Caramel Banana Poke Muffins

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Bananas and caramel are a match made in heaven, and this recipe brings those two flavors together in a way that will leave you craving more. The soft, moist banana muffins are enhanced by the gooey caramel filling, creating a perfectly balanced treat. It’s easy to make, requires simple ingredients, and can be enjoyed any time of the day. These muffins are an irresistible combination of comforting banana flavor and indulgent caramel sweetness.

Ingredients

• 1 1/2 cups all-purpose flour
• 1/2 teaspoon baking soda
• 1/2 teaspoon baking powder
• 1/4 teaspoon salt
• 1/4 teaspoon ground cinnamon
• 1/2 cup sugar
• 1/4 cup unsalted butter, melted
• 2 ripe bananas, mashed
• 1/4 cup milk
• 1 large egg
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
• 1/2 cup caramel sauce (store-bought or homemade)
• 1/4 cup mini chocolate chips (optional, for garnish)

(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

Directions

1. Preheat the oven: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and line a muffin tin with paper liners or lightly grease it.

2. Mix dry ingredients: In a medium bowl, whisk together the flour, baking soda, baking powder, salt, and cinnamon.

3. Prepare wet ingredients: In a large bowl, combine the sugar, melted butter, mashed bananas, milk, egg, and vanilla extract. Mix until smooth.

4. Combine wet and dry ingredients: Add the dry ingredients to the wet ingredients and stir until just combined. Be careful not to overmix.

5. Fill the muffin tin: Spoon the batter into the prepared muffin tin, filling each cup about two-thirds full.

6. Create the caramel “pocket”: Use a small spoon or a melon baller to make a small hole in the center of each muffin. Fill each hole with about 1 teaspoon of caramel sauce.

7. Bake the muffins: Bake the muffins for 18-20 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean (aside from any caramel filling).

8. Garnish and cool: If desired, sprinkle mini chocolate chips over the muffins while they are still warm. Let the muffins cool for a few minutes in the tin before transferring them to a wire rack to cool completely.

9. Serve: Once cooled, serve the Caramel Banana Poke Muffins, and enjoy the sweet, gooey caramel surprise in each bite!

Servings and Timing

This recipe makes about 12 muffins.

• Prep Time: 10 minutes
• Cook Time: 18-20 minutes
• Total Time: 28-30 minutes

Variations

• Nutty Addition: Add chopped walnuts or pecans to the muffin batter for a delicious crunch and added flavor.
• Banana Bread Poke Muffins: For a twist, use a banana bread recipe instead of the muffin batter for a richer flavor.
• Salted Caramel: For a bit of extra contrast, use salted caramel sauce in the filling for a sweet-and-salty treat.
• Vegan Option: Use dairy-free butter, almond milk, and a flax egg (1 tablespoon flaxseed meal + 3 tablespoons water) to make these muffins vegan-friendly.

Storage/Reheating

• Storage: Store any leftover muffins in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days. For longer storage, keep them in the refrigerator for up to 5 days.
• Reheating: Reheat the muffins in the microwave for 10-15 seconds to bring back the warm, gooey caramel center.

FAQs

1. Can I use overripe bananas for this recipe?

Yes! Overripe bananas are perfect for this recipe because they are sweeter and easier to mash, adding more flavor to the muffins.

2. Can I make these muffins without caramel sauce?

If you prefer a different filling, you can substitute caramel sauce with chocolate or peanut butter for a unique twist.

3. Can I freeze these muffins?

Yes, you can freeze the muffins for up to 3 months. Be sure to wrap them tightly in plastic wrap and store them in an airtight container or freezer bag.

4. Can I use brown sugar instead of regular sugar?

Yes, using brown sugar will add a slightly different flavor and richness, complementing the banana and caramel beautifully.

5. What kind of caramel sauce should I use?

You can use store-bought caramel sauce or make your own homemade version. If using store-bought, make sure it’s a thick, creamy sauce.

6. Can I make these muffins without egg?

Yes, you can use an egg substitute such as a flax egg or applesauce if you’re following a vegan or egg-free diet.

7. How do I prevent the caramel from spilling out while baking?

Make sure to create a small but deep pocket in the muffin before adding the caramel. This helps hold the sauce inside while baking.

8. Can I add other mix-ins like chocolate chips?

Absolutely! Feel free to add mini chocolate chips, crushed nuts, or even shredded coconut to the muffin batter for added texture and flavor.

9. How do I make sure my muffins are moist?

Don’t overmix the batter, as this can cause dense muffins. Also, be sure to check the muffins around 18 minutes, as overbaking can dry them out.

10. Can I make these muffins gluten-free?

Yes, you can substitute all-purpose flour with a gluten-free flour blend to make these muffins gluten-free. Just be sure to use a reliable gluten-free blend that works well for baking.

Conclusion

These Caramel Banana Poke Muffins are a delicious and fun treat that brings together the sweetness of ripe bananas and the indulgence of caramel. They’re perfect for breakfast, dessert, or as a special snack. With a gooey center and a soft, fluffy texture, they are sure to become a favorite in your recipe collection!

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