Step 1: Preheat and Prepare the Muffin Tin

Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Line a 12-cup muffin tin with paper liners or lightly grease with cooking spray to prevent sticking.

Step 2: Mix the Dry Ingredients

In a medium bowl, whisk together the flour, baking soda, baking powder, salt, and cinnamon. This ensures the leavening agents are evenly distributed throughout the batter.

Step 3: Mash the Bananas

In a large mixing bowl, mash the ripe bananas using a fork or potato masher until smooth but slightly chunky. The texture of the bananas affects the moisture of the muffins, so avoid over-mashing them into a puree.

Step 4: Combine the Wet Ingredients

To the mashed bananas, add the sugar, oil (or melted butter), egg, vanilla extract, and milk. Stir until well combined and smooth.

Step 5: Incorporate the Dry Ingredients

Gradually add the dry ingredients into the wet mixture. Use a spatula or wooden spoon to fold the mixture together gently. Be careful not to overmix, as this can result in dense muffins. The batter should be slightly lumpy.

Step 6: Add Mix-ins (Optional)

If using chocolate chips or nuts, gently fold them into the batter. This step adds extra flavor and texture to your muffins.

Step 7: Fill the Muffin Cups

Using a spoon or ice cream scoop, evenly distribute the batter into the prepared muffin tin, filling each cup about ¾ full. This allows room for the muffins to rise while baking.

Step 8: Bake to Perfection

Place the muffin tin in the preheated oven and bake for 20-25 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean. If you like a slightly crisp top, bake for an additional 2 minutes.

Step 9: Cool and Enjoy

Let the muffins cool in the pan for about 5 minutes before transferring them to a wire rack. Enjoy warm or at room temperature.