Small Batch Banana Muffins (One Bowl, No Mixer)
These Small Batch Banana Muffins are quick, easy, and perfect for using one ripe banana, producing tender, bakery-style muffins without a lot of cleanup.
Servings: 6 muffins
Calories: 120kcal
Ingredients
Muffin Batter
- 1 large very ripe banana, mashed well (about 1/2 to 3/4 cup) Use a ripe banana for the best flavor.
- 1 large egg, at room temperature if possible
- 1/4 cup granulated sugar
- 2 tablespoons brown sugar Adds moisture and flavor.
- 1/4 cup neutral oil or 3 tablespoons melted butter, slightly cooled Use oil for a lighter texture.
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 3/4 cup plus 2 tablespoons all-purpose flour Add more if the batter is too wet.
- 1 teaspoon baking powder
- 1/4 teaspoon baking soda
- 1/4 teaspoon fine salt
- 1/2 teaspoon ground cinnamon (optional but lovely)
- 2 to 3 tablespoons milk, only if the batter seems too thick Add milk gradually until scoopable.
- 1/3 cup chocolate chips or chopped nuts (optional) Customize with your favorite mix-ins.
Instructions
Preparation
- Preheat your oven to 375°F. Line 6 cups of a muffin tin with paper liners or grease them lightly.
- In a medium bowl, mash the banana until mostly smooth. A few small lumps are fine.
- Whisk in the egg, granulated sugar, brown sugar, oil or melted butter, and vanilla until the mixture looks cohesive and glossy.
- Sprinkle the flour, baking powder, baking soda, salt, and cinnamon over the wet mixture. Stir gently with a spatula just until the flour disappears. If the batter looks very thick, add milk a tablespoon at a time until it looks scoopable but still thick.
- Fold in chocolate chips or nuts if using. Do not overmix. A few streaks are better than tough muffins.
- Divide the batter among the 6 muffin cups, filling them almost to the top for nice domes.
Baking
- Bake for 15 to 18 minutes, or until the tops are lightly golden and a toothpick comes out with a few moist crumbs attached.
- Cool in the pan for 5 minutes, then move to a rack. Enjoy warm if you can.
Notes
Use ripe bananas for the best flavor. Avoid overmixing; stir just until the dry ingredients disappear. Sprinkle coarse sugar on top for added crunch if desired.