Easy Banana Bread Muffins Recipe

Banana bread muffins are one of those absolute lifesavers in a busy household. They are quick to throw together, uses up those spotty bananas sitting on the bench, and best of all—kids love it.

Whether you need an easy school lunchbox filler, an afternoon snack, or something to go with your coffee, banana bread ticks all the boxes. It’s one of those recipes you can whip up in one bowl, and you can tweak it to suit—add choc chips, nuts, Nutella or even a sprinkle of cinnamon if you're feeling fancy.

Another big win? They freeze beautifully. This recipe can be used either as a banana bread loaf or as banana bread muffins. Slice it up once it’s cooled, pop the pieces in an airtight container, and you’ve got a grab-and-go snack whenever you need it. Perfect for busy mornings when you realise you’ve got nothing for the kids’ lunchboxes (we’ve all been there). Just pull out a slice or a muffin, pop it in their lunch, and it’ll be defrosted by morning tea. Easy, delicious, and guaranteed to get eaten—what more could you want?

What You Need:

Overripe bananas

Flour

Butter

Sugar

Milk

Eggs

Baking Powder

Bicarb of Soda

Vanilla

How to make banana bread muffins

First, preheat your oven to 175 degrees celcius.

Mash your bananas. I do this in a Thermomix but you can use a food processor, an hand mixer, or even a fork.

Add the butter and sugar and beat until smooth.

Then add the eggs and beat again for about 10 seconds, or until combined.

Add the rest of the ingredients and mix until smooth, but don't over beat.

Pour into 12 muffin cases or into a loaf tin. If you are cooking muffins you'll need to cook for about 20 minutes. Test the inside with a fork or skewer to make sure they are cooked through before removing. If you are cooking a loaf, cook for an hour. Test before removing.

Variations

The great thing about banana bread muffins or banana bread loaf is that you can add different things to them. I often add chocolate chips or Nutella, and I always add cinnamon as well. You can also add nuts if these aren't for school.

Sweet Add-Ins:
Chocolate chips – because banana and chocolate are a match made in heaven.
Caramel bits – for a sweet, gooey surprise.
Shredded coconut – adds a bit of texture and a subtle tropical vibe.
Dried fruit – like sultanas, cranberries, or chopped dates for natural sweetness.
Nutty & Crunchy Options:
Chopped walnuts or pecans – classic and add a great crunch.
Almonds or hazelnuts – for a slightly different nutty flavor.
Pumpkin or sunflower seeds – a nut-free option that still adds texture.
Spices & Flavours:
Cinnamon, nutmeg, or mixed spice – for extra warmth and coziness.
Vanilla or almond extract – a small amount goes a long way in adding depth.
Espresso powder – enhances the banana flavour (and makes it feel a little more grown-up!).