These low fat peanut butter banana muffins are a healthy treat that can be enjoyed at any time of day. They're packed with the goodness of bananas and peanut butter, and are made without any added fats or oils, making them a good choice for those watching their weight or for anyone who just wants a light and delicious snack.
The key ingredient in this recipe that you might not commonly find in your home is 'better'n peanut butter'. It's a lower fat and lower calorie alternative to regular peanut butter, and it can be found in health food stores or in the organic sections of larger supermarkets. If you can't find it, you can substitute it with regular peanut butter, but bear in mind that this will increase the fat and calorie content.
Ingredients for Low Fat Peanut Butter Banana Muffins
Bananas: These add natural sweetness and moisture to the muffins, and are a great source of dietary fiber and potassium.
Unsweetened apple sauce: This is used as a low fat alternative to oil or butter in baking.
All purpose flour: This is the base for the muffin batter.
Baking soda: Acts as the leavening agent, making the muffins rise during baking.
Salt: Enhances the flavor of the muffins.
Light brown sugar: Adds a touch of sweetness to the muffins.
Egg whites: Used to give the muffins structure and height.
Vanilla extract: Adds flavor.
Better'n peanut butter: A lower fat and calorie alternative to regular peanut butter.
One reader, Asher Matos says:
These low-fat peanut butter banana muffins are a game-changer! They're moist, flavorful, and guilt-free. The combination of bananas and peanut butter is simply divine. Plus, they're so easy to make. I love that I can enjoy a delicious treat without feeling guilty. Highly recommend!
Techniques Required for Making Low Fat Peanut Butter Banana Muffins
How to preheat oven: Preheat the oven to 325 degrees Fahrenheit and ensure it is fully heated before baking the muffins.
How to line muffin tin: Place 12 muffin liners in the muffin tin to prevent the muffins from sticking and to maintain their shape.
How to mash bananas: Use a fork or a potato masher to mash the bananas in a bowl until they reach a smooth consistency.
How to combine dry ingredients: In a medium bowl, whisk together the unbleached all-purpose flour, baking soda, and salt until well combined.
How to cream butter and sugar: In a large bowl, use an electric mixer to beat the butter and light brown sugar until the mixture becomes creamy and smooth.
How to add wet ingredients: After creaming the butter and sugar, add the egg whites, mashed bananas, unsweetened applesauce, vanilla extract, and 8 tablespoons of Better'n Peanut Butter. Beat the mixture at medium speed until it becomes thick, ensuring to scrape down the sides of the bowl.
How to add dry ingredients: Gradually add the flour mixture to the wet ingredients and blend at low speed until just combined. It's important not to overmix the batter.
How to fill muffin tin: Pour the batter into the lined muffin tin, filling each well halfway. Then, add ½ teaspoon of the remaining Better'n Peanut Butter into each muffin well.
How to bake muffins: Place the filled muffin tin on the center rack of the preheated oven and bake for approximately 25 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted in the center of a muffin comes out clean.
How To Make Low Fat Peanut Butter Banana Muffins
These peanut butter banana muffins are deliciously moist breakfast goodies that you can whip up in your oven in less than an hour.
Serves:
Ingredients
- 3medium bananas,ripe
- ⅓cupunsweetened apple sauce
- 1¼cupsall purpose flour,unbleached
- ¾tspbaking soda
- ¼tspsalt
- 2tbspbutter,softened
- ⅓cuplight brown sugar
- 2large egg whites
- ½tspvanilla extract
- 10tbspBetter’n peanut butter,(divided into 8 tbsp and 2 tbsp)
Instructions
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Preheat oven to 325 degrees F. Line a muffin tin with 12 liners.
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Mash bananas in a bowl, set aside.
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In a medium bowl, combine flour, baking soda and salt with a wire whisk. Set aside.
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In a large bowl cream butter and sugar with an electric mixer.
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Add egg whites, bananas, apple sauce, vanilla, and 8 tablespoons better’n peanut butter, and beat at medium speed until thick. Scrape down sides of the bowl.
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Add flour mixture, then blend at low speed until combined. Do not over mix.
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Pour batter into muffin tin halfway, then add ½ teaspoon of the remaining better’n peanut butter into each muffin well.
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Top off each muffin with remaining batter, and bake on the center rack for 25 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean.
Nutrition
- Calories: 191.87kcal
- Fat: 9.01g
- Saturated Fat: 2.65g
- Trans Fat: 0.09g
- Monounsaturated Fat: 3.98g
- Polyunsaturated Fat: 1.82g
- Carbohydrates: 24.43g
- Fiber: 1.86g
- Sugar: 9.65g
- Protein: 5.26g
- Cholesterol: 5.09mg
- Sodium: 140.60mg
- Calcium: 14.58mg
- Potassium: 214.12mg
- Iron: 0.96mg
- Vitamin A: 17.14µg
- Vitamin C: 4.00mg
Technique Tip for Perfect Low Fat Peanut Butter Banana Muffins
When mashing the bananas, ensure they are ripe for the best flavor and texture. Overripe bananas are even better as they are sweeter and easier to mash. Also, when adding the better'n peanut butter into the muffin wells, try using a piping bag or a small spoon to ensure even distribution. This will give each muffin a consistent peanut butter flavor.
