Craving a healthy treat that tastes indulgent? These Double Chocolate Banana Oat Muffins are your answer, offering a delightful combination of rich chocolate and natural sweetness in a wholesome package. You’ll love how easy they are to make, perfect for a quick breakfast or a satisfying snack.
Key Ingredients & Substitutions:
- Ripe Bananas: Overripe bananas are best for sweetness. You can use frozen, thawed bananas if needed.
- Rolled Oats: Quick oats can be substituted, but rolled oats give a better texture.
- Cocoa Powder: Unsweetened cocoa powder is key for that deep chocolate flavor.
- Chocolate Chips: Use dark or semi-sweet for an extra chocolate boost.
- Maple Syrup: Honey or agave nectar can be used as alternatives.
- Milk: Any dairy or non-dairy milk works here.
Ingredients:
- 2 large ripe bananas, mashed
- 1 ½ cups rolled oats
- ½ cup unsweetened cocoa powder
- ½ cup chocolate chips (plus extra for topping, optional)
- ½ cup milk
- ¼ cup maple syrup
- ¼ cup melted coconut oil (or other neutral oil)
- 1 large egg
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1 teaspoon baking powder
- ½ teaspoon baking soda
- ¼ teaspoon salt
How Much Time Will You Need?
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 20-22 minutes
- Total Time: 30-32 minutes
- Servings: 12 muffins
- Tools Needed: Muffin tin, paper liners, mixing bowls, whisk, spatula.
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Prepare Your Oven and Muffin Tin
Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Line a 12-cup muffin tin with paper liners or lightly grease the wells. This ensures your Healthy Banana Oat Baked Goods release easily.
2. Combine Wet Ingredients
In a large bowl, mash your ripe bananas until smooth. Add the milk, maple syrup, melted coconut oil, egg, and vanilla extract. Whisk these wet ingredients together until well combined.
3. Mix Dry Ingredients
In a separate medium bowl, combine the rolled oats, cocoa powder, baking powder, baking soda, and salt. Whisk them thoroughly to distribute all ingredients evenly.
4. Combine Wet and Dry Mixtures
Pour the dry ingredient mixture into the wet ingredient mixture. Stir gently with a spatula until just combined; be careful not to overmix, as this can lead to tough muffins. Fold in the chocolate chips.
5. Fill Muffin Cups
Divide the batter evenly among the 12 prepared muffin cups. If desired, sprinkle a few extra chocolate chips on top of each muffin for a bakery-style finish. This step makes your Healthy Banana Oat Baked Goods extra appealing.
6. Bake Your Muffins
Bake for 20-22 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center of a muffin comes out clean. Let them cool in the muffin tin for a few minutes before transferring them to a wire rack to cool completely.
Variation Ideas:
- Nutty Muffins: Add a handful of chopped walnuts or pecans for extra crunch.
- Berry Boost: Incorporate ½ cup of fresh or frozen berries for a fruity twist.
- Spiced Goodness: Add ½ teaspoon of cinnamon or a pinch of nutmeg for warm flavor.
Storage Instructions:
Store your Double Chocolate Banana Oat Muffins in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days. For longer storage, freeze them for up to 3 months. Reheat gently in the microwave for a fresh-baked taste.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ):
Q: Can I use quick oats instead of rolled oats?
A: Yes, you can use quick oats, but the texture will be slightly different. Rolled oats provide a chewier texture.
Q: Are these muffins gluten-free?
A: If you use certified gluten-free rolled oats, these muffins can be gluten-free.
Q: How ripe should the bananas be?
A: The riper the bananas (with brown spots), the sweeter and more flavorful your muffins will be.
Q: Can I make these dairy-free?
A: Absolutely! Simply use your preferred non-dairy milk (like almond or oat milk) and dairy-free chocolate chips.
Q: Can I reduce the amount of chocolate chips?
A: Yes, you can adjust the amount of chocolate chips to your preference or omit them entirely, though they add to the “double chocolate” experience.
Q: What if I don’t have coconut oil?
A: You can use any neutral-flavored oil like vegetable oil or canola oil as a substitute.
