Banana S’mores Muffins

If you’re looking for a sweet and comforting way to start your day, these Banana S’mores Muffins are just what you need! They combine the flavors of ripe bananas, rich chocolate, and fluffy marshmallows into delightful little treats. Perfect for busy mornings or family gatherings, these muffins are sure to put a smile on everyone’s face. Plus, they’re super easy to whip up—all the more reason to keep this recipe close at hand!

What makes these Banana S’mores Muffins truly special is the nostalgic flavor reminiscent of campfire s’mores. Each bite is a delightful mix of textures and tastes that will have you reaching for seconds. Whether enjoyed at breakfast or as an afternoon snack, these muffins are a hit with kids and adults alike!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Quick and Easy: With just 20 minutes of prep time, you’ll have warm muffins in no time!
• Family-Friendly: Kids love the gooey chocolate and marshmallow combo—making them perfect for any gathering.
• Versatile Snack: Great for breakfast or as an after-school treat; these muffins fit any occasion.
• Make Ahead: Bake a batch on the weekend and store them for easy grab-and-go snacks throughout the week.

Ingredients You’ll Need

These Banana S’mores Muffins are made with simple, wholesome ingredients that you likely already have in your pantry. Each element works together to create moist and flavorful muffins that everyone will adore.

For the Muffin 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 (about 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 Goodness

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

Variations

The beauty of this recipe is its flexibility! Feel free to mix things up based on what you have at home or your flavor preferences.

• Add nuts: Toss in some chopped walnuts or pecans for a crunchy texture.
• Try different fruits: Swap out bananas for applesauce or pumpkin puree for a seasonal twist.
• Change the chips: Use white chocolate chips or peanut butter chips instead of regular chocolate.
• Make it gluten-free: Substitute all-purpose flour with a gluten-free blend for a delicious alternative.

How to Make Banana S’mores Muffins

Step 1: Preheat Your Oven

Preheat the oven to 400°F. This step is crucial because starting with a hot oven ensures your muffins rise beautifully and become wonderfully fluffy.

Step 2: Mix Wet Ingredients

In a mixing bowl, beat together the melted butter and brown sugar until smooth. Then add in the egg, vanilla extract, mashed bananas, and sour cream. Mixing these wet ingredients well helps to incorporate air, making your muffins light and fluffy.

Step 3: Combine Dry Ingredients

In another bowl, stir together the flour, baking powder, baking soda, salt, cinnamon, and graham cracker crumbs. This process evenly distributes the dry ingredients so that every muffin has consistent flavor and texture.

Step 4: Blend Wet and Dry Mixtures

Now it’s time to combine! Add the dry mixture alternately with the milk into your wet mixture until everything is just mixed together. Be careful not to over-mix; this helps keep your muffins tender.

Step 5: Fold in Chocolate Chips and Marshmallows

Gently stir in three-quarters of both the chocolate chips and vegan marshmallow bits by hand. This step adds pockets of melty goodness throughout each muffin!

Step 6: Fill Your Muffin Liners

Spoon the batter into prepared cupcake liners about two-thirds full. Then sprinkle any remaining chocolate chips and marshmallows on top—this extra touch creates a beautiful presentation when baked.

Step 7: Bake

Pop those beauties in your preheated oven for about 16 minutes. You’ll know they’re done when they’re golden brown and a toothpick inserted comes out clean.

Step 8: Cool Down

Let them cool in the pan for about 3-4 minutes before transferring them to a wire rack. This cooling step helps them set properly while keeping them soft inside. Store any leftovers in an airtight container!

Enjoy every delicious bite of your warm Banana S’mores Muffins!

Pro Tips for Making Banana S’mores Muffins

Baking can be a delightful experience, and with these pro tips, you’ll ensure your Banana S’mores Muffins turn out perfect every time!

• Use Ripe Bananas: The riper the bananas, the sweeter and more flavorful your muffins will be. Look for bananas with brown spots for optimal sweetness.

• Don’t Overmix: When combining wet and dry ingredients, stir until just combined. Overmixing can lead to dense muffins rather than light, fluffy ones.

• Check for Doneness: Ovens can vary in temperature, so keep an eye on your muffins as they bake. Insert a toothpick into the center; if it comes out clean or with a few moist crumbs, they’re done!

• Store Properly: Allow your muffins to cool completely before storing them in an airtight container. This will keep them fresh and prevent sogginess.

• Experiment with Mix-Ins: Feel free to add chopped nuts or different kinds of chocolate chips for a twist on the classic flavor combination. It’s a great way to customize each batch!

How to Serve Banana S’mores Muffins

Serving your Banana S’mores Muffins can be just as fun as baking them! Here are some ideas to make these treats even more delightful.

Garnishes

• Drizzle of Chocolate Sauce: A simple drizzle of chocolate sauce on top adds an extra touch of sweetness and makes the muffins look irresistible.
• Dusting of Powdered Sugar: A light dusting of powdered sugar gives a charming finish and enhances their visual appeal without overpowering their flavor.

Side Dishes

• Fresh Fruit Salad: A vibrant mix of seasonal fruits like berries, melons, and oranges provides a refreshing contrast to the sweet muffins.
• Yogurt Parfait: Layer some yogurt with granola and sliced bananas for a nutritious side that complements the flavors in the muffins perfectly.
• Nut Butter: Serve with a side of almond or peanut butter for spreading. The nutty flavor pairs beautifully with the banana and chocolate elements.
• Herbal Tea or Coffee: A warm cup of herbal tea or coffee is not only comforting but also enhances the overall breakfast experience.

With these serving suggestions, your Banana S’mores Muffins are sure to be a hit at any breakfast gathering! Enjoy every bite!

Make Ahead and Storage

These Banana S’mores Muffins are perfect for meal prep! You can whip up a batch ahead of time for quick breakfasts or snacks throughout the week. They stay fresh and delicious, making them an ideal option for busy mornings.

Storing Leftovers

• Store leftover muffins in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days.
• For longer freshness, keep them in the refrigerator, where they will last about a week.

Freezing

• Allow muffins to cool completely before freezing.
• Place muffins in a single layer on a baking sheet and freeze until solid.
• Transfer frozen muffins to a freezer-safe bag or container. They can be stored for up to 3 months.

Reheating

• To reheat frozen muffins, simply microwave them for about 30-45 seconds until warm.
• If you prefer the oven, heat them at 350°F for about 10 minutes.

FAQs

Here are some common questions you might have about making these delicious Banana S’mores Muffins.

Can I substitute the sour cream in the Banana S’mores Muffins recipe?

Yes! You can use plain yogurt or a non-dairy yogurt alternative if you’re looking for a dairy-free option. Both will work well to keep your muffins moist.

How can I make these Banana S’mores Muffins healthier?

You can reduce the sugar slightly or substitute whole wheat flour for half of the all-purpose flour. Adding some chopped nuts or seeds is also a great way to boost nutrition!

What do I do if my Banana S’mores Muffins are too dry?

If your muffins turn out dry, it could be due to overmixing or baking too long. Make sure to mix just until combined and check doneness at the minimum baking time.

Can I add other ingredients to my Banana S’mores Muffins?

Absolutely! Feel free to add in nuts, dried fruit, or even coconut flakes for a twist on this classic recipe. Just remember not to overload the batter!

Final Thoughts

I hope you enjoy making these delightful Banana S’mores Muffins as much as I do! They’re not just tasty; they’re also perfectly versatile and suitable for any time of day. Whether you’re enjoying one with your morning coffee or as an afternoon treat, these muffins are sure to bring a smile. Happy baking!