Banana Oatmeal Muffins (Print Version)

# Ingredients:

→ Base Ingredients

01 - 2 ripe bananas, mashed
02 - 1 cup rolled oats
03 - 1 cup whole wheat flour
04 - 1/2 cup brown sugar or coconut sugar
05 - 1/2 cup milk (dairy or plant-based)
06 - 1/4 cup unsweetened applesauce
07 - 1/4 cup honey or maple syrup
08 - 2 large eggs
09 - 1 teaspoon vanilla extract

→ Leavening & Spices

10 - 1 teaspoon baking powder
11 - 1/2 teaspoon baking soda
12 - 1/2 teaspoon salt
13 - 1 teaspoon cinnamon (optional)

→ Optional Add-ins

14 - 1/2 cup chopped walnuts or chocolate chips

# Instructions:

01 - Preheat your oven to 175°C (350°F). Line a muffin tin with paper liners or lightly grease with cooking spray.
02 - In a large mixing bowl, whisk together the rolled oats, whole wheat flour, baking powder, baking soda, salt, and cinnamon if using.
03 - In a separate bowl, blend mashed bananas, brown sugar, milk, applesauce, honey or maple syrup, eggs, and vanilla extract until smooth and fully combined.
04 - Pour the wet ingredients into the dry ingredients and gently mix until just combined. A few lumps in the batter are acceptable; avoid overmixing.
05 - If using, gently fold walnuts or chocolate chips into the batter.
06 - Distribute batter evenly among the prepared muffin cups, filling each about 2/3 full.
07 - Bake in the preheated oven for 18-20 minutes, until muffins are golden brown and a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.
08 - Allow muffins to cool in the tin for 5 minutes before transferring to a wire rack to cool completely.

# Notes:

01 - These muffins are perfect for breakfast or as a healthy snack and can be enjoyed warm or at room temperature.
02 - Store in an airtight container for up to 3 days at room temperature or freeze for longer storage.