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Green Spinach and Cocoa Muffins

These muffins are a moist, tender baked treat that incorporate blended spinach and cacao powder into the batter. The mixture results in vibrant green muffins with a slightly dense crumb and a rich chocolate flavor, perfect for a healthy breakfast or snack.
Prep Time 10 minutes
Cook Time 20 minutes
Total Time 30 minutes
Servings: 12
Course: Main Course
Cuisine: Comfort Food
Calories: 180

Ingredients
  

  • 2 cups fresh spinach leaves roughly chopped
  • 3 ripe bananas bananas mashed
  • 1/4 cup cocoa powder unsweetened
  • 1/2 cup honey or maple syrup
  • 2 cups all-purpose flour
  • 1 teaspoon baking powder
  • 1/2 teaspoon baking soda
  • 1/4 teaspoon salt
  • 1/2 cup milk dairy or plant-based
  • 1/4 cup olive oil
  • 1 teaspoon vanilla extract

Equipment

  • Blender
  • Muffin tin
  • Mixing bowls

Method
 

  1. Place the chopped spinach into a blender along with the bananas, cocoa powder, honey, milk, oil, and vanilla extract. Blend until the mixture is smooth and vibrant green, with no visible chunks.
  2. In a large mixing bowl, whisk together the flour, baking powder, baking soda, and salt until evenly combined.
  3. Pour the blended spinach mixture into the bowl of dry ingredients. Gently fold everything together with a spatula until just combined, without overmixing.
  4. Line a muffin tin with paper liners and evenly distribute the batter among the cups, filling each about two-thirds full.
  5. Bake the muffins in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 20 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean. The muffins will turn a slight golden on top and feel springy to the touch.
  6. Remove the muffins from the oven and let them cool slightly in the tin for 5 minutes before transferring to a wire rack to cool completely. Their vibrant green color and rich chocolate scent will invite you to dig right in.

Notes

For extra moisture, add a tablespoon of Greek yogurt to the batter. These muffins freeze well and can be reheated in the microwave for a quick snack.