Time-Saving Tips for Making Peanut Butter Banana Muffins
Prep ahead: Prepare the dry and wet ingredients the night before and store them separately. This will save time when you're ready to bake.
Use ripe bananas: Ripe bananas are easier to mash and have a stronger flavor, which means you won't need to spend extra time mashing or adding more bananas for flavor.
One-bowl method: Look for recipes that use the one-bowl method to minimize cleanup and save time during the baking process.
Organize ingredients: Before you start, organize all your ingredients and tools to streamline the baking process and avoid any last-minute searches.
Substitute Ingredients For Low Fat Peanut Butter Banana Muffins Recipe
bananas - Substitute with applesauce: Applesauce can be used as a low-fat substitute for bananas in muffins. It adds natural sweetness and moisture to the recipe.
butter - Substitute with unsweetened applesauce: Unsweetened applesauce can be used as a low-fat substitute for butter to reduce the fat content in the muffins while still providing moisture.
all purpose flour - Substitute with whole wheat flour: Whole wheat flour is a healthier alternative to all-purpose flour, adding fiber and nutrients to the muffins.
light brown sugar - Substitute with honey: Honey can be used as a natural sweetener in place of brown sugar, adding a different flavor profile to the muffins.
egg whites - Substitute with flaxseed meal: Flaxseed meal mixed with water can be used as a vegan substitute for egg whites, adding healthy omega-3 fatty acids to the muffins.
better'n peanut butter - Substitute with powdered peanut butter: Powdered peanut butter is a lower-fat alternative to traditional peanut butter, providing the same flavor and protein with less fat.
Presenting Delicious Peanut Butter Banana Muffins
Elevate the muffins with a stunning presentation: When plating the muffins, consider using a beautiful serving platter or individual plates to showcase the muffins in an elegant manner. The presentation should be visually appealing and inviting, creating an enticing display for the culinary professionals.
Garnish with fresh banana slices: Adorn the muffins with delicate slices of fresh banana to add a pop of color and a touch of natural sweetness. The vibrant banana slices will enhance the visual appeal of the dish and provide a fresh, inviting element.
Drizzle with a peanut butter reduction: Create a luscious peanut butter reduction to drizzle over the muffins, adding a sophisticated touch to the presentation. The glossy, decadent drizzle will not only elevate the visual appeal but also infuse the dish with rich, nutty flavors.
Accompany with a dollop of whipped cream: Serve the muffins with a dollop of freshly whipped cream on the side, adding a luxurious and indulgent element to the presentation. The creamy addition will complement the flavors and provide a delightful contrast in texture.
Sprinkle with a dusting of cinnamon: Finish the presentation by delicately sprinkling a touch of cinnamon over the muffins. This final touch will add a warm, aromatic essence to the dish, creating an alluring sensory experience for the esteemed culinary professionals.
Essential Tools for Making Peanut Butter Banana Muffins
- Food processor: A food processor is a versatile kitchen appliance that can be used for chopping, slicing, shredding, and pureeing ingredients. It's great for quickly blending the bananas and other wet ingredients for the muffin batter.
- Mixing bowl: A mixing bowl is essential for combining the dry ingredients like flour, baking soda, and salt before adding them to the wet ingredients. It's also used for mixing and blending the batter.
- Muffin tin: A muffin tin is a specialized baking pan with individual cup-shaped depressions used to bake muffins. It helps the muffins maintain their shape and cook evenly.
- Wire whisk: A wire whisk is used for blending and mixing ingredients together, especially for combining the dry ingredients in this recipe.
- Electric mixer: An electric mixer is used for creaming the butter and sugar, as well as beating the wet ingredients together to create a smooth and uniform batter.
- Measuring cups and spoons: Measuring cups and spoons are essential for accurately measuring the ingredients to ensure the right balance of flavors and textures in the muffins.
Storing and Freezing Low Fat Peanut Butter Banana Muffins
- Allow the muffins to cool completely on a wire rack before storing or freezing.
- To store, place the cooled muffins in an airtight container or resealable plastic bag. They will keep at room temperature for up to 3 days or in the refrigerator for up to 1 week.
- For longer storage, freeze the muffins:
- Wrap each muffin individually in plastic wrap or aluminum foil, making sure to cover them tightly.
- Place the wrapped muffins in a freezer-safe container or resealable plastic bag, removing as much air as possible before sealing.
- Label the container or bag with the date and contents.
- Freeze for up to 3 months.
