Recipe: Chunky Monkey Muffins (banana muffins with walnuts and chocolate chips)

CHUNKY MONKEY MUFFINS

3 large ripe bananas, mashed
1/4 cup vegetable oil
1 1/2 teaspoons baking powder
1 teaspoon vanilla extract
1/2 teaspoon salt
1 egg
2 cups white whole wheat flour
1/4 cup packed brown sugar
1/4 cup sliced walnuts, lightly toasted
1/4 cup dark chocolate chips
1 teaspoon baking soda

Preheat oven to 375 degrees F and grease 9 muffin cups.

In large bowl mix flour, sugar, baking powder, baking soda and salt.

In small bowl beat oil and eggs together. Add bananas and vanilla. Add wet ingredients to flour mixture, stirring only until just mixed. Stir in chocolate chips and walnuts (do not over mix). If batter is too dry, add another tablespoon of vegetable oil. However, note that muffin batter should be on the thick, lumpy side. Fill muffin cups to about a 1/4-inch below the rim.

Bake for 18 to 22 minutes, or until golden brown and toothpick inserted into center comes out clean. Let stand several minutes before transferring to wire rack to cool.

Makes 9 muffins
Source: Despina Johnson of Glastonbury to The Hartford Courant, October 30, 2008