Danielle's Banana Chocolate Chip Muffins

I think this must be the most-blogged recipe on this blog. This originally came up the week we moved from Chicago, so I skipped it. I wasn't going to make it because it didn't grab me as something I really wanted to make. Then it kept popping up on the blog and everyone was saying how amazing these were, so I figured I had to try them.

I loved how easy these were to make. Including bake time, I had them done in an hour or less. I liked them, but I can't say I really loved them. Maybe it was my bananas, but I would've liked more banana flavor. I also think I added too many chocolate chips. They were a little overpowering. I admit, I didn't pay attention to how much the recipe called for. I just added them till I thought it looked like a good amount. If I make these again, I think I'll add them sparingly. A little chocolate is good, but I'd rather taste mostly banana.

Overall, I liked them and I can see myself making them again because they were so easy.

Melanie W.'s Banana Chocolate Muffins

I am so so happy I decided to take the time to make these muffins! They were absolutely delicious!! I've made lots of banana bread before, but this must have had just the right combination of ingredients because they were super moist and flavorful and probably the best I've had. Two of my sisters ate some and they rated them a 10 out of 10.

I didn't have very ripe bananans, mine were just slightly ripe but I don't think it even made a difference. I omitted the espresso powder and instead added 1/2 teaspoon of both cinnamon and nutmeg, plus a dash each of allspice and ground cloves.

I also must add, it feels quite nice to be back in the States and have easy access to chocolate chips and to not have to adjust for high altitute baking! It makes a world of a difference!

Banana Espresso Chocolate Muffins

So the reason I chose this recipe is because after I gave birth to Ollie a very kind soul brought me dinner and there was some banana chocolate chip bread included. Regretfully, I don't remember who it was. But I know they will be blessed beyond measure. It made me the happiest little postpartum mess on the planet.

I also must confess that I haven't tried the recipe yet. That will be my project later today :) But I wanted to get the recipe up for all of you nail biters.

*I am certain that cinnamon, nutmeg, or coco powder would be an acceptable substitute for the espresso powder (if that's how you roll)

I will post pics later

Here's the shakedown

Q: When did you start baking / cooking?
A: Like a week after I got married. Honestly, I couldn't even make a grilled cheese sammie. But the Food Network has been a constant companion since I said my I do's.

Q: What is your favorite kitchen tool?
A: My knife. 7 inch Henckels Santoku. I try not to leave home without it

Q: Do you have a favorite spice? If so, what is it?
A: kosher salt- I am of a very firm opinion that a lot of people under salt.

Q: What is your favorite book?
A: I have a few, Memoirs of a Geisha, Fire of the Covenant, and all of the Potters because when I was little I wanted to be a wizard.

Q: If you could travel anywhere, where would you go?
A: New Zealand

Q: If you had to change your first name right now, what would you change it to?
A: Jemima

Q: Where do you currently live?
A: Chicago

Q: Where are you from?
A: Provo, UT

Q: If you could eat one thing for every meal for the rest of your life, what would it be?
A: Half steak Half pork Salad from Cafe Rio with a big frosty Coke Classic. Try it people, half steak half pork is where it's at.