Healthy banana-oatmeal-applesauce muffins

We've all had over-ripe bananas in our kitchen that we do not feel like eating. These muffins are the perfect way to use those bananas to create a tasty and nutritious breakfast. They are easy to make and easier to eat! The hidden ingredient, chia seeds is a super food that is rich in antioxidants, omega-3 fatty acids and micro-nutrients, among many other things. The oats add plenty of fiber and applesauce adds natural sweetness.

Makes 12 muffins. Prep time: 10 minutes, Cook time: 15 minutes

Ingredients:

• 1 large ripe banana

• 4 tbsp canola oil (or any neutral tasting oil)

• 1/2 cup unsweetened apple sauce

• 1 egg

• 1/2 tsp vanilla extract

• 3 tbsp pure cane sugar (or sweetener of choice)

• 1/2 cup milk

• 1 tbsp chia seeds

• 1 cup rolled oats

• 3/4 cup all purpose flour

• 3 tbsp dark chocolate chips

• 1 tsp cinnamon

• 1/4 tsp nutmeg

• 1 tsp baking powder

• 1/2 tsp baking soda

• 1/4 tsp salt

• 2 tbsp rolled oats and 1 tbsp cane sugar for topping the muffins

Directions:

• Pre-heat oven to 375 degrees C.

• Mash the banana with the help of a fork. If you like chunks of banana in the muffins, do not over-mash.

• Add the oil, egg, apple sauce, vanilla extract, sugar, milk and chia seeds to the mashed banana and mix to combine.

• Let the mixture rest for 2 to 5 minutes before adding the dry ingredients.

• Mix until everything is just combined. Do not over-mix.

• Grease a muffin pan with oil or cooking spray. The muffin pan can be lined with parchment cups.

• Add approximately 1/4 cup of muffin batter to each well of the muffin pan. I find using a 1/4 cup measure ensures equal batter distribution and equal sized muffins.

• Bake muffins for 15 minutes. Cooking time may vary based on oven type.

• Allow muffins to cool and then enjoy them as is, or with milk, coffee or tea.

Enjoy your breakfast!