Chia Seed Muffins

Banana Chia Oat Muffins

Ingredients:

• 1 1/2 cups whole wheat flour
• 1/2 cup oats
• 4 tablespoons chia seeds
• 1 teaspoon baking powder
• 1 teaspoon baking soda
• 1/2 teaspoon salt
• 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
• 1/4 cup turbinado sugar
• 2 small ripe bananas
• 1 egg
• 1/8 cup coconut oil, melted and cooled
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
• 1 cup unsweetened almond milk
• Walnuts (optional, for topping)

Directions:

1. Preheat and Prep:
   • Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
   • Grease 12 muffin cups or line them with paper liners.
2. Combine Dry Ingredients:
   • In a mixing bowl, combine the whole wheat flour, oats, chia seeds, baking powder, baking soda, salt, ground cinnamon, and turbinado sugar. Mix well to evenly distribute the dry ingredients.
3. Prepare Wet Ingredients:
   • In another bowl, mash the ripe bananas until mostly smooth.
   • Add the egg, melted and cooled coconut oil, vanilla extract, and unsweetened almond milk to the mashed bananas. Mix until the wet ingredients are well combined.
4. Combine Wet and Dry Mixtures:
   • Gently stir the wet mixture into the dry mixture, using a spatula or wooden spoon. Mix until all the dry ingredients are moistened, being careful not to overmix.
5. Spoon into Muffin Cups:
   • Evenly distribute the muffin batter among the 12 greased muffin cups. The cups should be filled about 2/3 full.
6. Optional Walnut Topping:
   • If desired, sprinkle chopped walnuts on top of each muffin for added texture and flavor.
7. Baking Time:
   • Place the muffin tin in the preheated oven and bake for 20-25 minutes, or until the muffins are golden brown on top and a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.
8. Cool and Enjoy:
   • Once baked, remove the muffin tin from the oven and allow the muffins to cool in the tin for a few minutes.
   • Transfer the muffins to a wire rack to cool completely before serving.

Serving Suggestion:

• These Banana Chia Oat Muffins make for a nutritious breakfast or a satisfying snack. Enjoy them with a spread of nut butter, yogurt, or a drizzle of honey for an extra touch of sweetness.

Note: The combination of ripe bananas, chia seeds, and oats not only adds wonderful flavor and texture but also packs in nutritional benefits. The muffins are lightly sweetened with turbinado sugar and enhanced with the warmth of cinnamon. This recipe offers a wholesome and delicious way to start your day.