Healthy Banana Chocolate Chip Muffins
These Healthy Banana Chocolate Chip Muffins are the perfect blend of wholesome ingredients and indulgent flavors, making them a delightful treat for breakfast or a midday snack. Packed with ripe bananas and a hint of chocolate, these muffins are not only delicious but also a great way to sneak in some nutrition. Whether you need an energizing breakfast on the go or a sweet snack to satisfy your cravings, these muffins have got you covered!
What Sets This Recipe Apart
One of the standout features of these Healthy Banana Chocolate Chip Muffins is their use of natural sweeteners like pure maple syrup and coconut sugar, which enhance the muffins’ flavor without relying on refined sugars. The addition of applesauce keeps them moist while reducing the amount of oil needed, making them a guilt-free indulgence. Plus, by using overripe bananas, you’re not only reducing food waste but also ensuring a natural sweetness that elevates the muffins to new heights.
What Goes Into Healthy Banana Chocolate Chip Muffins
To make these scrumptious muffins, you will need the following ingredients:
- 1 tablespoon flaxseed meal or 1 large egg (if you do not need the muffins to be vegan)
- 3 large overripe bananas (about 11 ounces, or 1 1/2 cups mashed)
- 1/2 cup unsweetened applesauce
- 2 tablespoons canola oil or melted cooled coconut oil
- 1/2 cup coconut sugar or light brown sugar
- 1/2 cup pure maple syrup
- 1 teaspoon pure vanilla extract
- 1 teaspoon baking soda
- 1/2 teaspoon ground cinnamon
- 1/2 teaspoon kosher salt
- 1 1/2 cups white whole wheat flour
- 1/2 cup dark chocolate chips (mini or regular; use dairy-free if you want vegan muffins)
Toolbox for This Recipe
To whip up these muffins, you’ll need a few essential tools:
- Muffin tin: To bake those perfectly shaped muffins.
- Mixing bowls: For combining your wet and dry ingredients.
- Measuring cups and spoons: To ensure you get the right amounts of each ingredient.
- Whisk: For mixing the batter smoothly.
- Spatula: To fold in those delicious chocolate chips.
Healthy Banana Chocolate Chip Muffins: From Prep to Plate
Step 1: Preheat the Oven
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and line your muffin tin with paper liners or grease it lightly with cooking spray.
Step 2: Prepare the Flaxseed Meal (if using)
If you’re opting for the vegan version, mix 1 tablespoon of flaxseed meal with 2.5 tablespoons of water in a small bowl and let it sit for about 5 minutes to thicken.
Step 3: Mash the Bananas
In a large mixing bowl, mash the overripe bananas until smooth. You should have about 1 1/2 cups of mashed banana.
Step 4: Mix in Wet Ingredients
Add the unsweetened applesauce, canola oil or melted coconut oil, coconut sugar or brown sugar, maple syrup, vanilla extract, and the prepared flaxseed mixture (if using) to the mashed bananas. Whisk everything together until well combined.
Step 5: Combine Dry Ingredients
In another bowl, whisk together the baking soda, ground cinnamon, kosher salt, and white whole wheat flour.
Step 6: Combine Wet and Dry Ingredients
Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet mixture, folding gently until just combined. Be careful not to overmix!
Step 7: Fold in Chocolate Chips
Gently fold in the dark chocolate chips, making sure they are evenly distributed throughout the batter.
Step 8: Fill Muffin Tins
Spoon the batter into the prepared muffin tin, filling each cup about 2/3 full.
Step 9: Bake
Bake in the preheated oven for about 18-20 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.
Step 10: Cool and Serve
Once baked, remove the muffins from the oven and allow them to cool in the tin for 5 minutes before transferring them to a wire rack to cool completely. Enjoy these Healthy Banana Chocolate Chip Muffins warm or at room temperature!
Swap Guide
If you want to customize your muffins, consider these swaps:
- Flour: For a gluten-free option, you can substitute white whole wheat flour with a gluten-free all-purpose blend.
- Sweeteners: You can use honey instead of maple syrup if you prefer.
- Chocolate Chips: Substitute with chopped nuts or dried fruit for a different flavor profile.
- Oil: Use melted butter instead of coconut oil or canola oil for a richer taste.
Cook’s Notes
These muffins can be stored in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days or in the refrigerator for up to a week. For longer storage, consider freezing them. Just make sure to wrap each muffin tightly in plastic wrap and place them in a freezer-safe bag. They can be thawed at room temperature or warmed in the microwave when you’re ready to enjoy them.
Make Ahead Like a Pro
To make your mornings even easier, you can prepare the batter the night before. Simply mix the wet and dry ingredients separately and combine them in the morning before baking. This way, you’ll have fresh muffins ready to go in no time!
Troubleshooting Q&A
Why are my muffins dense?
Densely packed muffins typically result from overmixing the batter or using too much flour. Be sure to mix just until combined and measure your flour accurately.
Can I use frozen bananas?
Absolutely! Frozen bananas work well in this recipe. Just make sure to thaw them completely and drain any excess liquid before mashing.
How do I know when my muffins are done baking?
The muffins are ready when a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean or with a few moist crumbs attached. Avoid overbaking to keep them moist.
Can I double this recipe?
Yes! This recipe can easily be doubled. Just make sure you have a large enough mixing bowl to handle the increased volume of batter.
Keep Cooking
If you’re looking to expand your baking repertoire, check out these delicious recipes:
- Banana Pecan Bread – A nutty twist on banana bread that’s perfect for breakfast.
- Chocolate Cupcakes With Peanut Butter Frosting – Indulge in these decadent cupcakes for a special treat.
- Chocolate Butter Cake – A rich, moist cake perfect for celebrations.
Make It Tonight
There’s no better time than now to whip up a batch of these Healthy Banana Chocolate Chip Muffins. With simple ingredients and easy steps, you’ll have a deliciously healthy treat ready in no time. Whether you enjoy them fresh out of the oven or save some for later, you can feel good about indulging in these delightful muffins. Happy baking!
Share on Pinterest
Healthy Banana Chocolate Chip Muffins
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- Step 1: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and line your muffin tin with paper liners or grease it lightly with cooking spray.
- Step 2: If you’re opting for the vegan version, mix 1 tablespoon of flaxseed meal with 2.5 tablespoons of water in a small bowl and let it sit for about 5 minutes to thicken.
- Step 3: In a large mixing bowl, mash the overripe bananas until smooth. You should have about 1 1/2 cups of mashed banana.
- Step 4: Add the unsweetened applesauce, canola oil or melted coconut oil, coconut sugar or brown sugar, maple syrup, vanilla extract, and the prepared flaxseed mixture (if using) to the mashed bananas. Whisk everything together until well combined.
- Step 5: In another bowl, whisk together the baking soda, ground cinnamon, kosher salt, and white whole wheat flour.
- Step 6: Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet mixture, folding gently until just combined. Be careful not to overmix!
- Step 7: Gently fold in the dark chocolate chips, making sure they are evenly distributed throughout the batter.
- Step 8: Spoon the batter into the prepared muffin tin, filling each cup about 2/3 full.
- Step 9: Bake in the preheated oven for about 18-20 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.
- Step 10: Once baked, remove the muffins from the oven and allow them to cool in the tin for 5 minutes before transferring them to a wire rack to cool completely. Enjoy these Healthy Banana Chocolate Chip Muffins warm or at room temperature!
Notes
- Store muffins in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days.
- For longer storage, freeze muffins wrapped tightly in plastic wrap.
- Prepare the batter the night before for quick baking in the morning!
