If you’re searching for a treat that combines the comforting warmth of bananas with the irresistible richness of chocolate-hazelnut goodness, you’re in for a delight with this Nutella Swirled Banana Muffins Recipe. These muffins balance the natural sweetness and moisture of ripe bananas with the creamy swirls of Nutella, creating a tender, flavorful bite every single time. Perfect for breakfast, snack time, or even a cozy dessert, these muffins bring that homemade touch that makes you want to bake them again and again.
Ingredients You’ll Need
Keeping the ingredients straightforward yet flavorful is key to nailing this recipe. Each item plays an essential role, whether it’s adding moisture, tenderness, lift, or that special Nutella magic we all love.
- Extremely ripe bananas: The browner, the better for natural sweetness and soft texture.
- Butter: Melted for richness and moisture that keeps muffins tender.
- Eggs: Bind the ingredients together and add structure to each muffin.
- Nonfat Greek yogurt: Adds tangy moisture while keeping the muffins light.
- Vanilla extract: Brings depth and warms up the sweet notes.
- All-purpose flour: The main body of the muffins, providing tender crumb; you can swap half for whole wheat for extra fiber.
- Baking soda: Works as a leavening agent to help the muffins rise beautifully.
- Sugar: Enhances sweetness and helps create a golden crust.
- Salt: Balances out flavors and makes the sweetness pop.
- Nutella: The star swirl that gives each muffin a luscious, melty surprise.
How to Make Nutella Swirled Banana Muffins Recipe
Step 1: Prepare Your Oven and Muffin Tin
Start by preheating your oven to 350ºF, which is the perfect temperature for baking these muffins evenly without drying them out. Lightly spray your muffin tin with cooking spray to ensure easy release later, whether you’re using giant or regular-sized muffin cups. This prep sets you up for muffin success.
Step 2: Mix the Wet Ingredients
In a large bowl, mash your ripe bananas thoroughly for that natural sweetness and moisture. Stir in the melted butter—it adds a lovely richness. Then mix in the eggs, nonfat Greek yogurt, and vanilla extract. Each of these wet ingredients brings a smooth texture and subtle flavor that blends perfectly with the rest.
Step 3: Combine Dry Ingredients and Fold Into Wet
In a separate bowl, whisk together your flour, baking soda, sugar, and salt. These dry ingredients are what will give your muffins structure and that tender crumb. Gently fold the dry ingredients into the wet banana mixture; overmixing can toughen your muffins, so a delicate hand is key here.
Step 4: Add Batter to Muffin Cups and Swirl Nutella
Distribute the batter evenly into your prepared muffin cups. Next, melt your Nutella for about 20 seconds in the microwave until it’s workable but not too runny. Drizzle the Nutella over the tops of the batter and use a knife to gently swirl it into the batter, creating those beautiful, chocolate-hazelnut ribbons that make these muffins unforgettable.
Step 5: Bake to Perfection
Pop your muffins into the oven. If you’re baking giant muffins, aim for 20-25 minutes. Regular-sized muffins need 15-20 minutes. Use a knife to check; when inserted into the center, it should come out clean. This ensures they’re baked all the way through but still soft and moist. Let them cool for about 15 minutes before digging in!
How to Serve Nutella Swirled Banana Muffins Recipe
Garnishes
A simple dusting of powdered sugar or a few chopped toasted hazelnuts on top can elevate the muffins visually and add a delightful crunch. You could also add a small spoonful of fresh Nutella on the side for dipping. These small touches make each bite feel special.
Side Dishes
Pair your Nutella Swirled Banana Muffins with a warm cup of coffee or a frothy cappuccino for a comforting breakfast. For a more wholesome snack, a side of fresh fruit or a dollop of Greek yogurt complements the muffins’ rich flavor while adding a fresh contrast.
Creative Ways to Present
Serve the muffins on a rustic wooden board with a small jar of Nutella and a knife for an interactive spread that invites guests to add extra swirls. You could also slice the muffins in half and toast them lightly for a warm breakfast sandwich filled with Nutella and a smear of softened butter. The possibilities are as fun as they are delicious!
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Store any leftover muffins in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 2 days. If you want them to stay extra fresh, place a paper towel inside the container to absorb moisture and keep the tops from becoming soggy.
Freezing
Nutella Swirled Banana Muffins Recipe works great for freezing! Wrap each muffin individually in plastic wrap or foil, then store them in a freezer-safe bag or container. They’ll keep well for up to 3 months, making them perfect for a make-ahead breakfast or snack.
Reheating
To enjoy frozen muffins, thaw at room temperature or warm them gently in the microwave for 20-30 seconds. You can also pop them into a toaster oven for a slightly crisped exterior while keeping the inside soft and gooey. Reheating brings back that fresh-baked feeling instantly.
FAQs
Can I substitute the Greek yogurt with sour cream or regular yogurt?
