Whole wheat carrot banana muffins are packed with lots of healthy whole grains as well as fruit and vegetables. An easy recipe to make for snacks or meals.
1Tablespoonmaple syrup2 if you like it really sweet
2Tablespoonsplain yogurt
Instructions
In a large bowl, mix together the flour, baking soda, baking powder, cinnamon, nutmeg, and salt. Set aside.
Remove pits from the prunes/dates. If they’re a bit firm, be sure to soak them in hot water for about 5 minutes, then puree them in your blender until mostly smooth. You can add up to 2 Tablespoons water to help it blend. Add the mashed bananas and blend again. Add the remaining wet ingredients - eggs, yogurt, vanilla, (and optional molasses) - blend briefly, just until smooth.
Combine the wet ingredients and shredded carrots with the dry ingredients. Stir just until mixed. Divide into 18 silicone-lined muffin cups. Bake on 350ºF for 18-22 minutes. Check with a toothpick and remove from oven to cool.
Maple Cream Cheese Frosting:
Leave the cream cheese out to soften at room temperature for 30 minutes. Place in a large bowl and whip vigorously, using a fork or whisk, or if you've got it, an electric mixer. (DO NOT USE BLENDER/PROCESSOR FOR THIS.) Add yogurt and maple syrup and combine until smooth. Scoop into a pastry piping bag or icing decorator and refrigerate for about 30 minutes. Pipe onto cooked & cooled muffins and serve at room temperature. (You can also refrigerate it and spread it on with a knife or spatula.) ENJOY.
Notes
Optional: 1 Tablespoon molasses - it adds a different richness, which is perfect for dessert. We usually leave it out because we eat these for breakfast, but it's a delicious addition.
Optional: ½ teaspoon ground cloves - I LOVE ground cloves in this recipe, but I couldn't find any here in Japan. I highly recommend it if you've got it in your pantry, but the muffins are still super delicious without it!