Healthy Banana Oat Muffins

Name: Healthy Banana Oat Muffins
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 20 min
Total time: 35 min
Yield: 12 muffins
Ingredients: 1 cup rolled oats; 1 cup whole wheat flour; 1 teaspoon baking powder; 1/2 teaspoon baking soda; 1/4 teaspoon salt; 1 teaspoon cinnamon; 3 ripe bananas, mashed; 1/4 cup honey or maple syrup; 1/4 cup unsweetened applesauce; 1/2 cup milk (dairy or non-dairy); 1 teaspoon vanilla extract

Highlighted under: Clean Healthy Food Favorites

I love making these Healthy Banana Oat Muffins because they are a delicious and nutritious snack for any time of day. Packed with wholesome ingredients like oats and ripe bananas, they are not only easy to prepare but also incredibly moist. I often enjoy them as a quick breakfast on busy mornings or a sweet treat that doesn't make me feel guilty. Plus, they’re a great way to use up overripe bananas, reducing waste while satisfying my cravings.

Created by

Ottoline Reeves

Last updated on 2026-01-24T09:13:35.203Z

When I first experimented with these Healthy Banana Oat Muffins, I was on a mission to create a guilt-free snack that was both tasty and filling. After several attempts, I discovered that using oats not only added fiber but also made the muffins more substantial. The bananas add natural sweetness, which means I can reduce the sugar without sacrificing flavor.

Another key tip I've learned is to let the batter sit for a few minutes before baking. This allows the oats to soak up some liquid, resulting in muffins that are moist and have a lovely texture. Trust me; your taste buds will thank you for making this healthy twist on a classic treat!

Why You Will Love These Muffins
Wholesome ingredients that nourish the body
Natural sweetness from ripe bananas
Delightfully moist and satisfying texture

Understanding the Ingredients

The foundation of these Healthy Banana Oat Muffins lies in the ingredients you choose. The rolled oats provide not only texture but also a good source of fiber, which helps keep you feeling full longer. Whole wheat flour enhances the nutritional profile, adding essential vitamins and minerals that are often stripped from refined flours. These ingredients interact to create a heartier muffin, making them a satisfying option for breakfast or a snack.

Ripe bananas are the star ingredient, contributing natural sweetness and moisture to the muffins. They also replace the need for excessive sugar or fat, making this recipe healthier without sacrificing flavor. Using ripe bananas ensures that you achieve that desired sweetness; the darker the bananas, the better the flavor! If you find yourself with bananas that are slightly past their prime, they are perfect for this recipe.

Baking Techniques for Success

When combining the wet and dry ingredients, it's crucial to mix them gently. Overmixing can lead to dense and tough muffins, rather than the light and fluffy texture you want. Stir them until just combined; a few lumps are perfectly acceptable. This technique of minimal mixing ensures the muffins rise beautifully and maintain a tender crumb, ideal for a wholesome treat.

When filling your muffin tins, be consistent in the amount of batter you scoop. A standard ice cream scoop works wonders for evenly distributing the batter and promoting uniform baking. Fill each cup about two-thirds full, which allows for adequate rising. If you overfill, you might end up with overflowed edges that can create a mess in your oven.

Ingredients

Dry Ingredients

1 cup rolled oats
1 cup whole wheat flour
1 teaspoon baking powder
1/2 teaspoon baking soda
1/4 teaspoon salt
1 teaspoon cinnamon

Wet Ingredients

3 ripe bananas, mashed
1/4 cup honey or maple syrup
1/4 cup unsweetened applesauce
1/2 cup milk (dairy or non-dairy)
1 teaspoon vanilla extract

Instructions

Preheat the Oven

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

Mix Dry Ingredients

In a large bowl, combine rolled oats, whole wheat flour, baking powder, baking soda, salt, and cinnamon. Stir until well combined.

Prepare Wet Ingredients

In another bowl, mix the mashed bananas, honey (or maple syrup), applesauce, milk, and vanilla extract until smooth.

Combine Mixtures

Pour the wet ingredients into the dry ingredients and stir until just combined. Do not overmix.

Fill Muffin Tin

Scoop the batter into the prepared muffin tin, filling each cup about 2/3 full.

Bake

Bake in the preheated oven for 18-20 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.

Cool and Serve

Allow the muffins to cool in the pan for a few minutes before transferring them to a wire rack to cool completely.

Pro Tips

For added texture, you can mix in some walnuts or chocolate chips before baking. Additionally, if you prefer a sweeter muffin, feel free to increase the amount of honey or add a sprinkle of brown sugar on top before baking.

Storage and Make-Ahead Tips

These muffins are an excellent make-ahead option, perfect for busy weeks. Once baked, they can be stored in an airtight container at room temperature for about two days. For longer storage, consider freezing them. Just make sure they are completely cooled before placing them in a freezer-safe bag. They can be kept in the freezer for up to three months, allowing you to enjoy a healthy snack whenever you need one.

To reheat frozen muffins, simply microwave one for about 30 seconds or until warmed through, or pop them in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for around 10-15 minutes. This makes breakfast or snacks as easy as grabbing a muffin from the freezer, ensuring you always have a nutritious option on hand.

Variations and Customization

Feel free to customize these muffins with your favorite add-ins. For a delightful twist, consider adding nuts like walnuts or pecans for added crunch, or chocolate chips for a touch of indulgence. Dried fruits such as raisins or cranberries can also enhance the flavor profile while providing additional nutrients. Experimenting with different toppings or mix-ins can tailor the muffins to your personal taste, making them even more enjoyable.

If you want to make these muffins vegan, substitute the honey with maple syrup, and opt for a dairy-free milk alternative. The applesauce not only adds moisture but can help create a binding effect in the absence of eggs, which is perfect for vegan baking. This versatility makes the recipe accessible for a variety of dietary preferences while maintaining all the deliciousness.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I make these muffins gluten-free?

Yes, simply substitute the whole wheat flour with a gluten-free flour blend.

→ How should I store the muffins?

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

→ Can I freeze these muffins?

Absolutely! They freeze very well. Just make sure to wrap them tightly and they can last in the freezer for up to 3 months.

→ What can I use instead of honey?

You can use maple syrup or agave syrup as a substitute if you want a vegan option.