safe bag for up to 3 months. Reheat frozen muffins in the microwave or oven until warm.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Can I make these muffins gluten-free?
Yes, you can substitute certified gluten-free rolled oats and a gluten-free all-purpose flour blend for the whole wheat flour.
My bananas aren’t ripe enough. What should I do?
You can ripen bananas quickly by baking them on a baking sheet at 300°F (150°C) for 15-30 minutes until the peels are black.
Can I reduce the sugar?
You can slightly reduce the brown sugar, but it contributes to both sweetness and moisture in these healthy banana oat muffins.
Why are my muffins tough?
Overmixing the batter develops the gluten in the flour, leading to a tough texture. Stir just until the ingredients are combined.
Can I make these into mini muffins?
Absolutely! Reduce the baking time to about 12-15 minutes for mini muffins.
Are these muffins suitable for meal prepping?
Yes, these muffins are an excellent choice for healthy banana oat recipes meal prep. They store well and make for quick breakfasts or snacks.
