Fluffy Banana Nut Muffins

Name: Fluffy Banana Nut Muffins
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 20 min
Total time: 35 min
Yield: 12 muffins
Ingredients: 3 ripe bananas, mashed; 1/3 cup melted butter; 1 teaspoon baking soda; Pinch of salt; 3/4 cup sugar; 1 large egg, beaten; 1 teaspoon vanilla extract; 1 1/2 cups all-purpose flour; 1/2 cup chopped walnuts (or nuts of your choice)

Highlighted under: Classic Bakery Favorites

I absolutely adore the warm, comforting aroma of freshly baked banana nut muffins wafting through my kitchen. There's just something about the fluffy texture and sweet, ripe bananas that brings back wonderful memories of baking with my family. The addition of crunchy nuts adds a delightful contrast, making each bite an exciting experience. Whether enjoyed as a quick breakfast or a snack, these muffins are not only easy to make but also incredibly satisfying. Join me on this delicious journey to create the perfect batch of banana nut muffins!

Created by

Mario

Last updated on 2026-01-30T19:34:27.542Z

What I love the most about these Fluffy Banana Nut Muffins is how easy they are to whip up, especially when I have overripe bananas sitting on my countertop. I usually mash those bananas until they're nicely smooth, which adds such a richness to the batter. I’ve experimented with adding different nuts over time, and walnuts are my favorite for that perfect nutty crunch.

I also discovered that letting the batter rest for a few minutes allows it to rise a little extra. This gives my muffins a beautiful dome shape without having to rely on artificial leavening agents. Trust me, this little tip will elevate your baking game!

Why You'll Love These Muffins
Incredibly fluffy and moist texture
Perfectly sweet with a hint of nutty crunch
Quick to prepare, making them ideal for busy mornings

Understanding the Ingredients

The foundation of these Fluffy Banana Nut Muffins lies in the use of ripe bananas. The riper the bananas, the sweeter and more flavorful your muffins will be. Look for bananas with a lot of brown spots, as these have developed maximum sweetness. In addition to the bananas, the melted butter provides richness and contributes to that fluffy texture we all crave. You can substitute with vegetable oil or coconut oil if desired, but using butter definitely enhances the flavor.

Baking soda is the only leavening agent used in this recipe, so be sure to use a fresh box for the best results. Old baking soda loses its potency and may result in denser muffins. The acid in the bananas activates the baking soda, creating bubbles that help the muffins rise. Ensure you mix the baking soda into the wet ingredients until fully dissolved to avoid any lumps, which could cause uneven leavening.

Mixing Techniques for Fluffy Muffins

When mixing the wet and dry ingredients, the key to preventing tough muffins is to avoid overmixing. Once you add the flour, mix gently until just combined. You should see a few streaks of flour remaining; that's perfectly fine! Baked goods continue to develop texture even after they've been mixed, so keeping that in mind will help you achieve the desired fluffiness. I usually use a rubber spatula for this step as it helps incorporate the ingredients without overworking the batter.

Another important tip is to fold in your chopped walnuts without breaking them up too much. You want those crunchy bits to remain intact, adding delightful texture throughout the muffins. If you prefer a nut-free version, feel free to swap in dark chocolate chips or dried fruits for an equally delicious outcome. Just remember to adjust your baking time slightly if you add extra moist ingredients.

Ingredients

Gather these ingredients to get started:

Muffin Ingredients

3 ripe bananas, mashed
1/3 cup melted butter
1 teaspoon baking soda
Pinch of salt
3/4 cup sugar
1 large egg, beaten
1 teaspoon vanilla extract
1 1/2 cups all-purpose flour
1/2 cup chopped walnuts (or nuts of your choice)

Make sure everything is fresh and ready to go!

Instructions

Follow these simple steps to bake your muffins:

Preheat the Oven

Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and line a muffin tin with paper liners or grease it with non-stick spray.

Mix Wet Ingredients

In a mixing bowl, mash the ripe bananas with a fork until smooth. Stir in the melted butter, baking soda, and salt. Then add the sugar, beaten egg, and vanilla extract, mixing until everything is well blended.

Add Dry Ingredients

Gently fold the flour into the wet mixture just until combined. Be careful not to overmix! Finally, add the chopped walnuts and fold them into the batter.

Fill Muffin Tins and Bake

Scoop the batter into the prepared muffin tins, filling each cup about 2/3 full. Bake in the preheated oven for 18-20 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.

Cool and Enjoy

Allow the muffins to cool in the tin for about 5 minutes, then transfer them to a wire rack to cool completely. Enjoy them warm or at room temperature!

Don’t forget to share with friends or family – if you can resist eating them all yourself!

Pro Tips

For extra flavor, feel free to add chocolate chips or substitute half the flour with whole wheat flour for a healthier option.

Storage and Make-Ahead Tips

These banana nut muffins store well, making them a great choice for meal prep. After they’re completely cool, transfer them to an airtight container. They will last for about three days at room temperature or can be refrigerated for up to a week. If you won’t eat them all within that time, consider freezing them. Wrap each muffin tightly in plastic wrap and place them in a freezer bag. They can be frozen for up to three months, allowing you to enjoy a sweet treat whenever you desire.

When ready to enjoy a frozen muffin, simply remove it from the freezer and allow it to thaw at room temperature. For a little extra warmth, pop it in the microwave for about 15-20 seconds. This will refresh the muffin, enhancing the aroma and bringing back some of that fresh-baked goodness!

Serving Ideas and Variations

These muffins are delightful on their own, but they can also be served with a variety of toppings to enhance their flavor. Consider spreading a little cream cheese or almond butter on top for a delicious surprise. A drizzle of honey or maple syrup can also elevate your muffin experience, especially if you enjoy a sweeter treat. Pair them with a cup of coffee or tea for a perfect start to your morning or an afternoon snack.

If you're feeling adventurous, try adding spices like cinnamon or nutmeg to the batter for a different flavor profile. You can also experiment by folding in different nuts or seed varieties, such as pecans or sunflower seeds. For a health-conscious twist, consider substituting half of the all-purpose flour with whole wheat flour or almond flour, making your muffins a bit denser while retaining that fluffy texture.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use frozen bananas?

Absolutely! Just thaw and drain any excess liquid before mashing.

→ What can I substitute for walnuts?

You can use pecans, almonds, or even omit nuts altogether for a nut-free version.

→ How do I store leftover muffins?

Store them in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days or in the fridge for a week.

→ Can I use this recipe for a loaf instead of muffins?

Yes! Simply pour the batter into a greased loaf pan and bake for about 50-60 minutes, checking for doneness with a toothpick.