Two Hot Starbucks Coupons + Sweet Summer Muffins

The weather is really beautiful here in Philadelphia; it’s time for long walks and talks at outdoor cafes. Spring Screen Shot 2013-04-25 at 12.57.54 PMputs me in the mood for iced beverages and sweet summer flavors, which is why I was so excited to SnipSnap these Starbucks’ deals for $1 off baked goods and shaken iced teas.

What’s better than saving at Starbucks? Whipping up your own delicious treats. In honor of spring cleaninScreen Shot 2013-04-25 at 12.58.17 PMg, I’ve curated a list of fabulously easy muffin recipes that rely on pantry staples and ingredients you’ll want to use up. Did I mention that making your own snack foods, like muffins, is a huge money-saver? In the short term, because cooking with basic ingredients is cheaper than buying manufactured snacks and, in the long term, because filling up on wholesome, natural ingredients instead of artificial flavors and preservatives will keep you and your family healthier for years to come.

Banana Muffins by Under the Table & Dreaming with Stephanie Lynn: Do you have overripe bananas lying around? Everyone has overripe bananas lying around! I especially do; I always snatch them up at the grocery store or after a road race where they’re overabundant and free. I know I should eat the bananas, but even though I love the banana flavor, I’m not crazy about the texture of uncooked bananas. This mini muffin recipe is the perfect solution for me and I can’t wait to try it out! These muffins are the best way to get good use out of all my free bananas, without having to worry about shopping for other ingredients (simple pantry staples make up this recipe!) If you haven’t read Stephanie’s blog, you really have to; she’s an inspirational mom and an artistic genius.

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Whole Wheat Mango Muffins by The Realistic Nutritionist: Claire from The Realistic Nutritionist whipped up this tropics-inspired recipe and I love, love, love the idea of the sweet/savory pairing of whole wheat and mango. This is another super-simple muffin recipe calling mostly for ingredients you should already have in your kitchen. Claire’s blog is great because she’s a lover of food who’s also health conscious; each recipe is aimed at promoting  nutrition and wellness and is accompanied by a nutritional breakdown, so you know exactly how to fit the sweet stuff into your life.

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Zucchini Muffins by Little House Living: Zucchini muffins, really? While sweet zucchini might sound a little strange to you at first (it did to me) you absolutely have to try it. My grandmother used to make an amazing zucchini bread when I was a kid; now I love having this super-simple recipe to make mini muffins with on my own! Merissa from Little House Living has a wonderful blog devoted to simple, frugal living and her recipes are written to reflect her philosophy.

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Ham & Cheese Morning Muffins by Frugal Girls: I absolutely love the idea of a self-contained breakfast with carbs, meat, and cheese, perfect for when I need something quick but satisfying before a morning run. Heidi from Frugal Girls blogged this fabulous recipe for morning muffins that are easy and quick to make. Her blog is filled with budget and time friendly recipes (check out her DIY maple syrup recipe!)

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Healthy Wild Maine Blueberry Muffins from The Centsible Family: I adore this recipe, not just because it’s cheap and easy to make with frozen fruit; it’s also healthy and incorporates super food chia seeds, almond milk in place of regular dairy, and old fashioned oats for fiber. These are a way better alternative to processed blueberry muffins loaded with fake ingredients and preservatives. Mackenzie’s blog is full of frugal living advice and easy, nutritious recipes. She has a really comprehensive slow-cooker recipe section for people who can’t stand to slave in front of the stove all day (me!).

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I hope these recipes inspire a little kitchen creativity in you! Make sure you use these Starbucks coupons, too; they expire at the end of the month!