If you’re on the hunt for a cozy, nostalgic treat that perfectly balances sweet, spicy, and fruity flavors, look no further than The Best Cinnamon Sugar Banana Bread Muffins Recipe. These muffins are a delightful twist on classic banana bread, with a crunchy cinnamon sugar coating that adds just the right amount of sweetness and texture. Whether you’re baking for breakfast, a snack, or a casual get-together, these muffins bring comfort and joy in every bite, making them an instant favorite for anyone lucky enough to try them.
Ingredients You’ll Need
Getting these muffins just right is all about quality ingredients that come together seamlessly. Each one plays a vital role—from the natural sweetness and moisture of overripe bananas to the warm aroma of cinnamon that elevates the flavor.
- 2 overripe bananas, mashed: For a natural sweetness and moist texture that forms the muffin’s tender base.
- 2/3 cup granulated sugar: Adds balanced sweetness throughout the muffin batter.
- 1 teaspoon cinnamon: Infuses warm spice flavor into the batter.
- 1/2 teaspoon salt: Enhances flavor and balances the sweetness.
- 1 egg: Binds ingredients and contributes to the structure of the muffins.
- 1/3 cup vegetable oil: Keeps the muffins moist and tender without overpowering other flavors.
- 1/2 cup milk: Adds moisture and helps produce a soft crumb.
- 2 teaspoons vanilla extract: Brings out the sweetness and complements the banana perfectly.
- 1 1/2 cups all-purpose flour: Forms the base of the muffin’s structure.
- 2 teaspoons baking powder: Helps the muffins rise for a light, fluffy texture.
- 1/4 cup granulated sugar (for topping): Part of the irresistible cinnamon sugar coating.
- 1 teaspoon cinnamon (for topping): Creates that iconic cinnamon sugar crunch on top.
- 3 tablespoons unsalted butter, melted: Used to help the cinnamon sugar stick and add richness to the muffin tops.
How to Make The Best Cinnamon Sugar Banana Bread Muffins Recipe
Step 1: Preheat and Prepare
Start by heating your oven to 400°F and lining a muffin pan with liners. This sets the stage for your muffins to bake evenly and effortlessly slide out once done.
Step 2: Combine Wet Ingredients
In a large bowl, mix mashed bananas, sugar, cinnamon, and salt. Then beat in the egg and oil until everything is well blended. Stir in the milk and vanilla extract to create a smooth, fragrant mixture packed with flavor.
Step 3: Add Dry Ingredients
Next, gently fold in the flour and baking powder. Be careful not to overmix; just stir until combined to keep your muffins tender and light instead of dense.
Step 4: Fill Muffin Cups
Evenly scoop the batter into your prepared muffin cups—this ensures consistent baking and a perfect shape for each muffin.
Step 5: Bake to Perfection
Bake for 18 to 22 minutes until the muffins turn a gorgeous golden brown. A clean toothpick or one with a few dry crumbs confirms they are perfectly cooked through.
Step 6: Prepare Cinnamon Sugar Coating
While the muffins bake, mix the cinnamon and sugar together in a small bowl. Have the melted butter ready in a separate bowl; this will help the topping stick and add delicious richness.
Step 7: Add the Magical Finish
Once muffins are out of the oven, let them cool in the pan for 5 minutes. While still warm, dip the tops into the melted butter, then roll them in the cinnamon sugar mixture. This step transforms ordinary banana muffins into unforgettable bites of sweetness and spice.
Step 8: Serve
Enjoy your muffins warm or cooled completely—they taste amazing either way and are sure to delight everyone who tries them.
How to Serve The Best Cinnamon Sugar Banana Bread Muffins Recipe
Garnishes
A light dusting of powdered sugar or a drizzle of honey can make your muffins look bakery-fresh and add a subtle extra hint of sweetness that complements the cinnamon sugar crust beautifully.
Side Dishes
These muffins pair perfectly with a hot cup of coffee or chai tea for breakfast or a cozy snack. For brunch, serve them alongside scrambled eggs or a fresh fruit salad to balance savory and sweet flavors.
