Banana & Choc Chip Muffins

These muffins are a delicious balance of natural sweetness from ripe bananas and the richness of dark chocolate, making them a perfect treat for breakfast, a snack, or even a dessert. Packed with wholesome ingredients, they offer a satisfying and mood-boosting option to keep you fuelled throughout the day.

Mood-Boosting Benefits

Bananas: Naturally sweet and full of potassium, providing steady energy and supporting mood enhancement.
Greek or Coconut Yoghurt: Rich in probiotics, it promotes gut health, which plays a key role in overall mood regulation.
Olive Oil: Full of healthy fats to support brain function and mood stability.
Almond Meal: A good source of magnesium, supporting relaxation and brain health.
Dark Chocolate: Contains antioxidants and magnesium, boosting mood and cognitive function.

Ingredients

• 2 ripe bananas, mashed

• 1 cup Greek or coconut yoghurt

• 1/4 cup olive oil

• 2 cups almond meal

• 2 eggs

• 1 tsp vanilla extract

• 1.5 cup rolled oats

• 1/4 cup Brown sugar

• 1 tsp salt

• 100g dark chocolate, chopped

Method

1. Preheat the Oven:
   Preheat your oven to 180°C (350°F) and line a muffin tin with paper cases.

2. Mix the Wet Ingredients:
   In a large bowl, mash the bananas and combine with the yoghurt, olive oil, eggs, and vanilla extract until smooth and well-mixed.

3. Combine the Dry Ingredients:
   In a separate bowl, mix the almond meal, oats, and salt together.

4. Combine Wet and Dry Ingredients:
   Add the wet ingredients to the dry ingredients and stir gently to combine. Be careful not to over-mix.

5. Add the Chocolate:
   Fold in the chopped dark chocolate.

6. Portion the Batter:
   Divide the muffin batter evenly into the muffin cases.

7. Bake:
   Bake for 20-25 minutes or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.

8. Cool & Enjoy:
   Allow the muffins to cool in the tin for 5 minutes, then transfer to a wire rack to cool completely.

TIP: These muffins freeze wonderfully! Make a batch to have healthy snacks on hand at all times. You can also add a sprinkle of cinnamon or a handful of chopped nuts for extra flavour and texture.