Easy Cherry Banana Muffins (Plant-Based & No Sugar)

Have you ever tried to make cherry banana muffins? Are you a muffin lover who loves experimenting with different flavors and combinations but appreciates simplicity and less effort? This quick and easy recipe is just for you! Easy to make, always works, plant-based, no sugar, and satisfying!

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One thing I love when it comes to being a chef is the always being open to trying, challenging, and experimenting mindset. This way of thinking led me to make the best meals in my career, this mindset to not be afraid to take a risk in a kitchen and experiment with different flavors and spices. Once you understand the basis of cooking, you can dive into that world and be confident.

Do you know that feeling when sometimes things might not work; too liquidy, thick, salty, burned? I have experienced all these moments, but I somehow took a risk, and I can tell you I’ve made the best meals out of these failures. The worst thing was that I didn’t remember how I made it and what I put inside (when someone asked me for a recipe). Did you experience the same situation? How did you handle them? You can comment below.

I have already posted one muffin recipe (check it here) and shared a base for muffins that always work with you. There is also an explanation of how to change the flavors and experience. That’s how every muffin recipe on this blog probably will be built. This cherry banana muffin recipe is fantastic!

What are the benefits of eating cherries?

Cherries are rich in polyphenols and vitamin C sources with anti-inflammatory properties. Science says, “Consumption of cherries decreased markers for oxidative stress, inflammation, exercise-induced muscle soreness and loss of strength, and blood pressure. “
Cherries are low in calories but high in fiber, vitamins (C, A, K), and minerals that support your body significantly. They are the source of antioxidants essential in your body because they work against free radicals. (read more here)

Whenever the cherry season comes, use this time to consume them the most and make jams, juices, and sauces for a later time. Frozen cherries are an excellent way to enjoy them without season.

Everything You Need To Make Cherry Banana Muffins

• Bananas (ripe)
• Organic wheat/ spelt flour
• Fresh cherries (or frozen)
• Shredded coconut flakes
• Honey (maple, agave syrup)
• Oil (coconut or rapeseed oil)
• Soy drink (any plant-based drink or milk of choice)
• Baking powder & soda
• Almond extract
• Salt to taste

How to make cherry banana muffins (step by step)

STEP 1:

Prepare two medium-size mixing bowls. Put all dry ingredients into the first one: flour, baking powder, baking soda, salt, and stir it to combine.

You can experiment with different spices here. What you could add to boost the flavor is cinnamon, nutmeg, vanilla powder, or cocoa powder to make it a little bit chocolaty.

STEP 2:

In the second bowl, combine all wet ingredients: banana puree (make it with a fork), oil, milk/drink, honey, and almond extract. Whisk to combine.

STEP 3:

Start incorporating the dry ingredients into the wet ingredient batter. Slowly, not everything at once. This will allow you to combine it thoroughly.

If the batter seems too dry, which might happen due to the flour you use, or if you use sugar instead of maple syrup or honey, add more drink/milk. 

STEP 4:

When your batter is ready, taste it if you are satisfied with its sweetness and saltiness. Then add cherries to a muffin mix as well as shredded coconut flakes. Mix to combine thoroughly.

STEP 5:

Preheat the oven to 180 degrees Celcius (375 F), and in the meantime, refill your muffin baking forms. The silicon muffin forms work best. The paper ones must be firmer to keep the muffin shape right.
When the oven is warmed, place your muffins and bake for 25-30 minutes. It also depends on your range, so look at them now and then and see how the process goes.

FINAL STEP:

When your cherry banana muffins are baked through, let them cool down and enjoy! These are perfect for spring and summer. You can spice them up with vanilla powder, chocolate, and cinnamon and give even more touch to the final flavor.

It’s easy to change the flavor; here is how you can do it

• In the recipe, initially, we have two ripe bananas. This will count as about 3/4 cup of banana puree. You can easily use apple, pumpkin, or even carrot puree. You can use strawberry or raspberry puree for a more summery flavor. For more exotic, mango puree would be fantastic. There are endless ideas.
• 1/2 cup of cherries you can change for grated apples, pumpkin, carrot, pear, zucchini, blueberries, strawberries, or any fruit you choose. 
• 1/3 cup of coconut flakes you can change for any nut of choice. You could add chia seeds, chocolate chips, or dried fruit instead.

Hungry for more dessert recipes?

The Only Apple Cinnamon Muffin Recipe You Will Ever Need!

Easy Kid’s Friendly Baked Oat Energy Bars Recipe

Best Gluten-Free Chocolate Chip Cookies

I hope you will enjoy these cherry banana muffins and get inspiration from today’s post. Let me know in the comment section below if you tried it and liked it. If there is anything I can do for you, please don’t hesitate to write me. I would love to connect with you and help you even more!  
Domi