Nutella Banana Muffins

If you’re looking for a delightful treat that fills your kitchen with the warm aroma of baking, these Nutella Banana Muffins are just what you need! Perfect for busy weeknights or family gatherings, they combine the best of both worlds: ripe bananas and rich, creamy Nutella. Every bite is a sweet surprise that will make your taste buds dance with joy! Trust me, once you whip up a batch, they’ll disappear faster than you can say “Nutella!”

These muffins are not only delicious but also incredibly easy to make. Whether it’s breakfast on-the-go or a mid-afternoon snack, Nutella Banana Muffins have got you covered. Plus, they’re a great way to use up those overripe bananas sitting on your counter!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Easy to prepare: With simple steps and minimal mess, you’ll be enjoying freshly baked muffins in no time.
• Family-friendly: Kids love the sweet Nutella swirl, making them perfect for the whole family.
• Make-ahead convenience: Bake a batch ahead of time and enjoy them throughout the week!
• Delicious flavor: The combination of banana and Nutella brings together two beloved flavors in one delightful muffin.

Ingredients You’ll Need

These are simple, wholesome ingredients that you probably already have in your pantry! Let’s gather everything we need for these scrumptious Nutella Banana Muffins:

• 2 cups all-purpose flour
• 1 teaspoon baking soda
• ½ teaspoon baking powder
• ½ teaspoon salt (I use sea salt or kosher salt)
• 6 medium sized ripe bananas (mashed, about 2 cups)
• 1/2 cup (1 stick) butter (melted)
• 1/2 cup packed light brown sugar
• 1/4 cup granulated sugar
• 2 large eggs
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
• 1/3 cup Nutella

Variations

This recipe is so flexible! Feel free to get creative and put your own spin on these Nutella Banana Muffins. Here are some fun ideas:

• Add nuts: Toss in some chopped walnuts or pecans for added crunch.
• Make it chocolatey: Add chocolate chips into the batter for an extra indulgent treat.
• Spice it up: Mix in some cinnamon or nutmeg to give your muffins a warm spice flavor.
• Go gluten-free: Substitute all-purpose flour with a gluten-free blend to cater to dietary needs.

How to Make Nutella Banana Muffins

Step 1: Preheat Your Oven

Preheat the oven to 350° F. This step is crucial because it ensures that your muffins bake evenly. While the oven heats up, place muffin liners into your muffin pans—this will save you from scrubbing later!

Step 2: Mix Dry Ingredients

In a small mixing bowl, whisk together the all-purpose flour, baking soda, baking powder, and salt. Setting this mixture aside allows the leavening agents to work their magic later when combined with wet ingredients.

Step 3: Cream Wet Ingredients

In the bowl of a stand mixer, add the mashed bananas, melted butter, brown sugar, granulated sugar, eggs, and vanilla extract. Beat on medium speed for about three minutes. This helps incorporate air into the batter which results in light and fluffy muffins.

Step 4: Combine Dry and Wet Ingredients

Gradually add in the dry ingredients and mix on low speed just until combined. Be careful not to overmix; this keeps your muffins tender. Remember to scrape down the sides of the bowl so no flour pockets remain!

Step 5: Prepare Nutella

Place the Nutella inside a microwave-safe bowl and warm it for about 30 seconds until it’s thinned out. Warming makes it easier to swirl into your muffin batter later.

Step 6: Fill Muffin Cups

Fill each muffin cup about three-quarters full with batter. Then spoon a dollop (about one teaspoon) of warmed Nutella onto each muffin. Use a toothpick or knife to create that beautiful swirl—this is where the magic happens!

Step 7: Bake Your Muffins

Bake them in your preheated oven for about 15-18 minutes or until a toothpick inserted comes out clean. The anticipation will build as they bake; trust me when I say they smell heavenly!

Step 8: Cool Down & Enjoy!

Let them cool in the pan for about 15 minutes before transferring them to a cooling rack. But if you’re anything like me, you might just want to sneak one warm right away—there’s nothing quite like that fresh-baked goodness!

