A Wholesome and Delicious Treat

If you’re looking for a healthier yet satisfying baked good to add to your repertoire, these Banana Bran Muffins are the perfect choice! Packed with nutrient-dense ingredients like ripe bananas, bran flakes, and walnuts, these muffins strike the ideal balance between indulgence and nutrition. Whether you’re meal-prepping breakfast, planning snacks for a busy week, or looking for a simple treat to pair with your morning coffee, this recipe is your answer.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

This recipe is great for anyone seeking a versatile, healthy snack or breakfast option. The natural sweetness of ripe bananas and maple syrup means you can enjoy these muffins guilt-free. They’re also incredibly easy to make, requiring just a few staple ingredients and minimal prep time. Plus, with some easy swaps and variations, you can adapt the recipe to fit your dietary preferences or pantry supplies.

Ingredients

Here’s what you’ll need to make these Banana Bran Muffins:

• ½ cup wheat flour
• ½ cup all-purpose flour
• 1 cup bran flakes or Raisin Bran
• 1 teaspoon baking soda
• 1 teaspoon cinnamon
• ¼ teaspoon salt
• 3 medium very ripe bananas, well-mashed (~1 cup mashed bananas)
• 2 large eggs
• ½ cup Greek yogurt or buttermilk
• ½ – ⅔ cup maple syrup
• ¼ cup unsalted butter or pureed ripe avocado, melted
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
• ½ cup walnuts, chopped

Equipment Needed

Before you begin, gather the following kitchen tools:

• Mixing bowls (one medium and one large)
• Whisk
• Spatula or wooden spoon
• Measuring cups and spoons
• Muffin pan
• Cupcake liners
• Cooking spray (optional)
• Toothpick (for testing doneness)

Step-by-Step Instructions

1. Preheat and Prep: Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Line your muffin pan with cupcake liners and lightly spray them with cooking spray if desired.
2. Mix Dry Ingredients: In a medium-sized bowl, combine the wheat flour, all-purpose flour, bran flakes, baking soda, cinnamon, and salt. Set aside.
3. Prepare Wet Ingredients: In a large bowl, whisk together the mashed bananas, eggs, Greek yogurt (or buttermilk), maple syrup, melted butter (or avocado), and vanilla extract until smooth and well-combined.
4. Combine Mixtures: Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet mixture. Stir gently until just combined. Ensure that the bran flakes are fully coated and no lumps of flour remain, but be careful not to overmix.
5. Add Walnuts: Fold in the chopped walnuts until evenly distributed.
6. Fill Muffin Cups: Spoon the batter into the prepared cupcake liners, filling each about ⅔ full.
7. Bake: Place the muffin pan in the oven and bake for 19-20 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center of a muffin comes out clean.
8. Cool: Remove the muffins from the oven and allow them to cool in the pan for 5 minutes before transferring them to a wire rack to cool completely.

Tips and Tricks

• Choose the Right Bananas: Use very ripe bananas for the best flavor and sweetness.
• Don’t Overmix: Overmixing can lead to dense muffins. Stir just until the ingredients are combined.
• Add a Topping: Sprinkle a few extra walnuts or a pinch of cinnamon sugar on top of each muffin before baking for added texture and flavor.
• Make It Vegan: Swap the eggs for flaxseed eggs and use plant-based yogurt and avocado instead of butter.
• Go Nut-Free: Omit the walnuts or replace them with dried cranberries or raisins.

Storing and Reheating

• Room Temperature: Store muffins in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days.
• Refrigeration: Extend their freshness by refrigerating them for up to a week.
• Freezing: These muffins freeze beautifully! Wrap each muffin individually in plastic wrap and place them in a freezer-safe bag. Freeze for up to 3 months. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator or reheat in the microwave for 20-30 seconds.

Food Pairings

These muffins pair wonderfully with:

• A warm cup of coffee or tea
• A dollop of Greek yogurt and fresh fruit for breakfast
• A side of scrambled eggs or a smoothie for a more filling meal

FAQs

Can I use a different type of flour?

Yes! Feel free to substitute the wheat flour with oat flour or almond flour for a different texture and flavor. Just keep in mind that the consistency of the batter may vary slightly.

Can I make this recipe gluten-free?

Absolutely! Use a gluten-free all-purpose flour blend and certified gluten-free bran flakes.

What can I use instead of maple syrup?

You can substitute maple syrup with honey or agave syrup. If you’re reducing sugar, try using a sugar-free syrup or cutting back the amount slightly.

How do I know when the muffins are done?

Insert a toothpick into the center of a muffin. If it comes out clean or with a few crumbs, they’re ready!

Final Thoughts

These Banana Bran Muffins are a fantastic way to start your day or satisfy your snack cravings while keeping things wholesome and nutritious. With their tender crumb and flavorful ingredients, they’re bound to become a household favorite. Plus, they’re easy to customize for various diets and preferences.

If you enjoyed this recipe, please share it with your friends and family, and don’t forget to subscribe to our blog for more delicious and healthy recipes like this one. Happy baking!