Chocolate Banana Oatmeal Muffins

1. Preheat the oven: Start by preheating your oven to 180°C (350°F). Prepare a muffin tin by greasing it lightly or lining it with muffin liners.
2. Prepare the oats: In a mixing bowl, combine the oat flakes and hot milk. Let it sit for about 10 minutes to allow the oats to soften.

1. Mash the bananas: In another bowl, mash the ripe bananas with a fork until they are smooth. This will add moisture and sweetness to the muffins.
2. Combine wet ingredients: Add the eggs and vanillin to the mashed bananas. Mix well until everything is well combined.
3. Combine dry ingredients: In a separate bowl, mix together the oat mixture, cocoa powder, baking powder, and a pinch of salt. If you’re adding walnuts, fold them in at this stage.
Combine wet and dry mixtures: Pour the wet banana mixture into the dry oat mixture. Stir gently until just combined; be careful not to overmix, as this can make the muffins dense. If desired, fold in chocolate chips for added sweetness.

1. Fill the muffin tins: Divide the batter evenly among the muffin cups, filling each cup about 3/4 full.
2. Bake: Place the muffin tin in the preheated oven and bake for 20–25 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center of a muffin comes out clean.

Cool: Once baked, remove the muffins from the oven and allow them to cool in the pan for about 5 minutes before transferring them to a wire rack to cool completely.

1. Melt the chocolate: In a small saucepan over low heat, combine the chopped chocolate and boiling milk. Stir continuously until the chocolate is fully melted and smooth.
2. Drizzle on muffins: Once the muffins are cool, drizzle the melted chocolate over the top of each muffin. You can use a spoon or a piping bag for a more decorative effect.

Garnish (optional): If desired, sprinkle additional chopped walnuts or chocolate chips on top of the muffins while the chocolate is still warm to create a beautiful presentation.
Serve: These muffins can be enjoyed warm or at room temperature. Pair them with a cup of coffee or tea for a perfect snack!

Cooking Tips

- Ripe Bananas: The riper the bananas, the sweeter and more flavorful your muffins will be. Look for bananas with plenty of brown spots for the best results.

- Substitutions: You can substitute the cocoa powder with carob powder for a caffeine-free option. Similarly, you can use almond milk or any non-dairy milk instead of cow’s milk.
- Nut Allergies: If you’re making these muffins for someone with a nut allergy, you can omit the walnuts entirely or replace them with seeds like sunflower seeds for added crunch.
- Storing Muffins: These muffins can be stored at room temperature for up to 3 days. For longer storage, keep them in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to a week.

See also Quick and Delightful French Cake Recipe

- Room Temperature: Store in an airtight container at room temperature for 2-3 days.
- Refrigerator: For longer freshness, keep in the fridge for up to a week.
- Freezer: To freeze, wrap muffins individually in plastic wrap and place them in a freezer-safe bag. They can be frozen for up to 3 months. To thaw, leave them at room temperature or microwave for a few seconds.