Lemon, Oat, Banana Ricotta Muffins

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### **Instructions**

#### **1. Preheat and Prep**
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and line a muffin tin with paper liners or grease it lightly.

#### **2. Mix Dry Ingredients**
In a large bowl, combine rolled oats, flour, baking powder, baking soda, and salt. Stir to evenly distribute the leavening agents.

#### **3. Combine Wet Ingredients**
In a separate bowl, whisk together mashed bananas, ricotta cheese, egg, honey or maple syrup, lemon juice, lemon zest, milk, and vanilla extract.

#### **4. Bring It Together**
Pour the wet ingredients into the dry ingredients. Gently fold the mixture until just combined. Be careful not to overmix, as this can make the muffins dense.

#### **5. Portion and Bake**
Scoop the batter evenly into the prepared muffin tin, filling each cup about ¾ full. Bake for 18-22 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.

#### **6. Cool and Enjoy**
Allow the muffins to cool in the tin for 5 minutes before transferring them to a wire rack. Enjoy warm or at room temperature.

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### **Serving Suggestions**

– Pair with a dollop of Greek yogurt and a drizzle of honey for an indulgent breakfast.
– Serve alongside a cup of herbal tea for a cozy snack.
– Dust with powdered sugar or glaze with a lemon drizzle for a dessert-style treat.

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### **Storage Tips**

– **Room Temperature**: Store in an airtight container for up to 2 days.
– **Refrigerator**: Keep in the fridge for up to 5 days.
– **Freezer**: Freeze for up to 3 months. Simply thaw at room temperature or warm in the microwave before serving.

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### **Why This Recipe Works**

The ricotta adds a creamy richness, while the bananas provide natural sweetness and moisture. Lemon zest and juice brighten the flavor profile, and the oats contribute a hearty texture that keeps you full longer. The balance of flavors and nutrients makes these muffins a standout choice for any time of day.

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### **Conclusion**

These **Lemon, Oat, Banana Ricotta Muffins** are the perfect blend of indulgence and nutrition. Easy to make, irresistibly flavorful, and packed with wholesome ingredients, they’re a must-try for muffin lovers. Whip up a batch today and treat yourself to a zesty, comforting bite!