Healthy Banana Cupcakes with Maple Cream Cheese Frosting
These Healthy Banana Cupcakes are soo fluffy & super easy to make!
This healthier banana cupcake recipe is the best! They are fluffy and moist, with great banana flavor, and so easy to make. With a luscious maple cream cheese frosting, these banana cupcakes will become your family’s favorite. This recipe yields a one 9″ square or round cake if you prefer a cake version.
If you're a banana lover, you'll definitely want to try this delicious banana cake recipe that I recently discovered. It's a classic recipe that's been updated to be healthier and more nutritious, and it's absolutely delicious!
These Healthy Banana Cupcakes are perfect for any special occasion or just a weekend treat. They are moist, fluffy, and full of banana flavor, and it's sure to be a hit with everyone who tries it.
These Healthy Banana Cupcakes are must-try for any banana lover! It's a classic recipe with a healthy twist, making it both delicious and nutritious. The use of ripe bananas, spelt flour, and natural sugars makes this cake moist and fluffy, while also adding extra nutrients to your diet.
Incorporate this healthy banana cupcake recipe into your repertoire and enjoy a healthier, more nutritious version of this classic dessert.
Enjoy!
xoxo
SiLLibake
Healthy Banana Cupcakes
Delicious & Nutritious Banana Cupcakes with Maple Cream Cheese Frosting
What is the difference between Spelt Flour & Whole Wheat Flour?
Spelt flour and whole wheat flour are two popular types of flour that are often used in baking and cooking. Although they are both types of wheat flour, they have some key differences in terms of their nutritional value and texture.
Whole wheat flour is made by grinding the entire wheat kernel, including the bran, germ, and endosperm. This means that it is higher in fiber, vitamins, and minerals than refined flours, which have had the bran and germ removed. Whole wheat flour has a nutty flavor and a slightly denser texture than refined flours. On the other hand, spelt flour is made from a different species of wheat and has a slightly different nutritional profile. It is also high in fiber and nutrients, but it has a milder flavor and a lighter texture than whole wheat flour.
If you're looking for a healthier option for your baking and cooking, both spelt flour and whole wheat flour can be great choices. However, whole wheat flour is higher in fiber and nutrients, while spelt flour has a milder flavor and lighter texture. Ultimately, the choice between the two will depend on your personal taste and nutritional needs.
What is Spelt flour?
Spelt flour is a type of flour made from spelt, an ancient grain that is a close relative to modern wheat. Spelt flour is made by grinding spelt grains into a fine powder, which can then be used in a variety of recipes, such as bread, pasta, and baked goods. It has a slightly sweet and nutty flavor, and its texture is similar to that of wheat flour. Spelt flour is also high in fiber and nutrients such as protein, iron, and B vitamins, making it a popular choice for those looking for a healthier alternative to wheat flour.
What are the Health Benefits of Bananas?
Bananas are a popular fruit that are known for their sweet taste, soft texture, and distinctive shape. But besides being a tasty snack, bananas also offer a range of nutritional benefits. Here are some of the key nutritional benefits of bananas:
1. Rich in nutrients: Bananas are a good source of several essential vitamins and minerals, including vitamin C, vitamin B6, potassium, and dietary fiber.
2. Good for digestion: The fiber in bananas helps to promote regular bowel movements and maintain healthy digestive function.
3. Boosts energy: Bananas are a great source of carbohydrates, which provide the body with energy. They are also low in fat and calories, making them a great snack option for those looking to maintain a healthy weight.
4. May improve heart health: The potassium in bananas can help to regulate blood pressure and reduce the risk of heart disease.
5. Contains antioxidants: Bananas contain several antioxidants, including dopamine and catechins, which can help to protect the body against damage from free radicals.
Overall, bananas are a nutritious and delicious fruit that can provide a range of health benefits. Whether you eat them on their own as a snack or add them to smoothies, salads, or baked goods, bananas are a great addition to a healthy diet.
RECIPE:
Yield 12 Muffins or one 9” Square or Round Cake
Prep 20 mins
Cook 16-18 mins for cupcakes 30 min or so for 9 “ cake
Total 28-32 mins for cupcakes
Ingredients:
Cupcakes:
⅓ cup melted coconut oil or light olive oil or vegetable oil
½ cup maple syrup or honey
2 large eggs
1 cup mashed ripe bananas (about 2 ½ medium or 2 large bananas)
¼ cup milk of choice, I used Lactose Free Whole Milk
1 teaspoon baking powder
teaspoon baking soda
2 teaspoon vanilla extract
½ teaspoon salt
¾ teaspoon ground cinnamon
1 cup spelt flour or regular whole wheat flour
¾ cup all-purpose flour
Optional mix-ins: ½ cup chopped walnuts or pecans, chocolate chips, raisins, chopped dried fruit, fresh banana slices…
Cream Cheese Frosting:
8 ounces cream cheese, softened to room temperature
3 tablespoons unsalted butter, softened to room temperature
¼ cup plus 1 Tbsp good maple syrup
2 teaspoon vanilla extract
Pinch of fine sea salt
Directions:
Start by preheating your oven to 350 degrees Fahrenheit and line your muffin tin with SiLLibake Baking Cups or paper liners.
In a large mixing bowl, use a whisk to beat together the oil and maple syrup until well combined. Add the eggs and continue beating until the mixture is smooth, then whisk in the mashed bananas and milk. If your coconut oil hardens when it comes into contact with colder ingredients, place the bowl in a warm spot for a few minutes, like on top of your stove, or warm it in the microwave for 10 to 20 seconds.
Next, add the baking powder, baking soda, vanilla, salt, and cinnamon to the bowl, and whisk everything together until it is well combined. Add both flours to the mixture and stir using a big spoon or spatula until just combined, taking care not to overmix the batter. It’s okay if there are a few lumps. If you are using any extra mix-ins, fold them into the batter gently.
Pour the batter into the SiLLibake Baking Cups to the batter line or 2/3 of the way and bake for 16 to 18 minutes or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean. Once done, place the muffin pan on a cooling rack and allow them to cool completely before frosting.
Cream Cheese Frosting:
To begin, add the softened cream cheese and butter to a large mixing bowl and beat together with an electric mixer until smooth and creamy. Next, add in the maple syrup, vanilla extract, and pinch of salt, and continue mixing until everything is well combined.
Be sure to scrape down the sides of the bowl as needed to ensure that all ingredients are evenly incorporated. Once your frosting is smooth and fluffy, it's ready to use!
This healthy cream cheese frosting is perfect for topping a variety of baked goods, from carrot cake and red velvet cupcakes to pumpkin bread and banana muffins. It's also delicious spread on graham crackers or used as a dip for fresh fruit.
One of the great things about this recipe is that it's so easy to customize to your liking. If you prefer a sweeter frosting, simply add a bit more maple syrup. Or, if you're a fan of citrus flavors, try adding a teaspoon of lemon or orange zest to the mix.
To frost your cupcakes, I love to use a small to medium ice cream scoop for even distribution. Sprinkle with chopped toasted pecans if you wish.
STORING:
For best results, store the cupcakes in the refrigerator for up to four days.
HOW TO MAKE A LAYER CAKE: This recipe as written makes one 9″ round cake, bake at 350F for 30-35 min. Double the recipe and divide the batter between two 9″ round cake pans (butter or oil and flour the pans first) for a two-tiered layer cake. Double the frosting, too.
HOW TO MAKE A LARGE 9×13″ CAKE: Simply double the banana cake and frosting ingredients. Bake in a greased 9×13″ pan at 350F for 36 to 40 minutes. Be sure to use a true 9×13″ pan ( I love the USA Pan)
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