Delicious Banana Bread Muffins with Chocolate Chips

There is something undeniably comforting about the smell of bananas baking in the oven. It signals a cozy morning is ahead.

Most of us have a go to loaf recipe. But sometimes you do not want to wait an hour for a loaf to bake. That is where these Banana Bread Muffins come in handy.

They take all the flavor of your favorite slice and pack it into a portable size. Plus, they cook in less than half the time.

This recipe transforms humble ingredients into a breakfast that looks like it came from a fancy bakery.

The secret lies in the layers. We do not just mix everything together. We swirl a rich chocolate and walnut streusel right into the batter.

If you have been hunting for the Best Banana Muffin Recipe to add to your collection, you are in the right place.

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Why You’ll Love This Recipe

You might wonder what makes these different from other Easy Banana Bread Recipes you have tried before. It really comes down to texture and height.

Here is why this version is special.

Bakery Style Tops: We use a special baking method involving an initial high temperature. This creates those tall, beautiful muffin tops everyone loves.
Incredible Texture: The addition of yogurt or sour cream ensures the crumb stays moist and tender for days.
The Streusel Swirl: This is not just a topping. You layer the chocolate chip and walnut mixture inside the muffin for a crunch in every bite.
No Fancy Gear Needed: While a mixer helps, you can easily make this with standard kitchen tools.
Customizable: You can skip the nuts or swap the chocolate chips for dried fruit if you prefer.

These Banana Bread Muffins are fantastic for busy mornings. You can grab one on your way out the door.

Ingredients

The ingredients list is split into two parts. First, we have the sweet, crunchy streusel. Second, we have the tender muffin batter.

For The Streusel

2 and 1/2 teaspoons ground cinnamon
1/4 cup packed light or dark brown sugar
3/4 cup semi sweet chocolate chips
Optional: 1/2 cup chopped walnuts

For The Muffins

1 and 2/3 cups all purpose flour
1/2 teaspoon ground cinnamon
3/4 teaspoon baking soda
3/4 teaspoon baking powder
1/4 teaspoon salt
6 Tablespoons unsalted butter, softened to room temperature
1/2 cup granulated sugar
1 large egg, at room temperature
1 and 1/2 cups mashed bananas (about 4 medium or 3 large bananas)
1/4 cup plain yogurt or sour cream (nonfat Greek yogurt works well)

Using very ripe bananas is key. Look for plenty of brown spots on the peel. They provide the best natural sweetness.

Step-By-Step Instructions

Making these Banana Bread Muffins is quite simple. Follow these steps carefully to ensure you get that perfect bakery rise.

Step 1: Prep The Oven And Pan

Start by setting your oven to 425°F (218°C). This high starting heat is crucial.

Spray a 12 count muffin pan with non stick spray. Alternatively, you can line it with cupcake liners. Set the pan aside for now.

Step 2: Create The Streusel

In a small bowl, combine the cinnamon, packed brown sugar, chocolate chips, and chopped walnuts if you are using them.

Stir everything until mixed well. This mixture will provide the crunch inside and on top of your muffins.

Step 3: Whisk Dry Ingredients

Grab a medium bowl for the dry mix. Whisk together the flour, cinnamon, baking soda, baking powder, and salt.

Ensure there are no large lumps of flour. Set this bowl aside.

Step 4: Cream Butter And Sugar

Use a large bowl and a mixer fitted with a paddle attachment. Beat the softened butter and granulated sugar together.

Mix on medium to high speed until the mixture is creamed. This usually takes about 3 minutes.

Scrape down the sides and bottom of the bowl as needed to make sure everything incorporates evenly.

Step 5: Add Wet Ingredients

Add the egg to the butter mixture. Beat for about 1 minute until combined.

Scrape down the bowl again. Now add the mashed bananas and the yogurt (or sour cream).

Beat on high speed until combined. The mixture might look curdled at this point. Do not worry; that is completely normal.

Step 6: Combine Batter

Pour the dry ingredients into the wet mixture. Beat on low speed just until combined.

The batter will be thick. Be careful not to overmix, or the muffins might become tough.

Step 7: Layer The Muffins

Place a large spoonful (about 1.5 Tablespoons) of batter into the bottom of each muffin cup. Sprinkle with a scant Tablespoon of the streusel.

Layer another large spoonful of batter over that, using up the rest of the batter.

Finish by sprinkling the remaining streusel on top of each muffin.

The cups should be filled all the way to the top. Use a toothpick or knife to gently swirl the streusel into the batter.

Step 8: The Two Temperature Bake

Put the muffins in the oven and bake for 5 minutes at 425°F.

Keep the muffins in the oven and shut the door. Reduce the temperature to 350°F (177°C).

Bake for an additional 15 to 16 minutes. A toothpick inserted in the center should come out clean.

Cool in the pan for 5 minutes before transferring to a wire rack.

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How To Store Leftovers

If you manage to have any leftovers, these Banana Bread Muffins store very well.

At room temperature, keep them covered in an airtight container. They will stay fresh for a few days.

For longer storage, move them to the fridge. They can last up to one week there.

You can also freeze these muffins. Wrap them well and freeze for up to 3 months.

To eat a frozen muffin, thaw it overnight in the fridge. You can warm it up in the microwave for a fresh baked taste.

Tips

Here are a few helpful hints to make sure your baking goes smoothly.

Use Frozen Bananas: You can use thawed frozen bananas. Just remember to drain the excess liquid before mashing them, as they can be extra wet.

Room Temperature Ingredients: Make sure your egg and butter are at room temperature. This helps them mix into a smooth batter without lumps.

Yogurt Substitution: If you lack Greek yogurt, regular plain yogurt or sour cream works fine. In a pinch, buttermilk is a decent swap.

The Heat Trick: Do not skip the temperature change. The initial high heat lifts the muffin tops quickly. The lower heat then cooks the center evenly.

Measure Flour Correctly: Avoid scooping flour directly with the measuring cup. Spoon it into the cup and level it off for accuracy.

Conclusion

These Banana Bread Muffins are sure to become a staple in your kitchen. They are easy, fast, and incredibly delicious.

Whether you make them for a quick breakfast or a sweet snack, the combination of moist banana bread and chocolatey streusel is hard to beat.

Next time you have brown bananas on the counter, skip the loaf pan and try this method instead.

FAQ

Can I Make This Gluten Free?

Yes, you can usually swap the all purpose flour for a high quality gluten free flour blend. Look for a blend that measures 1:1 with regular flour.

Are These Banana Bread Cupcakes?

They are close! If you remove the streusel and add cream cheese frosting, you essentially have Banana Bread Cupcakes. However, the muffin texture is slightly denser and more suited for breakfast.

Can I Leave Out The Walnuts?

Absolutely. You can substitute chopped pecans or leave nuts out entirely. You will just have a little less streusel volume, but it will still taste great.

Is This The Best Banana Muffin Recipe For Beginners?

Many home bakers think so. It is very forgiving and uses standard methods. It is one of the most reliable and Easy Banana Bread Recipes you can start with.

About the Author

James Carter

December 29, 2025

I learned to cook from two amazing women: my mom and my aunt. My mom, who passed away in 2021, was the heart of our kitchen. I've stayed in the home we shared, continuing the tradition of home-cooked meals that bring comfort and connection.