Healthy Banana Chocolate Chip Muffins
There’s something undeniably comforting about the aroma of freshly baked muffins wafting through the kitchen. These Healthy Banana Chocolate Chip Muffins are not just a delightful treat; they are also a healthier option to satisfy your sweet tooth. Packed with wholesome ingredients, these muffins are perfect for breakfast, a snack, or even dessert. With just the right amount of sweetness and a touch of chocolate, they are sure to become a family favorite!
Why I Love This Recipe
I absolutely adore these Healthy Banana Chocolate Chip Muffins for so many reasons! First and foremost, they allow you to use up those overripe bananas sitting on your counter. Not only do they reduce waste, but they also add natural sweetness and moisture to the muffins. The combination of banana and chocolate is a classic pairing that everyone loves, making these muffins a hit with both kids and adults. Plus, they are easy to make and can be customized to fit various dietary preferences!
Ingredient Notes
- Flaxseed Meal or Egg: Use 1 tablespoon of flaxseed meal mixed with 2.5 tablespoons of water for a vegan version, or opt for a large egg for a non-vegan recipe.
- Bananas: Three large overripe bananas (about 11 ounces) are perfect for mashing and adding natural sweetness to the muffins.
- Unsweetened Applesauce: This adds moisture and reduces the amount of sugar needed in the recipe.
- Oil: Use canola oil or melted cooled coconut oil for a rich texture.
- Coconut Sugar or Light Brown Sugar: Both options provide a lovely caramel flavor while keeping the muffins healthier than refined sugar.
- Pure Maple Syrup: Adds a touch of sweetness that pairs beautifully with the bananas.
- Vanilla Extract: A must-have for enhancing the overall flavor of the muffins.
- Baking Soda: This helps the muffins rise and become fluffy.
- Ground Cinnamon: Adds warmth and a hint of spice to complement the bananas.
- Kosher Salt: Just a pinch to balance the sweetness.
- White Whole Wheat Flour: A healthier alternative to all-purpose flour, providing fiber and nutrients.
- Dark Chocolate Chips: Use mini or regular chocolate chips; choose dairy-free if you want the muffins to be vegan.
Cook’s Kit
- Muffin Tin: A standard muffin tin is essential for baking these delicious muffins.
- Parchment Paper Liners: They make for easy cleanup and prevent sticking.
- Mixing Bowls: A couple of large mixing bowls will help you combine all the ingredients effectively.
- Whisk and Spatula: A whisk for mixing and a spatula for scraping down the sides of the bowl are must-haves.
- Measuring Cups and Spoons: Accurate measurements are key to successful baking!
The Method for Healthy Banana Chocolate Chip Muffins
Step 1: Preheat Your Oven
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Line a muffin tin with parchment paper liners or spray with cooking spray.
Step 2: Prepare Your Flax Egg (if using)
If you’re going the vegan route, combine 1 tablespoon of flaxseed meal with 2.5 tablespoons of water in a small bowl. Let it sit for about 5 minutes until it thickens.
Step 3: Mash the Bananas
In a large mixing bowl, mash the three overripe bananas until smooth. You can use a fork or a potato masher for this step.
Step 4: Mix Wet Ingredients
Add the unsweetened applesauce, canola oil (or melted coconut oil), coconut sugar, pure maple syrup, vanilla extract, and the prepared flax egg (if using) to the mashed bananas. Mix until everything is well combined.
Step 5: Combine Dry Ingredients
In a separate bowl, whisk together the baking soda, ground cinnamon, kosher salt, and white whole wheat flour.
Step 6: Combine Wet and Dry Ingredients
Gradually add the dry mixture to the wet mixture, stirring gently until just combined. Be careful not to overmix; a few lumps are okay!
Step 7: Fold in Chocolate Chips
Gently fold in the dark chocolate chips, ensuring they are evenly distributed throughout the batter.
Step 8: Fill Muffin Tins
Scoop the batter into the prepared muffin tin, filling each liner about 2/3 full.
