If you’re searching for a delightful treat that combines simplicity, warmth, and bursts of flavor, look no further than this Easy Banana Bread Mini Muffins Recipe. These little gems are packed with moist mashed bananas and a comforting touch of cinnamon, making them irresistibly fluffy and perfect for breakfast, snacks, or anytime you crave a bite of homemade goodness. Plus, their mini size is ideal for sharing, gifting, or just sneaking one (or two) whenever you need a pick-me-up. Get ready to fall in love with these charming banana bread mini muffins that feel like a cozy hug in every bite.
Ingredients You’ll Need
Getting the ingredients right is key to nailing the texture and flavor balance in this Easy Banana Bread Mini Muffins Recipe. The components are straightforward but essential, each playing a unique role from the moistness of the bananas to the perfect crumb created by the flour and leavening agents.
- 8 oz bananas (2-3 overripe bananas): The heart of the muffins, providing natural sweetness and moisture for that tender crumb.
- 2 oz oil: Adds richness and keeps the mini muffins wonderfully soft without the heaviness of butter.
- 1 large egg (room temperature): Binds everything together and gives structure to your muffins.
- 1 tsp apple cider vinegar: Reacts with the baking soda to help the muffins rise and remain fluffy.
- 1 tsp vanilla extract: Brings depth and an inviting aroma that pairs beautifully with banana and cinnamon.
- 4 ¼ oz all-purpose flour: Forms the body of the muffins; not too much to keep them light and airy.
- 3 ⅗ oz granulated sugar: Sweetens the batter just right without overpowering the banana flavor.
- ¼ tsp baking powder: Supports the rise along with baking soda for that perfect lift.
- ½ tsp baking soda: Essential for reacting with the vinegar and bananas to create a tender muffin.
- ½ tsp salt: Enhances all the flavors, balancing sweetness perfectly.
- 1 tsp ground cinnamon: Adds a warm, cozy spice that complements the bananas ideally.
How to Make Easy Banana Bread Mini Muffins Recipe
Step 1: Preheat and Prepare Your Pan
Start by heating your oven to 350 degrees Fahrenheit (180 degrees Celsius). Line a mini muffin tin with paper liners to prevent sticking and make clean-up easy — this little prep step makes the baking experience smooth and mess-free.
Step 2: Mash the Bananas
Grab a large bowl and mash the ripe bananas with a fork or potato masher. Don’t worry if it’s a bit lumpy; those chunks add lovely texture and bursts of banana flavor to your muffins.
Step 3: Mix Wet Ingredients
Pour in the oil, crack in the room temperature egg, and add apple cider vinegar and vanilla extract. Whisk vigorously until the mixture is beautifully combined and glossy — this ensures an even distribution of flavors.
Step 4: Combine Dry Ingredients and Fold
In another bowl, whisk together the flour, granulated sugar, baking powder, baking soda, salt, and ground cinnamon. Gently fold these dry ingredients into the wet banana mixture with a rubber spatula until the dry streaks just vanish. Overmixing can toughen muffins, so fold carefully for the best texture.
Step 5: Fill Muffin Liners and Bake
Divide the batter evenly among the paper-lined mini muffin cups, filling each about half to three-quarters full. For a delightful crunch, sprinkle a little coarse sugar on top if you like. Pop the baking tin into your preheated oven and bake for 14-18 minutes. You’ll know they’re ready when the tops turn golden brown and a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.
Step 6: Cool and Enjoy
Remove the muffins from the oven and let them cool in the tin for 5 to 10 minutes before transferring them to a wire rack. This prevents sogginess and keeps their texture perfect. Once cooled completely, dig in and savor every moist, tender bite.
How to Serve Easy Banana Bread Mini Muffins Recipe
Garnishes
While these banana bread mini muffins are delicious on their own, adding a light dusting of powdered sugar or a thin spread of butter transforms them into a little treat perfect for guests or a fancy brunch. A tiny swipe of cream cheese frosting also pairs beautifully for a sweeter option.
Side Dishes
These mini muffins are fantastic alongside a steaming cup of coffee or tea for breakfast or a snack. They also complement fresh fruit salads or yogurt parfaits perfectly, creating a balanced and satisfying plate that feels indulgent without going overboard.
Creative Ways to Present
Thinking about gifting or serving these at a gathering? Arrange your Easy Banana Bread Mini Muffins Recipe in a tiered dessert stand or basket lined with a cheerful napkin. Add fresh banana slices and cinnamon sticks as décor for an inviting touch that emphasizes their homey appeal.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Once your mini muffins have cooled completely, store them in an airtight container at room temperature for up to three days. This keeps them moist but slightly soft — perfect for snacking whenever hunger strikes.
