Banana Muffins

Delicious Banana and Raisin Muffins

Total preparation time: 1 hour
Preparation time: 20 minutes
Baking time: 40 minutes
Number of servings: 12 muffins

The history of banana and raisin muffins is one filled with flavor and innovation. These fluffy delights were originally designed as a way to make use of overripe bananas, transforming them from a problem into a treat. Today, this recipe is a favorite in kitchens around the world, being not only a quick dessert but also a perfect snack for any time of the day.

Ingredients for muffins:
- 200 g wheat flour
- 1 packet baking powder
- 1 teaspoon baking soda
- A pinch of salt
- 130 g butter (80% fat)
- 2 tablespoons ground nuts
- 3 eggs
- 2 well-ripened bananas
- 1 vanilla essence
- 125 g brown raisins
- 50 ml whiskey

Ingredients for decoration:
- 100 g white chocolate
- 1 tablespoon water
- 17 walnut halves

Preparation steps:

1. Prepare the butter with sugar: Start by placing the diced butter and sugar in a saucepan. Heat in a double boiler or on low heat, stirring constantly until the sugar completely melts and a homogeneous mixture forms. It is important not to let the mixture boil, but to melt slowly to avoid burning.

2. Beat the eggs: In a large bowl, pour in the melted butter and sugar mixture. Add the eggs, then use a mixer on high speed to combine the ingredients. Beat until you achieve a dense and creamy paste, about 3-5 minutes.

3. Mix the dry ingredients: In another bowl, sift the flour, baking powder, baking soda, and salt. Mix them so that they are evenly distributed.

4. Mash the bananas: In a small bowl, place the well-ripened bananas and mash them with a fork until they become a fine puree. This will add moisture and sweetness to your muffins.

5. Prepare the raisins: In a small saucepan, add the raisins and whiskey. Simmer on low heat, stirring constantly, until the alcohol completely evaporates. This step will not only enhance the flavor of the raisins but also add a subtle note of complexity.

6. Combine the ingredients: In the bowl with the butter, sugar, and egg mixture, add the mashed bananas, prepared raisins, ground nuts, and vanilla essence. Mix on low speed until combined. Then, gradually add the flour mixture, continuing to mix on low speed until all ingredients are perfectly integrated.

7. Fill the muffin tins: Preheat the oven to 180°C (medium heat). Fill the muffin tins with the obtained mixture up to 80% full. They will rise beautifully during baking.

8. Bake the muffins: Place the trays in the preheated oven and bake for 40 minutes. Check if they are baked using a toothpick; if it comes out clean, the muffins are ready!

9. Cool and decorate: After removing them from the oven, let them cool on a rack. Meanwhile, chop the white chocolate and place it in a ceramic bowl with a tablespoon of water. Melt it in the microwave for about 2 minutes, stirring constantly until it becomes smooth.

10. Finish the muffins: Use a spoon to pour the melted chocolate over each cooled muffin, then decorate with walnut halves. These details not only look good but also add a crunchy texture.

Practical tips:
- Use very ripe bananas, as they are sweeter and more flavorful, contributing to a more intense taste of the muffins.
- You can replace the whiskey with orange juice or water if you prefer a non-alcoholic version; this will maintain the moisture of the raisins.
- These muffins are also excellent for breakfast or snacks, having good nutritional content due to the bananas and nuts.

Nutritional information: One muffin has approximately 200 calories. They are rich in potassium due to the bananas, also providing a source of fiber from nuts and whole flour if you choose to use it.

Frequently asked questions:
- Can I use other fruits instead of bananas? Yes, grated apples or ripe peaches can be used as delicious alternatives.
- How can I keep the muffins fresh? Store them in airtight containers at room temperature for 3-4 days. You can even freeze them to have on hand for indulgent moments.

Delicious combinations: These muffins pair perfectly with a cup of fresh coffee, a flavored tea, or even a fruit smoothie. You can enjoy them as they are or serve them with a spoonful of Greek yogurt for an extra creaminess.

Now it's time to get to work! With each step, you will add not just ingredients but also love and passion to the preparation of these delicious muffins. I wish you happy cooking and enjoy your meal!