Pro Tips for Making Nutella Banana Muffins

Making the perfect Nutella Banana Muffins is easier than you think! Here are some pro tips to help you achieve muffin perfection.

• Use super ripe bananas: The riper the bananas, the sweeter and more flavorful your muffins will be. Look for bananas with lots of brown spots or even a few that are fully browned.
• Don’t overmix: Mixing too much can lead to dense muffins. Just combine the wet and dry ingredients until there are no dry flour pockets left; it’s okay if it’s a bit lumpy!
• Warm Nutella carefully: Heating the Nutella makes it easier to swirl into the batter. Just microwave it in short bursts to prevent it from getting too hot and losing its creamy texture.
• Check for doneness: Ovens vary, so start checking your muffins at 15 minutes. A toothpick inserted in the center should come out clean or with a few moist crumbs.
• Cool before serving: Allowing your muffins to cool for at least 15 minutes helps set their structure and enhances their flavor. Plus, they’re easier to handle!

How to Serve Nutella Banana Muffins

These Nutella Banana Muffins are delightful on their own, but a little presentation can make them even more special! Here are some fun ideas for serving.

Garnishes

• Chopped nuts: Sprinkle some chopped walnuts or pecans on top of the muffins before baking for an added crunch and nutty flavor.
• Chocolate shavings: For an extra touch of sweetness, add a few chocolate shavings on top right after they come out of the oven while they’re still warm.
• Sliced strawberries: Fresh strawberry slices on the side add a pop of color and a refreshing contrast to the rich flavors of the muffins.

Side Dishes

• Greek yogurt: A dollop of creamy Greek yogurt is perfect alongside these muffins. It adds protein and a tangy element that balances out the sweetness.
• Fresh fruit salad: A mix of seasonal fruits makes for a bright, healthy side dish that complements the flavors in your muffins beautifully.
• Smoothie: Pair these muffins with a refreshing smoothie—try banana-strawberry or berry blends—to make breakfast or snack time even more delicious!
• Coffee or tea: A warm cup of coffee or herbal tea is always a great companion for baked goods, enhancing both flavor and enjoyment.

With these tips and serving suggestions, you’re all set to enjoy your delicious Nutella Banana Muffins. Happy baking!

Make Ahead and Storage

These Nutella Banana Muffins are perfect for meal prep! You can whip up a batch ahead of time, making them a delightful grab-and-go snack for busy mornings or an easy treat for lunchboxes.

Storing Leftovers

• Allow the muffins to cool completely before storing.
• Place them in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days.
• For longer storage, consider refrigerating them for up to a week.

Freezing

• Once cooled, wrap each muffin individually in plastic wrap or aluminum foil.
• Place the wrapped muffins in a freezer-safe bag or container.
• They can be frozen for up to 3 months. Just remember to label the bag with the date!

Reheating

• To reheat from frozen, remove the muffin and let it thaw at room temperature for about 30 minutes.
• For a quick warm-up, microwave each muffin on high for 15-20 seconds.
• Alternatively, preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and warm them for about 5-10 minutes.

FAQs

Here are some common questions people have about this recipe!

Can I make Nutella Banana Muffins without eggs?

Yes! You can substitute eggs with flaxseed meal. For each egg, mix 1 tablespoon of flaxseed meal with 2.5 tablespoons of water and let it sit until it thickens.

How do I ensure my Nutella Banana Muffins come out moist?

Make sure to use very ripe bananas as they contribute moisture and sweetness. Also, avoid overmixing once you add the dry ingredients—just mix until combined!

Can I add other ingredients to my Nutella Banana Muffins?

Absolutely! Feel free to add chocolate chips, nuts, or even dried fruits like raisins for extra flavor and texture.

What if I don’t have Nutella?

If you’re looking for alternatives, try using any chocolate hazelnut spread or even peanut butter swirled into the batter.

Final Thoughts

I hope you’re as excited as I am about these delectable Nutella Banana Muffins! They’re not only easy to make but also packed with flavor that your family will love. Whether you enjoy them fresh out of the oven or saved for later, they’re sure to bring a smile to your face. Happy baking!