Freezing
If you want to keep your muffins fresh for longer, freezing is an excellent option. Place them in a freezer-safe bag or container with parchment paper between layers to prevent sticking, and freeze for up to three months. Thaw them overnight at room temperature before enjoying.
Reheating
To warm your Easy Banana Bread Mini Muffins Recipe leftovers, pop them in the microwave for about 15-20 seconds or heat them briefly in a preheated oven at 300 degrees Fahrenheit for 5 minutes. This revives the soft texture and fresh-baked aroma beautifully.
FAQs
Can I use frozen bananas for this recipe?
Absolutely! Frozen bananas work wonderfully in this recipe — just thaw and drain any excess liquid before mashing to maintain the perfect batter consistency.
Can I substitute the oil with butter?
Yes, you can swap oil for melted butter if preferred. Keep in mind it may slightly change the texture, making your muffins a bit richer and denser.
How ripe should the bananas be?
The riper, the better! Bananas with brown spots or fully brown skins have the sweetest flavor and mash easiest, which enhances the moistness and taste of your muffins.
Can I add nuts or chocolate chips?
Definitely! Stir in about half a cup of chopped walnuts, pecans, or chocolate chips when folding in the dry ingredients for added texture and flavor twists.
Are these mini muffins suitable for freezing and thawing?
Yes, they freeze wonderfully and maintain their texture after thawing. Just make sure to store them properly in airtight packaging to avoid freezer burn.
Final Thoughts
This Easy Banana Bread Mini Muffins Recipe is one of those feel-good, crowd-pleasing treats that you’ll find yourself making again and again. With simple ingredients, straightforward steps, and a taste that hits all the right cozy notes, these mini muffins are destined to become your go-to for quick snacks or easy breakfasts. Trust me, once you try them, they will be a forever favorite in your baking repertoire. So grab those overripe bananas and let the muffin magic begin!
Print
Easy Banana Bread Mini Muffins Recipe
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 15 minutes
- Total Time: 25 minutes
- Yield: 36 mini muffins
- Category: Breakfast, Snack, Bake
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Description
These easy banana bread mini muffins are fluffy, moist, and bursting with the natural sweetness of overripe bananas and a hint of cinnamon. Perfect for a quick breakfast or a satisfying snack, these bite-sized treats bake up in just 15 minutes and are sure to please both kids and adults alike.
Ingredients
Wet Ingredients
- 8 oz (about 2-3) overripe bananas
- 2 oz oil
- 1 large egg, room temperature
- 1 tsp apple cider vinegar
- 1 tsp vanilla extract
Dry Ingredients
- 4 ¼ oz all-purpose flour
- 3 ⅗ oz granulated sugar
- ¼ tsp baking powder
- ½ tsp baking soda
- ½ tsp salt
- 1 tsp ground cinnamon
Instructions
- Preheat Oven and Prepare Pan: Preheat your oven to 350°F (180°C). Line a mini muffin tin with paper liners to prevent sticking and set aside.
- Mash Bananas: In a large bowl, mash the overripe bananas using a fork or potato masher until mostly smooth with some small lumps remaining for texture.
- Combine Wet Ingredients: Add the oil, room temperature egg, apple cider vinegar, and vanilla extract to the mashed bananas. Vigorously whisk everything together until fully combined and smooth.
- Add Dry Ingredients: In the same bowl, add the all-purpose flour, granulated sugar, baking powder, baking soda, salt, and ground cinnamon. Gently fold the dry ingredients into the wet mixture using a rubber spatula, stirring just until no flour streaks remain. Avoid overmixing to keep the muffins tender.
- Fill Muffin Tin: Spoon the batter into the prepared mini muffin liners, filling each about halfway to three-quarters full. For extra texture and sparkle, sprinkle coarse sugar on top of each muffin if desired.
- Bake: Place the muffin tin in the preheated oven and bake for 14 to 18 minutes, or until the muffin tops turn golden brown and a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.
- Cool and Serve: Remove the muffin pan from the oven and allow the mini muffins to cool in the pan for 5 to 10 minutes. Then transfer them to a wire rack to cool completely. Enjoy these moist banana bread mini muffins as a snack or breakfast treat.
Notes
- For best results, use overripe bananas with plenty of brown spots for natural sweetness and moisture.
- You can substitute vegetable oil with melted coconut oil for a slight coconut flavor.
- If you prefer a touch of crunch, sprinkle coarse sugar on top before baking.
- Ensure the egg is at room temperature to help the batter mix smoothly and result in tender muffins.
- These mini muffins freeze well; store them in an airtight container or freezer bag for up to 2 months.