These are truly the best healthy banana muffins, so good my kids think they are “cupcakes”. They are quick to throw together, full of nutrition, and very soft. We love the convenience of pulling them out on a busy day or throwing them in our lunches to go.
Tips:
*Eat them fresh and keep the rest sealed in the refrigerator for easy snacking
*Use these fun mini silicone muffin trays. No muffin liners, and they pop right out, and the kids love them as a fun snack.
Why switch to whole grain flour?
1. Nutrient-Rich: Whole grains contain all parts of the grain, including the germ, bran, and endosperm, which are rich in fiber, vitamins, minerals, and antioxidants. Processing removes these valuable nutrients.
2. Fiber Content: Whole grains are high in dietary fiber, which promotes digestive health, helps regulate blood sugar levels, and aids in weight management. Processed flour lacks much of this fiber content.
3. Lower Glycemic Index: Whole grains have a lower glycemic index compared to processed flour, meaning they cause a slower and more gradual rise in blood sugar levels, which is beneficial for overall health and may reduce the risk of type 2 diabetes.
4. Heart Health: Whole grains are associated with a reduced risk of heart disease due to their fiber content and other heart-healthy nutrients. They can help lower cholesterol levels and blood pressure.
5. Weight Management: The fiber and nutrients in whole grains can help keep you feeling full and satisfied, which may prevent overeating and support weight management efforts.
6. Long-term Health Benefits: Consuming whole grains regularly as part of a balanced diet may reduce the risk of chronic diseases such as certain cancers, stroke, and obesity.
7. Versatility in Baking: Baking with whole grain flours can add depth of flavor and texture to baked goods while still providing nutritional benefits. Plus, it opens up a wide range of options for healthier baking recipes.
Will this recipe work with all-purpose flour?
Yes, the muffins will still be delicious with all-purpose Einkorn, but you may have to add less liquid. I recommend starting with most of the liquid in the recipe and add liquid until you reach your desired consistency.
For a shiny bakery-style top:
Brush with simple syrup (1:1 white sugar dissolved in hot water and cooled) right when they come out of oven if you want a sweeter slightly crispy top, or brush with beaten egg white before baking if you just want the shine. Can also sprinkle sugar onto the egg wash for a more sugary topping.
Banana Whole Wheat Muffins
Ingredients
- 1+ cup milk 265g
- 2 1/2 whole wheat 250g (may use WW einkorn)
- 2 eggs
- 3 mashed bananas 275g
- 5 Tbs butter melted and cooled, 70g
- 1/4 cup sugar
- 2 tsp baking powder
- 2 tsp baking soda
- 2 tsp cinnamon
- 1 tsp sea salt
- 1/2 cup mini chocolate chips optional
- 1 cup walnuts, chopped optional
Apple Variation
- Replace bananas with shredded apple and add 1/4 cup more sugar.
Zucchini Variation
- Replace bananas with shredded zucchini and add 1/4 cup more sugar.
Carrot Variation
- Replace bananas with shredded carrot and add 1/4 cup more sugar.
Pumpkin Variation
- Replace bananas and cinnamon with pumpkin puree and 1 Tablespoon pumpkin spice and add 1/4 cup more sugar.
Instructions
- Mix together all ingredients except baking soda and baking powder and let sit to allow whole wheat to absorb the liquid.
- Preheat oven to 350 degrees.
- Once oven is preheated, add baking powder and soda and mix gently until incorporated. Do not over mix or muffins may be dense.
- Scoop batter into muffin cups to 3/4 full.
- After 20 minutes, take muffins out of oven and brush with eggwash and sprinkle with turbinado sugar.
- Turn oven to 400 degrees and bake for another 5 minutes until tops are crispy. Check for doneness with a toothpick until it comes out clean or inside temperature reaches 190 degrees.
- Let cool.