These Amazing Oatmeal Banana Muffins are a delightful treat that combines the wholesome goodness of oats and the natural sweetness of ripe bananas. Perfect for breakfast or a quick snack, these muffins are easy to make and even easier to enjoy. Whether you’re looking for a nutritious morning boost or a satisfying afternoon pick-me-up, this recipe will become a favorite in your home.
Ingredients for Oatmeal Banana Muffins
Dry Ingredients:
- 1 1/2 cups old-fashioned oats
- 1 cup all-purpose flour
- 1/2 cup brown sugar, packed
- 1 teaspoon baking powder
- 1/2 teaspoon baking soda
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
Wet Ingredients:
- 3 ripe bananas, mashed
- 1/2 cup milk (any type: dairy, almond, soy, etc.)
- 1/4 cup vegetable oil or melted butter
- 1 large egg
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
Optional Add-Ins:
- 1/2 cup chopped nuts (such as walnuts or pecans)
- 1/2 cup chocolate chips
- 1/2 cup dried fruit (such as raisins or cranberries)
How to Make Oatmeal Banana Muffins
Step 1: Preheat and Prepare
- Preheat Oven: Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Line a muffin tin with paper liners or grease with cooking spray.
Step 2: Mix Dry Ingredients
- Combine Dry Ingredients: In a large bowl, whisk together the oats, flour, brown sugar, baking powder, baking soda, salt, and cinnamon until well combined.
Step 3: Prepare Wet Ingredients
- Mash Bananas: In another bowl, mash the ripe bananas with a fork or potato masher until smooth.
- Add Wet Ingredients: Add the milk, vegetable oil or melted butter, egg, and vanilla extract to the mashed bananas. Whisk together until smooth.
Step 4: Combine and Customize
- Mix Batter: Pour the wet ingredients into the bowl of dry ingredients. Stir gently with a spatula until just combined. Do not overmix; the batter should be lumpy.
- Add Optional Mix-Ins: If using, fold in the chopped nuts, chocolate chips, or dried fruit into the batter.
Step 5: Bake the Muffins
- Fill Muffin Cups: Spoon the batter evenly into the prepared muffin cups, filling each about 3/4 full.
- Bake: Bake for 18-20 minutes, or until the tops are golden brown and a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.
Step 6: Cool and Serve
- Cool: Remove the muffins from the oven and let them cool in the pan for 5 minutes. Then, transfer them to a wire rack to cool completely.
About the Main Ingredients
Oats
Old-fashioned oats add a hearty texture and fiber to these muffins, making them more filling and nutritious. Oats also contribute to a satisfying chewiness that complements the softness of the banana.
Bananas
Ripe bananas not only provide natural sweetness but also moisture and flavor to the muffins. They are a great source of potassium and add a delicious fruity taste without the need for additional sugar.
Brown Sugar
Brown sugar enhances the sweetness and adds a slight caramel flavor to the muffins. Its moist texture also helps keep the muffins soft and tender.
Milk and Oil (or Butter)
Milk adds moisture to the muffin batter, while vegetable oil or melted butter adds richness and helps create a tender crumb. You can choose your preferred type of milk and oil based on dietary preferences.
Egg and Vanilla Extract
The egg acts as a binder, holding the ingredients together, while vanilla extract adds a subtle aroma and enhances the overall flavor profile of the muffins.
These Amazing Oatmeal Banana Muffins are not only easy to make but also a delightful way to start your day or enjoy a wholesome snack. Whether you customize them with nuts, chocolate chips, or dried fruit, these muffins are sure to be a hit with family and friends. Enjoy baking and savoring these delicious treats!
