Craving a delightful treat that combines the rich flavors of chocolate, peanut butter, and banana? Look no further than these Chocolate Peanut Butter Banana Muffins. Packed with a luscious swirl of peanut butter on top, these muffins are a heavenly blend of fudgy brownies and moist chocolate cake with a hint of banana sweetness.
Forget ordinary muffins; we’re diving into a realm of double chocolate goodness with a twist of iconic peanut butter and banana flavors. This easy-to-follow recipe doesn’t even require a mixer, making it a hassle-free baking experience.
If you’re a fan of muffins that are both indulgent and wholesome, these Chocolate Peanut Butter Banana Muffins are sure to become a favorite in your recipe collection. Get ready to elevate your breakfast or snack game with this irresistible combination of flavors.
Ingredients List
To make these irresistible Chocolate Peanut Butter Banana Muffins, gather the following core ingredients and optional add-ins for a delightful baking experience.
Chocolate Peanut Butter Banana Muffins Core Ingredients
- 2 and 1/2 cups (312g) plain/all-purpose flour
- 1/2 cup (50g) cocoa powder
- 2 teaspoons baking powder
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
- 2 large eggs
- 3/4 cup (150g) caster/granulated sugar
- 1 cup (240ml) buttermilk
- 1/2 cup (120ml) vegetable oil
- 2 teaspoons vanilla extract
- 2 medium bananas, mashed
- 1/2 cup (125g) smooth peanut butter
- 1 cup (175g) chocolate chips
- Chopped nuts (such as walnuts or pecans)
- Dried fruits (like raisins or cranberries)
- White chocolate chips
- Coconut flakes
- Swapping peanut butter for almond butter or nut-free butter for allergies
Equipment Needed
To prepare these delicious chocolate peanut butter banana muffins, you will need the following equipment:
- Muffin tin
- Muffin liners or non-stick spray
- Mixing bowls
- Measuring cups and spoons
- Whisk
- Electric beaters or a food mixer
- Spatula
- Cooling rack
Having these essential items ready will make the baking process smooth and enjoyable. Now that we have all the necessary equipment let’s move on to the next steps in the recipe.
Preparation Steps
Before diving into making these delicious chocolate peanut butter banana muffins, let’s get our ingredients ready and the pans prepped for baking.
Preparing Your Ingredients
- Gather all your ingredients, including plain white flour, baking powder, baking soda, cinnamon, salt, ripe bananas, butter, brown sugar, no-stir peanut butter, Greek yogurt or sour cream, vanilla extract, eggs, and chocolate drops or chips.
- Ensure your bananas are ripe for the best flavor. Look for bananas with full plumpness and no bruises, splits, or dark spots on the peel.
- Mash the bananas and set them aside. Preheat your oven to 350ºF.
- Preheat your oven to 350ºF and line a 12-pan muffin tin with paper liners or grease the cups with coconut oil to prevent sticking.
- If using muffin liners, ensure they are securely placed in the muffin tin.
- Grease the inside of the cups and the top of the muffin tray to prevent overflow during baking.
By following these simple preparation steps, you’ll be all set to create these scrumptious chocolate peanut butter banana muffins.
Baking Instructions
Mixing the Batter
In a large mixing bowl, thoroughly mash three ripe bananas until smooth. Add 3/4 cup of brown sugar, 1 large egg, 1/3 cup of unsweetened applesauce, 2 tablespoons of melted butter, and 1/2 cup of creamy peanut butter. Combine these ingredients until well mixed. Next, gently fold in 1/2 cup of stone-ground whole wheat flour, 1/2 cup of all-purpose flour, 1/2 cup of unsweetened cocoa powder, 1/2 teaspoon of salt, 1 teaspoon of baking soda, and 1 teaspoon of baking powder over the banana mixture, being careful not to overmix. Lastly, add 1 cup of chocolate chips and fold them in.
Adding Fillings and Toppings
Using a 12-cup muffin tin lined with baking cups, evenly distribute the batter, filling each cup to the top. For an extra touch, reserve a few chocolate chips to place on top of the muffins before baking.
Baking and Cooling
Preheat the oven to 375°F and position a rack in the center. Bake the prepared muffins for about 20 minutes or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean. Avoid overbaking to keep the muffins moist. Allow the muffins to cool in the tin for a few minutes before transferring them to a wire rack to cool completely. Enjoy these delectable chocolate peanut butter banana muffins warm or at room temperature.
Customizing Your Muffins
Whether you’re looking to accommodate dietary restrictions or craving even fluffier muffins, here are some tips and variations to personalize your chocolate peanut butter banana muffins.
Variations for Dietary Restrictions
- Gluten-Free Option: Substitute the flours with gluten-free alternatives like almond flour or a gluten-free baking flour blend.
- Dairy-Free Variation: Replace the buttermilk with a dairy-free alternative like almond milk or coconut milk, and ensure the chocolate chips are dairy-free.
- Vegan Adaptation: Use a flax egg or mashed banana in place of the egg, opt for dairy-free chocolate chips, and choose plant-based butter for a vegan-friendly version.
- Room Temperature Ingredients: Ensure your eggs, buttermilk, and any dairy ingredients are at room temperature before mixing for lighter and fluffier muffins.
- Proper Mixing Technique: Mix the batter until just combined to prevent overmixing, which can result in dense muffins. Gentle folding is key for a tender crumb structure.
- Baking Temperature: Bake the muffins at the recommended temperature and avoid opening the oven door too frequently to maintain a consistent baking environment, leading to a better rise and fluffiness.
Storing and Freezing
As you enjoy the delightful flavors of these Chocolate Peanut Butter Banana Muffins, it’s essential to know how to store and freeze them properly to maintain their freshness. Follow these simple guidelines to keep your muffins tasting delicious for longer.
How to Keep Muffins Fresh
To keep your Chocolate Peanut Butter Banana Muffins fresh and moist, store them in an airtight container at room temperature. This will help retain their flavor and texture for up to 3-4 days. Avoid leaving them exposed to air, as this can dry them out quickly.
Freezing and Reheating Instructions
If you want to save some muffins for later enjoyment, freezing is a great option. Wrap each cooled muffin tightly in plastic wrap, then place them in freezer bags. They can be frozen for up to three months. To reheat frozen muffins, simply unwrap them and microwave for a few seconds until warm. This convenient method allows you to enjoy these delicious muffins whenever you crave a tasty treat.
Conclusion
I’ve shared a delectable recipe for Chocolate Peanut Butter Banana Muffins that perfectly blends chocolate, peanut butter, and banana flavors into a delightful and wholesome treat. With a simple preparation process and customizable options, these muffins are ideal for breakfast or snacking. By following the tips and variations provided, you can easily adapt the recipe to suit dietary preferences or flavor preferences. Whether you enjoy them warm or at room temperature, these muffins are sure to satisfy your cravings. Don’t forget to store them properly to maintain their freshness and consider freezing some for later enjoyment. Get ready to indulge in these delicious muffins that are bound to become a favorite in your household!