Banana oat muffins are soft, healthy treats made with ripe bananas and oats. They are easy to make and perfect for breakfast or a snack, with a nice balance of sweetness and wholesome ingredients.
I like to sneak in a few chocolate chips sometimes—who can resist a little extra sweetness? These muffins also freeze well, so I make a batch and take one whenever I need a quick bite.
Ingredients & Substitutions
Bananas: Ripe bananas add natural sweetness and moisture. I prefer bananas with brown spots—they’re sweet and mash easily. If you don’t have ripe bananas, a splash of honey or maple syrup can boost sweetness.
Oats: Rolled oats give the muffins texture and heartiness. Use quick oats for softer muffins if you prefer. For gluten-free, try certified gluten-free oats—just ensure they’re processed in a gluten-free facility.
Honey or Maple Syrup: These natural sweeteners enhance flavor and moisture. I like honey for richness, but maple syrup gives a lovely hint of earthiness. You can swap with agave or brown sugar if needed.
Eggs: Eggs help bind ingredients and add moisture. Use large eggs. To make them vegan, try flaxseed eggs—mix 1 tbsp ground flaxseed with 3 tbsp water and let sit for a few minutes.
Milk: Adds moisture and softness. Any type works—dairy or plant-based like almond, soy, or oat milk—use what you have on hand.
How do I avoid overmixing the batter?
Overmixing can make muffins tough. Mix ingredients until just combined. Stir the wet and dry ingredients separately, then gently fold them together until no streaks remain. Stop mixing as soon as you see combined batter to keep muffins tender.
- Stir the wet ingredients and dry ingredients separately.
- Gently fold the wet into the dry — don’t over-stir.
- Mix just until ingredients are combined; a few lumps are okay.
- Stop mixing when there’s no visible flour — it’s ready to bake.
How to Make Banana Oatmeal Muffins?
Ingredients You’ll Need:
Wet ingredients
- 3 ripe bananas
- 2 large eggs
- 1/4 cup honey or maple syrup
Dry ingredients
- 1 1/2 cups rolled oats
- 1 cup all-purpose flour
- 1 teaspoon baking powder
- 1/2 teaspoon baking soda
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
Optional add-ins
- 1/2 cup chopped nuts or chocolate chips
How Much Time Will You Need?
10 minutes prep + 20 minutes baking = 30 minutes total.
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Prepare the oven and muffin tin
Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Line a muffin tin with paper liners or grease lightly.
2. Mash the bananas and mix wet ingredients
In a large bowl, mash the bananas. Add eggs and honey; stir until well combined.
3. Combine dry ingredients
In a separate bowl, mix oats, flour, baking powder, baking soda, and salt.
4. Mix wet and dry ingredients
Pour dry ingredients into wet; stir until just combined. Fold in nuts or chocolate chips if using.
5. Fill muffin cups and bake
Scoop batter into muffin cups. Bake for 20 minutes or until golden and a toothpick comes out clean.
6. Cool and enjoy
Let muffins cool for a few minutes. Serve warm or store for later. Enjoy your homemade banana oatmeal muffins!