Healthy Carrot-Banana Muffins

Ingredients:

  • 1 cup whole wheat flour

  • 1/2 cup rolled oats

  • 1 teaspoon baking powder

  • 1/2 teaspoon baking soda

  • 1/4 teaspoon salt

  • 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon

  • 2 ripe bananas, mashed

  • 1/4 cup honey or maple syrup

  • 1/4 cup coconut oil, melted (or unsweetened applesauce for a lower-fat option)

  • 1 large egg

  • 1 teaspoon vanilla extract

  • 1 cup finely grated carrots

  • 1/2 cup chopped nuts or raisins (optional)

Instructions:

1. Preheat and Prepare:

  • Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Line a muffin tin with paper liners.

2. Mix Dry Ingredients:

  • In a large bowl, whisk together whole wheat flour, rolled oats, baking powder, baking soda, salt, and ground cinnamon.

3. Mash Bananas:

  • In a separate bowl, mash the ripe bananas with a fork.

4. Combine Wet Ingredients:

  • To the mashed bananas, add honey or maple syrup, melted coconut oil (or applesauce), egg, and vanilla extract. Mix until well combined.

5. Combine Wet and Dry:

  • Pour the wet ingredients into the dry ingredients and stir until just combined. Do not overmix.

6. Add Carrots and Optional Add-ins:

  • Gently fold in the grated carrots and, if using, chopped nuts or raisins.

7. Fill Muffin Cups:

  • Divide the batter evenly among the muffin cups, filling each about two-thirds full.

8. Bake:

  • Bake in the preheated oven for 18-20 minutes or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.

9. Cool:

  • Allow the muffins to cool in the tin for 5 minutes, then transfer them to a wire rack to cool completely.

10. Serve:

  • Enjoy these healthy Carrot-Banana Muffins as a nutritious snack or part of a balanced breakfast.

Optional Tips:

  • For added flavor, you can include a pinch of nutmeg or ginger in the dry ingredients.

  • Substitute part of the whole wheat flour with almond flour for a nutty taste.

  • Top the muffins with a dollop of Greek yogurt or a drizzle of honey before serving.

These muffins are a perfect combination of natural sweetness from bananas and carrots, providing a dose of fiber and vitamins. They make for a satisfying and healthy treat that can be enjoyed any time of the day.