Weight Watchers-Friendly Banana Chocolate Chip Mini Muffins
Ingredients:

  • 1 large ripe banana (mashed)
    • Points: 0 (bananas are zero points on most WW plans)
    • Nutritional Benefits: Bananas are high in potassium, fiber, and natural sweetness, making them a healthy addition to baked goods.
  • 1 (6 oz) package of Pioneer Sweet Cream Baking Mix
    • Points: About 21 points for the entire package (varies by brand, so double-check with your app)
    • Nutritional Benefits: This baking mix provides the structure for your muffins and contributes to the overall sweetness and flavor.
  • 3/4 cup water
    • Points: 0
  • Optional: 1/4 cup mini chocolate chips
    • Points: About 6 points (this will vary by brand, but this is an estimate for mini semi-sweet chocolate chips)
    • Nutritional Benefits: Chocolate chips add a touch of indulgence, with antioxidants from the dark chocolate.

Directions:

  1. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Line a mini muffin tin with paper liners or lightly spray with non-stick spray.
  2. Mash the banana in a large mixing bowl until smooth.
  3. Add the Pioneer Sweet Cream Baking Mix and 3/4 cup of water to the mashed banana. Stir until just combined, being careful not to overmix.
  4. Optional: Fold in the mini chocolate chips if you are using them.
  5. Fill each muffin cup about 3/4 full with the batter.
  6. Bake in the preheated oven for 10-12 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center of a muffin comes out clean.
  7. Cool the muffins in the pan for a few minutes before transferring them to a wire rack to cool completely.

Serving Size:

  • Makes about 24 mini muffins (depending on the size of your muffin tin)

Nutritional Information (Per Muffin with Chocolate Chips):

  • Calories: Approximately 40-50 kcal
  • Weight Watchers Points: 1 point per mini muffin

Nutritional Information (Per Muffin without Chocolate Chips):

  • Calories: Approximately 30-35 kcal
  • Weight Watchers Points: 0.75 points per mini muffin (round up to 1 point)

Tips:

  • Lower Points Option: Skip the chocolate chips to reduce the points, keeping each muffin at around 1 point.
  • Boost Fiber: Add a tablespoon of ground flaxseed or chia seeds to the batter for added fiber and omega-3s, but adjust the points accordingly.
  • Bulk Up the Muffins: You can add grated zucchini or carrots to add volume and nutrients without significantly increasing the points.
  • Storage: Store the muffins in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days or freeze them for longer storage.

Benefits:

  • Portion Control: Mini muffins help with portion control, making it easier to enjoy a sweet treat without going overboard.
  • Quick and Easy: With only three main ingredients, this recipe is super easy to make, perfect for busy mornings or a quick snack.
  • Banana Benefits: The ripe banana not only adds natural sweetness but also provides essential nutrients like potassium and dietary fiber.

These Banana Chocolate Chip Mini Muffins are a delicious, low-point treat that you can enjoy as a snack or breakfast on the go. The optional chocolate chips add a touch of indulgence while still keeping the points reasonable. Enjoy!