Banana Muffins with Cinnamon Streusel Topping
BATTER:
• 1 1/2 cups all-purpose flour
• 1 teaspoon baking soda
• 1 teaspoon baking powder
• 1/2 teaspoon salt
• 3 bananas, mashed (about 1 1/2 cups)
• 3/4 cup white sugar
• 1 large egg, lightly beaten
• 1/3 cup unsalted butter, melted
• 1 teaspoon vanilla
• 1 teaspoon cinnamon
• 1/2 teaspoon nutmeg
TOPPING:
• 1/2 cup packed brown sugar
• 1/4 cup all-purpose flour
• 1/2 teaspoon ground cinnamon
• 2 tablespoons unsalted butter
DIRECTIONS:
1. Preheat oven to 375 degrees F (190 degrees C). Lightly grease 10 muffin cups, or line with muffin liners.
2. In a large bowl, mix together 1 1/2 cups flour, baking soda, baking powder and salt. In another bowl, beat together bananas, sugar, egg, vanilla, cinnamon, nutmeg and melted butter. Stir the banana mixture into the flour mixture just until moistened. Spoon batter into prepared muffin cups.
3. For the crumb topping: In a small bowl, mix together brown sugar, 1/4 cup flour and 1/2 teaspoon cinnamon. Cut in 2 tablespoons butter until mixture resembles wet sand. You can use your
hands too to incorporate the mixture.
Sprinkle topping over muffins.
4. Bake in preheated oven for 15 to 20 minutes, until a toothpick inserted into center of a muffin comes out clean. Cool and store in an airtight container.
Banana muffins are a beloved treat that blends the natural sweetness of ripe bananas with the warm, inviting flavors of cinnamon and nutmeg. Not only are they easy to prepare, but they also make for a deliciously comforting snack or breakfast option. When selecting bananas for this recipe, it's essential to choose overripe bananas that are soft and speckled for the best sweetness and moisture content. The addition of a cinnamon streusel topping elevates these muffins, providing a satisfying crunch and a burst of flavor that complements the moist banana base beautifully. If you're seeking variations, consider adding nuts like walnuts or pecans for an extra crunch, or fold in chocolate chips for a decadent twist. For those who prefer a healthier option, you can substitute part of the all-purpose flour with whole wheat flour or use Greek yogurt instead of butter to reduce fat content. Moreover, these muffins freeze exceptionally well, making them a convenient treat to prepare in advance. Simply wrap them tightly and store in the freezer for up to three months. When you're ready to enjoy, just reheat them in the oven or microwave for a few seconds, and you’ll have a warm, fresh muffin at your fingertips. Enjoy your homemade banana muffins with a cup of coffee or tea for a delightful start to your day!