Banana S’mores Muffins

These easy Banana S’mores Muffins are a delightful morning treat that combines the classic flavors of s’mores with the natural sweetness of bananas. Perfect for breakfast or as an afternoon snack, these muffins are loaded with graham cracker crumbs, chocolate chips, and vegan marshmallows. Their soft, moist texture and deliciously sweet taste make them a fantastic choice for any occasion.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Quick and Easy: With just a few simple steps, you can whip up a batch of these muffins in no time.
• Irresistible Flavor: The combination of banana, chocolate, and marshmallows creates a mouthwatering experience in every bite.
• Versatile Treat: Great for breakfast, snacks, or dessert; these muffins fit perfectly into any meal plan.
• Family-Friendly: Kids will love the sweet taste and fun texture of these muffins—perfect for involving little helpers in the kitchen.
• Make Ahead Option: These muffins store well, making them ideal for meal prep or grabbing on busy mornings.

Tools and Preparation

Before you start baking your Banana S’mores Muffins, gather your tools. Having everything ready will streamline the process and make it more enjoyable.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Muffin pan
• Cupcake liners or nonstick baking spray
• Mixing bowls
• Whisk or electric mixer
• Measuring cups and spoons
• Rubber spatula

Importance of Each Tool

• Muffin pan: Essential for shaping your muffins and ensuring even cooking.
• Mixing bowls: Necessary for combining ingredients effectively without spills.
• Whisk or electric mixer: Helps to achieve a smooth batter quickly, saving time and effort.

Ingredients

To make these delicious Banana S’mores Muffins, you will need the following ingredients:

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
• 2 cups all purpose flour
• 2 teaspoons baking powder
• 1 teaspoon baking soda
• 1/2 teaspoon table salt
• 1 teaspoon cinnamon

For the S’mores Flavor

• 3/4 cup graham cracker crumbs
• 2/3 cup whole milk
• 1 cup miniature chocolate chips, divided
• 1 cup miniature vegan marshmallow bits, divided

How to Make Banana S’mores Muffins

Step 1: Preheat the Oven

Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). Line a muffin pan with 16 cupcake liners or spray it well with nonstick baking spray to prevent sticking.

Step 2: Prepare the 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 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: Mix Wet & Dry Ingredients

Gradually add the dry mixture into the wet ingredients alternately with whole milk:
– Start with a portion of dry mix, then add milk.
– Repeat until everything is combined but do not over-mix; this keeps your muffins light and fluffy.

Step 5: Add Chocolate Chips & Marshmallows

Gently fold in:
– 3/4 cup of miniature chocolate chips
– 3/4 cup of miniature vegan marshmallow bits

Step 6: Fill Muffin Liners

Spoon the muffin batter into each liner until about two-thirds full. Sprinkle remaining chocolate chips and marshmallow bits on top.

Step 7: Bake

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

Step 8: Cool & Store

Allow muffins to cool in the pan for 3–4 minutes before transferring them to a wire rack. Once cooled completely, store in an airtight container to maintain freshness.

How to Serve Banana S’mores Muffins

Banana S’mores Muffins are perfect for breakfast or as a sweet snack. Their delightful flavors make them a versatile treat that can be enjoyed in various ways.

With Fresh Fruit

• Serve with sliced bananas, strawberries, or blueberries for a refreshing contrast and added nutrition.

As a Dessert

• Pair with a scoop of vanilla or chocolate ice cream for a decadent dessert that will satisfy your sweet tooth.

Breakfast Sandwiches

• Slice the muffins in half and add a spread of nut butter or cream cheese for a filling breakfast option.

Drizzled with Chocolate Sauce

• Add an extra touch by drizzling warm chocolate sauce over the muffins before serving for an indulgent treat.

Accompanied by Coffee or Tea

• Enjoy these muffins with your favorite coffee or tea for a cozy morning or afternoon snack.

How to Perfect Banana S’mores Muffins

To achieve the best Banana S’mores Muffins, follow these helpful tips for perfect results every time.

