Banana and jam muffins

Banana and Apricot Jam Muffins: A Sweet and Simple Indulgence

Who would have thought that such a simple combination as bananas and jam could create such a delicious dessert? Banana and jam muffins are more than just a recipe; they are a true treat that will fill your heart and home with the inviting aroma of baking. Perfect for breakfast, a snack, or even a delightful dessert, these muffins are made with love and tradition, bringing a touch of joy to every bite.

Preparation time: 15 minutes
Baking time: 30 minutes
Total time: 45 minutes
Servings: 12 muffins

Ingredients:

- 2 eggs
- 300 g flour
- 150 ml banana yogurt (or plain yogurt)
- 1 tablespoon thick sour cream
- 2 ripe bananas
- 150 g sugar (or to taste)
- 100 ml oil (sunflower or olive)
- Zest of one orange and one lemon
- 1 teaspoon baking powder
- Apricot jam (or plum, to taste)

A Brief History of Muffins

Muffins have a long history, being considered a symbol of home cooking and comfort. They have evolved over time, from a simple small bread to delightful sweet treats that can be filled with a variety of ingredients. Whether served for breakfast, as a snack, or dessert, muffins are a versatile indulgence that can adapt to everyone's tastes and preferences.

Preparing the Muffins

Step 1: Preparing the Ingredients

- Start by gathering all the ingredients. Make sure your bananas are ripe, as they will provide natural sweetness and a soft texture to the muffins. If you don't have banana yogurt, you can use plain yogurt, but the banana flavor will add an extra touch.

Step 2: Preparing the Mixture

- In a large bowl, beat the eggs with the yogurt and sour cream using a spatula or wooden spoon. No need for a mixer; we want a rustic texture, and mixing by hand will keep the necessary airiness.

- Add the oil, vanilla essence (if desired), and the citrus zest. The orange and lemon zest not only add flavor but also a hint of freshness.

- Incorporate the sugar into the liquid mixture, stirring well to ensure it dissolves.

Step 3: Dry Ingredients

- In another bowl, mix the flour with the baking powder. It’s important to sift the flour, as this will help achieve a fluffier texture for the muffins.

- Gradually add the flour mixture to the wet mixture, gently folding with the spatula. Avoid overmixing; we want to keep the air in the batter.

Step 4: Preparing the Muffin Tin

- Since you don't have muffin tins, use savarin molds. Grease them well with oil and dust them with flour to prevent sticking. This step is essential for ensuring easy release of the muffins.

Step 5: Assembling

- Using a spoon, add a portion of the batter to each mold (about one-third full).

- Slice the bananas into rounds and place a piece in each mold, adding a teaspoon of apricot jam on top of the bananas.

- Top with another spoonful of batter, covering the jam and bananas. Here’s a tip: add the jam on top, as it will tend to sink during baking due to its weight.

Step 6: Baking

- Preheat the oven to 180 degrees Celsius. Place the molds in the oven and bake for 30 minutes or until the muffins turn golden and a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean.

Step 7: Cooling and Serving

- Once baked, let the muffins cool in the molds for 10 minutes, then remove them to a wire rack to cool completely.

- When fully cooled, you can dust them with powdered sugar for an elegant look and an extra touch of sweetness.

Useful Tips

- Bananas: Choose ripe bananas, as they have a more intense flavor and will blend perfectly into the batter. Underripe bananas won’t mash well and will impart a less pleasant taste.

- Jam: Feel free to experiment with different types of jam or even melted chocolate for an extra indulgence.

- Variations: If you want to add a bit of crunch, you can include chopped nuts or chocolate chips in the batter.

Frequently Asked Questions

1. Can I use a different type of flour?
Yes, you can use whole wheat flour to make the muffins healthier, but it may alter the texture and moisture.

2. How can I store the muffins?
Keep the muffins in an airtight container at room temperature for 2-3 days or in the fridge for a longer duration.

3. Can I freeze the muffins?
Absolutely! The muffins can be frozen for later consumption. Place them in a freezer bag, and when you want to enjoy them, let them thaw at room temperature.

Calories and Nutritional Benefits

Each muffin contains approximately 180-220 calories, depending on the ingredients used and the serving size. These muffins are a good source of carbohydrates from the bananas, providing quick energy, and healthy fats from the oil. Additionally, the yogurt and sour cream contribute protein, while the jam can add a dose of antioxidants, especially if you choose natural jam.

Serving Suggestions

These muffins are delicious served alongside a cup of tea or aromatic coffee, making them perfect for a relaxing afternoon. You can add a dollop of whipped cream or a scoop of vanilla ice cream for a decadent dessert on warm days.

This banana and jam muffin recipe is easy to make and full of flavor, perfect for bringing a smile to the faces of your loved ones. Don’t hesitate to experiment and personalize the recipe to your taste! Make them with love and enjoy every bite!