These muffins are the perfect solution for overripe bananas and a craving for something both wholesome and indulgent. They combine the comforting flavor of banana bread with the rich, creamy taste of peanut butter, creating a muffin that’s incredibly moist, protein-packed, and satisfying.
The addition of chocolate chips makes them feel like a treat, while ingredients like Greek yogurt and oats keep them hearty enough for breakfast or a post-workout snack.
The Science of Moistness & Protein-Packed Structure
The exceptional moisture and tender crumb of these muffins come from two main sources: bananas and Greek yogurt. Overripe bananas are high in fructose and moisture, which they release during baking, while their natural pectin helps create a soft structure.
The acidity in the yogurt tenderizes the gluten and reacts with the baking soda for a good rise. Peanut butter adds fat and protein, which contributes to a rich mouthfeel and a more stable, less crumbly texture. Using oats (either blended into flour or whole) adds soluble fiber, which binds water and further ensures the muffins stay moist for days.
The muffins are sweetened primarily with the bananas and a moderate amount of maple syrup or honey, allowing the natural flavors to shine.
Ingredients
For the Muffins:
- 1 ½ cups (about 3 medium) very ripe bananas, mashed
- ⅓ cup (80ml) pure maple syrup or honey
- ½ cup (125g) creamy natural peanut butter*
- 2 large eggs, room temperature
- ⅓ cup (80g) plain Greek yogurt
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1 ½ cups (180g) white whole wheat flour or all-purpose flour
- ½ cup (45g) old-fashioned rolled oats
- 1 teaspoon baking soda
- 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
- ¼ teaspoon salt
- ¾ cup (130g) chocolate chips (dark or semi-sweet)
Note: Use a natural peanut butter where the ingredients are just peanuts (and salt). Avoid stabilized brands with added oils or sugar for best texture.
Instructions
1. Combine Wet Ingredients: Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C). Line a 12-cup muffin tin with liners or grease well. In a large bowl, whisk together the mashed bananas, maple syrup, peanut butter, eggs, Greek yogurt, and vanilla extract until smooth and well combined.
2. Mix Dry Ingredients: In a separate medium bowl, whisk together the flour, oats, baking soda, cinnamon, and salt.
3. Combine & Add Mix-Ins: Add the dry ingredients to the wet ingredients. Stir with a spatula until just combined and no dry flour remains; do not overmix. Gently fold in the chocolate chips.
4. Fill & Bake: Divide the batter evenly among the 12 muffin cups, filling each nearly to the top. For an extra touch, sprinkle a few extra oats and chocolate chips on top of each muffin. Bake for 18-22 minutes, or until the tops are golden brown and a toothpick inserted into the center of a muffin comes out clean or with just a few moist crumbs.
5. Cool & Serve: Let the muffins cool in the pan for 5 minutes, then transfer them to a wire rack to cool completely. They are delicious warm, but the flavor settles and the texture improves once fully cooled.
6. Store: Store cooled muffins in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days, or in the refrigerator for up to 1 week. They also freeze beautifully for up to 3 months.
Pro-Tips for Perfect, Moist Muffins
- Use Very Ripe Bananas: The blacker the better! They are sweeter, mash easier, and provide the most moisture and flavor.
- Don’t Overmix: Overmixing the batter after adding the flour develops gluten, leading to tough, dense muffins. Stir until just combined.
- Fill Muffin Cups Generously: For a beautiful domed top, fill the liners almost to the top. The batter is thick enough to support itself.
- Check for Doneness Early: Ovens vary. Start checking at 18 minutes. Overbaking is the main cause of dry muffins.
- Cool Completely: It’s tempting to eat them warm, but the crumb structure sets as they cool, making them less likely to fall apart.
- Freeze for Later: These are perfect for meal prep. Freeze in a single layer, then transfer to a bag. Thaw at room temperature or microwave for a quick warm treat.
These Peanut Butter Banana Muffins are a nourishing, delicious staple you’ll make again and again.