Banana S’mores Muffins

These Banana S’mores Muffins are a delightful blend of flavors that make for a perfect breakfast treat or snack. With a combination of graham cracker crumbs, chocolate chips, and vegan marshmallows, these muffins bring the classic s’mores experience into a portable form. They are not just tasty but also incredibly easy to make, making them ideal for busy mornings or casual gatherings. Enjoy the warm, gooey goodness that will surely please both kids and adults alike!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Quick Preparation: These muffins can be made in just 20 minutes of prep time, perfect for those busy mornings.
• Deliciously Unique Flavor: The combination of bananas and s’mores ingredients creates a delightful twist on traditional muffins.
• Versatile Serving Options: Enjoy them for breakfast, as an afternoon snack, or even as a dessert.
• Kid-Friendly: Kids will love these sweet treats, making them an excellent choice for family gatherings or school lunches.
• Easy to Customize: Feel free to add nuts or substitute other mix-ins based on your preferences.

Tools and Preparation

Before you start baking your Banana S’mores Muffins, gather all the necessary tools and equipment. Having everything ready will streamline your cooking process.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Muffin pan
• Cupcake liners
• Mixing bowls
• Measuring cups and spoons
• Whisk
• Rubber spatula

Importance of Each Tool

• Muffin pan: Provides the shape for your muffins and ensures even cooking.
• Cupcake liners: Make cleanup easier and prevent sticking for perfect muffin removal.
• Mixing bowls: Essential for combining ingredients without creating a mess in your kitchen.
• Whisk: Helps incorporate air into your batter for lighter muffins.

Ingredients

To whip up these delicious Banana S’mores Muffins, you’ll need the following ingredients:

Dry Ingredients

• 2 cups all purpose flour
• 2 teaspoons baking powder
• 1 teaspoon baking soda
• 1/2 teaspoon table salt
• 1 teaspoon cinnamon
• 3/4 cup grachicken chicken ham cracker crumbs

Wet Ingredients

• 2/3 cup packed light brown sugar
• 2 tablespoons unsalted butter, melted
• 1 large egg
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
• 2/3 cup mashed ripe banana (2 medium sized)
• 1/2 cup sour cream
• 2/3 cup whole milk

Add-ins

• 1 cup miniature chocolate chips, divided
• 1 cup miniature vegan marshmallows bits, divided

How to Make Banana S’mores Muffins

Step 1: Preheat the Oven

Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). Prepare your muffin pan by placing 16 cupcake liners inside or spray it well with nonstick baking spray.

Step 2: Mix Wet Ingredients

In a mixing bowl, beat together the melted butter and brown sugar until combined. Add in the egg, vanilla extract, mashed banana, and sour cream. Beat again until smooth.

Step 3: Combine Dry Ingredients

In another bowl, stir together the flour, baking powder, baking soda, salt, cinnamon, and graham cracker crumbs until evenly mixed.

Step 4: Combine Mixtures

Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet mixture alternately with milk. Mix until just combined; be careful not to over-mix.

Step 5: Fold in Chocolate Chips and Marshmallows

Gently fold in 3/4 cup of chocolate chips and 3/4 cup of vegan marshmallow bits using a rubber spatula.

Step 6: Fill Muffin Liners

Spoon the batter into each cupcake liner until full. Sprinkle the remaining chocolate chips and marshmallow bits on top of each muffin.

Step 7: Bake

Bake in the preheated oven for about 16 minutes or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.

Step 8: Cool

Allow muffins to cool in the pan for about 3-4 minutes before transferring them to a wire rack to cool completely. Store any extras in a sealed container.

Enjoy these scrumptious Banana S’mores Muffins fresh from the oven or save some for later!

How to Serve Banana S’mores Muffins

Banana S’mores Muffins are a delightful treat that can be enjoyed in various ways. Whether for breakfast, a snack, or dessert, these muffins can be paired with different accompaniments to elevate their flavor.

With a Glass of Milk

• A classic combination that complements the sweetness of the muffins and adds creaminess.

Topped with Nut Butter

• Spread almond or peanut butter on top for an extra layer of flavor and protein.