Step 9: Bake
Bake in the preheated oven for 18-22 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.
Step 10: Cool and Enjoy
Remove the muffins from the oven and let them cool in the tin for about 5 minutes before transferring them to a wire rack to cool completely. Enjoy your Healthy Banana Chocolate Chip Muffins warm or at room temperature!
Fit It to Your Goals
- Vegan Option: Substitute the egg with a flax egg for a completely plant-based treat.
- Gluten-Free: Use a 1:1 gluten-free baking flour instead of white whole wheat flour.
- Lower Sugar: Reduce the maple syrup or coconut sugar for less sweetness without sacrificing flavor.
- Extra Nutritious: Add nuts like walnuts or pecans for added protein and healthy fats.
What I Learned Testing
- Using overripe bananas truly makes a difference in sweetness and moisture.
- Mixing the wet and dry ingredients separately helps achieve the perfect muffin texture.
- Mini chocolate chips blend into the batter better than regular-sized chips, making every bite chocolatey!
- These muffins freeze well, making them a great option for meal prep.
Make Ahead Like a Pro
You can easily prepare these Healthy Banana Chocolate Chip Muffins ahead of time. Here are some tips:
- Prepare the Batter: You can make the batter the night before and store it in the refrigerator. Just remember to bring it to room temperature before baking.
- Freeze Baked Muffins: Allow the muffins to cool completely, then store them in an airtight container or freezer bag. They will keep well in the freezer for up to 3 months.
- Reheat: To enjoy a warm muffin, simply microwave for 15-20 seconds or toast them lightly in the oven.
Healthy Banana Chocolate Chip Muffins Q&A
Can I substitute the flour in this recipe?
Yes! You can use a gluten-free 1:1 baking flour if you need a gluten-free option. The texture may be slightly different, but they will still be delicious.
How do I store these muffins?
Store the muffins in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days, or in the refrigerator for up to a week. For longer storage, freeze them!
Can I use different sweeteners?
Absolutely! You can substitute coconut sugar with brown sugar or even use honey or agave syrup in place of maple syrup. Just keep in mind that it may alter the flavor slightly.
What can I add to the muffins for extra flavor?
Feel free to add in extras like chopped nuts, shredded coconut, or even dried fruit like raisins for added flavor and texture.
Let’s Eat
There you have it, a delightful recipe for Healthy Banana Chocolate Chip Muffins that strikes the perfect balance between indulgence and health! Whether you’re baking for yourself, your family, or friends, these muffins are sure to impress. They are moist, flavorful, and chock-full of good ingredients. So preheat that oven, gather your ingredients, and let the baking magic begin! Enjoy every bite of these scrumptious muffins as they are not just a treat; they’re a wholesome way to indulge in a classic favorite.
Healthy Banana Chocolate Chip Muffins
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Line a muffin tin with parchment paper liners or spray with cooking spray.
- If you’re going the vegan route, combine 1 tablespoon of flaxseed meal with 2.5 tablespoons of water in a small bowl. Let it sit for about 5 minutes until it thickens.
- In a large mixing bowl, mash the three overripe bananas until smooth.
- Add the unsweetened applesauce, canola oil, coconut sugar, pure maple syrup, vanilla extract, and the prepared flax egg (if using) to the mashed bananas. Mix until well combined.
- In a separate bowl, whisk together the baking soda, ground cinnamon, kosher salt, and white whole wheat flour.
- Gradually add the dry mixture to the wet mixture, stirring gently until just combined.
- Gently fold in the dark chocolate chips.
- Scoop the batter into the prepared muffin tin, filling each liner about 2/3 full.
- Bake in the preheated oven for 18-22 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.
- Remove the muffins from the oven and let them cool in the tin for about 5 minutes before transferring them to a wire rack to cool completely.
Notes
- For a vegan option, substitute the egg with a flax egg.
- These muffins freeze well; store in an airtight container.
- Feel free to add nuts for extra nutrition!
