Our neighborhood, blanketed in a covering of fresh snow, sparkles in the sunlight. Rare to this part of the country, the neighbors get ready for an afternoon of fort-making and elaborate snowman creations, but not before a nice breakfast. Today we are enjoying my Outrageous Banana Muffins with a Maple Butter Frosting!

1 ¾ c. King Arthur unbleached all-purpose flour
1/3 c. granulated sugar
2 tsp. baking powder, I only use Rumford’s baking powder (no aluminum)
¼ tsp. salt
1 beaten egg
¾ c. milk
¼ c. vegetable oil
½ tsp. rum extract
3 to 4 medium ripe bananas, mashed but still a little chunky

2 tbsp. softened butter
2 tbsp. pure maple syrup
1.5 c. powdered sugar
1 tsp. milk
½ c. chopped walnuts for garnish

In a large bowl combine flour, sugar, baking powder and salt. Make a well in the middle and set aside.

In a medium size bowl, combine beaten egg, milk, oil and rum extract.

Pour wet ingredients into well and mix only until moistened. It is very important not to over mix. Resist the temptation! ?

Fold in mashed bananas just until; incorporated.

Spoon batter into prepared muffins cups about 2/3 full.

Tip: Muffin liners help keep muffins moist.

Bake in a 375 degree oven for 20 minutes or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean.

Let cool a bit and frost with Maple Butter Frosting (see recipe below)

Maple Butter Frosting

2 tbsp. softened butter
2 tbsp. pure maple syrup
1.5 c. powdered sugar
1 tsp. milk

Beat softened butter and maple syrup until combined. Slowly add powdered sugar and mix well. Add milk and mix well.

Frost cupcakes and top with chopped walnuts right away.