Name: Banana Walnut Muffins with Streusel Topping for Cozy Mornings
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 20 min
Total time: 50 min
Ingredients: 2 cups all-purpose flour (Whole wheat flour can be used.); 1 tablespoon baking powder (Opt for aluminum-free.); 0.5 teaspoon salt; 3 large mashed overripe bananas (Use black bananas for the best flavor.); 0.75 cups sugar (Can reduce or substitute with honey.); 0.33 cups vegetable oil (Can be swapped for melted butter or coconut oil.); 2 large eggs (Use flax eggs for vegan.); 1 teaspoon cinnamon (Optional, enhances flavor.); 1 teaspoon vanilla extract (No substitutes preferred.); 0.5 cups chopped walnuts (Can replace with almonds or omit.); 0.5 cups ripe banana chunks; 0.5 cups all-purpose flour (No substitutions.); 0.5 cups dark brown sugar (Light brown sugar works too.); 0.25 cups chopped walnuts (Can omit.); 0.5 teaspoon cinnamon (Try nutmeg for a unique twist.); 0.25 cups cold unsalted butter (Vegan butter is an alternative.)

Jump to Recipe Print Recipe

As I stood in my kitchen, the sweet scent of ripe bananas filled the air, instantly transporting me back to lazy Sunday mornings growing up. Today, I’m excited to share my recipe for Banana Walnut Muffins with Streusel Topping. These muffins strike the perfect balance between tender, moist goodness and a delightful crunch that makes them the ideal breakfast treat or snack. Not only are they quick and easy to whip up, but they also give a delicious twist to using overripe bananas that might otherwise go to waste. Each bite offers a warm comfort, as the toasted walnuts and cinnamon streusel create a texture that complements the soft muffin beautifully. Curious to learn how to bring this cozy recipe to life in your own kitchen? Let’s dive in!

Why Are These Muffins a Must-Try?

Simplicity Done Right: This recipe is so easy! With just a handful of ingredients and simple steps, you’ll have freshly baked muffins ready in no time.

Mouthwatering Texture: Moist and soft on the inside, our muffins are complemented by a crunchy streusel topping that provides the perfect contrast to that tender, fluffy base.

Use Up Ripe Bananas: No wasting food here! These muffins transform overripe bananas into a sweet treat, ensuring nothing goes to waste while delivering incredible flavor.

Perfect for Any Occasion: Whether it’s a cozy breakfast at home or a treat to share at brunch, these muffins are a hit with everyone. They also pair perfectly with a cup of coffee or tea for that extra touch.

Customizable Goodness: Feel free to get creative! Add in chocolate chips or swap walnuts for pecans for a delightful twist. You could also check out our Garlic Chicken Thighs for a comforting dinner option that complements these muffins nicely.

Quick Baking Time: In just about 20 minutes, you’ll be delighting in the warm aroma of freshly baked muffins wafting through your kitchen. What’s not to love?

Banana Walnut Muffin Ingredients

• Get everything you need for these delightful muffins!

For the Muffins

All-Purpose Flour – Provides structure; whole wheat flour can make them healthier.
Baking Powder – Acts as a leavening agent for a fluffy rise; opt for aluminum-free for better taste.
Salt – Enhances flavor; no substitutes needed.
Mashed Overripe Bananas – Adds moisture and natural sweetness; choose overripe black bananas for the best flavor.
Sugar – This sweetener brings moisture and sweetness; feel free to reduce the amount or substitute with honey.
Vegetable Oil – Contributes to a tender crumb; can be swapped for melted butter or coconut oil.
Large Eggs – Adds richness and binds the ingredients; use flax eggs for a vegan alternative.
Cinnamon – Infuses warmth and spice; it’s optional but definitely enhances flavor.
Vanilla Extract – Provides depth; no substitutes preferred.
Chopped Walnuts – Adds a delightful nutty texture; replace with almonds for a different flavor or leave out for nut-free muffins.
Ripe Banana Chunks – Pack in more banana goodness; any ripe banana will do.

For the Streusel Topping

All-Purpose Flour – Creates structure in the topping; no substitutions here.
Dark Brown Sugar – Adds sweetness and moisture; light brown sugar works too.
Chopped Walnuts – Brings extra crunch and flavor; you can omit if desired.
Cinnamon – Enhances the flavor; try nutmeg for a unique twist.
Cold Unsalted Butter – Binds the streusel; vegan butter is a great alternative.

With these ingredients gathered, you’re just moments away from creating the delightful Banana Walnut Muffins with Streusel Topping that will warm your heart and satisfy your cravings!

