Banana S’mores Muffins

Have you ever craved the gooey delight of s’mores but wanted a healthier, portable version? Enter Banana S’mores Muffins! These delightful treats combine the rich flavors of chocolate, marshmallows, and bananas into a moist muffin that’s perfect for breakfast or dessert. Did you know that incorporating ripe bananas into baked goods can not only enhance flavor but also reduce the need for added sugars? In this post, we’ll explore how to make these irresistible muffins that are sure to satisfy your sweet tooth while being easy to prepare.

Ingredients List

To create your scrumptious Banana S’mores Muffins, gather the following ingredients:

Muffin Base:

• 2 ripe bananas: The star ingredient that adds natural sweetness and moisture.
• 1/3 cup melted coconut oil: For a rich texture and subtle flavor.
• 1/2 cup brown sugar: Provides a caramel-like sweetness that complements the bananas.
• 1 large egg: Binds the ingredients together.
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract: Enhances the overall flavor profile.
• 1 cup all-purpose flour: The foundation of your muffin.
• 1 teaspoon baking soda: Helps the muffins rise.
• 1/2 teaspoon salt: Balances the sweetness.

S’mores Filling:

• 1/2 cup mini marshmallows: Adds that gooey s’mores texture.
• 1/2 cup chocolate chips: The essential chocolatey goodness.
• Optional: Crushed graham crackers for topping.

Substitutions:

• Coconut Oil: Can be replaced with unsalted butter or applesauce for a lighter option.
• Brown Sugar: Use coconut sugar or maple syrup for a different flavor profile.

Step-by-Step Instructions

Step 1: Preheat the Oven

Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). This ensures that your muffins bake evenly and rise beautifully.

Step 2: Mash the Bananas

In a large mixing bowl, mash the ripe bananas until smooth. This step is crucial as it creates the base for your muffins, infusing them with natural sweetness and moisture.

Step 3: Mix Wet Ingredients

Add the melted coconut oil, brown sugar, egg, and vanilla extract to the mashed bananas. Whisk until well combined. The mixture should be creamy and fragrant.

Step 4: Combine Dry Ingredients

In another bowl, whisk together the flour, baking soda, and salt. Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet mixture, stirring gently until just combined. Be careful not to overmix; a few lumps are perfectly fine!

Step 5: Fold in S’mores Ingredients

Gently fold in the mini marshmallows and chocolate chips. If you’re feeling adventurous, sprinkle in some crushed graham crackers for added texture.

Step 6: Fill the Muffin Tin

Line a muffin tin with paper liners or grease it lightly. Pour the batter into each cup, filling them about 2/3 full. This allows room for the muffins to rise.

Step 7: Bake

Bake for 18-20 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean. The tops should be golden brown and slightly domed.

Step 8: Cool and Serve

Allow the muffins to cool in the tin for 5 minutes before transferring them to a wire rack. Serve warm or at room temperature, and enjoy the gooey goodness!

Nutritional Information

Here’s a breakdown of the nutritional information for Banana S’mores Muffins (per muffin):

Nutrient	Amount
Calories	180
Protein	3g
Carbohydrates	25g
Fat	7g
Fiber	1g
Sodium	150mg

These muffins offer a delightful balance of flavors and nutrients, making them a guilt-free indulgence!

Healthier Alternatives for the Recipe

If you’re looking to make your Banana S’mores Muffins even healthier, consider these alternatives:

• Whole Wheat Flour: Substitute all-purpose flour with whole wheat flour for added fiber and nutrients.
• Reduced Sugar: Cut down the brown sugar by half and rely more on the natural sweetness of the bananas.
• Dairy-Free: Use almond milk or oat milk instead of cow’s milk for a dairy-free version.

These modifications ensure that you can enjoy your favorite treats while being mindful of your health!

Serving Suggestions

Here are some creative ways to serve your Banana S’mores Muffins:

• With a Drizzle: Top with a drizzle of melted chocolate or a sprinkle of powdered sugar for an elegant touch.
• Pair with Ice Cream: Serve warm muffins with a scoop of vanilla ice cream for a decadent dessert.
• Breakfast Treat: Enjoy as a quick breakfast option alongside a cup of coffee or tea.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

To ensure your Banana S’mores Muffins turn out perfectly, avoid these common pitfalls:

1. Using Overripe Bananas: While ripe bananas are ideal, overly brown bananas can make the muffins too mushy.
2. Overmixing the Batter: Mix just until combined; overmixing can lead to dense muffins.
3. Not Checking for Doneness: Always test with a toothpick; underbaked muffins can be gooey in the center.

Storing Tips for the Recipe

If you have leftovers (which is rare!), here are some tips for storing your Banana S’mores Muffins:

• Refrigeration: Store in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 5 days.
• Freezing: For longer storage, freeze the muffins in a single layer, then transfer to a freezer bag. They can last up to 3 months. Reheat in the microwave or oven for best results.

Conclusion

In just 35 minutes, you can create Banana S’mores Muffins that are both delicious and satisfying. With their unique blend of flavors and easy preparation, these muffins are perfect for any occasion. Try them today, and don’t forget to share your feedback in the comments below or subscribe for more delightful recipes!

FAQs

1. Can I use frozen bananas for this recipe?

Yes, thawed frozen bananas work well! Just ensure they are well drained to avoid excess moisture.

2. How can I make these muffins gluten-free?

You can substitute the all-purpose flour with a gluten-free flour blend for a gluten-free version.

3. Can I add nuts to the muffins?

Absolutely! Chopped walnuts or pecans can add a nice crunch and extra flavor.