• Use Ripe Bananas: The riper the bananas, the sweeter and more flavorful your muffins will be.
• Don’t Overmix: Mix just until combined to keep your muffins light and fluffy. Overmixing can lead to dense muffins.
• Cool Slightly Before Removing: Let the muffins cool in the pan for a few minutes to help them hold their shape when removed.
• Store Properly: Keep muffins in an airtight container to maintain their freshness and prevent them from drying out.
• Customizable Ingredients: Feel free to swap chocolate chips with other mix-ins like nuts or dried fruit to suit your taste.
• Check Doneness: Use a toothpick inserted into the center; if it comes out clean, your muffins are ready!

Best Side Dishes for Banana S’mores Muffins

Pairing side dishes with Banana S’mores Muffins enhances their flavor and makes for a well-rounded meal or snack. Here are some great options:

1. Yogurt Parfait: Layer Greek yogurt with granola and fresh fruits for a delightful contrast in texture.
2. Cottage Cheese: A bowl of cottage cheese adds creaminess and protein, balancing out the sweetness of the muffins.
3. Fruit Salad: A colorful mix of seasonal fruits provides freshness and vibrancy alongside the muffins.
4. Granola Bars: Homemade granola bars offer an easy grab-and-go option that complements the muffin’s flavors.
5. Smoothie Bowl: A thick smoothie topped with seeds, nuts, and berries creates a nutritious pairing that’s visually appealing.
6. Nut Butter Toast: Whole-grain toast spread with almond or peanut butter adds healthy fats and protein to your meal.
7. Chia Seed Pudding: This creamy pudding is not only healthy but also offers a different texture that contrasts nicely with the muffins.
8. Oatmeal: A warm bowl of oatmeal can be served on the side, making this combination hearty and satisfying.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

When making Banana S’mores Muffins, it’s easy to make some common errors. Here are a few mistakes to watch out for:

• Overmixing the Batter: Mixing too much can lead to dense muffins. Mix just until combined for a light texture.
• Skipping Ingredients: Omitting key ingredients like baking powder or baking soda can prevent proper rising. Always double-check your list before starting.
• Not Measuring Ingredients Accurately: Using incorrect measurements can throw off the recipe balance. Use measuring cups and spoons for precision.
• Ignoring Oven Temperature: Baking at the wrong temperature can result in undercooked or burnt muffins. Always preheat your oven to 400°F as specified.
• Not Using Ripe Bananas: Unripe bananas won’t give the muffins the sweetness and moisture they need. Ensure your bananas are well-ripened for the best flavor.

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store in an airtight container for up to 3 days.
• Place parchment paper between layers if stacking to prevent sticking.

Freezing Banana S’mores Muffins

• Freeze in a freezer-safe bag or container for up to 3 months.
• Label your containers with the date for reference.

Reheating Banana S’mores Muffins

• Oven: Preheat to 350°F and warm muffins for about 10-15 minutes until heated through.
• Microwave: Heat individually on medium power for 15-20 seconds until warm.
• Stovetop: Place in a skillet over low heat, covering with a lid for about 5 minutes, checking periodically.

Frequently Asked Questions

Here are some common questions about making Banana S’mores Muffins:

How can I customize Banana S’mores Muffins?

You can add nuts, swap chocolate chips for peanut butter chips, or incorporate different fruits like blueberries or strawberries.

Can I use whole wheat flour instead of all-purpose flour?

Yes, you can substitute whole wheat flour; however, it may change the texture slightly. Start with a mix of both if you’re unsure.

Are Banana S’mores Muffins suitable for meal prep?

Absolutely! These muffins are perfect for meal prep and make a great grab-and-go breakfast option throughout the week.

How do I know when my muffins are done baking?

Insert a toothpick into the center of a muffin; if it comes out clean or with a few crumbs attached, they are done baking.

Final Thoughts

Banana S’mores Muffins are a delightful treat that combines sweet banana flavor with gooey chocolate and marshmallow goodness. They are versatile enough to be enjoyed at breakfast or as an afternoon snack. Feel free to customize them with your favorite mix-ins or toppings!