Name: Flourless Banana Muffins
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 25 min
Total time: 40 min
Ingredients: 1 cup old-fashioned oats (not steel cut or quick oats); 1 cup mashed banana (2–3 large bananas); 1 large egg; 1/4 cup maple syrup (+ 2 tablespoons); 1/2 teaspoon baking soda; 1/4 teaspoon baking powder; 1/2 teaspoon ground cinnamon; 1/4 teaspoon salt; 2 tablespoons melted coconut oil; 1 teaspoon vanilla extract; 1/4 cup dark chocolate chips; 1/4 cup mini chocolate chips (see note 1)

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As the aroma of freshly baked goods wafts through the house, there’s something about Flourless Banana Muffins that takes me back to my childhood kitchen. I remember the countless weekends spent experimenting with ripe bananas that were too soft for a snack. Those overripe beauties would inevitably become the star ingredient in my family’s favorite muffin recipe. There’s a unique joy in creating something delicious and healthy from something that might otherwise just be tossed away. These muffins are not just any ordinary treat; they are a testament to the magic of baking with simplicity and love.

Whenever I make Flourless Banana Muffins, I feel a connection to those cherished moments, and I can’t help but share them with friends and family. They’re the perfect morning pick-me-up or an after-school snack for the kids. Plus, they’re packed with wholesome ingredients that make you feel good about indulging. The combination of mashed bananas and oats is not only satisfying but also offers a natural sweetness that requires little to no added sugars. These muffins are a celebration of the humble banana, transforming it into a treat that’s both nutritious and delicious.

So, whether you’re looking for a quick breakfast option or a sweet treat to brighten your day, Flourless Banana Muffins are here to rescue you. Let’s dive into the wonderful world of this easy recipe and create something special together!

Recipe Snapshot

Total Time:
40 mins

Prep Time:
15 mins

Cook Time:
25 mins

Difficulty:
Medium

Calories:
135 kcal

Protein:
2 g

Diet:
Paleo, Vegan, Gluten-Free

Fat:
5 g

Tools Used:
Muffin pan, Blender or food processor

The Beauty of This Flourless Banana Muffins

Wholesome Ingredients

One reason I adore Flourless Banana Muffins is their wholesome ingredient list. Made primarily from ripe bananas and oats, these muffins are naturally gluten-free and offer a satisfying texture without the need for flour.

Natural Sweetness

Instead of relying on refined sugars, the sweetness comes from the bananas and a touch of maple syrup. This not only enhances the flavor but also ensures a healthier treat that even kids love.

Simple to Make

With just a handful of ingredients and a blender, these muffins come together in no time. It’s perfect for busy mornings or when you’re craving something sweet without the fuss.

Health Benefits

Bananas are loaded with potassium and fiber, while oats provide heart-healthy benefits. Enjoying a muffin means you’re fueling your body with nutrients rather than empty calories.

Versatile and Customizable

Another great aspect of Flourless Banana Muffins is their versatility. You can easily add nuts, seeds, or swap in different kinds of chocolate chips to suit your taste preferences.

Perfect for Meal Prep

These muffins are fantastic for meal prep! Bake a batch at the beginning of the week, and you’ll have a delicious grab-and-go snack ready for busy days.

Key Ingredients for Flourless Banana Muffins

When it comes to making Flourless Banana Muffins, the ingredients are simple yet effective. Each plays a crucial role, contributing to the muffin’s flavor, texture, and nutritional profile. Let’s take a closer look at these key players.

1 cup old-fashioned oats: These oats provide the base for the muffins, lending them a hearty texture and helping to bind the ingredients together.
1 cup mashed banana: About two to three large bananas give the muffins their natural sweetness and moisture, making them soft and delicious.
1 large egg: The egg helps to bind the mixture, adding richness and protein to the muffins.
1/4 cup + 2 tablespoons maple syrup: This adds additional sweetness and depth of flavor, complementing the bananas perfectly.
1/2 teaspoon baking soda: This is the leavening agent that helps the muffins rise and become fluffy.
1/4 teaspoon baking powder: Working alongside baking soda, it ensures a nice rise in the muffins.
1/2 teaspoon ground cinnamon: This spice adds warmth and flavor that pairs wonderfully with banana.
1/4 teaspoon salt: A little salt enhances the sweetness and balances the flavors.
2 tablespoons melted coconut oil: This adds moisture and a subtle coconut flavor, making the muffins rich without using butter.
1 teaspoon vanilla extract: It adds depth and sweetness to the overall flavor profile.
1/4 cup dark chocolate chips: These provide little bursts of chocolatey goodness with every bite.
1/4 cup mini chocolate chips: They add a fun texture and extra sweetness, perfect for chocolate lovers.

How to Assemble Flourless Banana Muffins

Making Flourless Banana Muffins is a delightful process that can be completed in just a few simple steps. Let’s get started!

Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C) and grease a muffin pan with non-stick spray or use muffin liners for easy removal.
Melt 2 tablespoons of coconut oil in the microwave or on the stovetop and set it aside to cool to room temperature.
Using a measuring cup, fill it with 1 cup of old-fashioned oats and level the top with a knife. Transfer the oats into a blender or food processor and blend until they resemble a fine flour.
In a separate bowl, mash 1 cup of ripe bananas thoroughly with the back of a fork until there are no lumps left.
In a large mixing bowl, combine the mashed bananas, 1 large egg, 1/4 cup + 2 tablespoons maple syrup, 1/2 teaspoon baking soda, 1/4 teaspoon baking powder, 1/2 teaspoon ground cinnamon, 1/4 teaspoon salt, melted coconut oil, and 1 teaspoon vanilla extract. Mix well until everything is combined.
Stir in the blended oats until just combined, ensuring not to overmix the batter.
Gently fold in the 1/4 cup of dark chocolate chips and 1/4 cup of mini chocolate chips until evenly distributed throughout the batter.
Using a spoon, transfer the batter evenly into the prepared muffin pan, filling each cavity about three-quarters full. If desired, sprinkle a few more chocolate chips on top for an extra treat.
Bake in the preheated oven for about 23 to 26 minutes, or until the muffins are lightly browned around the edges and spring back when touched.
Allow the muffins to cool in the pan for about 5 minutes before using a fork to gently coax them out onto a cooling rack. Let them cool completely before enjoying!

Things Worth Knowing

Ingredient ripeness matters: The riper the bananas, the sweeter your muffins will be. Look for bananas with brown spots for optimal sweetness.
Oat texture can vary: Make sure to blend the oats until they resemble flour for the best texture in your muffins.
Don’t overmix: Mix just until combined to keep your muffins light and fluffy.
Cooling time is key: Let the muffins cool in the pan for a few minutes before transferring them to a wire rack; this prevents them from becoming soggy.

Ways to Customize

One of the greatest things about Flourless Banana Muffins is how easy it is to personalize them to your taste. Here are some fun ways to customize your muffins:

Add nuts: For extra crunch, consider adding w chopped walnuts or pecans to the batter.
Use different sweeteners: Instead of maple syrup, try honey or agave nectar for a different flavor profile.
Mix in fruits: Toss in blueberries or chopped apples for a fruity twist.
Experiment with spices: Add a pinch of nutmeg or ginger for a warm, spiced flavor.
Make it chocolatey: Increase the ratio of dark chocolate chips for chocolate lovers!
Use alternative milks: Add a splash of almond or oat milk if you want a creamier texture.
Switch up the chocolate: Feel free to use white chocolate or carob chips instead of dark chocolate.

What Goes Well With This Flourless Banana Muffins

Serving Flourless Banana Muffins can be as delightful as baking them! Here are some ideas to enhance your muffin experience:

Pair with coffee: These muffins are perfect for breakfast alongside a steaming cup of coffee or tea.
Excellent for lunchboxes: Send your kids off with a muffin in their lunchbox for a healthy, sweet surprise.
Perfect for brunch: Serve these muffins at brunch with friends, accompanied by fruit salads and yogurt.
Enjoy as a dessert: Drizzle some dark chocolate sauce over the top for a decadent treat.
Seasonal toppings: Add sliced strawberries or peaches in the summer, or warm spiced apples in the fall for a seasonal touch.
Storage tips: Store leftover muffins in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 2 to 3 days.

FAQ

Absolutely! One of the great things about Flourless Banana Muffins is their versatility. You can easily swap out ingredients to suit your taste or dietary needs. For instance, if you’re not a fan of chocolate, you can leave out the chocolate chips and add nuts or dried fruits instead. If you’d like a sweeter muffin, feel free to increase the amount of maple syrup. Just keep in mind that any substitutions may alter the texture or flavor slightly.

To store Flourless Banana Muffins, allow them to cool completely at room temperature. Once cooled, place them in an airtight container to keep them fresh for up to 2 to 3 days. If you want to keep them longer, consider freezing them. Simply wrap each muffin in plastic wrap or aluminum foil, and place them in a freezer bag. They can last in the freezer for up to 3 months. When you’re ready to enjoy one, remove it from the freezer and let it thaw at room temperature or warm it in the microwave for a quick treat.

Yes! Flourless Banana Muffins are naturally gluten-free since they are made with oats instead of traditional flour. However, if you’re strictly avoiding gluten, make sure to use certified gluten-free oats, as some oats may be processed in facilities that handle gluten-containing grains.

Certainly! The Flourless Banana Muffins are already dairy-free since they use coconut oil instead of butter. If you’d like to keep it completely dairy-free, ensure that any chocolate chips you use are also dairy-free. There are numerous dairy-free chocolate options available that will work perfectly in this recipe!

Conclusion

In summary, Flourless Banana Muffins are a delightful blend of health and flavor, making them a fantastic choice for any time of day. These muffins are not just easy to make, but they’re also a great way to use up those overripe bananas. I encourage you to try this recipe and enjoy the deliciousness that comes from combining simple ingredients with a love for baking. You’ll find that these muffins will quickly become a staple in your home, perfect for breakfast, snacks, or even dessert!