• Ripe Bananas (3 medium): The star of the show! Ripe bananas provide natural sweetness, moisture, and that signature banana flavor. The riper the banana, the sweeter and more flavorful your muffins will be. Look for bananas with plenty of brown spots.
• Rolled Oats (2 cups): Oats add a delightful chewy texture and a boost of fiber, making these muffins more substantial and satisfying. Use rolled oats (old-fashioned oats) for the best texture. Quick oats can also be used but may result in a slightly less chewy muffin.
• All-Purpose Flour (1 ½ cups): Provides structure to the muffins, creating a light and tender crumb. You can also experiment with whole wheat flour for a nuttier flavor and added fiber (see tips section for adjustments).
• Brown Sugar (¾ cup, packed): Adds sweetness with a hint of molasses flavor, complementing the banana and oats beautifully. Packed brown sugar ensures accurate measurement and consistent sweetness. Light or dark brown sugar will work.
• Eggs (2 large): Bind the ingredients together and contribute to the muffins’ moistness and structure. Large eggs are standard in most baking recipes.
• Milk (½ cup): Adds moisture and helps to create a smooth batter. You can use dairy or non-dairy milk alternatives like almond milk, soy milk, or oat milk.
• Vegetable Oil (½ cup): Contributes to the moistness of the muffins and keeps them tender for days. You can also use melted coconut oil or other neutral oils like canola or sunflower oil.
• Baking Powder (2 teaspoons): A leavening agent that helps the muffins rise and become light and fluffy. Ensure your baking powder is fresh for optimal results.
• Baking Soda (½ teaspoon): Another leavening agent that works in conjunction with baking powder to provide lift and a tender crumb. Baking soda also reacts with the acidity of the bananas.
• Cinnamon (1 teaspoon): Adds warmth and spice, enhancing the overall flavor profile. Cinnamon pairs perfectly with banana and oats.
• Salt (½ teaspoon): Enhances the sweetness and balances the flavors in the muffins. Salt is crucial in baking to prevent the muffins from tasting flat.
• Vanilla Extract (1 teaspoon): Enhances the other flavors and adds a touch of warmth and complexity. Pure vanilla extract is recommended for the best flavor.
