(Note: this post was originally published on March 21, 2020. The date above reflects migration to the new platform.)

Peanut Butter Love

I have a confession: I'm obsessed in peanut butter. Completely, totally obsessed. Bizarrely, I actually didn't like peanut butter as a kid (my poor mom could never figure out what to pack me for lunch since I refused to each sandwiches of any sort). But for some reason, while I was in grad school, I became a peanut butter fiend and have been enamored with it ever since.

I still don't really do sandwiches, but I slather PB all over apples, toast, bananas, oatmeal, and just about every other food imaginable. I make PB granola, nice cream, protein bars, and cookies. My absolute favorite dessert is a melted combination of PB and chocolate poured over banana slices. Dave is as uncontrollable around peanut butter as I am, which is a dangerous situation.

These muffins are a peanut butter lover's dream. The batter is peanut butter and banana, which is such a classic and divine flavor combination (with plenty of chocolate thrown in for good measure). But the gooey peanut butter center is what really takes these over the top. Look at that gorgeous blob!

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A Hidden Surprise

The best part of these muffins? There's a secret surprise hidden inside! Each muffin has a dollop of peanut butter nestled right into the middle! This takes them from being merely PB flavored to being PB packed. Imagine spreading PB onto a banana muffin; it's like that, but built right in!

Don't worry, they're easy to make! You'll put about half your batter into the muffin cups to start, then add a dollop of PB right into the center of each, then put the rest of the batter on top. Check out the photo below, which shows this step. The only real trick is to use a non-drippy peanut butter so that it will hold its shape. I don't recommend trying this recipe with a drippy, natural PB since it will leak all over and make a sticky, soggy mess.

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Good for the Body (and Easy Too!)

Although these muffins may seem overly decadent, the other ingredients are actually really quite light. They're sweetened only with a modest amount of honey, and the fat and moistness come from peanut butter and banana. The only flour comes from oats, which you'll blast in the blender. So, instead of feeling heavy, these are actually the opposite.

Which means it's totally acceptable to eat three, right?? But seriously, these are a pretty powerful breakfast or snack, loaded with protein, healthy fats, and whole grains. Perfect fuel for an awesome, active day!

As if you need another reason to make these muffins, they're also super easy. The whole batter comes together in just a few minutes, right in a blender! No need to get multiple bowls dirty, mix wet and dry separately, etc. Nope... just measure, blast, and pour!

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Let's Talk Ingredients

Here's what you'll need for this recipe, as well as some thoughts, tips, and possible substitutions. If you make any substitutions, I'd love to hear about it in the comments section below.

• Ripe banana
• Eggs. This is an old recipe and I haven't (yet!) tried a vegan version. I expect it will work fine with flax eggs, although the muffins may have less loft. Please let me know in the comments if you try it.
• Milk. Whatever you have on-hand is fine. I like to bake with unsweetened soy milk because of its richness.
• Non-drippy peanut butter. You'll use PB both to provide fat (and flavor!!) to the batter and to stuff the muffins. While I generally prefer a natural, drippy peanut butter, it won't work great here. This is the time for good old Jiff or Skippy; you want something non-drippy that won't leak out of the muffins or make their centers soggy.
• Honey
• ‍Whole rolled oats
• Baking powder
• Baking soda
• Salt
• Chocolate chips. I prefer dark chocolate to offset the sweetness of the muffins, but use what you love.
• Flaky sea salt. For garnishing the tops of the muffins and creating a sweet/salty balance.

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Closing Thoughts

The other thing I adore about these muffins is that they're so versatile. They'd be great as a breakfast on the go, a healthy snack, or a lunch-time treat. But you could just as easily dress them up with some chocolate sauce and call it dessert.

Peanut butter bliss! Warm them up a bit and the whole center becomes molten, like a lava cake but even better. I have a feeling I'll be making these again and again and again.

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Share It!

It makes me so happy to hear from you and see your creations! Please leave a comment below and let me know what you think about this recipe. If you post a photo on Instagram, hashtag #TheRogueBrusselSprout and tag me (@TheRogueBrusselSprout) in the post text so that I'm sure to see it.

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Suggested Pairings

Berry Banana Breakfast Popsicles

Banana Bread Granola

Strawberry Thyme Granola Parfait

Nourishing Macadamia Orange Banana Bread

Fruity Brunch Salad