- To thaw frozen muffins:
- Remove the desired number of muffins from the freezer and let them thaw at room temperature for about 2 hours, or microwave individual muffins on high for 30-45 seconds until warmed through.
- If you prefer a crispy top, you can also reheat thawed muffins in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for 5-10 minutes.
- These low fat peanut butter banana muffins are best enjoyed warm or at room temperature. Storing and freezing them properly will help maintain their texture and flavor for a longer period.
How To Reheat Leftover Muffins
To reheat leftover low fat peanut butter banana muffins, preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Place the muffins on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper and heat them for about 5-7 minutes, or until they are warmed through. This method will help restore the muffins' original texture and flavor, making them taste almost as good as when they were freshly baked.
Another option is to use a microwave. Place the muffin on a microwave-safe plate and heat it on high power for about 15-20 seconds. If the muffin is not warm enough, continue heating it in 5-second intervals until it reaches your desired temperature. Be careful not to overheat the muffin, as it may become tough or rubbery.
For a crispy exterior, you can also reheat the muffins in a toaster oven. Cut the muffin in half and place it cut-side up on the toaster oven rack. Toast for about 2-3 minutes, or until the edges are slightly crispy and the interior is warm.
If you have an air fryer, you can use it to reheat your peanut butter banana muffins. Preheat the air fryer to 350°F (175°C) and place the muffins in the basket, leaving some space between each one. Heat for 2-3 minutes, or until the muffins are warmed through and slightly crispy on the outside.
For a softer, more moist muffin, wrap the leftover muffin in a damp paper towel before microwaving it for 15-20 seconds. The damp paper towel will help prevent the muffin from drying out during the reheating process.
Random Fact about Low Fat Peanut Butter Banana Muffins
Peanut butter is a good source of protein and healthy fats, making it a nutritious addition to these low-fat muffins.
Is Making Peanut Butter Banana Muffins at Home Economical?
The cost-effectiveness of this low fat peanut butter banana muffins recipe is quite high. The use of affordable ingredients like bananas, applesauce, and unbleached flour makes it a budget-friendly choice for a household. The addition of better'n peanut butter provides a healthier alternative to traditional peanut butter, adding value to the recipe. The approximate cost for a household of 4 people is around $10, making it an economical and nutritious option. Overall Verdict: 9/10
Are Low Fat Peanut Butter Banana Muffins Healthy or Unhealthy?
This peanut butter banana muffin recipe has some healthy elements, but there's room for improvement. Let's break it down:
Positives:
- Bananas provide natural sweetness and nutrients like potassium and fiber
- Unsweetened applesauce replaces some of the fat
- Whole wheat flour adds more fiber and nutrients compared to refined flour
- Egg whites are used instead of whole eggs, reducing cholesterol and fat
- Better'n Peanut Butter is lower in fat and calories than regular peanut butter
Negatives:
- The recipe still contains added sugar (brown sugar)
- Butter is used, which is high in saturated fat
- The muffins may be high in calories, depending on portion size
To make this recipe even healthier, consider the following tweaks:
- Replace the all-purpose flour with whole wheat pastry flour for added fiber and nutrients without compromising texture
- Swap the brown sugar for a natural sweetener like honey or maple syrup, or reduce the amount used
- Use coconut oil instead of butter for a healthier fat source
- Add in some ground flaxseed or chia seeds for an extra boost of fiber and omega-3 fatty acids
- Experiment with adding shredded zucchini or carrots for added moisture and nutrients
- Top the muffins with a sprinkle of rolled oats for a crunchy, fiber-rich topping
Remember, even with healthier ingredients, portion control is key. Enjoy these muffins as part of a balanced diet and active lifestyle for optimal health benefits.
Editor's Thoughts on This Delightful Muffin Recipe
The low-fat peanut butter banana muffins recipe is a delightful and healthier option for a sweet treat. The combination of bananas, apple sauce, and better'n peanut butter creates a moist and flavorful muffin. The use of egg whites and unsweetened apple sauce reduces the fat content without compromising on taste. The addition of better'n peanut butter adds a delicious nutty flavor. Overall, this recipe is a great way to enjoy a guilt-free indulgence without sacrificing on flavor.
Enhance Your Low Fat Peanut Butter Banana Muffins Recipe with These Unique Side Dishes:
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Appetizers and Main Courses to Serve with Peanut Butter Banana Muffins
Why trust this Low Fat Peanut Butter Banana Muffins Recipe:
This recipe uses real bananas and unsweetened apple sauce to provide natural sweetness and moisture. The use of unbleached all purpose flour and baking soda ensures a light and fluffy texture. The addition of better'n peanut butter reduces the fat content without compromising on flavor. The combination of butter and light brown sugar adds richness and depth. The inclusion of vanilla extract enhances the overall aroma and taste. The use of egg whites contributes to a lighter and healthier option. These factors make this recipe a trustworthy and delicious choice.
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