Step 1: Preheat the Oven
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Line a muffin tin with paper liners or lightly grease it to prevent sticking.
Step 2: Prepare the Dry Ingredients
- In a large mixing bowl, combine the rolled oats, whole wheat flour, cocoa powder, baking powder, baking soda, and salt. Whisk together until well combined.
Step 3: Mix the Wet Ingredients
- In another bowl, mash the ripe bananas until smooth. Add the brown sugar, granulated sugar, and vanilla extract. Mix well until combined.
- Add the eggs one at a time, mixing thoroughly after each addition. Then, stir in the applesauce and milk until the mixture is smooth.
Step 4: Combine Wet and Dry Ingredients
- Pour the wet mixture into the bowl with the dry ingredients. Stir gently until just combined. Be careful not to overmix; a few lumps are okay.
- If you’re using chocolate chips, fold them in gently at this stage.
Step 5: Fill Muffin Tin
- Using a spoon or a muffin scoop, fill each muffin cup about 2/3 full with the batter. This will give the muffins room to rise without overflowing.
Step 6: Bake the Muffins
- Bake in the preheated oven for about 18-20 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center of a muffin comes out clean. The tops should look set and slightly spring back when touched.
Step 7: Cool and Enjoy
- Once baked, remove the muffins from the oven and let them cool in the pan for about 5 minutes. Then, transfer them to a wire rack to cool completely.
- Enjoy warm or at room temperature, and store any leftovers in an airtight container for up to 3 days.
Tips for Perfect Chocolate Banana Oatmeal Muffins
- Use Overripe Bananas: The riper the bananas, the sweeter and more flavorful your muffins will be. Look for bananas with brown spots for the best taste.
- Mix-ins: Feel free to add nuts, dried fruits, or even more chocolate chips to the batter for added texture and flavor.
- Make it Gluten-Free: Substitute the whole wheat flour with a gluten-free flour blend and ensure your oats are certified gluten-free.
- Freezing: These muffins freeze well! Wrap them individually and store in a freezer-safe bag for a quick grab-and-go breakfast.
These Chocolate Banana Oatmeal Muffins are a delightful way to start your day or enjoy as a treat. Packed with flavor and goodness, they’re sure to become a favorite in your home! Enjoy!