Banana Bread Muffins

These Banana Bread Muffins are soft, moist, and packed with rich banana flavor. They’re perfect for a quick breakfast, an afternoon snack, or even dessert. Easy to make and even easier to love, these muffins bring the classic comfort of banana bread in a convenient handheld form.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Simple Ingredients: You likely already have everything you need in your pantry.
• Quick to Make: No need to wait for a loaf to bake — muffins are ready in less time.
• Perfectly Portable: Great for lunchboxes, picnics, or grab-and-go snacks.
• Versatile: Add chocolate chips, nuts, or spices to customize the flavor.
• Freezer-Friendly: Make a batch and save some for later!

Ingredients

(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

• Ripe bananas (mashed)
• All-purpose flour
• Baking powder
• Baking soda
• Salt
• Unsalted butter (melted)
• Brown sugar
• Eggs
• Vanilla extract
• Milk
• Optional mix-ins: chocolate chips, walnuts, or cinnamon

Directions

1. Preheat the Oven: Set your oven to 350°F (175°C) and line a muffin tin with paper liners or grease it lightly.
2. Mash the Bananas: In a large bowl, mash the ripe bananas until smooth.
3. Mix Wet Ingredients: Add the melted butter, brown sugar, eggs, vanilla extract, and milk to the mashed bananas. Stir until well combined.
4. Combine Dry Ingredients: In a separate bowl, whisk together the flour, baking powder, baking soda, and salt.
5. Mix Batter: Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet ingredients, stirring gently until just combined. Don’t overmix — a few lumps are okay!
6. Add Mix-Ins (Optional): Fold in chocolate chips, nuts, or cinnamon if using.
7. Fill the Muffin Tin: Scoop the batter into the prepared muffin cups, filling each about 3/4 full.
8. Bake: Place the tin in the oven and bake for 18-22 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center of a muffin comes out clean.
9. Cool and Enjoy: Let the muffins cool in the tin for 5 minutes, then transfer to a wire rack to cool completely.

Servings and Timing

• Servings: 12 muffins
• Prep Time: 10 minutes
• Cook Time: 20 minutes
• Total Time: 30 minutes

Variations

• Chocolate Lovers: Stir in 1 cup of chocolate chips for extra indulgence.
• Nutty Crunch: Add 3/4 cup of chopped walnuts or pecans.
• Spiced Up: Mix in a teaspoon of cinnamon or nutmeg for warmth.
• Healthier Option: Swap out half the flour for whole wheat flour and reduce the sugar.
• Gluten-Free: Use a gluten-free flour blend in place of all-purpose flour.

Storage/Reheating

• Room Temperature: Store muffins in an airtight container for up to 3 days.
• Refrigerator: Keep in the fridge for up to a week.
• Freezer: Wrap each muffin individually and freeze for up to 3 months. Thaw at room temperature or microwave for 20-30 seconds.
• Reheat: Warm muffins in the microwave for 10-15 seconds or in a 300°F oven for 5 minutes.

FAQs

How ripe should the bananas be?

The riper, the better! Look for bananas with lots of brown spots for natural sweetness and moisture.

Can I make these muffins vegan?

Yes! Substitute eggs with flax eggs, use plant-based milk, and swap butter for coconut oil or vegan butter.

Why are my muffins dense?

Overmixing the batter can make the muffins dense. Stir until just combined for the best texture.

Can I add other fruits?

Absolutely! Blueberries or diced strawberries make delicious additions.

How do I prevent muffins from sticking?

Use paper liners or generously grease the muffin tin with non-stick spray.

Can I double the recipe?

Yes, just double the ingredients and bake in batches if needed.

What can I use instead of butter?

You can replace butter with vegetable oil, coconut oil, or applesauce for a lower-fat option.

How do I know when they’re done?

Insert a toothpick into the center — if it comes out clean or with a few crumbs, they’re ready.

Can I use frozen bananas?

Yes! Thaw and drain them before mashing to prevent excess moisture.

Are these muffins kid-friendly?

Definitely! They’re naturally sweet and great for little hands to grab and go.

Conclusion

Banana Bread Muffins are a delightful twist on classic banana bread, offering all the comforting flavors in a convenient, single-serve format. Whether you’re whipping up a quick batch for breakfast, packing them for a picnic, or stashing some in the freezer for later, these muffins are bound to become a household favorite. Happy baking!

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