Step‑by‑Step Instructions for Banana Walnut Muffins with Streusel Topping

Step 1: Preheat the Oven
Begin by preheating your oven to 425°F (218°C). While the oven heats, prepare two muffin tins by lining them with paper liners. This step ensures that your Banana Walnut Muffins with Streusel Topping will bake evenly and release easily once ready.

Step 2: Mix Dry Ingredients
In a medium bowl, whisk together 2 cups of all-purpose flour, 1 tablespoon of baking powder, and ½ teaspoon of salt until well combined. This mixture creates the structural base of your muffins, providing lightness and lift. Set the bowl aside as you prepare the wet ingredients.

Step 3: Combine Wet Ingredients
In a large mixing bowl, mash around 3 ripe bananas until smooth. Then, mix in ¾ cup of sugar and ⅓ cup of vegetable oil until combined. Add 2 large eggs, 1 teaspoon of cinnamon, and 1 teaspoon of vanilla extract, stirring gently until the mixture is well-blended and luscious, creating a sweet banana base.

Step 4: Incorporate the Dry Mix
Gradually add the dry flour mixture to the wet ingredients, gently whisking until just combined. Take care not to overmix, as this keeps your muffins tender. Finally, fold in ½ cup of chopped walnuts and ½ cup of banana chunks for added texture and flavor.

Step 5: Prepare the Streusel Topping
In a small bowl, combine ½ cup of all-purpose flour, ½ cup of dark brown sugar, ¼ cup of chopped walnuts, and ½ teaspoon of cinnamon. Cut in ¼ cup of cold unsalted butter using your fingers or a fork until the mixture is crumbly, resembling coarse sand. This tasty topping will add a delightful crunch to your muffins.

Step 6: Fill the Muffin Tins
Spoon the banana muffin batter evenly into the prepared muffin liners, filling each about ¾ full. After that, generously sprinkle the prepared streusel topping over each muffin. This will create a beautiful, crunchy layer on top as they bake to golden perfection.

Step 7: Bake the Muffins
Place the muffin tins in the preheated oven and bake for 5 minutes at 425°F. Then, without opening the oven door, reduce the temperature to 350°F (177°C) and continue baking for an additional 11–13 minutes. The muffins are done when a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean and they are golden brown on top.

Step 8: Cool and Transfer
Once baked, remove the muffin tins from the oven and allow them to cool in the pans for 15 minutes. After cooling, carefully transfer the Banana Walnut Muffins with Streusel Topping to a wire rack to cool completely. This step is crucial for achieving the perfect texture and flavor.

What to Serve with Banana Walnut Muffins with Streusel Topping

Elevate your breakfast or snack time experience with delightful pairings that complement the warm, inviting flavors of these muffins.

Creamy Butter: A simple spreadable butter enhances the moist muffins’ texture and brings a comforting richness to each bite.
Coffee: The hearty, nutty notes of freshly brewed coffee harmonize beautifully with the muffins, making every morning feel cozy.
Fresh Fruit Salad: Bright, juicy pieces of fruit add a refreshing contrast, balancing the sweetness of the muffins with a burst of natural flavor.
Yogurt Parfait: Layer creamy yogurt, granola, and berries together for a delightful mix of textures that pairs perfectly with your muffins.
Maple Syrup Drizzle: A touch of warm maple syrup adds an extra layer of sweetness, creating an indulgent treat perfect for breakfast.
Whipped Cream: Light and airy whipped cream can elevate your muffins to a dessert-like status—try it for a special brunch treat!
Herbal Tea: The calming notes of herby teas offer a delightful contrast to the muffins, perfect for a serene afternoon snack.
Chocolate Chip Pancakes: Go the extra mile and make chocolate chip pancakes to create a comforting breakfast feast that everyone will love.

Each pairing creates a delicious opportunity to savor your Banana Walnut Muffins with Streusel Topping even more!

How to Store and Freeze Banana Walnut Muffins

Fridge: Store muffins in an airtight container for up to 3 days. This helps maintain their moisture, so you can enjoy them at peak freshness.

Freezer: For longer storage, freeze your Banana Walnut Muffins for up to 2 months. Wrap each muffin individually in plastic wrap and place them in a freezer bag to prevent freezer burn.

Reheating: To enjoy frozen muffins, simply thaw overnight in the fridge. Reheat in the microwave for about 15-20 seconds or in the oven at 350°F (177°C) for 5-10 minutes until warmed through.

Room Temperature: If consumed within a day, you can keep muffins at room temperature in a cool, dry place. Just make sure they are covered to prevent drying out!

Banana Walnut Muffins with Streusel Topping Variations

Feel free to unleash your creativity by customizing these delightful muffins with your favorite ingredients or dietary needs!

