Nutty Banana Oatmeal Muffins
Highlighted under: Homemade Sweets Recipes
These Nutty Banana Oatmeal Muffins are a delightful and healthy way to start your day. Packed with wholesome ingredients and the perfect balance of sweetness, they make for a great breakfast or snack.
These Nutty Banana Oatmeal Muffins are inspired by the classic combination of bananas and nuts, making them not only delicious but also nutritious. They are perfect for busy mornings or as an afternoon pick-me-up!
Why You'll Love These Muffins
- Moist and fluffy texture with a nutty crunch
- Naturally sweetened with ripe bananas
- Great source of fiber and protein for sustained energy
- Perfect for meal prep or on-the-go snacks
The Perfect Breakfast Choice
Starting your day with a nutritious breakfast is essential for maintaining energy levels and focus. These Nutty Banana Oatmeal Muffins offer a delightful combination of flavor and nutrition, making them an excellent choice for breakfast. The use of whole wheat flour and rolled oats ensures that each muffin is packed with fiber, which aids in digestion and helps you feel fuller for longer. Plus, the natural sweetness from ripe bananas eliminates the need for excessive sugars, making these muffins a guilt-free morning treat.
Whether you're rushing out the door or enjoying a leisurely morning, these muffins can easily fit into your routine. They are not only portable but also versatile. You can pair them with a cup of yogurt or a smoothie for a balanced breakfast, or simply enjoy them on their own. With their moist texture and nutty flavor, they are sure to please everyone in the family.
Customizable and Versatile
One of the best aspects of these Nutty Banana Oatmeal Muffins is their versatility. The base recipe is easy to customize according to your preferences. Feel free to swap out walnuts or pecans for your favorite nuts or seeds, or add dried fruits like cranberries or raisins for an extra flavor boost. If you're looking to indulge a bit, chocolate chips can be added for a sweet treat that kids will love.
This adaptability also extends to dietary needs. If you prefer a dairy-free option, simply use a non-dairy milk alternative. For a vegan version, you can replace the eggs with flaxseed meal or applesauce. The muffins will still turn out deliciously moist and flavorful, proving that healthy eating can be enjoyable and inclusive.
Perfect for Meal Prep
Meal prepping can save you time during busy weekdays, and these muffins are perfect for that purpose. You can bake a batch over the weekend and store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator or freezer. This way, you always have a wholesome snack or breakfast option ready at hand. They can last for up to a week in the fridge or can be frozen for up to three months, making them an ideal make-ahead option.
When you're ready to enjoy a muffin, simply pop it in the microwave for a few seconds to warm it up or enjoy it cold. This convenience makes these Nutty Banana Oatmeal Muffins not just a delicious treat but also a smart choice for meal planning and healthy snacking.
Ingredients
Dry Ingredients
- 2 cups rolled oats
- 1 cup whole wheat flour
- 1/2 cup brown sugar
- 1 teaspoon baking powder
- 1/2 teaspoon baking soda
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1 teaspoon cinnamon
Wet Ingredients
- 3 ripe bananas, mashed
- 1/2 cup milk (or non-dairy alternative)
- 1/4 cup vegetable oil
- 2 eggs
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
Add-Ins
- 1/2 cup chopped walnuts or pecans
- 1/4 cup chocolate chips (optional)
Make sure to use ripe bananas for the best flavor!
Instructions
Preheat the Oven
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and line a muffin tin with paper liners.
Mix Dry Ingredients
In a large bowl, combine rolled oats, whole wheat flour, brown sugar, baking powder, baking soda, salt, and cinnamon.
Combine Wet Ingredients
In another bowl, mix the mashed bananas, milk, vegetable oil, eggs, and vanilla extract until well combined.
Combine Mixtures
Pour the wet mixture into the dry ingredients and stir until just combined. Fold in the nuts and chocolate chips if using.
Fill Muffin Tin
Scoop the batter into the prepared muffin tin, filling each cup about 2/3 full.
