Minty Gal

This is a new series I’d like to start which involves recipes I like to enjoy when I am down, stressed, or just dealing with life’s ups and downs. Being in the kitchen brings me joy, and whipping up something sweet and delicious usually helps when I am feeling depressed. Hopefully, this recipe can comfort you when you’re down. Enjoy!

Banana Muffin Recipe (Tyler Florence Recipe via Food Network)

Makes approximately 12 muffins.

Ingredients:

• 2 cups all purpose flour
• 1 1/2 teaspoons baking soda
• 1/2 teaspoon salt
• 4 overripe bananas
• 1 cup brown sugar (I like to use dark brown sugar for extra depth in flavor)
• 3/4 cup (1 1/2 sticks) Unsalted butter, melted and cooled
• 2 eggs
• 1 teaspoon pure vanilla extract
• 1/2 cup pecans (optional)

Step 1: Preheat oven to 375 degrees F and lightly butter 2 muffin tins

Step 2: In a large bowl, mix together flour, baking soda, and salt. Put aside for later. Mash one or two bananas, making sure to leave a bit of texture. I personally like to mash 1 banana as I don’t want too many banana bits in the actual muffins. With an electric mixer, whip the remaining bananas and sugar together for 3 minutes. The mixture should be nice and fluffy. Add in the melted butter, eggs and vanilla. Mix well. Then add in the dry ingredients, mixing until everything comes together. Gently fold in the mashed bananas that was set aside and nuts (if using). Spoon the batter into a muffin tin, filling it up about halfway. Tap the muffin tin on the counter a few times to level the mixture before putting in the oven.

Step 3: Put in oven and bake for about 18-20 minutes. Let the muffins cool a bit before taking them out of pan. Best served warm.

Enjoy!!