Vegan Chocolate Banana Muffins

There’s something undeniably comforting about the aroma of freshly baked muffins wafting through your kitchen. These Vegan Chocolate Banana Muffins are not only a delightful treat but also a wholesome option that you can feel good about indulging in. Packed with ripe bananas and rich cocoa, these muffins are moist, fluffy, and studded with vegan chocolate chips. Perfect for breakfast, a snack, or even dessert, they are sure to become a staple in your baking repertoire.

Why This Recipe is a Keeper

These Vegan Chocolate Banana Muffins are a keeper for several reasons. First, they are incredibly easy to make, requiring just a few simple ingredients that you might already have in your pantry. Second, they are a fantastic way to use up overripe bananas that may be sitting on your counter, turning what would be waste into deliciousness. Finally, the combination of chocolate and banana is a match made in heaven, appealing to both kids and adults alike. Trust me, once you try this recipe, you’ll be coming back to it again and again!

Ingredient Rundown

Before diving into the baking process, let’s take a closer look at the ingredients that make up these delectable muffins.

• 1 ½ cups white whole wheat flour: This flour adds a wholesome touch while keeping the muffins light and fluffy.
• ½ cup granulated sugar: A touch of sweetness that balances the rich cocoa and banana flavors.
• ¼ cup Dutch processed cocoa: Provides a deep chocolate flavor that enhances the overall taste.
• 1 teaspoon baking soda: Helps the muffins rise to perfection.
• ½ teaspoon baking powder: Works in conjunction with baking soda for a fluffy texture.
• ¼ teaspoon salt: Enhances the sweetness and balances the flavors.
• 4 ripe bananas, mashed (1 ¼ cups): The star ingredient that adds natural sweetness and moisture.
• ¼ cup coconut oil, melted and cooled: Adds richness and helps keep the muffins moist.
• ¼ cup unsweetened vanilla almond milk: A dairy-free liquid that adds moisture without overpowering the flavors.
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract: Enhances the overall flavor profile.
• ¾ cup vegan mini chocolate chips, divided: Adds delightful pockets of chocolate throughout the muffins.

Equipment Breakdown

To create these scrumptious Vegan Chocolate Banana Muffins, you will need the following equipment:

• Mixing bowl: For combining the wet and dry ingredients.
• Muffin tin: To bake the muffins in. A non-stick or lined pan works best.
• Whisk: For mixing the dry ingredients thoroughly.
• Fork or potato masher: To mash the bananas until smooth.
• Spoon or spatula: For folding the ingredients together gently.

Stepwise Method: Vegan Chocolate Banana Muffins

Step 1: Preheat the Oven

Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and line your muffin tin with paper liners or grease it lightly with coconut oil.

Step 2: Prepare the Dry Ingredients

In a mixing bowl, whisk together the white whole wheat flour, granulated sugar, Dutch processed cocoa, baking soda, baking powder, and salt. Make sure all the dry ingredients are well combined to prevent any clumps.

Step 3: Mash the Bananas

In another bowl, use a fork or potato masher to mash the ripe bananas until smooth. You should have about 1 ¼ cups of mashed bananas.

Step 4: Combine Wet Ingredients

To the mashed bananas, add the melted coconut oil, almond milk, and vanilla extract. Mix until everything is well incorporated.

Step 5: Combine Wet and Dry Ingredients

Pour the wet ingredients into the dry ingredients and gently fold them together using a spatula or spoon. Be careful not to overmix; it’s okay if the batter is a bit lumpy.

Step 6: Add Chocolate Chips

Fold in about ½ cup of the vegan mini chocolate chips, reserving the rest for topping. This will ensure that your muffins are filled with melted chocolate goodness.

Step 7: Fill the Muffin Tin

Spoon the batter into the prepared muffin tin, filling each cup about ¾ full. Sprinkle the remaining chocolate chips on top for an extra dose of chocolate.

Step 8: Bake

Bake in the preheated oven for 18-20 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean. Keep an eye on them towards the end of the baking time.

Step 9: Cool and Enjoy

Once baked, remove the muffins from the oven and allow them to cool in the tin for about 5 minutes before transferring them to a wire rack to cool completely. These Vegan Chocolate Banana Muffins are best enjoyed fresh but can also be stored for later!

Quick Replacement Ideas

If you find yourself short on any of the ingredients, here are some quick replacement ideas:

• White whole wheat flour: You can substitute with all-purpose flour or oat flour for a gluten-free option.
• Granulated sugar: Coconut sugar or maple syrup can be used as alternatives.
• Coconut oil: Substitute with vegetable oil or melted vegan butter.
• Almond milk: Any plant-based milk, such as soy or oat milk, will work perfectly.

Cook’s Commentary

• Make sure your bananas are overripe for the best flavor and sweetness.
• Feel free to add nuts or dried fruits for additional texture and flavor.
• If you prefer a less sweet muffin, reduce the sugar by 2 tablespoons.
• These muffins can also be made into a loaf if you prefer a cake-like version. Just adjust the baking time to about 50-60 minutes.

Meal Prep & Storage Notes

These Vegan Chocolate Banana Muffins are perfect for meal prep! Store them in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days. For longer storage, you can freeze them for up to 3 months. Just thaw them at room temperature or warm them up slightly in the microwave before enjoying.

Common Questions

Can I make these muffins gluten-free?

Yes! Simply substitute the white whole wheat flour with a gluten-free flour blend, and you’ll have delicious gluten-free muffins.

How can I make these muffins sweeter?

If you prefer a sweeter muffin, you can increase the sugar by 2 tablespoons or add a drizzle of agave syrup on top before baking.

Can I use frozen bananas for this recipe?

Absolutely! Just make sure to thaw them first, and then mash them well. Frozen bananas work great in this recipe.

What can I pair with these muffins?

These muffins pair wonderfully with a cup of coffee or tea. You can also serve them alongside a smoothie or with a dollop of vegan yogurt for a delightful breakfast.

Desserts to Finish

If you enjoyed these muffins, you might also love these delicious recipes:

• Caramel Banana Cake Roll
• Chocolate Peanut Butter Oatmeal Bars

In Closing

These Vegan Chocolate Banana Muffins are a delightful treat that proves you don’t need eggs or dairy to create something truly delicious. With their rich chocolate flavor, moist texture, and the natural sweetness of bananas, these muffins are sure to win over even the most skeptical eaters. So grab your ingredients, preheat your oven, and treat yourself to a batch of these scrumptious muffins today!