Nutella banana muffins bring together the rich, creamy goodness of Nutella and the natural sweetness of ripe bananas to create a delightful treat perfect for any occasion. These muffins are not only easy to make but also fill your kitchen with a delicious aroma that will have everyone longing for a bite. Whether you enjoy them as a breakfast option, snack, or dessert, these muffins satisfy your sweet tooth while being irresistibly fluffy and moist.
Why We Love This Nutella Banana Muffins
These Nutella banana muffins are a perfect blend of flavors and textures. The bananas provide moisture and sweetness, while the Nutella offers a creamy, chocolate-hazelnut experience that elevates these muffins to another level. You get the best of both worlds with the warm, comforting feel of banana bread and the indulgent nature of chocolate. Plus, they are incredibly easy to whip up, making them a go-to recipe for busy mornings or spontaneous baking sessions. The muffins also adapt well, allowing you to customize them according to your preferences, whether you want to add nuts, chocolate chips, or even a sprinkle of sea salt on top. Every bite of these muffins feels like a warm hug, bringing comfort and joy.
Ingredients for Nutella Banana Muffins
- 3 ripe bananas
- 1/2 cup granulated sugar
- 1/4 cup brown sugar, packed
- 1/3 cup vegetable oil
- 2 large eggs
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1 teaspoon baking soda
- 1/2 teaspoon baking powder
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
- 1 1/2 cups all-purpose flour
- 1/2 cup Nutella
- Optional: 1/2 cup chocolate chips or chopped nuts
Directions
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and line a muffin tin with paper liners or spray with cooking spray.
- In a large bowl, mash the ripe bananas with a fork until smooth.
- Add the granulated sugar, brown sugar, and vegetable oil to the mashed bananas. Mix well.
- Beat in the eggs, one at a time, ensuring they are fully incorporated before adding the next. Stir in the vanilla extract.
- In a separate bowl, whisk together the flour, baking soda, baking powder, and salt.
- Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet mixture. Stir just until combined; avoid overmixing.
- Fold in Nutella gently, leaving large swirls of it throughout the batter.
- If desired, mix in chocolate chips or nuts at this stage.
- Divide the batter evenly among the muffin cups, filling each about two-thirds full.
- Bake in the preheated oven for 18 to 20 minutes or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.
- Let the muffins cool in the tin for 5 minutes, then transfer them to a wire rack to cool completely.
How to Serve Nutella Banana Muffins
Nutella banana muffins are delightful when served fresh out of the oven, still warm and slightly gooey in the center. You can enjoy them as is or take them to the next level by adding a dollop of Nutella on top for an extra indulgent treat. Pair them with a side of fresh fruit, like sliced strawberries or a handful of blueberries, to complement their flavors and add a refreshing touch. For breakfast, they go wonderfully with a warm cup of coffee or tea—it becomes a comforting morning ritual. You might also consider serving them at brunch gatherings, where they can be part of a larger spread that includes other delightful muffins and pastries. If you have guests over, displaying the muffins on a beautiful platter adds a nice touch and serves as an inviting centerpiece to the table.
Expert Tips for Nutella Banana Muffins
Ripe Bananas: Choose bananas that have turned mostly brown or are nearly overripe. These bananas are sweeter and mash more easily, contributing to the moist texture of the muffins.
Room Temperature Ingredients: Using room temperature eggs and oil helps create a smoother batter. This can aid in achieving a lighter muffin texture.
Don’t Overmix: When combining dry and wet ingredients, mix until just combined. Overmixing can develop gluten in the flour, leading to dense muffins.
Nutella Swirls: After folding in the Nutella, try not to mix it in completely. Leaving it swirled throughout the batter gives the muffins beautiful visual appeal and pockets of rich flavor.
Test for Doneness: Ovens can vary, so keep an eye on the muffins towards the end of the baking time. They are done when a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean or with a few moist crumbs.
How to Store Nutella Banana Muffins
To store your Nutella banana muffins, allow them to cool completely after baking. Once cooled, place them in an airtight container to keep them fresh. You can store them at room temperature for up to three days or in the refrigerator for up to a week. If you want to keep them for longer, consider freezing them. Wrap each muffin in plastic wrap or foil and place them in a freezer-safe bag. They will keep well in the freezer for up to three months. When you’re ready to enjoy them, simply thaw them overnight in the refrigerator or warm them in the microwave for a quick treat.
Variations of Nutella Banana Muffins
There are countless ways to customize Nutella banana muffins, so don’t hesitate to get creative. For a nutty crunch, add chopped walnuts or pecans to the batter. If you enjoy a richer chocolate flavor, mix in some chocolate chips alongside the Nutella. For a hint of spice, consider adding a teaspoon of cinnamon or nutmeg to your dry ingredients. You can also experiment with different types of flour; for a healthier twist, substituting half of the all-purpose flour with whole wheat flour works nicely. If you want to enhance the fruitiness, stir in some blueberries or shredded coconut. These variations not only add texture but also bring unique flavors that can change the overall profile of your muffins.
FAQ about Nutella Banana Muffins
What are Nutella banana muffins?
Nutella banana muffins are soft, moist muffins made with ripe bananas and creamy Nutella, offering a delicious blend of flavors in every bite.
Can I use frozen bananas for Nutella banana muffins?
Yes, you can use frozen bananas! Just make sure to thaw them and drain any excess liquid before mashing.
How long do Nutella banana muffins last?
They can last up to three days at room temperature and up to a week in the refrigerator if stored in an airtight container.
Can I make Nutella banana muffins without eggs?
Absolutely! You can substitute each egg with a quarter cup of unsweetened applesauce or a flaxseed meal mixture (1 tablespoon of ground flaxseed mixed with 2.5 tablespoons of water).
Is it okay to add nuts to Nutella banana muffins?
Yes, adding nuts like walnuts or pecans gives the muffins a nice crunch and enhances the flavor.
How do I know when the muffins are done baking?
Insert a toothpick into the center of a muffin; if it comes out clean or with a few moist crumbs, the muffins are done.