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

Highlighted under: Baking & Desserts

I absolutely love baking these fluffy banana nut muffins! Every time I make them, the aroma of ripe bananas and toasting nuts fills my kitchen, creating a cozy atmosphere that feels like a warm hug. They're incredibly easy to whip up and perfect for breakfast or a snack. The combination of fluffy texture and nutty crunch means they never last long in my house. I often find myself making a double batch just to keep up with the demand—they're a true favorite with family and friends!

Created by

Emily

Last updated on 2026-01-30T22:22:28.476Z

When I first discovered how to make fluffy banana nut muffins, it was a game changer for my breakfast routine. I experimented with different ratios of bananas and nuts until I found the perfect balance that kept the muffins moist yet airy. A tip I learned is to ensure your bananas are overripe; this not only enhances the sweetness but also contributes to the fluffiness that makes these muffins so delightful.

One particularly rainy afternoon, I had friends over, and I decided to bake these muffins instead of heading out to brunch. Everyone was blown away by how good they were! I served them warm with a pat of butter, and they disappeared in minutes. It’s amazing how a simple recipe can bring people together and create such joyful moments.

Why You Will Love These Muffins
Fluffy texture that melts in your mouth
Perfect balance of sweet bananas and crunchy nuts
Versatile enough for breakfast, brunch, or a delightful snack

Choosing the Right Bananas

The key to achieving the best flavor and texture in these muffins is using ripe bananas. Look for bananas that are speckled with brown spots, as they are at their sweetest. If you have underripe bananas, you can speed up the ripening process by placing them in a paper bag for a day or two. Also, if your bananas are too ripe, you can freeze them; just thaw and drain any excess liquid before using them in the recipe.

Using bananas that have reached perfect ripeness adds natural sweetness and moisture, making the muffins incredibly fluffy. I recommend mashing them thoroughly for a smooth batter, which helps prevent any large chunks. If you prefer a chunkier texture, reserve a small slice for mixing in at the end, enhancing the muffin's character.

Perfecting Your Muffin Technique

When mixing the batter, it's crucial not to overmix once you add the flour. Overmixing can lead to tough muffins instead of the desired fluffy texture. Stir gently until you see no dry flour; it’s okay if there are a few lumps. The key is to mix just until combined, which helps create light and airy muffins.

After you've filled your muffin tin, let the batter rest for about 5-10 minutes before placing them in the oven. This resting period allows the ingredients to meld and can enhance the rise, resulting in muffins that have beautifully domed tops. Keep an eye on the baking time, though; ovens can vary, so be sure to check for that classic golden edge and a toothpick-test at around 18 minutes.

Ingredients

For the Muffins

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

Preparation

Steps

Preheat the oven

Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and line a muffin tin with paper liners.

Mix ingredients

In a large bowl, mix the mashed bananas with melted butter. Stir in baking soda and salt, then add sugar, egg, and vanilla extract.

Combine dry ingredients

Gently mix in the flour until just combined, then fold in chopped walnuts.

Bake

Spoon the batter into the prepared muffin tin, filling each cup about 2/3 full. Bake for 20 minutes or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean.

Cool and enjoy

Let the muffins cool in the pan for 5 minutes before transferring them to a wire rack. Serve warm!

Enjoy!

Pro Tips

Try adding chocolate chips or dried fruits for an extra twist! Make sure to use very ripe bananas for the best flavor and texture.

Storage and Make-Ahead Tips

These muffins store well, making them a great make-ahead snack. Once they’ve cooled, place them in an airtight container and keep them at room temperature for up to three days. For longer freshness, consider freezing them. Wrap each muffin tightly in plastic wrap, then place them in a freezer-safe bag. They'll last for about three months. When you're ready to enjoy, simply thaw at room temperature or microwave for about 20 seconds.

If you're looking to enjoy these muffins fresh each day, you can also prepare the dry ingredients in advance. Combine the flour, baking soda, salt, and nuts in a bowl, and store it in an airtight container. When you're ready to bake, just add the wet ingredients and mix!

Variations and Mix-Ins

While the banana and walnut combination is delicious on its own, consider adding variations to keep things exciting! Chopped chocolate or chocolate chips are a fantastic addition for those who enjoy a touch of decadence. You might also try adding spices like cinnamon or nutmeg for a warm flavor kick, enhancing both the muffins' aroma and taste.

For a healthier twist, you can substitute half of the all-purpose flour with whole wheat flour. This swap adds a nutty flavor and increases the fiber content, which might make you feel even better about indulging. Feel free to experiment with other nuts as well, such as pecans or almonds, to create your unique signature muffin!

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use frozen bananas?

Yes, you can! Just thaw them completely and drain any excess liquid before mashing.

→ Can I substitute the walnuts?

Absolutely! Feel free to use pecans, almonds, or even omit the nuts if you prefer.

→ How should I store leftover muffins?

Store in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days or refrigerate for longer freshness.

→ Can I freeze the muffins?

Yes! Place cooled muffins in a freezer bag and freeze for up to 3 months. Thaw at room temperature when ready to enjoy.