Pineapple, Orange, Banana Muffins

My mom gave me the greatest gift ever; spending time with me in the kitchen letting me help her. Sharing not only her knowledge of cooking, but her wisdom as well.  Some of the best times I've ever had with my girls have been in the kitchen with them at my side.  They've been there by my side since they were tiny and even though they are teens now, they still like to help me in the kitchen. As soon as they were big enough to climb on a chair they wanted in on the action!  I am eternally grateful for this gift, and hope I passed it on to my girls and that they share it with their children one day.

Pineapple, Orange, Banana Muffins:

2 ripe bananas, mashed

1/2 cup crushed pineapple, with juice

1/3 cup fresh orange juice

Zest from 1 orange

1 1/2 cups all-purpose flour

1/2 cup granulated sugar

2 tsp. baking powder

1/2 tsp. baking soda

1/4 tsp. salt

1/4 cup unsalted butter, melted

2 large eggs

1/4 cup sliced dry toasted almonds

2 tbsp. turbinado sugar

I wanted to share with you a recipe that is perfect for letting your children help you in the kitchen. Give them a mixing spoon and let them go to town.

In a mixing bowl add mashed bananas, pineapple, orange juice, zest, flour, granulated sugar, baking powder, baking soda, salt, melted butter, eggs and almonds.  Stir till combined.

Spray a 24-cup mini muffin pan well with no-stick spray.  Fill with batter.

Sprinkle tops of muffins with turbinado sugar.  Even a very young child can do this step; they might just want to sneak a taste though.

Bake in 350 degree F oven for 10-14 minutes.

Enjoy,

Gina