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: 2 cups all-purpose flour; 1/2 cup cocoa powder; 1 teaspoon baking soda; 1/2 teaspoon salt; 1/2 cup unsalted butter, melted; 1 cup brown sugar; 2 large eggs; 2 ripe bananas, mashed; 1 teaspoon vanilla extract; 1 cup walnuts, chopped; 1/2 cup chocolate chips

Highlighted under: Baking & Desserts

I absolutely adore making Chocolate Banana Walnut Muffins! With the rich flavor of chocolate perfectly complemented by the sweetness of ripe bananas and the crunch of walnuts, they are truly irresistible. The smell of these muffins baking fills the kitchen with warmth and invites everyone to gather around. Whether for breakfast or an afternoon treat, these muffins are quick to whip up and always disappear fast. Trust me, once you try this recipe, you’ll be hooked on making them again and again!

Created by

Arielle Baxter

Last updated on 2026-01-14T01:55:11.974Z

When I first attempted to blend the familiar flavors of banana and chocolate, I was amazed at the result! The combination creates a moist muffin that feels indulgent yet comforting. I experimented with different ratios of banana to chocolate, and I found that the ripeness of the bananas plays a crucial role in achieving the perfect sweetness.

One small tip I learned along the way: if you want an extra burst of flavor, try adding a sprinkle of cinnamon to the batter. It complements the chocolate beautifully and adds an aromatic touch that makes these muffins even more delightful!

        Why You'll Love These Muffins
        Rich chocolate flavor combined with natural sweetness from bananas
Crunchy walnuts add a delightful texture
Quick and easy recipe perfect for busy mornings

      

Understanding the Ingredients

The star ingredients in Chocolate Banana Walnut Muffins are ripe bananas, which not only add sweetness but also moisture, helping to create a tender crumb. The amount of banana used is crucial; two medium-sized bananas typically yield about one cup when mashed. To ensure optimal ripeness, look for bananas that have a speckled brown skin, as these will provide the best flavor and natural sugars.

Moreover, using high-quality cocoa powder enhances the chocolate flavor significantly. I recommend Dutch-processed cocoa for a richer taste or natural cocoa for a more bitter contrast. Both types work, but the choice can subtly influence the overall flavor profile, so feel free to experiment with your preferred option for best results.

Techniques for Muffin Perfection

Avoid overmixing the batter as it leads to denser muffins; mix until just combined. When folding in the walnuts and chocolate chips, use a spatula and gentle motions. This method preserves the airiness of the batter, resulting in light muffins with a nice rise. To check for doneness, insert a toothpick into the center of a muffin – it should come out clean or with a few moist crumbs.

Using room temperature ingredients, especially eggs and butter, can help create a more uniform batter. If you accidentally melted your butter, let it cool slightly before mixing with sugar to prevent cooking the eggs. Additionally, ensure your baking soda is fresh for optimal leavening, as expired baking soda can lead to flat muffins.

Ingredients

Gather the ingredients below to make these delicious muffins!

Dry Ingredients

2 cups all-purpose flour
1/2 cup cocoa powder
1 teaspoon baking soda
1/2 teaspoon salt

Wet Ingredients

1/2 cup unsalted butter, melted
1 cup brown sugar
2 large eggs
2 ripe bananas, mashed
1 teaspoon vanilla extract

Add-ins

1 cup walnuts, chopped
1/2 cup chocolate chips

Make sure to have everything ready before you start mixing!

Instructions

Follow these easy steps to create your muffins!

Preheat the Oven

Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and line a muffin tin with paper liners.

Mix Dry Ingredients

In a bowl, whisk together the flour, cocoa powder, baking soda, and salt until well combined.

Combine Wet Ingredients

In another bowl, mix the melted butter and brown sugar. Add the eggs, mashed bananas, and vanilla extract, stirring until smooth.

Combine and Fold

Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet mixture, stirring gently until just combined. Fold in the walnuts and chocolate chips.

Bake

Spoon the batter into the prepared muffin tin, filling each liner about 2/3 full. Bake for 18-20 minutes, or until a toothpick comes out clean.

Cool and Enjoy

Let the muffins cool in the tin for 5 minutes, then transfer them to a wire rack to cool completely. Enjoy fresh or store in an airtight container!

These muffins are best enjoyed warm and chocolatey!

Pro Tips

For extra moisture, use very ripe bananas, and if you don’t have walnuts, feel free to substitute with pecans or omit them entirely.

Storage Tips

Once cooled, store the muffins in an airtight container at room temperature for up to three days. If you want to extend their life, consider freezing them. Individually wrap each muffin in plastic wrap, then place them in a resealable freezer bag. Frozen muffins can last for up to three months. To enjoy, simply thaw at room temperature or heat briefly in the microwave for a fresh-from-the-oven taste.

If you notice your muffins becoming too dry, adding a slice of bread to the container can help maintain moisture. The bread absorbs excess air and helps keep the muffins soft and delicious for a longer period.

Flavor Variations

For a twist on the classic recipe, try adding spices like cinnamon or nutmeg to the dry ingredients for a warmer flavor profile. About 1 teaspoon of cinnamon can enhance the chocolate and banana flavors beautifully. You could also substitute half of the walnuts with pecans or almonds for varied texture.

If you’re looking to reduce sugar, consider using 3/4 cup of brown sugar and supplementing it with unsweetened applesauce. This will maintain moistness while lowering sugar content, perfect for a healthier muffin without sacrificing taste.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use whole wheat flour?

Yes, you can substitute half or all of the all-purpose flour with whole wheat flour for a healthier option.

→ How long do these muffins last?

Store them in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days, or freeze for longer storage.

→ Can I make these muffins without eggs?

Yes! You can use a flax egg (1 tablespoon ground flaxseed mixed with 2.5 tablespoons of water) as a substitute.

→ What can I add to customize these muffins?

Feel free to add dried fruits, seeds, or even a few dollops of peanut butter for added flavor and texture.