Nutella Banana Muffins: Quick & Delicious

Are you craving a sweet treat that delights your taste buds without taking up too much of your time? Look no further! Nutella Banana Muffins are the perfect solution! These fluffy muffins, adorned with the irresistible combination of creamy Nutella and ripe bananas, are not only simple to make but are also a fantastic way to start your day. Imagine waking up to the scent of freshly baked muffins wafting through your kitchen, ready to provide you with a delicious breakfast or a cozy afternoon snack. With just a handful of ingredients, these muffins are quick to whip up, making them ideal for busy mornings or a spontaneous craving. Plus, the mix of sweet bananas and rich chocolate hazelnut spread creates a flavor explosion that’s utterly satisfying. Whether you’re hosting a brunch or just treating yourself, these muffins belong in your recipe repertoire.

Ingredients

1 1/2 cups all-purpose flour
1/2 cup granulated sugar
1/2 tsp baking soda
1/2 tsp baking powder
1/4 tsp salt
3 ripe bananas, mashed
1/3 cup vegetable oil
1/2 cup Nutella or other chocolate hazelnut spread
1 egg
1 tsp vanilla extract

Instructions

To get started on your Nutella Banana Muffins, preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). While the oven is warming up, prepare your muffin tin by either lining it with paper liners or greasing it with non-stick cooking spray to prevent sticking.

In a large mixing bowl, whisk together the dry ingredients: combine the all-purpose flour, granulated sugar, baking soda, baking powder, and salt. This step ensures that the leavening agents are evenly distributed throughout the batter, which is crucial for achieving that perfect rise.

Next, in a separate bowl, take your ripe bananas and mash them well. You want them to be as smooth as possible for even incorporation into the batter. Add the vegetable oil, creamy Nutella, egg, and vanilla extract to the mashed bananas. Mix these wet ingredients until they are fully combined and smooth; this ensures each muffin will be packed with that delicious flavor.

Once you have your wet mix ready, pour it into the bowl with your dry ingredients. Stir gently with a spatula or wooden spoon until just mixed together; be careful not to overmix! Overmixing can lead to dense muffins, and we want these to be light and fluffy.

Once your batter is ready, it’s time to scoop it into the muffin tin. Fill each muffin cup about two-thirds full to allow room for them to rise as they bake. Place your muffin tin into the preheated oven and bake for 18-20 minutes. To check for doneness, insert a toothpick into the center of one muffin; if it comes out clean or with just a few crumbs attached, your muffins are ready.

After baking, let the muffins rest in the tin for about 5 minutes. This will make it easier to remove them. Then, carefully transfer the muffins to a wire rack to cool completely. The aroma wafting through your kitchen will be undeniable and will have everyone eager to try them!

Variations

The beauty of Nutella Banana Muffins is their versatility! There are several delicious variations you can try to make them uniquely yours. One lovely option is to add chopped nuts, such as walnuts or pecans, for an additional crunch. Just toss in about half a cup into your batter for a nutty flavor that complements the sweetness of the bananas and the chocolate hazelnut spread.

If you’re a fan of a little spice, consider adding a teaspoon of cinnamon or a pinch of nutmeg to the dry ingredients for a warm aroma and flavor that perfectly pairs with banana. Another delightful tweak is to swap out some of the flour for whole wheat flour for added nutrition and a slightly nuttier flavor.

For those who might be dairy-sensitive or following a vegan diet, you can easily switch the egg for a flax egg (1 tbsp ground flaxseed mixed with 2.5 tbsp water) and use non-dairy milk in place of the vegetable oil. This way, you can enjoy these scrumptious muffins without compromise!

Cooking Notes

When it comes to baking, timing and tools are key. If your oven tends to run hot, consider checking the muffins a couple of minutes earlier than the suggested time, as they can quickly go from perfect to overbaked.

Use a light-colored muffin tin for best results, as dark pans can cause the muffins to brown too quickly. If you’re prone to forgetting things in the oven, set a timer and keep an eye on them as they near the end of the baking time.

Another important note is to use ripe bananas; the riper, the better! Bananas that have brown spots are ideal as they are sweeter and will give a more moist texture to your muffins. Store any leftovers in an airtight container at room temperature for a couple of days or freeze them for later enjoyment. Wrap individual muffins in plastic wrap or foil before placing them in an airtight container to prevent freezer burn.

Serving Suggestions

Nutella Banana Muffins are delicious on their own, but there are plenty of serving suggestions to enhance your experience. Enjoy them warm with a pat of butter or a drizzle of maple syrup for a sweet breakfast treat. Pair them with a hot cup of coffee or tea, turning your snack into a fully cozy moment.

For a fun twist, consider serving them alongside a scoop of vanilla ice cream for a delightful dessert. Muffins can also be cut in half and filled with extra Nutella or topped with sliced bananas for added indulgence.

Tips

Use ripe bananas for the best flavor and moisture.
Don’t overmix the batter to keep muffins light and fluffy.
Feel free to customize with your favorite nuts or spices.
Store leftover muffins in an airtight container to maintain freshness.
Consider doubling the recipe for gatherings or to have extras on hand!

Prep Time, Cook Time, Total Time

Prep Time: 15 minutes

Cook Time: 20 minutes

Total Time: 35 minutes

Nutritional Information

Calories: 180 per muffin

Protein: 3g

Sodium: 130mg

FAQs

Can I make these muffins gluten-free?
Yes! Substitute the all-purpose flour with a gluten-free flour blend in the same quantity, and you will still achieve great results.

How can I make Nutella Banana Muffins vegan?
To make these muffins vegan, replace the egg with a flax egg and use plant-based oil. Ensure your Nutella is vegan or opt for a vegan chocolate hazelnut spread.

How do I know when the muffins are done baking?
Stick a toothpick into the center of a muffin. If it comes out clean or with a few moist crumbs, they are done. If it has wet batter, they need more time to bake.

Can I freeze leftover muffins?
Absolutely! Let the muffins cool completely before wrapping them tightly in plastic wrap or foil and placing them in a freezer bag.

What can I add to enhance the flavor?
Consider adding chocolate chips, dried fruit, or coconut flakes for added variety in taste and texture!

Conclusion

In conclusion, these Nutella Banana Muffins are undoubtedly a go-to recipe for anyone looking for a quick, delicious, and satisfying treat. From breakfast to dessert, these muffins check all the boxes! The combination of Nutella and bananas creates a delightful flavor that everyone will love. Don’t hesitate to put your spin on them, whether it’s incorporating nuts or enjoying them with a dollop of yogurt on the side. Now it’s your time to shine in the kitchen! Try out this recipe, share your experience in the comments, and don’t forget to spread the word with your friends and family. Happy baking!