Nut-Free: Omit the walnuts entirely or replace them with sunflower seeds for a nut-free twist that still brings texture.
Whole Wheat: Swap all-purpose flour for whole wheat flour for a healthier version that adds a nutty flavor and extra fiber.
Dairy-Free: Use coconut oil and a dairy-free yogurt instead of butter for a deliciously moist muffin that suits dairy-free diets. Imagine the fragrant aroma of coconut wafting through your kitchen!
Fruity Twist: Add 1 cup of fresh blueberries or chopped strawberries for a fruity explosion that brightens each bite and adds vitamin goodness.
Chocolate Lover’s Delight: Toss in ½ cup of semi-sweet chocolate chips alongside the walnuts for a rich, chocolatey kick. It’s a match made in muffin heaven!
Spicy Heat: Sprinkle in a dash of cayenne pepper or add finely chopped jalapeños to bring a surprising warmth that perfectly contrasts the sweetness.
Simpler Topping: If you’re short on time, skip the streusel and top with a sprinkle of coarse sugar for a sweet crunch that’s so easy yet delicious.
Vegan Version: Substitute eggs with flax eggs and use almond milk instead of regular milk to make these muffins completely vegan while keeping them sumptuous and soft.

Looking for more delightful recipes? Try making Grilled Beef Cream or explore the comforting tastes of Shrimp Bowl Corn that would pair beautifully with these muffins!

Make Ahead Options

These Banana Walnut Muffins with Streusel Topping are perfect for meal prep enthusiasts! You can prepare the batter up to 24 hours in advance by combining the wet ingredients and dry ingredients separately, ensuring you store them in airtight containers in the refrigerator to maintain freshness. The streusel topping can also be mixed and refrigerated until you’re ready to bake, ensuring a perfect crunchy texture. When ready to bake, simply combine the wet and dry ingredients, fill the muffin liners, sprinkle the streusel on top, and pop them in the oven. You’ll enjoy warm, freshly baked muffins with minimal effort and just as delicious results!

Tips for the Best Banana Walnut Muffins

Choose Ripe Bananas: The sweetest and most flavorful muffins come from using overripe black bananas. Don’t throw away those spotted ones—they’re gold in muffin form!
Avoid Overmixing: Be gentle when combining wet and dry ingredients. Overmixing can lead to dense muffins rather than light and fluffy Banana Walnut Muffins.
Perfect Streusel Texture: For that ideal crumbly topping, mix the streusel just until it resembles coarse sand. If it’s too wet, it won’t crunch up nicely.
Adjust Baking Times: Ovens can vary. Start checking your muffins a couple of minutes before the suggested baking time to avoid overbaking.
Experiment with Mix-ins: Feel free to switch up those walnuts for dried fruit or chocolate chips. Customizing adds a fun twist while keeping the essence of your muffins intact!
Proper Cooling: Let the muffins cool in the tins for at least 15 minutes before moving them. This prevents them from becoming soggy and helps maintain their delightful texture.

Banana Walnut Muffins with Streusel Topping Recipe FAQs

How do I know if my bananas are ripe enough?
Absolutely! You want to use overripe black bananas, which should have a dark skin and may even exhibit some spots. They offer the sweetest flavor and best moisture for your Banana Walnut Muffins. If they have dark spots all over, they’re perfect!

How should I store my Banana Walnut Muffins?
To keep your muffins fresh and moist, store them in an airtight container for up to 3 days at room temperature. If you prefer to enjoy them later, freezing is a great option! Just wrap each muffin individually in plastic wrap and place them in a freezer bag for up to 2 months.

Can I freeze Banana Walnut Muffins?
Yes, indeed! To freeze your muffins, wrap each one in plastic wrap and then store them in a freezer-safe bag. They’ll stay delicious for up to 2 months. When you’re ready to enjoy one, thaw it in the refrigerator overnight or pop it in the microwave for about 15-20 seconds to warm it up.

What if my muffins are too dense or dry?
Very! If your muffins turn out dense, it may be due to overmixing the batter. Gently fold the dry ingredients into the wet mixture just until combined. For dry muffins, try adding a tablespoon of milk or yogurt to the batter next time to ensure they stay moist.

Are there any dietary modifications I should consider for my Banana Walnut Muffins?
Certainly! If you have gluten sensitivities, you can substitute all-purpose flour with a gluten-free blend. For a vegan option, replace the eggs with flax eggs (1 tablespoon of ground flax mixed with 2.5 tablespoons of water per egg) and use vegan butter for the streusel. Always check ingredients for any allergies related to nuts if serving to guests or family.

Can I use other mix-ins in this recipe?
Absolutely! The more the merrier! You can substitute the walnuts with chopped pecans or even chocolate chips for a sweeter touch. Berries like blueberries also make a fantastic pairing with the bananas, offering a delightful burst of flavor in each muffin!