Banana Zucchini Muffins are a delightful blend of sweet bananas and fresh zucchini, offering a nutritious and delicious treat that’s perfect for any time of day. Whether you’re looking for a wholesome breakfast, a satisfying snack, or a guilt-free dessert, these muffins are sure to hit the spot. Plus, they’re easy to make and packed with nutrients, making them a family favorite!
Ingredients
To make these moist and flavorful muffins, you’ll need:
- 1 ½ cups all-purpose flour
- 1 teaspoon baking soda
- ½ teaspoon baking powder
- ½ teaspoon salt
- ½ teaspoon ground cinnamon
- ¼ teaspoon ground nutmeg
- ½ cup granulated sugar
- ¼ cup brown sugar, packed
- ½ cup vegetable oil
- 2 large eggs
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1 cup mashed ripe bananas (about 2 bananas)
- 1 cup grated zucchini, squeezed of excess moisture
- ½ cup chopped walnuts or chocolate chips (optional)
Directions
Step 1: Preheat the Oven
Begin by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). Line a 12-cup muffin tin with paper liners or spray with non-stick cooking spray. This will ensure your muffins come out easily and maintain their shape.
Step 2: Mix the Dry Ingredients
In a medium bowl, whisk together the flour, baking soda, baking powder, salt, cinnamon, and nutmeg. Mixing these dry ingredients first helps to evenly distribute the leavening agents and spices throughout the batter.
Step 3: Combine Sugars and Oil
In a large mixing bowl, beat together the granulated sugar, brown sugar, and vegetable oil until smooth and well combined. This creates a moist base for your muffins.
Step 4: Add Eggs and Vanilla
Add the eggs one at a time, beating well after each addition. Stir in the vanilla extract to add a subtle layer of flavor that enhances the sweetness of the bananas.
Step 5: Incorporate Bananas and Zucchini
Fold in the mashed bananas and grated zucchini. Be sure to squeeze out any excess moisture from the zucchini before adding it to the batter. This step is crucial to avoid soggy muffins and ensure they bake up light and fluffy.
Step 6: Combine Wet and Dry Ingredients
Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet mixture, stirring just until combined. Overmixing can lead to dense muffins, so be gentle. If you’re feeling adventurous, fold in some chopped walnuts or chocolate chips for an extra treat.
Step 7: Fill the Muffin Cups
Divide the batter evenly among the muffin cups, filling each about ¾ full. This will help your muffins rise beautifully without overflowing.
Step 8: Bake
Place the muffin tin in the oven and bake for 18-22 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center of a muffin comes out clean. Let the muffins cool in the pan for 5 minutes before transferring them to a wire rack to cool completely.
Additional Information
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Total Time: 35 minutes
- Calories per Muffin: 200 kcal
Tips for the Best Banana Zucchini Muffins
- Use Overripe Bananas: The riper the bananas, the sweeter and more flavorful your muffins will be. Look for bananas with brown spots for the best results.
- Squeeze the Zucchini: Removing excess moisture from the zucchini is key to avoiding soggy muffins. Simply place the grated zucchini in a clean kitchen towel or paper towel and squeeze out the liquid.
- Customize Your Muffins: Feel free to add your favorite mix-ins like dried fruits, nuts, or even a swirl of peanut butter. Just be sure not to overdo it, as too many add-ins can weigh down the batter.
Conclusion
These Banana Zucchini Muffins are a delicious way to enjoy the flavors of banana bread with the added nutrition of zucchini. They’re perfect for busy mornings, afternoon snacks, or even as a healthier dessert option. Plus, they’re easy to make and can be customized to suit your taste. So why not bake a batch today and enjoy a wholesome, flavorful treat?