Banana S’mores Muffins

These delightful Banana S’mores Muffins are a perfect blend of flavors that make mornings special. Loaded with graham cracker crumbs, chocolate chips, and vegan marshmallows, these muffins offer a fun twist on the classic dessert. They are not only easy to make but also versatile enough for breakfast, snacks, or even as a sweet treat for gatherings. Enjoy the combination of banana and s’mores in every bite!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Quick to Prepare – With just 20 minutes of prep time, you can whip up a batch of these muffins in no time.
• Irresistible Flavor – The combination of ripe bananas and gooey marshmallows creates an unforgettable taste experience.
• Versatile Treat – Perfect for breakfast or as a sweet snack during the day; they fit any occasion!
• Crowd-Pleaser – These muffins are sure to be a hit among family and friends, making them ideal for gatherings.
• Easy Cleanup – Using cupcake liners helps keep your muffin pan clean, making post-baking cleanup a breeze.

Tools and Preparation

To make these Banana S’mores Muffins, you will need some essential tools to ensure everything goes smoothly.

Essential Tools and Equipment

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

Importance of Each Tool

• Muffin pan – Provides the shape needed for perfect muffins and ensures even baking.
• Cupcake liners – Prevent sticking and make it easy to remove the muffins without any mess.
• Mixing bowls – Essential for combining ingredients effectively without spilling.
• Rubber spatula – Helps in folding ingredients together gently to retain airiness in the batter.

Ingredients

These easy Banana S’mores Muffins are loaded with graham cracker crumbs, chocolate chips, and vegan marshmallows. They are a delicious way to start out the day.

For the Batter

• 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

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 graham cracker crumbs

Additional Ingredients

• 2/3 cup whole milk
• 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). While it heats up, prepare your muffin pan by placing 16 cupcake liners inside or spraying the pan with nonstick baking spray.

Step 2: Mix Wet Ingredients

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

Step 3: Combine Dry Ingredients

In another bowl:
1. Stir together the all-purpose flour, baking powder, baking soda, table salt, cinnamon, and graham cracker crumbs until evenly mixed.

Step 4: Combine Wet and Dry Mixtures

Gradually add the dry mixture into the wet mixture:
– Alternate adding small amounts of flour mixture with whole milk until fully combined. Be careful not to over-mix; some lumps are okay!

Step 5: Add Chocolate Chips & Marshmallows

Using a rubber spatula:
– Gently fold in 3/4 cup of chocolate chips and 3/4 cup of vegan marshmallow bits into the batter.

Step 6: Fill Muffin Liners & Bake

1. Fill each muffin liner about two-thirds full with batter.
2. Sprinkle remaining chocolate chips and vegan marshmallow bits on top of each muffin before baking.
3. Bake in preheated oven for about 16 minutes or until golden brown.

Step 7: Cool & Store

Let muffins cool in the pan for about 3–4 minutes before transferring them to a wire rack to cool completely. Store in an airtight container once cooled.

Enjoy your delicious Banana S’mores Muffins!

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, brunch, or dessert, these muffins bring a sweet and satisfying flavor to any occasion.

For Breakfast

• Toasted with butter – Lightly toast the muffins and spread a layer of butter for added richness.
• Served with yogurt – Pair them with a dollop of yogurt for a creamy contrast that enhances the muffin’s sweetness.

As a Snack

• With fresh fruit – Serve alongside slices of fresh fruit like strawberries or bananas for a refreshing balance.
• Dipped in chocolate sauce – Drizzle warm chocolate sauce over the muffins for an indulgent treat during afternoon tea.

For Dessert

• A scoop of ice cream – Top warm muffins with your favorite ice cream for a delicious dessert option.
• Sprinkled with powdered sugar – Dust with powdered sugar for an elegant finish that adds sweetness without overpowering the flavors.

How to Perfect Banana S’mores Muffins

Achieving the perfect Banana S’mores Muffins is simple with a few key tips. Follow these suggestions to enhance your baking experience.

• Use ripe bananas – The riper your bananas, the sweeter and more flavorful your muffins will be. Look for bananas with brown spots for optimal ripeness.
• Don’t overmix – Mix just until combined to ensure your muffins are light and fluffy. Overmixing can lead to dense muffins.
• Measure accurately – Use measuring cups and spoons to ensure you have the correct ingredient ratios, which is vital for baking success.
• Cool properly – Allow muffins to cool on a wire rack after baking to prevent them from becoming soggy at the bottom.

Best Side Dishes for Banana S’mores Muffins

These Banana S’mores Muffins pair wonderfully with various side dishes that complement their flavors. Consider adding one or more of these delicious options.

1. Fruit salad – A mix of seasonal fruits provides freshness and balances the sweetness of the muffins.
2. Granola – Crunchy granola adds texture and pairs well as a topping or side dish.
3. Nut butter – Almond or peanut butter offers protein and healthy fats, making it a satisfying addition.
4. Vegetable sticks – Fresh vegetable sticks like carrots and celery add crunch and nutrients, balancing out the sweetness.
5. Cottage cheese – This creamy side provides protein while offering a mild flavor that complements the muffins.
6. Chia seed pudding – A light chia pudding can add an interesting texture and serves as a nutritious option alongside the sweet muffins.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Making Banana S’mores Muffins can be a delightful experience, but there are some common pitfalls to watch out for.

• Boldly measuring ingredients: Using the wrong measurements can ruin your muffins. Always use precise measuring cups and spoons for accuracy.
• Boldly overmixing the batter: Overmixing can lead to dense muffins. Mix just until combined for a light texture.
• Boldly skipping the cooling time: Removing muffins too soon can affect their structure. Let them cool in the pan briefly before transferring to a wire rack.
• Boldly ignoring storage tips: Improper storage can make your muffins stale. Keep them in an airtight container to maintain freshness.
• Boldly using expired ingredients: Always check the dates on your baking powder and baking soda. Expired ingredients won’t provide the rise you need.

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

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

Freezing Banana S’mores Muffins

• Wrap each muffin individually in plastic wrap or aluminum foil.
• Place them in a freezer-safe bag or container. They will freeze well for up to 3 months.

Reheating Banana S’mores Muffins

• Oven: Preheat your oven to 350°F. Place muffins on a baking sheet and heat for about 10 minutes or until warmed through.
• Microwave: Heat one muffin at a time for about 15-20 seconds until warm. Be cautious not to overheat, as this can make them tough.
• Stovetop: Use a skillet over low heat, cover with a lid, and heat for a few minutes until warmed throughout.

Frequently Asked Questions

If you have questions about making Banana S’mores Muffins, you’re not alone! Here are some common queries.

Can I substitute the sour cream?

Yes, Greek yogurt works well as a substitute for sour cream while maintaining moisture.

How do I make these muffins gluten-free?

You can use a gluten-free all-purpose flour blend instead of regular flour. Ensure it contains xanthan gum for texture.

Can I add nuts or other toppings?

Absolutely! Feel free to add chopped nuts or other favorites like dried fruits or seeds to customize your muffins.

How should I store leftover muffins?

Keep leftover Banana S’mores Muffins in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 5 days, or refrigerate them.

What if I don’t have graham cracker crumbs?

You can easily crush vanilla wafers or digestive biscuits as an alternative to graham cracker crumbs.

Final Thoughts

Banana S’mores Muffins are a delightful treat that combines flavors everyone loves. Their versatility allows for customization with nuts or chocolate variations. Give this recipe a try and enjoy these delicious muffins any time of day!