Baking the Easiest Nut Butter and Jam Surprise Muffins

We've all been there. You find a "perfect" baking recipe online, you spend precious time and ingredients, and the result is... disappointing. The muffins are dry, the cake sinks in the middle, or the cookies turn into a giant, flat puddle on the baking sheet. It’s a disheartening experience that can make even the most enthusiastic home baker want to give up.

But what if we told you there's a recipe that is truly, unequivocally, fail-proof?

A recipe that not only delivers perfectly moist, tender muffins every single time but also holds a little secret inside. A glorious, gooey, and utterly delicious surprise waiting in the middle of every single bite.

We're talking about our Nut Butter and Jam Surprise Muffins, and they are about to become your new go-to. This recipe is more than just a list of ingredients; it's a guaranteed win, a moment of pure baking joy, and the perfect excuse to crack open a jar of our beloved 99th Monkey Nut Butter.

The Science of "Fail-Proof" Baking

Before we get to the fun part, let's talk about why this recipe is different. We’ve all seen recipes that require a precise balance of wet and dry ingredients, exact folding techniques, or a temperature that has to be just right. This recipe throws much of that stress out the window by using a few simple, forgiving ingredients that do all the hard work for you.

• The Magic of Mashed Bananas & Diced Apples: These are the real secret weapons. The natural moisture and sweetness from the bananas and apples create a tender, soft crumb that is incredibly difficult to dry out. They keep the muffins light and airy, even if you slightly over-bake them. They also add a subtle, natural sweetness, allowing us to use less sugar.

• The Simplicity of Self-Raising Flour: By using self-raising flour, we've already taken care of the leavening agents (baking powder and salt). This eliminates a crucial step where many recipes can go wrong. No more worrying about old baking powder or getting the measurements wrong; the flour does the work for you.

• The Role of Rice Bran Oil: This neutral-flavoured oil adds incredible moisture without a heavy taste. It ensures the muffins stay soft and tender for days, making them perfect for meal prep or a quick snack throughout the week.

When you bring all these ingredients together, you get a batter that is thick, forgiving, and virtually impossible to mess up. It’s the perfect foundation for our delicious surprise.

The Surprise: A Heart of Gold

This is where the true magic happens. The moment you fill each muffin with a little teaspoon of jam and a big dollop of 99th Monkey Nut Butter.

When you first bite into a muffin, it feels like a simple, wholesome treat. But then, your teeth sink a little deeper, and you hit a pocket of pure, warm bliss. The rich, creamy nut butter melts and mixes with the sweet, tangy jam, creating a symphony of flavours that is truly unforgettable.

• Almond Butter: If you choose our Smooth Almond Butter, you get a silky, rich flavour that beautifully complements the sweetness of the fruit. The warmth of the oven makes it even more decadent, turning it into a luxurious, nutty sauce.

• Peanut Butter: If you opt for our Peanut Butter, you get a more robust, earthy flavour. The warm, salty-sweet combination is a classic for a reason, creating a nostalgic taste that feels like a hug in a muffin.

No matter which you choose, the result is a perfect balance. The simple, humble muffin is transformed into something special, all thanks to that glorious, gooey core. And because our 99th Monkey Nut Butters are made with simple, wholesome ingredients and contain no added nasties, you can feel great about every single bite.

More Than Just a Treat: A Nutritional Powerhouse

While these muffins are a delightful indulgence, they are also packed with nutritional benefits that make them a much healthier choice than your typical bakery muffin.

• Sustained Energy: The combination of complex carbohydrates from the flour and oats, along with the healthy fats and protein from the 99th Monkey Nut Butter, provides a steady release of energy. Unlike sugary treats that can lead to a crash, these muffins will keep you feeling full and satisfied.

• Fibre-Rich: The apples, bananas, and oats add a significant amount of dietary fibre, which is essential for gut health and helps to regulate blood sugar levels.

• Heart-Healthy Fats: Our nut butter is an excellent source of healthy monounsaturated fats. These fats are crucial for brain function and can help to reduce bad cholesterol levels.

This isn’t just a simple treat. It’s a well-rounded snack that provides the fuel you need to power through your day, making it a perfect breakfast on the run or an afternoon pick-me-up.

The Recipe: Your Foolproof Guide

Ingredients:

• 2 large mashed bananas

• 1 cup rice bran oil

• 1/2 cup sugar (or your preferred sweetener, like stevia)

• 1 cup milk of choice

• 3 eggs

• 3 apples, diced and peeled

• 50g oats

• 2.5 cups self-raising flour

• 1 tsp jam of choice

• 1 tsp 99th Monkey Nut Butter (almond or peanut)

Instructions:

1. Preheat your oven to 180°C (350°F) and line a muffin tin with 18 paper liners.

2. In a large bowl, combine the mashed bananas, rice bran oil, sugar, milk, and eggs. Mix until well combined.

3. Add the diced apples, oats, and self-raising flour to the wet ingredients. Stir everything together until just combined. Be careful not to over-mix; a few lumps are fine!

4. Fill each muffin hole halfway with the batter.

5. Now for the surprise! Create a small well in the centre of each muffin and add 1 teaspoon of jam and 1 teaspoon of your chosen 99th Monkey Nut Butter.

6. Top each muffin hole with the remaining batter, making sure to cover the surprise centre completely.

7. Bake for 20 minutes, or until the muffins are golden brown and a skewer inserted into the centre comes out clean.

8. Let them cool slightly before serving.

Bake, Share, and Enjoy

These muffins are more than just a recipe; they are a guaranteed win. They are a testament to the fact that baking can be a joyful, easy, and rewarding experience. They are perfect for sharing with family and friends, or for stashing in the freezer for a quick, delicious snack whenever the craving hits.

So, the next time you feel like baking, skip the complicated recipes and go for a guaranteed smile. Your taste buds—and your confidence—will thank you.

Have you tried this recipe? Share your beautiful creations with us on social media!