If you’re on the hunt for a wholesome, protein-packed treat to brighten your breakfast or boost your afternoon snack game, the White Bean Muffins with Oats and Peanut Butter Recipe is a total winner. These muffins cleverly sneak in a can of great northern beans, giving you an extra hit of fiber and nutrients without compromising on deliciousness. Plus, the oats and peanut butter add texture and rich flavor that will have you reaching for a second one (or two!). Whether you’re baking for your family, prepping healthy snacks, or simply craving something cozy and satisfying, this recipe is a delightful twist on your classic muffin.
Ingredients You’ll Need
This recipe keeps things wonderfully simple with ingredients that each play a crucial role in balance and flavor. Nothing is overly complicated here—just wholesome staples coming together to create a moist, tender muffin that’s packed with natural sweetness and nutrition.
- Great northern beans (1 15-oz can, drained and rinsed): This is the secret powerhouse adding protein and fiber, while keeping muffins delightfully moist.
- Eggs (2): They bind all the ingredients together and give structure without heaviness.
- Maple syrup (1/3 cup): A natural sweetener that complements the peanut butter with a touch of rich sweetness.
- Rolled oats (3/4 cup): They provide a little chew and heartiness, making these muffins extra satisfying.
- Peanut butter (1/2 cup): Adds creamy richness and a hint of nutty goodness; almond butter works too if you prefer.
- Baking soda (1 tsp): Gives the muffins a nice rise and keeps them light.
- Cinnamon (1 tsp): Warms up the flavor, adding a fragrant twist.
- Vanilla extract (1 tsp): Enhances the overall flavor with subtle sweetness.
- Salt (1/2 tsp): Balances the sweetness and deepens flavors.
- Optional mix-ins: Chocolate chips, craisins, shredded coconut, or nuts to customize your muffins.
How to Make White Bean Muffins with Oats and Peanut Butter Recipe
Step 1: Blend the Base
Start by tossing the drained and rinsed great northern beans, eggs, and maple syrup into your food processor. Blend this trio until you have a smooth, creamy base. This step is crucial as it creates the perfect foundation for your muffins’ tender crumb and subtle sweetness.
Step 2: Add Dry and Nutty Ingredients
Next, add the rolled oats, peanut butter, baking soda, cinnamon, vanilla, and salt right into the processor. Blend everything together until just combined into a thick, lush batter. The peanut butter adds a velvety texture while the oats contribute a satisfying bite, balancing softness and chewiness beautifully.
Step 3: Mix in Your Favorites
If you like a little extra flair, add your choice of mix-ins like chocolate chips, craisins, or shredded coconut. Pulse the processor a few times on low speed to gently fold these in evenly without breaking them up too much.
Step 4: Prepare and Bake
Preheat your oven to 375 degrees Fahrenheit. Grease or line your muffin tins (or use a 9×9 pan for bars), and pour the batter into each cup, filling about two-thirds full. Feel free to sprinkle on additional toppings like chopped nuts or more chocolate chips for extra appeal. Bake for 18–20 minutes until the tops are lightly golden and a toothpick inserted comes out clean.
How to Serve White Bean Muffins with Oats and Peanut Butter Recipe
Garnishes
These muffins are delicious on their own, but to elevate the experience, consider topping them with a dollop of Greek yogurt, a drizzle of honey, or even a smear of extra peanut butter. A sprinkle of crushed nuts or a few fresh berries also adds a vibrant pop of color and texture that makes every bite special.
Side Dishes
For a fulfilling breakfast or snack platter, serve your white bean muffins alongside fresh fruit such as apple slices or berries. A warm cup of coffee or herbal tea pairs beautifully, making this an effortlessly nourishing combo to start or refuel your day.
Creative Ways to Present
Turn these muffins into fun breakfast bars by baking the batter in a square pan and cutting into bars once cooled—perfect for on-the-go snacking. You can also try sandwiching them with nut butter and banana slices or enjoy them crumbled over yogurt or smoothie bowls for an extra boost of texture and nutrition.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Once cooled, keep your White Bean Muffins with Oats and Peanut Butter Recipe fresh by storing them in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days. If your kitchen is warm, refrigerate them to maintain moisture and freshness, extending their life up to a week.