Absolutely! Sour cream or regular yogurt can be used and will still add moisture and tanginess to the muffins. Just be aware that nonfat Greek yogurt has a thicker texture, so adjust quantities slightly if needed to keep the batter consistency right.
Is it possible to make these muffins dairy-free?
Yes! Use a plant-based yogurt and a dairy-free butter substitute to keep these muffins moist and tender. Just ensure your chosen substitutes are suitable for baking, and the results will still be delicious.
How ripe do the bananas need to be for this Nutella Swirled Banana Muffins Recipe?
The riper, the better! Overripe bananas with brown spots or even fully brown skins are ideal as they provide maximum sweetness and moisture, which means your muffins will be wonderfully flavorful and soft.
Can I use less sugar if I prefer a less sweet muffin?
Definitely! You can reduce the sugar by up to a quarter, but keep in mind that the ripe bananas and Nutella already add sweetness, so the muffins won’t be bland. Adjust according to your taste preference.
What’s the best way to swirl the Nutella without overmixing?
Drizzle the melted Nutella in small amounts over the top of the batter and then use a thin knife or skewer to gently drag through the batter just a few times. The key is to create pretty swirls without blending the Nutella completely into the batter.
Final Thoughts
There’s something truly special about the comforting flavor combo of bananas and Nutella, and this Nutella Swirled Banana Muffins Recipe manages to deliver it in the coziest, most scrumptious way. Whether you’re making a batch for your family, sharing with friends, or simply treating yourself, these muffins are a definite winner that will brighten your kitchen and satisfy your sweet tooth. Give this recipe a try, and you might just find a new favorite for mornings and beyond!
Print
Nutella Swirled Banana Muffins Recipe
- Total Time: 30 minutes
- Yield: 6 giant or 12 regular muffins
- Diet: Vegetarian
Description
These Nutella Swirled Banana Muffins are a deliciously moist and flavorful treat, combining the natural sweetness of ripe bananas with creamy swirls of rich Nutella. Perfect for breakfast or a snack, these muffins boast a tender crumb thanks to nonfat Greek yogurt and are easy to whip up with simple pantry ingredients.
Ingredients
Wet Ingredients
- 3 extremely ripe (even brown) bananas, mashed
- 6 tablespoons butter, melted
- 2 eggs, room temperature
- 3/4 cup nonfat Greek yogurt
- 2 teaspoons vanilla extract
Dry Ingredients
- 2 cups all-purpose flour (can substitute 1/2 cup with whole wheat flour)
- 1 teaspoon baking soda
- 3/4 cup sugar
- 1 teaspoon salt
Additional
- 2/3 cup Nutella
- Cooking spray for muffin tins
Instructions
- Preheat the oven: Preheat your oven to 350ºF (175ºC). Spray 6 giant or 12 regular muffin cups with cooking spray, then place them into a muffin tin to prepare for baking.
- Combine wet ingredients: In a large mixing bowl, mash the ripe bananas until smooth. Add the melted butter and stir well to combine. Then, mix in the eggs, nonfat Greek yogurt, and vanilla extract until the mixture is thoroughly blended.
- Mix dry ingredients: In a separate bowl, whisk together the all-purpose flour, baking soda, sugar, and salt to ensure an even distribution of leavening and seasoning.
- Combine wet and dry mixtures: Gradually fold the dry ingredients into the wet banana mixture. Gently stir just until combined, being careful not to overmix to keep the muffins tender.
- Fill muffin cups: Spoon the batter evenly into the prepared muffin cups, filling each about 3/4 full for regular or giant muffin tins.
- Prepare Nutella swirl: Melt the Nutella in the microwave for 20 seconds to soften it for easier drizzling.
- Swirl Nutella: Drizzle the melted Nutella over the muffin batter in each cup. Using a knife or toothpick, gently swirl the Nutella through the batter to create beautiful marbled patterns.
- Bake the muffins: Place the muffin tin in the preheated oven. Bake for 20-25 minutes if using giant muffin cups, or 15-20 minutes for standard-sized muffins. The muffins are done when a knife inserted into the center comes out clean.
- Cool and serve: Remove the muffins from the oven and allow them to cool in the tin for about 15 minutes before removing. Serve warm or at room temperature for best flavor and texture.
Notes
- Ensure bananas are very ripe for maximum sweetness and moisture in muffins.
- You can substitute half of the all-purpose flour with whole wheat flour for a nuttier flavor and added fiber.
- Do not overmix the batter to keep muffins tender and light.
- If you don’t have nonfat Greek yogurt, plain yogurt or sour cream can be used as substitutes.
- Feel free to adjust the amount of Nutella swirl based on your sweetness preference.
- Muffins can be stored in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days, or refrigerated for up to a week.
- Reheat muffins briefly in the microwave to enjoy the Nutella swirls gooey and warm.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Category: Baking
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American