Chocolate Banana Walnut Muffins

Name: Chocolate Banana Walnut Muffins
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 20 min
Total time: 35 min
Yield: 12 muffins
Ingredients: 1 cup mashed overripe bananas (about 2 large); 1/2 cup granulated sugar; 1/4 cup brown sugar; 1/2 cup melted butter; 2 large eggs; 1 tsp vanilla extract; 1 1/2 cups all-purpose flour; 1/2 cup cocoa powder; 1 tsp baking soda; 1/2 tsp salt; 1/2 cup chopped walnuts; 1/2 cup chocolate chips

Highlighted under: Baking & Desserts

I absolutely adore baking, and these Chocolate Banana Walnut Muffins have become a staple in my kitchen. Each time I make them, the delightful aroma of chocolate and ripe bananas fills the air, making it impossible to resist sneaking a bite before they are fully cooled. The combination of rich chocolate, sweet bananas, and crunchy walnuts creates the perfect balance of flavors and textures. These muffins are not just a treat for breakfast; they also make a fantastic snack any time of day!

Created by

Josie Lambert

Last updated on 2026-01-14T02:07:15.724Z

When I first stumbled upon the idea of mixing chocolate and bananas in muffins, I knew I had to give it a try. The result was beyond my expectations! The muffins turn out perfectly moist, and the chocolate complements the sweetness of the bananas beautifully. I recommend using overripe bananas for optimal flavor and sweetness.

One tip I learned through experimentation is to fold in the walnuts gently at the end. This keeps them from breaking apart too much, ensuring that each muffin has those satisfying crunchy bites. Trust me, they elevate this recipe to the next level!

        Why You'll Love These Muffins
        Fudgy chocolate flavor combined with natural sweetness from bananas
Nutty walnut pieces add a delightful crunch
Great for breakfast or as an indulgent snack

      

The Importance of Ripe Bananas

Using overripe bananas is crucial in this recipe, as they bring a natural sweetness and moisture that enhances the overall flavor of the muffins. You’ll want bananas that are heavily speckled or even brown; this stage indicates they are at their sweetest. If you have leftover bananas that are too ripe, don’t toss them out—just toss them into this muffin batter. They can transform a basic muffin into a flavorful delight.

Moreover, the texture of overripe bananas is perfect for mashing. Unlike firmer bananas, the overripe ones blend seamlessly into the batter, contributing to a moist muffin crumb. This moisture is essential in balancing out the cocoa powder, ensuring your muffins are both rich and indulgent without being dry.

Perfecting the Cocoa and Chocolate Balance

The use of cocoa powder and chocolate chips is what gives these muffins their decadent chocolate flavor. When selecting cocoa powder, choose a high-quality unsweetened variety to truly elevate the taste. You may experiment with Dutch-processed cocoa for a smoother, milder chocolate flavor. The type and quality of cocoa you choose can significantly influence the final taste, so it’s worth investing in a good brand.

In addition to using cocoa powder, incorporating chocolate chips provides bursts of melted chocolate in every bite. For a fun twist, try using dark chocolate chips or even white chocolate chips if you prefer a sweeter profile. Just be mindful to mix the chips gently into the batter to prevent them from sinking to the bottom during baking.

Baking Tips for Perfect Muffins

When filling your muffin tin, aim for about three-quarters full to allow the muffins to rise beautifully without overflowing. If you find that your muffins are consistently rising too much or not enough, consider checking your oven's calibration or the freshness of your baking soda. An oven thermometer can be a handy tool to ensure your oven is accurately heating to the correct temperature.

After baking, allow the muffins to cool in the tin for the recommended time. This short resting period helps them firm up and makes them easier to remove without falling apart. If you notice that your muffins are sticking to the liners, consider using a light spray of non-stick cooking spray or choosing a parchment paper liner for easier release. This small tip can save your muffins from losing their perfect shape.

Ingredients

For the Muffins

1 cup mashed overripe bananas (about 2 large)
1/2 cup granulated sugar
1/4 cup brown sugar
1/2 cup melted butter
2 large eggs
1 tsp vanilla extract
1 1/2 cups all-purpose flour
1/2 cup cocoa powder
1 tsp baking soda
1/2 tsp salt
1/2 cup chopped walnuts
1/2 cup chocolate chips

Instructions

Preheat the Oven

Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and line a 12-cup muffin tin with paper liners or spray with non-stick cooking spray.

Mix Wet Ingredients

In a large bowl, mix the mashed bananas, granulated sugar, brown sugar, melted butter, eggs, and vanilla extract until well combined.

Combine Dry Ingredients

In another bowl, whisk together the flour, cocoa powder, baking soda, and salt.

Combine Mixtures

Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet ingredients, mixing until just combined. Be careful not to overmix.

Fold in Nuts and Chips

Gently fold in the walnuts and chocolate chips.

Fill Muffin Tin

Spoon the batter into the prepared muffin tin, filling each cup about 3/4 full.

Bake

Bake for 20 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center of a muffin comes out clean.

Cool and Serve

Allow the muffins to cool in the tin for 5 minutes before transferring them to a wire rack to cool completely.

Pro Tips

For extra indulgence, sprinkle a few chocolate chips on top of the muffins before baking. You can also experiment with other nuts or add a pinch of cinnamon for additional warmth.

Serving Suggestions

These Chocolate Banana Walnut Muffins make a delightful breakfast option paired with a cup of coffee or a glass of milk. For a more filling meal, try serving them alongside yogurt and fresh fruit. They also shine as an afternoon snack, especially when warmed slightly in the microwave to enhance their gooey chocolate character.

If you're serving them for a gathering or brunch, consider making a small platter with a variety of flavored muffins or pastries. Adding a spread like peanut butter or Nutella can also enhance the flavors and make for a fun DIY topping station. Feel free to get creative—these muffins complement various spreads and toppings.

Storage and Freezing Tips

To maintain freshness, store your muffins in an airtight container at room temperature for up to three days. If you want to keep them longer, consider freezing them. Just place the cooled muffins in a freezer-safe bag after wrapping them individually. They can last in the freezer for up to three months. When you're ready to enjoy one, simply thaw at room temperature or warm in the microwave for about 15-30 seconds.

When freezing muffins, I recommend placing a piece of parchment paper between them to prevent sticking. This easy step ensures that you can enjoy them one at a time without having to defrost the whole batch. I often make a double batch so I always have some on hand for quick breakfasts or snacks.

Variations to Try

Feel free to customize these muffins to suit your taste buds! Adding in ingredients like shredded coconut, dried fruit, or even peanut butter can create exciting new flavor profiles. If you want to switch things up, consider swapping out the walnuts for pecans or almonds for a different nutty flavor and texture.

For a healthier twist, you can substitute half of the all-purpose flour with whole wheat flour, which will impart a slightly nuttier flavor and increase fiber content. You can also reduce the sugar slightly if you prefer a less sweet muffin, especially since the bananas add natural sweetness. Just keep an eye on the texture; adding a bit more banana or applesauce can help if you reduce the sugar.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I substitute the all-purpose flour?

Yes, you can use whole wheat flour or a gluten-free blend, but the texture may vary slightly.

→ How can I store leftover muffins?

Store them in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days or freeze for up to 2 months.

→ Can I make these muffins vegan?

You can replace the eggs with flax eggs and use a dairy-free butter substitute for a vegan version.

→ What can I use instead of walnuts?

Feel free to replace walnuts with pecans, almonds, or even leave them out if you prefer a nut-free option.