Banana, Apricot & Nut Muffins

Soft banana muffins with a spoonful of apricot jam, finished with some dark chocolate and toasted nuts.

These banana, apricot and nut muffins are a simple, reliable bake that makes the most of overripe bananas. The addition of  Boddington's apricot jam brings a subtle sweetness and light fruit flavour that pairs beautifully with the crunch of toasted nuts and chocolate. If using nuts, they also add a little extra protein, making these a more satisfying option.

Ideal for sharing or enjoying as a slightly indulgent protein breakfast with a coffee.

Recipe

• Serves: 10–12 muffins
• Prep time: 15 minutes
• Cook time: 30–40 minutes
• Total time: 1 hour

Ingredients

• 140g softened butter
• 100g caster sugar
• 2 eggs
• 140g self-raising flour
• 1 tsp baking powder
• 2 very ripe bananas
• 2–3 tablespoons of Boddington's apricot jam
• 200g mixed nuts (optional)
  
• 100g dark chocolate chips (optional)

Equipment

• Muffin tray
• Paper muffin cases
• Mixing bowls
• Wooden spoon or spatula
• Whisk or electric mixer
• Skewer (for testing)
• Wire cooling rack

Method

Step 1:
Preheat the oven to 180°C / 160°C fan / gas mark 4. Line a muffin tray with paper cases.
If using the mixed nuts, lightly toast them (for example, in an air fryer for 2–3 minutes, shaking regularly), then set aside to cool.

Step 2:
Mash the 2 very ripe bananas in a bowl. If using the mixed nuts, roughly blend or chop them to your desired texture.

Step 3:
In a separate bowl, cream together the 140g softened butter and 100g caster sugar until light and fluffy.
Gradually add the 2 beaten eggs, and approximately 40g of the flour.

Step 4:
Stir in the 3 tablespoons of Boddington's apricot jam and the dark chocolate chips.

Step 5:
Fold in the remaining 100g self-raising flour, 1 tsp baking powder, the mashed bananas, and the toasted nuts (if using). Mix gently until combined.

Step 6:

Divide the mixture evenly between the muffin cases. Bake for 30–40 minutes, checking from around 30 minutes by inserting a skewer into the centre (it should come out clean). Baking time may vary depending on your oven.

Step 7:
Remove from the oven and transfer to a wire rack to cool.

Optional Step 8:
Finish with a drizzle of icing sugar if desired.

Tips for Best Results

• Use very ripe bananas for maximum flavour and natural sweetness.
• Avoid overmixing once the flour is added to keep the muffins light.
• Toasting the nuts enhances flavour and adds texture.
• If your oven runs hot, start checking slightly earlier.