Banana Muffins with Avocado Cocoa Cream

Banana muffins with avocado cocoa cream are a delightful treat packed with flavor and a touch of healthiness. Ripe bananas provide natural sweetness and moisture, making these muffins irresistibly soft. The combination of cinnamon and cardamom spices offers a warm and aromatic touch, perfect for cozy mornings or afternoon snacks. The rich, dark chocolate chips introduce moments of indulgent gooeyness, pairing perfectly with the banana flavor. Topped with a creamy avocado and cream cheese frosting, accentuated by the deep flavor of cocoa, these muffins rise above the ordinary. The balance of sweetness and creaminess makes these muffins a versatile dessert that suits many palates. This recipe not only satisfies the sweet tooth but also incorporates healthier fats from avocados, ensuring a guilt-free treat. They are easy to make and perfect for any gathering, ensuring all who taste are impressed. Whether you're catering to a wholesome breakfast or a refined afternoon tea, these banana muffins with avocado cocoa cream make a beautiful centerpiece.

Ingredients

Main Ingredients:

  • 3 bananas
  • 50 ml milk
  • 50 ml olive oil
  • 125 ml brown sugar
  • 375 ml all-purpose flour
  • 1 tsp baking powder
  • 1 tsp salt
  • 1 tsp cinnamon
  • 1 tsp cardamom
  • 150 g dark chocolate, chopped

For the Cream:

  • 1 ripe avocado
  • 200 g cream cheese
  • 3 tbsp cocoa powder

Preparation Time

Total Time: 40 minutes

Step-by-Step Instruction

  1. Prepare the Bananas: In a mixing bowl, mash the bananas using a fork until smooth.
  2. Mix Wet Ingredients: Add the milk and olive oil to the mashed bananas and stir until well combined.
  3. Add Dry Ingredients and Chocolate: Gradually pour in the brown sugar, flour, baking powder, salt, cinnamon, cardamom, and chopped dark chocolate into the wet mixture while stirring to combine evenly.
  4. Prepare Muffin Tins: Line a muffin tin with paper liners. Pour the banana muffin mixture into each cup, filling them about two-thirds full.
  5. Bake the Muffins: Preheat your oven to 185°C (365°F). Bake the muffins for approximately 20 minutes or until they are golden brown and a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.
  6. Prepare the Avocado Cream: While the muffins are baking, remove the pit and peel from the avocado, placing the flesh in a bowl. Mash it with a fork until smooth.
  7. Mix with Cream Cheese: Combine the mashed avocado with the cream cheese, stirring until smooth.
  8. Add Cocoa Powder: Mix the cocoa powder into the avocado and cream cheese mixture until fully incorporated and smooth.
  9. Let Muffins Cool: Remove muffins from the oven and allow them to cool completely on a wire rack.
  10. Top with Avocado Cream: Spoon the avocado cream into a piping bag or use a spatula to spread it generously over the cooled muffins.
  11. Decorate: Optionally, decorate with crushed candies, chocolate shavings, or nuts of your choice.
  12. Serve and Enjoy: Your banana muffins with avocado cocoa cream are now ready to serve. Enjoy them fresh for the best flavor.

Tips

  • Ripe Bananas: Use ripe bananas with plenty of spots for increased sweetness and moisture.
  • Avocado: Ensure the avocado is perfectly ripe for a smooth cream.
  • Storage: Store muffins without cream in an airtight container for up to three days. Add the cream just before serving for freshness.

Nutritions (per serving)

  • Calories: 250
  • Protein: 4g
  • Fat: 12g
  • Carbs: 34g

Variations

  • Gluten-Free: Use a gluten-free flour blend instead of all-purpose flour.
  • Vegan: Substitute cream cheese with a vegan alternative and use coconut or almond milk.
  • Nut-Free: Avoid using decorations containing nuts if allergies are a concern.

Serving Suggestions

  • Perfect Pairing: Serve with a hot cup of coffee or latte.
  • Additional Toppings: Add a sprinkle of crushed nuts or cocoa nibs for extra texture.
  • Occasion Use: Ideal for breakfast, brunch gatherings, or afternoon tea.

Best Places

  1. The Muffin Man Bakery - Known for its unique muffin flavors and cozy atmosphere. Location: 12 Charles Street, London, UK.
  2. Blue Bottle Coffee - Offers a range of delicious pastries including unique muffins. Location: Ferry Building, San Francisco, USA.
  3. Cafe de Flore - Famous for its pastries and iconic Parisian setting. Location: Boulevard Saint-Germain, Paris, France.
  4. Java Lounge - Offers a fusion of classic and innovative muffin flavors. Location: 123 Colombo Street, Wellington, New Zealand.
  5. Crumbs & Doilies - Known for vibrant and creative cupcakes and muffins. Location: 1 Kingly Court, London, UK.
  6. Wildair - Casual, yet dainty eats with delightful baked goods. Location: 142 Orchard Street, New York, USA.
  7. Ti Aukštai
    • Offers Lithunian culinary experience with European influence.
    • Location: Pylimo g. 49, Vilnius, Lithuania.
  8. Quarter Horse Coffee Roasters - Known for its artisanal coffee and baked goods. Location: 88-90 Bristol Street, Birmingham, UK.
  9. Bourke Street Bakery - Renowned for fresh, high-quality baked products. Location: Bourke Street, Surry Hills, Australia.
  10. Crackbird - A unique venue that pairs fun atmosphere with delicious snacks. Location: 60 Dame Street, Dublin, Ireland.