Banana Bran Muffins Recipe
Introduction
Indulge in the wholesome goodness of these soft, moist Banana Bran Muffins. With a perfect balance of natural sweetness from ripe bananas and the subtle richness of honey or maple syrup, these muffins are an ideal start to your day. The combination of whole wheat flour, instant oats, and wheat bran brings fiber to the forefront, making each bite nourishing as well as delightful. The addition of cashew nuts adds a gentle crunch, complementing the tender texture of the banana. Whether youโre looking for a delicious breakfast or a nutritious snack to pair with your afternoon tea, these muffins fit perfectly into any routine. Serve them fresh with a cup of masala chai or filter coffee for a cozy treat!
Ingredients
Hereโs what youโll need for these Banana Bran Muffins:
| Ingredient | Quantity |
|---|---|
| Ripe Bananas | 2 (mashed) |
| Whole Wheat Flour | 1 cup |
| Instant Oats (Oatmeal) | 1/2 cup (powdered) |
| Wheat Bran | 1/2 cup |
| Baking Powder | 1 teaspoon |
| Baking Soda | 1 teaspoon |
| Salt | 1 pinch |
| Milk | 1 cup |
| Oil | 1/4 cup |
| Maple Syrup (or Honey) | 1/4 cup |
| Vanilla Extract | 1 teaspoon |
| Whole Egg | 1 |
| Cashew Nuts | 1/4 cup (finely chopped) |
Allergen Information
This recipe contains wheat, milk, and egg, making it unsuitable for those with allergies to these ingredients. If you need to make the recipe dairy-free or vegan, you can substitute the milk with a non-dairy alternative such as almond or oat milk and use a plant-based egg replacement. If nuts are a concern, you can leave out the cashews or replace them with seeds like sunflower or pumpkin seeds.
Dietary Preferences
This recipe is eggetarian as it includes a whole egg. It can be adapted for vegetarians by substituting the egg with a suitable egg replacer. The muffins are rich in fiber and make for a wholesome breakfast or a mid-day snack.
Preparation & Cooking Instructions
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Preheat the Oven: Start by preheating your oven to 180ยฐC (350ยฐF). Prepare a muffin tray by lining it with cupcake liners and lightly greasing them with vegetable oil. This ensures the muffins come out cleanly after baking.
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Prepare the Dry Ingredients: In a large bowl, sift together the whole wheat flour, instant oats, wheat bran, baking powder, baking soda, and a pinch of salt. Whisk the mixture thoroughly to combine all the dry ingredients and set it aside for later.
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Mash the Bananas: In a separate bowl, peel the ripe bananas and mash them until smooth. The riper the bananas, the sweeter and softer your muffins will be.
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Mix Wet Ingredients: Add the egg, milk, oil, maple syrup (or honey), and vanilla extract to the mashed bananas. Use a whisk to mix these ingredients together for a few minutes until they form a smooth, creamy texture.
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Combine Wet and Dry Ingredients: Pour the wet ingredients into the bowl with the dry ingredients. Gently stir the mixture until it forms a smooth, lump-free batter. Be careful not to overmix, as this can affect the texture of the muffins.
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Add Nuts: Fold in the finely chopped cashew nuts to the batter, ensuring they are evenly distributed.
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Bake the Muffins: Spoon the batter evenly into the muffin tray, filling each cup about 2/3 full. Place the tray in the preheated oven and bake for 15 minutes. After this time, check the muffins by inserting a toothpick into the center of one. If it comes out clean, the muffins are ready; if not, bake for a few more minutes.
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Cool and Serve: Once baked, remove the muffins from the oven and allow them to cool in the tray for about 5 minutes. Then, transfer them to a wire rack to cool completely. Serve the muffins with a warm cup of masala chai or filter coffee for an extra touch of comfort. Alternatively, store them in an airtight container in the fridge for a quick breakfast or snack option throughout the week.
Nutritional Information
Serving Size: 1 muffin
Calories: ~150 per muffin
Carbohydrates: 25g
Protein: 3g
Fat: 6g
Fiber: 3g
Sugar: 8g
Tips for the Best Muffins
- Ripe Bananas: Use overripe bananas for maximum sweetness. The riper the banana, the more moisture it adds to the muffins, creating a tender texture.
- Optional Add-ins: For an extra flavor twist, consider adding chocolate chips, dried fruit, or seeds to the batter.
- Storage: Store your Banana Bran Muffins in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days or refrigerate for up to 5 days. They also freeze well for longer storage.
Conclusion
Banana Bran Muffins are a wholesome, nourishing treat that effortlessly combines the goodness of whole grains, oats, and the natural sweetness of ripe bananas. These muffins not only make an excellent breakfast choice but are also a perfect on-the-go snack. The soft, fluffy texture and delightful aroma make them a crowd-pleaser, while the nutritional benefits of bran, oats, and nuts ensure that they are as good for you as they are delicious. So, next time youโre in the mood for something homemade, reach for this easy recipe and enjoy a batch of freshly baked Banana Bran Muffins with your favorite hot beverage.
