When I want to encourage a friend, but may not have time to provide a meal, I will often take muffins. The thing I love about muffins is they are easy to make, can be breakfast or a snack, and are easy to package in a pretty way. I always have the ingredients on hand, so I can start baking right away!
I recently made banana muffins and took note of a few things that make it especially easy to share them with a friend.
First, I keep GladWare containers on hand that hold a dozen muffins perfectly. Dollar Tree also has plastic bowls for parties that work well for taking muffins. You can see the pretty muffin liners through the bowl and plastic wrap actually sticks (which always feels like a small victory!).
I also enjoy picking up seasonal and neutral cupcake liners to keep in my pantry. They’re inexpensive and easy to find, making even simple muffins feel a little more special.
Finally, I keep a small tote in my kitchen filled with ribbon I’ve collected or saved to reuse. I’ve always loved how grosgrain ribbon ties into a bow, but my current favorite is one that says “You’re the Best.” It’s such an easy way to add a thoughtful touch.
When it comes to baking, I love a one-bowl muffin recipe. Cleanup is simple, and it saves time. This recipe from Little Sweet Baker was a great starting point for me. I made a few adjustments by using butter, unsweetened applesauce (instead of vegetable oil), and gluten-free flour. They turned out delicious! I’m sure they would be just as good using any flour you have on hand in your pantry. Here is the recipe. Enjoy!
One-Bowl Banana Muffins (Gluten-Free Option)
Ingredients
1 ½ cups mashed ripe bananas (about 4 medium)
¾ cup cane sugar
¼ cup butter, melted
¼ cup unsweetened applesauce
1 large egg
1 tsp vanilla extract
2 cups flour (Bob’s Red Mill 1-to-1 Gluten-Free Baking Flour works well)
½ tsp baking soda
½ tsp salt
Instructions
Preheat the oven to 350°F and line a standard muffin pan with paper liners.
In a large bowl, melt the butter. In the same bowl, mix together the bananas, sugar, applesauce, egg, and vanilla.
Add the flour, baking soda, and salt, and mix until just combined.
Spoon the batter into the prepared pan.
Bake for 20 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean.
Do you have a muffin recipe you love? I’d love for you to share it with me.
Sometimes a small gesture, like a dozen muffins, can be just the encouragement someone needs to feel cared for.
Warmly,
Adina
In Case You Missed It
If you’re hosting this spring and want your home to smell fresh and inviting, try this simmer pot idea Nadia shared! It’s such a simple and fun way to fill your space with seasonal scents and create a warm, welcoming atmosphere
Don’t have Instagram? Click here to learn how to create a simmer pot!
The smallest things can mean so much. A quick check-in, a thoughtful note, or dropping something off at someone’s door, it all adds up in ways you might not even realize. Check out this Kindness Bucket List, it’s full of simple ideas to help brighten someone’s day.
This one is for all my cookie dough lovers! This easy cookie dough bark dessert comes together quickly and tastes fantastic. A perfect dessert to pop into a container and include with a meal!
Don’t have Instagram? Click here for the recipe!
This Million Dollar Spaghetti is always a hit! Layers of pasta, cheesy goodness, and hearty meat sauce come together for the ultimate comfort meal. It’s easy, affordable, and perfect for a family dinner or sharing with a friend in need!
Don’t have Instagram? Click here for the recipe!
Who doesn't appreciate a note that reminds them of how special and loved they are? Here are a few printables and notes we’ve recently been pinning on Pinterest!
