There’s nothing quite like the comforting aroma of freshly baked Banana Walnut Muffins wafting through the kitchen. These classic muffins are sweet, tender, and packed with banana flavor, warm cinnamon, and crunchy walnuts. They’re ideal for breakfast, a grab-and-go snack, or a cozy afternoon pick-me-up.
Why I Love This Recipe
I always seem to have a few overripe bananas hanging out on my counter—and this recipe is my favorite way to use them up. These muffins are incredibly moist, thanks to the banana and optional sour cream or Greek yogurt, and they strike that perfect balance between soft cake-like crumb and crunchy nutty bits.
If you’re a fan of using up bananas creatively, you’ll also love our Chocolate Chip Banana Bread—it’s another pantry-friendly favorite around here.
📝 Ingredients
- 1½ cups all-purpose flour
- ½ tsp baking soda
- ¼ tsp baking powder
- ¼ tsp salt
- ½ tsp ground cinnamon (optional)
- ½ cup granulated sugar
- ¼ cup brown sugar, packed
- ½ cup unsalted butter, softened
- 2 large eggs
- 3 ripe bananas, mashed
- 1 tsp vanilla extract
- ½ cup chopped walnuts (or pecans)
- ½ cup sour cream or Greek yogurt (optional, for extra moisture)
🥄 Ingredient Tips & Swaps
- Bananas: The riper, the better! Black-spotted bananas bring the most flavor.
- Butter: For a richer taste, use butter; for a slightly lighter texture, sub in oil.
- Nuts: Walnuts add classic flavor, but pecans or chopped almonds work beautifully.
- Add-ins: Want a twist? Fold in mini chocolate chips or dried cranberries.
👨🍳 Step-by-Step Instructions
1. Preheat Oven
Set your oven to 350°F (175°C). Line a muffin tin with paper liners or lightly grease it.
2. Mix Dry Ingredients
In a medium bowl, whisk together:
- Flour
- Baking soda
- Baking powder
- Salt
- Cinnamon (if using)
Set aside.
3. Cream Butter and Sugars
In a large mixing bowl, beat together the softened butter, granulated sugar, and brown sugar until light and fluffy (about 2–3 minutes).
4. Add Eggs and Bananas
Beat in the eggs, one at a time, until fully incorporated.
Stir in the mashed bananas and vanilla extract until smooth.
5. Combine Mixtures
Gradually fold the dry ingredients into the wet mixture.
Add sour cream or Greek yogurt (if using) and stir just until combined.
Do not overmix—a few lumps are okay.
6. Fold in Walnuts
Gently stir in the chopped walnuts with a spatula.
7. Fill and Bake
Spoon batter into the prepared muffin cups, filling each about ¾ full.
Bake for 18–22 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.
8. Cool
Let the muffins cool in the pan for 5 minutes before transferring to a wire rack to cool completely.
💡 Baking Tips for Success
- Room temperature butter is key to creaming properly with sugar.
- Don’t overmix once the flour is added—this keeps the muffins light and fluffy.
- Test for doneness with a toothpick: it should come out with a few moist crumbs, not wet batter.
🍽️ Serving Suggestions
- Enjoy warm with a slather of butter or a drizzle of honey.
- Pair with a hot cup of coffee or a chilled glass of oat milk.
- Serve with brunch alongside Pumpkin Spice Muffins or Chocolate Chip Cookie Bites for a muffin medley.
🧊 Storage & Freezing Tips
- Room Temp: Store in an airtight container for up to 3 days.
- Fridge: Keeps for 5–6 days, though they’re best at room temp.
- Freezer: Wrap individually and freeze for up to 3 months. Thaw overnight or warm briefly in the microwave.
🧁 More Baked Treats You’ll Love
- Chocolate Chip Banana Bread – Another go-to for ripe bananas.
- Easy Pumpkin Spice Muffins – Great for fall, but we make them all year.
- 3-Ingredient Oatmeal Breakfast Cookies – For those early mornings.
- Chocolate Chip Cookie Bites – Mini treats, major flavor.
- Rainbow Sprinkle Cookies – Because joy should be edible.
🔚 Final Thoughts
These Banana Walnut Muffins are soft, moist, and packed with real banana flavor and toasty nutty crunch. They’re easy to make, freezer-friendly, and totally crave-worthy whether you serve them for breakfast or sneak one as a midnight snack.
Tried them? Tag @ChefManiac with your muffin pics—we’d love to see your bakes! And don’t forget to comment with your favorite add-ins or swaps!
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