Freezing
These muffins freeze exceptionally well. Wrap them individually in plastic wrap or parchment paper and place in a freezer-safe bag. They’ll keep perfectly for up to 3 months, ready to be thawed whenever you need a convenient, nutritious snack or breakfast.
Reheating
For the best texture, warm your muffins gently in the microwave for 20 to 30 seconds or pop them in a preheated oven at 325 degrees Fahrenheit for 5 to 7 minutes. This will bring back that fresh-baked warmth and makes the peanut butter notes wonderfully fragrant and melty.
FAQs
Can I substitute the great northern beans with another type of bean?
Absolutely! Cannellini beans or navy beans are great alternatives and will offer a similar mild flavor and creamy texture that blends well into the batter.
Is it necessary to use maple syrup, or can I use another sweetener?
You can swap maple syrup for honey or agave nectar if you prefer, but keep the quantity the same. Avoid granulated sugar as it may affect the muffin’s moisture and texture.
Can I make these muffins vegan?
Yes! To make these vegan, replace the eggs with flax eggs (mix 2 tablespoons of ground flaxseed with 6 tablespoons of water and let it sit for 5 minutes) and use a plant-based peanut butter that does not contain honey.
What’s the best way to add mix-ins without them sinking?
Gently fold in your mix-ins by pulsing the processor just enough to distribute them evenly. Alternatively, you can stir them in by hand after blending the base to keep them suspended throughout the batter.
Can these muffins be made nut-free?
Definitely. You can substitute peanut butter with sunflower seed butter or soy nut butter to avoid nuts altogether, and still enjoy a rich, creamy texture and nutty flavor profile.
Final Thoughts
If you love snacks that combine health and heartiness, the White Bean Muffins with Oats and Peanut Butter Recipe is one you’ll want to keep on your regular rotation. It’s easy to make, incredibly nourishing, and deliciously comforting—perfect for sharing with friends or enjoying as your own personal treat. Give it a try and watch how these muffins quickly become your new favorite quick breakfast or wholesome snack!
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White Bean Muffins with Oats and Peanut Butter Recipe
These White Bean Muffins are a wholesome and protein-packed treat featuring great northern beans blended with oats, peanut butter, and warm cinnamon. Perfect for breakfast or a healthy snack, they combine creamy texture with natural sweetness and optional mix-ins like chocolate chips or dried fruit for added flavor and texture.
- Total Time: 30 minutes
- Yield: 12 muffins
Ingredients
Base Ingredients
- 1 (15 oz) can great northern beans, drained and rinsed
- 2 eggs
- 1/3 cup maple syrup
- 3/4 cup rolled oats
- 1/2 cup peanut butter (or almond butter)
- 1 tsp baking soda
- 1 tsp cinnamon
- 1 tsp vanilla extract
- 1/2 tsp salt
Optional Mix-ins
- Chocolate chips
- Craisin dried cranberries
- Shredded coconut
Instructions
- Blend Base Mixture: Combine the drained and rinsed great northern beans, eggs, and maple syrup in a food processor. Blend until the mixture becomes smooth and creamy, ensuring the beans are fully pureed.
- Add Dry and Flavor Ingredients: Add the rolled oats, peanut butter, baking soda, cinnamon, vanilla extract, and salt to the food processor. Blend again until all ingredients are evenly incorporated into a thick batter.
- Incorporate Optional Mix-ins: Add chocolate chips, craisins, shredded coconut, or any other desired mix-ins. Pulse the processor a few times to gently combine without overblending.
- Prepare to Bake: Grease or line muffin tins or a 9×9 baking pan. Pour the batter evenly into the prepared tin. Add extra toppings on top if desired, like additional chocolate chips or shredded coconut.
- Bake: Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C). Bake the muffins for 18 to 20 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean. Remove from oven and allow to cool slightly before serving.
Notes
- Make sure to drain and rinse the beans well to avoid any canned taste.
- Feel free to swap peanut butter with almond butter or any nut butter of choice.
- These muffins can also be baked in a 9×9 pan for bars; adjust baking time slightly if needed.
- Optional mix-ins add flavor and texture but can be omitted for a plain muffin.
- Allow muffins to cool completely before storing in an airtight container.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Category: Breakfast
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
- Diet: Vegetarian