How To Make Banana Muffins With Pancake Mix

How to Make Delicious Banana Muffins with Pancake Mix

Are you craving moist, delicious banana muffins but short on time? This recipe uses pancake mix as a shortcut, allowing you to whip up a batch of delightful muffins in minutes! No special baking skills needed – even beginners can achieve perfectly golden-brown, banana-licious muffins.

Ingredients You'll Need:

This recipe is incredibly easy because it leverages the convenience of pancake mix. You likely already have many of these ingredients in your pantry!

• 1 box (15-16 ounces) pancake mix (any brand will do!)
• 1 cup mashed ripe bananas (about 2-3 medium bananas)
• 1/2 cup milk (any kind will work: dairy, almond, soy)
• 1/4 cup melted unsalted butter (or vegetable oil)
• 1 large egg
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
• Optional: 1/2 cup chocolate chips, walnuts, or other mix-ins

Step-by-Step Instructions:

These simple steps will guide you through making your incredibly easy banana muffins.

1. Preheat and Prep:

Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). Line a 12-cup muffin tin with paper liners or grease it well. This prevents sticking and ensures easy removal of your muffins.

2. Mash Those Bananas:

In a large bowl, mash your ripe bananas thoroughly. The riper the bananas, the sweeter and more flavorful your muffins will be!

3. Combine Wet Ingredients:

Add the milk, melted butter, egg, and vanilla extract to the mashed bananas. Whisk until well combined.

4. Add the Dry Ingredients:

Gently fold in the pancake mix until just combined. Don't overmix; a few lumps are okay! Overmixing can lead to tough muffins.

5. Add Mix-ins (Optional):

If you're using chocolate chips, walnuts, or other mix-ins, gently fold them into the batter now.

6. Fill the Muffin Cups:

Fill each muffin cup about 2/3 full. This allows for rising during baking.

7. Bake to Perfection:

Bake for 18-20 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean. Baking times may vary slightly depending on your oven.

8. Cool and Enjoy:

Let the muffins cool in the muffin tin for a few minutes before transferring them to a wire rack to cool completely. Enjoy warm or at room temperature!

Tips for the Perfect Banana Muffins:

• Banana Ripeness: Use very ripe bananas for the best flavor and sweetness. The browner, the better!
• Don't Overmix: Overmixing develops gluten, resulting in tough muffins. Mix just until the ingredients are combined.
• Muffin Tin Prep: Properly greasing or lining your muffin tin is crucial for easy removal.
• Cooling Time: Allow the muffins to cool slightly in the tin before transferring them to a wire rack to prevent them from breaking.

Variations and Substitutions:

• Spiced Banana Muffins: Add 1 teaspoon of cinnamon and 1/2 teaspoon of nutmeg to the batter for a warm, spiced flavor.
• Streusel Topping: Crumble a mixture of brown sugar, oats, and melted butter over the muffins before baking for a delicious crunchy topping.
• Nut-Free Option: Omit nuts or substitute with sunflower seeds or pumpkin seeds.

This simple recipe is perfect for a quick breakfast, afternoon snack, or even a delightful dessert. Enjoy your delicious and easy banana muffins!