Some of the best recipes come from moments of necessity—when you open your pantry, see a few ripe bananas that need to be used, and decide to get creative. That’s how these Banana Carrot Muffins became a staple in my kitchen.
Growing up, my mother believed that homemade treats were always better than store-bought snacks. Every Sunday, she would bake muffins filled with wholesome ingredients—carrots from the garden, bananas that had ripened on the counter, and just a touch of warm cinnamon to bring everything together. I would sit on the counter, watching her measure and mix, sneaking a taste of the batter when she wasn’t looking.
Now, I carry on that tradition with my own family. These muffins are my go-to for busy mornings, packed lunches, and mid-afternoon cravings. They are naturally sweet, incredibly moist, and filled with nutrient-dense ingredients that make them both delicious and healthy. Whether you’re making them for kids, meal-prepping for the week, or just treating yourself, these muffins are sure to become a household favorite.
Why These Muffins Are the Perfect Treat
1. The Best of Both Worlds – Sweet & Nutritious
Bananas bring natural sweetness, while carrots add moisture and a hint of earthiness. Together, they create a muffin that feels indulgent but is filled with vitamins, fiber, and antioxidants.
2. Soft, Moist, and Perfectly Spiced
Thanks to the combination of mashed bananas, yogurt, and a little oil, these muffins are ultra-moist without being greasy. The addition of cinnamon enhances the flavor and gives them a warm, comforting aroma.
3. No Refined White Sugar
Instead of refined white sugar, this recipe uses brown sugar, which not only provides sweetness but also adds a deep caramel-like flavor. If you prefer an even healthier version, you can swap it for coconut sugar or maple syrup.
4. A Versatile and Customizable Recipe
These muffins are incredibly adaptable—you can add nuts, swap the flour, or even make them dairy-free. Whether you love walnuts, pecans, or raisins, this recipe is a great base for any mix-ins you enjoy.
5. Perfect for Any Occasion
- A quick grab-and-go breakfast for busy mornings
- A healthy school snack for kids
- A post-workout snack packed with energy-boosting ingredients
- A light dessert that satisfies sweet cravings without guilt
Ingredients
| Ingredient | Amount |
|---|---|
| All-Purpose Flour | 1 ¼ cups (163 g) |
| Brown Sugar | ½ cup, lightly packed |
| Baking Powder | 1 tsp |
| Ground Cinnamon | 1 tsp |
| Baking Soda | ¾ tsp |
| Ripe Bananas | 2, mashed |
| Carrots | ¾ cup, finely grated |
| Eggs | 2 |
| Vegetable Oil | ¼ cup (60 ml) |
| Vanilla Extract | 1 tsp |
| Greek Yogurt | ¼ cup (60 g) |
| Salt | ¼ tsp |
| Walnuts (optional) | ½ cup, chopped |
Directions
- Preheat the Oven: Set your oven to 350°F (175°C) and line a muffin tin with paper liners or lightly grease it.
- Mix the Dry Ingredients: In a large bowl, whisk together the flour, brown sugar, baking powder, baking soda, cinnamon, and salt.
- Combine the Wet Ingredients: In another bowl, whisk the eggs, mashed bananas, oil, vanilla extract, and Greek yogurt until smooth.
- Incorporate the Carrots: Fold the grated carrots into the wet mixture.
- Make the Batter: Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet ingredients, stirring gently until just combined. If using walnuts, fold them in at this stage.
- Fill the Muffin Cups: Spoon the batter evenly into the prepared muffin tin, filling each cup about ¾ full.
- Bake: Place in the oven and bake for 18–22 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean.
- Cool & Serve: Let the muffins cool in the pan for 5 minutes, then transfer them to a wire rack. Enjoy warm or at room temperature!
Nutritional Information
| Nutrient | Amount per Muffin |
|---|---|
| Calories | 180 kcal |
| Carbohydrates | 28 g |
| Protein | 4 g |
| Fat | 6 g |
| Fiber | 2 g |
| Sugar | 10 g |
| Sodium | 150 mg |
Health Benefits of Banana Carrot Muffins
These muffins aren’t just delicious—they’re packed with nutrients that support a healthy lifestyle.
1. High in Fiber for Digestion
Both bananas and carrots are excellent sources of fiber, which helps keep digestion smooth and supports gut health. Fiber also helps you feel fuller for longer, making these muffins a satisfying snack.
