These light and airy Banana and Carrot Muffins are a delightful blend of banana bread and carrot cake. Made with very ripe mashed bananas, shredded carrots, plump raisins, and crunchy nuts, these muffins are perfect for a grab-and-go breakfast or a late morning snack.
Preparation Time
- Prep Time: 20 minutes
- Cook Time: 20-24 minutes
- Total Time: 40-44 minutes
Ingredients
- 1 ¼ cups all-purpose flour (163 g / 5.7 oz)
- ½ cup lightly packed brown sugar
- 1 tsp baking powder
- 1 tsp ground cinnamon
- ¾ tsp baking soda
- ½ tsp table salt
- ½ cup rolled oats, plus more for topping
- 2 medium ripe bananas (see note)
- 2 large eggs
- ⅓ cup light oil (such as vegetable, canola, or peanut)
- ¼ cup plain yogurt
- 1 tsp vanilla extract
- 1 cup grated carrots (from 2 small or 1 medium carrot, peeled or scrubbed)
- ¼ cup raisins (optional)
- ¼ cup chopped pecans or walnuts (optional)
Directions
- Preheat Oven:
- Preheat the oven to 350°F and line a standard size muffin tin with paper cups.
- Mix Dry Ingredients:
- In a medium bowl, whisk together the flour, brown sugar, baking powder, cinnamon, baking soda, and salt until well combined. Add the oats and whisk to combine.
- Mix Wet Ingredients:
- In a separate large bowl, use a fork or potato masher to mash the bananas until mostly smooth. It’s okay if they aren’t completely smooth. Add the eggs and whisk to combine, then add the oil, yogurt, and vanilla and whisk until well combined. Add the carrots and raisins (if using) and mix well.
- Combine Ingredients:
- Add the dry ingredients to the wet ingredients and use a flexible spatula to fold the dry ingredients into the wet ingredients. Be careful not to overmix the batter but ensure there are no flour streaks.
- Fill Muffin Cups:
- Divide the mixture among the muffin cups, about ⅓ cup for each muffin cup. It’s okay if the muffin cups are full. Sprinkle more oats on top and chopped nuts (if using).
- Bake:
- Bake until golden brown and a toothpick inserted into the center of several muffins comes out clean, 20-24 minutes.
- Cool and Serve:
- Cool the muffins in the muffin pan for 10 minutes at room temperature, then remove the muffins to a wire rack and cool for at least 10 more minutes. Enjoy warm or at room temperature.
Serving Suggestions
- Enjoy with a cup of coffee or tea for a perfect breakfast or snack.
- Pair with a dollop of cream cheese or a smear of butter for added richness.
Cooking Tips
- If your bananas are not very ripe, try roasting them in a 350°F oven for 15 minutes until blackened. Then remove the peel and mash.
- You can swap in granulated sugar for the brown sugar, or use ¼ cup each brown sugar and granulated sugar for a balanced sweetness.
- Swap out the cinnamon for ground ginger, allspice, or nutmeg. Use these spices sparingly as they can overpower the muffins.
- Do not overmix the muffin batter, or they may become dense when cooked.
Nutritional Benefits
- High in Fiber: Rolled oats and carrots provide a good source of dietary fiber.
- Vitamin-Rich: Carrots add essential vitamins like vitamin A and beta-carotene.
- Natural Sweetness: Bananas and raisins provide natural sweetness, reducing the need for added sugars.
Dietary Information
- Gluten-Free: Swap out the flour for a one-to-one gluten-free flour and use gluten-free rolled oats.
- Dairy-Free: Use plant-based yogurt or milk.
- Egg-Free: Substitute eggs with 2 tablespoons of ground flaxseeds or chia seeds mixed with equal parts water and set aside for 5 minutes before adding to the batter.
Storage
- Counter: Store leftovers on the counter for 2 days.
- Refrigerate: Store in the refrigerator for up to 4 days in an airtight container. Note that they will become moister the longer they sit, so they are best enjoyed freshly baked.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Easy to Make: Simple ingredients and straightforward preparation.
- Healthy: Packed with nutrients and fiber from oats, bananas, and carrots.
- Versatile: Great for breakfast, snacks, or even dessert.
Conclusion
These Banana and Carrot Muffins are a delicious and nutritious way to enjoy a sweet treat without the guilt. Perfect for any time of day, they are easy to make and loved by all. Enjoy them fresh out of the oven for the best experience!