Served Warm with Ice Cream

• Enjoy warm muffins topped with your favorite non-dairy ice cream for a decadent dessert.

Accompanied by Fresh Fruit

• Pair with sliced bananas, berries, or apples for a refreshing contrast.

With a Hot Beverage

• Serve alongside coffee, tea, or hot chocolate to balance the sweetness of the muffins.

How to Perfect Banana S’mores Muffins

To ensure your Banana S’mores Muffins turn out perfectly every time, consider these helpful tips:

• Use Ripe Bananas: The riper the bananas, the sweeter and more flavorful your muffins will be.
• Don’t Overmix: Mix until ingredients are just combined to keep your muffins light and fluffy.
• Check Oven Temperature: Use an oven thermometer to ensure accurate baking temperatures for consistent results.
• Chill Ingredients: Keeping butter and other dairy slightly chilled can lead to better texture in baked goods.
• Experiment with Add-ins: Try adding nuts or dried fruits to customize flavors while maintaining the core essence of s’mores.

Best Side Dishes for Banana S’mores Muffins

Serving side dishes alongside your Banana S’mores Muffins can make for a more complete meal or snack. Here are some great options:

1. Greek Yogurt: Provides a creamy texture and tangy flavor that balances sweetness.
2. Fruit Salad: A mix of seasonal fruits enhances freshness and complements the muffins well.
3. Oatmeal: A warm bowl of oatmeal adds heartiness and pairs nicely with sweet flavors.
4. Scrambled Eggs: Adds protein and savory notes that contrast beautifully with the muffins’ sweetness.
5. Smoothie Bowl: Blend up your choice of fruits and serve as a refreshing side dish.
6. Cottage Cheese: Offers a creamy texture and mild flavor that works well with sweet muffins.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

When making Banana S’mores Muffins, it’s easy to overlook details that can affect the final result. Here are some common mistakes to watch out for:

• Missing Ingredients: Ensure you have all ingredients ready before starting. Skipping items like chocolate chips or graham cracker crumbs can alter the flavor and texture.

• Overmixing the Batter: Mixing too much can lead to dense muffins. Mix just until combined for fluffy results.

• Incorrect Oven Temperature: Always preheat your oven to 400°F. Baking at the wrong temperature can cause uneven cooking or burnt tops.

• Not Using Ripe Bananas: Ripe bananas add sweetness and moisture. Choose bananas with brown spots for the best flavor and texture.

• Ignoring Cooling Time: Letting your muffins cool in the pan for a few minutes is crucial. This helps them set properly and makes removal easier.

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store your Banana S’mores Muffins in an airtight container.
• They will last in the fridge for up to 5 days.

Freezing Banana S’mores Muffins

• Place cooled muffins in a freezer-safe bag or container.
• They can be frozen for up to 3 months.

Reheating Banana S’mores Muffins

• Oven: Preheat to 350°F, wrap muffins in foil, and heat for about 10 minutes.
• Microwave: Heat one muffin on high for about 15-20 seconds until warm.
• Stovetop: Use a skillet over low heat, cover, and warm muffins for a few minutes.

Frequently Asked Questions

If you have any questions about making Banana S’mores Muffins, here are some common inquiries:

What makes these Banana S’mores Muffins special?

These muffins combine the classic flavors of s’mores with banana, offering a unique twist on a beloved treat that’s perfect for breakfast or snacks.

Can I substitute ingredients in the recipe?

Yes! You can use dairy-free alternatives for sour cream and milk if needed. Also, feel free to experiment with different types of chocolate chips.

How do I ensure my muffins rise well?

Make sure your baking powder and baking soda are fresh. Also, avoid overmixing the batter for optimal rise and texture.

What if I don’t have graham cracker crumbs?

You can make your own by crushing any plain cookies or using crushed oats as an alternative.

Final Thoughts

Banana S’mores Muffins are not just delicious; they offer versatility in flavors and ingredients. You can easily customize them by adding nuts or swapping chocolate types. Try this recipe today and enjoy a delightful start to your morning!