Banana bread muffins that rise high with a soft crumb

Key takeaways
  • Use very ripe, spotted bananas for deep flavor and moist, tender muffins.
  • Mix batter gently—stop as soon as dry ingredients disappear to avoid dense, tough muffins.
  • Prep ahead, bake at correct temperature, and store airtight; rotate tray for even browning.

I have made many versions of banana bread muffins in my kitchen, but this banana bread muffins recipe is the one I reach for when I want something easy yet special. The aroma alone feels like a hug. Banana bread muffins are the kind of treat that fits anywhere in your week. They work for slow weekend breakfasts, quick snacks, or a comforting bake to share with friends. I love how forgiving they are. Ripe bananas, a little whisking, and a short bake are all you need. Every bite stays soft and gently sweet, with a golden top that invites you right in.

banana bread muffins on plate

What to prep ahead so your bake feels calmer

A little planning makes your muffins come together smoothly. I often prepare a few things before mixing.

  • Mash the ripe bananas and keep them in a covered bowl in the fridge
  • Beat the eggs and measure the sugar to save a bit of time
  • Line the muffin tray and melt the butter so it has time to cool
  • Chop optional mix ins like walnuts or chocolate pieces

Banana Bread Muffins Recipe Card

Banana bread muffins Recipe

Recipe by Soukayna
0.0 from 0 votes
Course: BreakfastCuisine: AmericanDifficulty: Easy
Servings

12

servings
Prep time

10

minutes
Cooking time

18

minutes
Calories

220

kcal

These banana bread muffins come out soft, fragrant, and full of banana flavor. They are simple to prepare and perfect for breakfast or a sweet snack.

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Ingredients

  • 1.5 cups all purpose flour

  • 1 teaspoon baking soda

  • 0.25 teaspoon salt

  • 3 medium ripe bananas mashed

  • 0.75 cup sugar

  • 1 egg

  • 0.33 cup melted butter cooled

  • 1 teaspoon vanilla extract

Directions

  • Start by heating your oven so it is ready when the batter is mixed.
  • Line a muffin tray with paper cups. In one bowl, whisk the flour, baking soda, and salt.
  • In a separate bowl, combine the mashed bananas with the sugar, egg, melted butter, and vanilla.
  • Gently fold the dry mixture into the wet one until you no longer see streaks of flour.
  • Scoop the batter into the muffin cups, filling each almost to the top.
  • Place the tray in the oven and bake until the tops turn golden and a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean.
  • Let the muffins cool before you enjoy them.

Notes

  • These muffins freeze well if wrapped tightly.
  • You can reduce the sugar slightly if your bananas are very ripe.
  • A sprinkle of coarse sugar on top adds a gentle crunch.

Nutrition Facts

  • Fat: 8g
  • Carbohydrates: 33g
  • Fiber: 1g
  • Sugar: 19g
  • Protein: 3g
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Why these banana bread muffins always impress

These muffins stand out for their texture. They stay soft in the center with a lovely tender crumb. The batter mixes quickly, so beginners can enjoy success from their first try. The recipe allows room for creativity too. You can use whole wheat flour for extra fiber, stir in chocolate pieces, or keep the muffins simple. They freeze beautifully and hold their shape without becoming dense or dry.

If you enjoy learning about baking science, you might like reading this helpful guide from King Arthur Baking which explains how ingredients affect moisture and structure.

Helpful pointers for your best muffins

These suggestions help your banana bread muffins turn out perfect.

  • Use bananas with plenty of brown spots for deeper flavor
  • Do not over mix the batter because it can tighten the texture
  • Fill the muffin cups almost to the top for a taller bakery style look
  • Rotate the tray halfway through baking for even color
  • Allow the muffins to cool completely to maintain softness
  • Store them in an airtight container so they stay moist

What can go wrong with banana muffins

Even the most experienced home bakers can run into small issues when making banana bread muffins. These points help you sidestep the most frequent mistakes.

  • Using bananas that are not ripe enough. Firm yellow bananas do not offer the deep sweetness and soft texture that give these muffins their charm.
  • Over mixing the batter. Stirring too long activates the gluten in the flour which leads to a tougher crumb. Mix gently and stop as soon as the dry ingredients disappear.
  • Adding too many mix ins. Extra chocolate or nuts are delicious, but too much of anything can weigh down the muffins and keep them from rising.
  • Baking at an incorrect temperature. If the oven runs too hot you get dark tops with under baked centers. An oven thermometer is very helpful here.
  • Removing the muffins too soon from the tray. Warm muffins are delicate and need a little time to firm up before moving them to a cooling rack.

Creative ways to refresh your muffins

Chocolate swirl banana muffins

These muffins feel indulgent and always please a crowd. Add melted chocolate to a portion of the batter, then gently swirl the two mixtures together in the muffin cups. The contrast between the chocolate and the banana gives a lovely marble effect and a richer taste.

Cinnamon crumble banana bread muffins

For a cozy bakery inspired version, top each muffin with a simple crumble made with flour, brown sugar, cinnamon, and softened butter. The crumble bakes into a sweet crunchy layer that adds warmth and texture to every bite.

Whole grain banana muffins

If you prefer something more nourishing, replace part of the flour with whole wheat flour. This adds a gentle nutty taste and more fiber. The muffins stay surprisingly tender when you keep part of the original all purpose flour.

Banana berry muffins

Folding in fresh or frozen berries turns these muffins into a bright and fruity treat. Blueberries work beautifully with banana because they bring a pop of color and a juicy burst.

Mini banana muffins for kids

Use a mini muffin tray for small bite sized muffins. They make perfect lunch box additions or small snacks. You only need to adjust the baking time since they bake quickly.

If you prefer to try a low sugar banana bread, I invite you to try my banana bread recipe and tell me how it turns out in the comments below!

Different ways to cook your muffins

Air fryer banana muffins
An air fryer creates a slightly crisp exterior while keeping the inside soft. The muffins bake faster, so monitor them closely near the end.

Toaster oven banana muffins
A smaller oven heats quickly and is perfect when you want a small batch. The muffins brown evenly and bake gently.

Steam oven banana muffins
If you have a steam oven setting, you can create incredibly moist muffins. The added moisture protects them from drying out and encourages a tender crumb.

Answers for smooth muffin success

Why are my banana bread muffins dense

Dense texture usually means the batter was mixed too long. Stop mixing as soon as the dry ingredients disappear.

How do I keep the muffins moist

Use very ripe bananas and avoid over baking. Proper storage in an airtight container also keeps moisture inside.

Can I use frozen bananas for this recipe

Yes, thaw them first and drain any excess liquid so the batter does not become too loose.

Can I replace the butter with oil

You can use an equal amount of neutral oil for a slightly softer texture.

A sweet ending to your bake

These banana bread muffins bring comfort in every bite. They bake quickly, fill your kitchen with warmth, and deliver reliable satisfaction. Once you try them you can explore many creative variations and cooking methods to suit your mood. If you enjoy simple baking projects that feel rewarding, these muffins will become a regular part of your routine.

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