Banana Pumpkin Muffins

Short description

A delightful fusion of ripe banana and pumpkin flavors baked into soft, moist muffins with warm fall spices—perfect for breakfast, snack, or dessert.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Banana Pumpkin Muffins combine the natural sweetness and moistness of bananas with the comforting richness of pumpkin and cozy autumn spices. They’re simple to prepare—most recipes use just one bowl—and they bake up tender, flavorful, and irresistible. Whether you’re craving a quick snack or a make-ahead breakfast, these muffins tick all the boxes—plus, your kitchen will smell like fall in every bite.

ingredients

(Tip: You can find the complete list of ingredients and their measurements in the recipe card below.)

• 1½ cups all-purpose flour

• 1 teaspoon baking powder

• 1 teaspoon baking soda

• 2 teaspoons ground cinnamon (or pumpkin pie spice)

• ½ teaspoon salt

• 1 cup granulated sugar

• ⅓ cup vegetable oil (or melted butter)

• ½ teaspoon vanilla extract

• 2 large eggs

• ¾ cup pumpkin puree

• 1 cup mashed bananas (about 2 very ripe bananas)

directions

1. Preheat your oven to 350 °F (175 °C). Line a 12-cup muffin tin with liners or grease it lightly.

2. In a large mixing bowl, whisk together the dry ingredients: flour, baking powder, baking soda, cinnamon (or spice blend), sugar, and salt.

3. Add the wet ingredients: oil, vanilla, eggs, pumpkin puree, and mashed banana. Stir gently until just combined—avoid overmixing to keep the muffins light and fluffy.

4. Fill muffin cups about ¾ full.

5. Bake for 25 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.

6. Let muffins cool in the tin for 3 minutes, then transfer to a cooling rack for another 10–15 minutes.

Servings and timing

• Yield: Approximately 12 standard-size muffins

• Prep time: ~12–15 minutes

• Cook time: ~20–25 minutes

• Total time: ~35–40 minutes

Variations

• Add-ins: Fold in chocolate chips, nuts (pecans, walnuts), or dried fruit like cranberries or raisins for extra texture and flavor.

• Toppings: Sprinkle oats, make a streusel topping, or swirl in a simple icing or caramel drizzle.

• Healthier swaps: Use whole wheat flour or reduce sugar; substitute honey or maple syrup for part of the sugar; use butter or applesauce instead of oil.

• Spice boost: Enhance with nutmeg, ginger, cloves, or pumpkin pie spice for a richer aroma.

storage/reheating

• At room temperature: Store muffins in an airtight container for up to 2 days.

• In the refrigerator: They remain fresh for up to a week.

• Freezing: Let muffins cool completely, then wrap individually and freeze for up to 3 months. Thaw at room temperature or warm gently in the microwave before serving.

FAQs

1. What is the best way to mash bananas?

Use very ripe bananas for maximum sweetness; mash with a fork, leaving slight chunks if you’d like texture in your muffins.

2. Can I use homemade pumpkin purée?

Yes—homemade is fine if it’s not too watery. Use the same volume measurement as canned purée.

3. How do I keep muffins moist?

Avoid overmixing your batter and don’t overbake. Testing with a toothpick helps ensure the ideal moist crumb.

4. Can I halve the recipe?

Yes—simply halve all ingredients and bake in a smaller batch. You may need to shorten bake time slightly.

5. Are these muffins healthy?

They can be—using whole wheat flour and reducing sugar or substituting healthier sweeteners can boost nutrition.

6. How to add more spice flavor?

Increase cinnamon or mix in pumpkin pie spice, nutmeg, ginger, or cloves to taste.

7. Why are my muffins dense?

Overmixing or adding too much flour can cause density. Mix ingredients just until combined for light muffins.

8. Can I make these into a loaf instead?

Yes—pour batter into a loaf pan and bake until a toothpick comes out clean. Adjust baking time accordingly (often 45–60 minutes).

9. Can I bake them in jumbo or mini muffin tins?

Yes—adjust bake times: mini muffins will need less time, jumbo may require more.

10. Can I make the batter ahead?

Yes—refrigerate the batter and bake within 1–2 days (preferably bake fresh for best rise and texture).

Conclusion

Banana Pumpkin Muffins are an easy and delicious way to enjoy two classic flavors in one mouthwatering treat. With a simple one-bowl method, pantry-friendly ingredients, and endless customization options, they’re perfect for cozy mornings, snacks, or dessert. Bake a batch, and let the warm aroma of pumpkin and banana fill your kitchen.

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