Bake
Bake in the preheated oven for 20 minutes or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.
Cool and Serve
Allow the muffins to cool in the tin for 5 minutes before transferring to a wire rack to cool completely.
Enjoy your delicious Nutty Banana Oatmeal Muffins warm or at room temperature!
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I use quick oats instead of rolled oats? While rolled oats provide a chewier texture, quick oats can be used in a pinch. Keep in mind that the muffins may turn out slightly different in texture, but they will still be tasty.
How do I store leftovers? To keep your muffins fresh, store them in an airtight container at room temperature for up to three days. For longer storage, freeze them in a freezer-safe bag and thaw them as needed.
Nutritional Benefits
These muffins are not just delicious; they are also packed with numerous health benefits. The combination of oats and whole wheat flour provides essential nutrients, including B vitamins, iron, and magnesium. Bananas add potassium, which supports heart health and muscle function.
Moreover, the inclusion of nuts adds healthy fats and protein, making these muffins a great source of sustained energy. This makes them suitable for not only breakfast but also as a post-workout snack or mid-afternoon pick-me-up.
Pairing Suggestions
For a complete breakfast, consider pairing these muffins with a smoothie packed with greens and protein or a side of fresh fruit. A dollop of Greek yogurt on top can also add a creamy texture and extra protein.
If you're enjoying them as a snack, a cup of herbal tea or coffee complements the flavors beautifully. The nutty taste of the muffins pairs well with a variety of beverages, making them a versatile choice for any time of day.
Questions About Recipes
→ Can I use all-purpose flour instead of whole wheat flour?
Yes, you can substitute all-purpose flour, but the muffins may be slightly less nutritious.
→ How do I store leftover muffins?
Store in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days or refrigerate for a week.
→ Can I freeze these muffins?
Absolutely! Freeze them in a zip-top bag for up to 3 months. Thaw at room temperature before serving.
→ What can I use instead of eggs?
You can use flax eggs or applesauce as a substitute for eggs in this recipe.
Nutty Banana Oatmeal Muffins
These Nutty Banana Oatmeal Muffins are a delightful and healthy way to start your day. Packed with wholesome ingredients and the perfect balance of sweetness, they make for a great breakfast or snack.
Created by: Anna Johnson
Recipe Type: Homemade Sweets Recipes
Skill Level: Easy
Final Quantity: 12 muffins
What You'll Need
Dry Ingredients
- 2 cups rolled oats
- 1 cup whole wheat flour
- 1/2 cup brown sugar
- 1 teaspoon baking powder
- 1/2 teaspoon baking soda
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1 teaspoon cinnamon
Wet Ingredients
- 3 ripe bananas, mashed
- 1/2 cup milk (or non-dairy alternative)
- 1/4 cup vegetable oil
- 2 eggs
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
Add-Ins
- 1/2 cup chopped walnuts or pecans
- 1/4 cup chocolate chips (optional)
How-To Steps
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and line a muffin tin with paper liners.
In a large bowl, combine rolled oats, whole wheat flour, brown sugar, baking powder, baking soda, salt, and cinnamon.
In another bowl, mix the mashed bananas, milk, vegetable oil, eggs, and vanilla extract until well combined.
Pour the wet mixture into the dry ingredients and stir until just combined. Fold in the nuts and chocolate chips if using.
Scoop the batter into the prepared muffin tin, filling each cup about 2/3 full.
Bake in the preheated oven for 20 minutes or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.
Allow the muffins to cool in the tin for 5 minutes before transferring to a wire rack to cool completely.
Nutritional Breakdown (Per Serving)
- Calories: 180 kcal
- Total Fat: 7g
- Saturated Fat: 1g
- Cholesterol: 30mg
- Sodium: 150mg
- Total Carbohydrates: 28g
- Dietary Fiber: 3g
- Sugars: 8g
- Protein: 4g