Best Banana Oatmeal Muffins

I do not eat bananas. Something about the texture really creeps me out. I love using bananas, for smoothies, cakes, muffins… So not eating them is purely about the actually texture and nothing to do with the flavour. A bit odd I know. But I do have others living in the house that eat bananas, so the frequently feature on the shopping. 

Humans can be difficult. Yes I would like some bananas this week. Two get eaten, then the others are left to go a bit “brown”. I think of all the brown bananas that get thrown into the bin and am a bit saddened.  For me, these are the best. Because they are perfect for smoothies and baking. This is one of my favourite  recipes. So easy and so tasty. Most of the ingredients are probably already in your pantry, but there are a few optional extras that can be added that can really make these muffins a bit more special. I am sure that you will enjoy them!

Ingredients
  • 1 1/2 Cups uncooked Oatmeal
  • 1 1/4 Cups Plain Flour
  • 1/2 cup sugar
  • 1 1/2 teaspoon baking powder
  • 1 teaspoon baking soda
  • 1/4 teaspoon salt (optional)
  • 1 teaspoon cinnamon
  • 1 pinch ground nutmeg
  • 1 egg
  • 1/4 cup oil
  • 1 teaspoon vanilla extract 
  • 3 whole ripe bananas mashed
  • 30 grams chocolate chips (optional, dark are my favourite)
  • 30 grams chopped walnuts/hazelnuts (optional)
Topping (Optional -I only used this once)
  • 1/2 cup oatmeal
  • 1/4 teaspoon cinnamon 
  • 2 Tablespoons brown sugar
  • 2 Tablespoons melted butter
Instructions
  1. In a large bowl mix oatmeal, flour, baking powder, baking soda, cinnamon, nutmeg and sugar together.
  2. In a smaller bowl mix egg, oil and vanilla. Add to dry ingredients and stir (except choc chips and nuts).
  3. Stir in bananas
  4. If being used, fold in the choc chips and nuts.
  5. Divide into 12 sprayed or lined muffin tins.
  6. If being used, in another bowl combine topping ingredients. Sprinkle over muffin batter.
  7. Bake at 375 degrees for 20 minutes
Notes: 
The addition of Chocolate Chips and Nuts are really optional. The original recipe does not actually include them. I found that adding these really gives the muffins an additional edge. I find, however, that particularly if you are using the chocolate chips, the sugar can be reduced to 1/4 cup. Especially if your bananas are also really ripe and sweet. 
Although great for breakfast, you can also have these, cut open and topped with clotted cream for afternoon tea. Or even warmed and enjoyed for supper or a mid-week healthy option dessert.