There’s something magical about the smell of freshly baked muffins filling the kitchen, especially when it’s a batch of Award Winning Banana Nut Muffins. Sweet ripe bananas mingle with crunchy toasted nuts, creating the kind of cozy treat that makes neighbors stop by “just to say hello.” These muffins are tender, moist, and packed with flavor, the sort of recipe that wins ribbons at fairs and wins hearts at home.
Why You’ll Love These Award Winning Banana Nut Muffins
- ⏱ Quick to whip up in one bowl with simple ingredients
- 🌿 Healthy banana muffins with nuts for extra protein and crunch
- 🧁 Moist bakery-style texture that rivals your favorite coffee shop
- 👨👩👧 Family-friendly and freezer-friendly
- 🍯 Delicious for breakfast, snacks, or dessert
Tools and Preparation
- Mixing bowls – one for dry ingredients, one for wet
- Measuring cups and spoons – for accuracy
- Muffin tin – standard 12-cup pan for even baking
- Paper liners – makes cleanup simple and keeps muffins moist
- Wooden spoon or spatula – gentle mixing keeps the batter tender
Ingredients
- 3 ripe bananas mashed (about 1 cup)
- 1/2 cup melted butter (or coconut oil)
- 3/4 cup brown sugar packed
- 1 large egg beaten
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1 teaspoon baking soda
- Pinch of salt
- 1 1/2 cups all-purpose flour
- 1/2 teaspoon cinnamon (optional but cozy)
- 1/2 cup chopped walnuts or pecans toasted for extra flavor
Step-by-Step Instructions
- Preheat oven to 350°F and line a muffin tin with paper liners.
- In a large bowl mash bananas until smooth. Stir in melted butter.
- Mix in brown sugar egg and vanilla until combined.
- Sprinkle baking soda salt and cinnamon over the mixture. Stir gently.
- Fold in flour until just combined. Do not overmix.
- Add chopped nuts and fold lightly into batter.
- Divide batter evenly among 12 muffin cups about two-thirds full.
- Bake 18 to 22 minutes or until a toothpick comes out clean.
- Cool for 5 minutes then transfer muffins to a wire rack.
How to Serve Award Winning Banana Nut Muffins
- Warm with a pat of butter or drizzle of honey
- Split in half and spread with cream cheese for breakfast
- Serve alongside scrambled eggs and bacon for brunch
- Pack in lunchboxes as a healthy sweet treat
- Enjoy with a hot cup of coffee or tea on a cozy morning
Tips for Perfect Results
- Use overripe bananas with brown spots for the sweetest flavor
- Lightly toast nuts before adding for deeper flavor
- Do not overmix the batter or muffins will turn dense
- For bakery-style tops sprinkle sugar before baking
- Freeze extra muffins in airtight bags up to 3 months
- Warm frozen muffins in the microwave for 20 seconds before serving
Best Pairings and Side Dishes
These muffins pair beautifully with a cup of coffee or a simple fruit salad. For a full breakfast spread try them with my Cinnamon Banana Bread Muffins Easy & Cozy for a cozy banana duo that your family will love.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
- Using underripe bananas which leads to bland muffins
- Overbaking and drying out the crumb
- Adding nuts without chopping them finely enough
- Mixing wet and dry ingredients too vigorously
Storage and Reheating Instructions
- Room temperature: Store in an airtight container up to 3 days
- Fridge: Keep up to 1 week but let come to room temperature before serving
- Freezer: Freeze individually wrapped muffins up to 3 months
- Reheat: Microwave for 20 to 30 seconds or warm in a 300°F oven for 5 minutes
This is one recipe you’ll definitely want to save – Pin it now for later!
FAQs
Can I use frozen bananas? Yes just thaw them completely and drain extra liquid.
What nuts work best? Walnuts and pecans are classic but almonds or hazelnuts add variety.
Can I make these muffins healthier? Substitute half whole wheat flour or use coconut sugar for a lighter option.
How do I keep muffins moist? Do not overbake and store in an airtight container.
Final Thoughts (Emma’s Voice)
These Award Winning Banana Nut Muffins are more than a recipe they’re a reminder of how a simple kitchen moment can bring warmth to a whole home. The soft banana base the crunchy nut topping and that golden aroma that drifts through the house make this recipe one worth keeping close. If you try this recipe let me know in the comments – I love hearing your stories and kitchen wins!
Award Winning Banana Nut Muffins
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- Preheat oven to 350°F and line a muffin tin with paper liners.
- In a large bowl mash bananas until smooth. Stir in melted butter.
- Mix in brown sugar, egg, and vanilla until combined.
- Sprinkle baking soda, salt, and cinnamon over the mixture. Stir gently.
- Fold in flour until just combined. Do not overmix.
- Add chopped nuts and fold lightly into batter.
- Divide batter evenly among 12 muffin cups about two-thirds full.
- Bake 18 to 22 minutes or until a toothpick comes out clean.
- Cool for 5 minutes then transfer muffins to a wire rack.