Creative Ways to Present
Try slicing the muffins in half and spreading with cream cheese or peanut butter for an irresistible twist. You could also serve them as a mini dessert with a scoop of vanilla ice cream and fresh berries for a simple yet satisfying treat.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Store any leftover muffins in an airtight container at room temperature for up to three days. They stay moist and flavorful, ready to be enjoyed whenever the craving hits.
Freezing
Freeze muffins individually wrapped in plastic wrap and placed in a freezer bag for up to three months. This way, you can enjoy The Best Cinnamon Sugar Banana Bread Muffins Recipe anytime without sacrificing freshness.
Reheating
Rewarm frozen or refrigerated muffins in the oven at 350°F for 10 minutes or in the microwave for about 20 seconds. This revives their soft texture and brings back the delicious aroma that will invite everyone to the kitchen.
FAQs
Can I use other types of bananas for this recipe?
Overripe bananas are best because they’re sweeter and softer, which makes the muffins moist and flavorful. Green or just-ripe bananas won’t give the same depth of sweetness and texture.
Is it okay to substitute vegetable oil with butter?
Yes! Melted butter can be used instead of vegetable oil for a richer flavor, but it may slightly change the texture, making the muffins a bit denser.
Can I make these muffins gluten-free?
Absolutely. Swap the all-purpose flour for a gluten-free baking blend. Just make sure the blend contains xanthan gum or another binder for the best muffins.
What’s the secret to that crunchy cinnamon sugar topping?
It’s all about dipping the warm muffins in melted butter first, which acts like glue for the cinnamon sugar mixture, creating that irresistible crisp coating.
Can I add nuts or chocolate chips?
Definitely! Fold in chopped walnuts, pecans, or chocolate chips before baking for extra texture and flavor. Just be sure not to overmix the batter afterward.
Final Thoughts
I can’t recommend enough that you try The Best Cinnamon Sugar Banana Bread Muffins Recipe soon. From the soft, banana-sweet crumb to the crispy cinnamon sugar tops, these muffins are hands down a joy to bake and eat. They’re a surefire way to brighten up any morning or snack time with warmth, comfort, and lots of smiles.
Print
The Best Cinnamon Sugar Banana Bread Muffins Recipe
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Total Time: 30 minutes
- Yield: 12 muffins
- Category: Breakfast, Snack, Dessert
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
- Diet: Vegetarian
Description
These Cinnamon Sugar Banana Bread Muffins are a delightful treat combining the natural sweetness of ripe bananas with a warm cinnamon sugar topping. Moist and fluffy on the inside with a crispy, sweet cinnamon crust on top, these muffins are perfect for breakfast, snack time, or dessert.
Ingredients
Banana Muffin Batter
- 2 overripe bananas, mashed
- 2/3 cup granulated sugar
- 1 teaspoon cinnamon
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1 egg
- 1/3 cup vegetable oil
- 1/2 cup milk
- 2 teaspoons vanilla extract
- 1 1/2 cups all-purpose flour
- 2 teaspoons baking powder
Cinnamon Sugar Topping
- 1/4 cup granulated sugar
- 1 teaspoon cinnamon
- 3 tablespoons unsalted butter, melted
Instructions
- Preheat Oven: Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C) to ensure it’s at the right temperature for baking the muffins.
- Prepare Muffin Pan: Line a muffin pan with muffin liners and set aside to make removal and cleanup easier.
- Mix Wet Ingredients and Initial Flavors: In a large bowl, combine mashed bananas, 2/3 cup granulated sugar, 1 teaspoon cinnamon, and salt. Beat in the egg and vegetable oil until fully incorporated.
- Add Milk and Vanilla: Stir in the milk and vanilla extract to the banana mixture, mixing gently.
- Combine Dry Ingredients: Add the all-purpose flour and baking powder to the wet mixture. Gently fold the batter together until just combined; avoid overmixing to keep the muffins tender.
- Fill Muffin Cups: Scoop the batter evenly into the prepared muffin cups, filling each about 2/3 full.
- Bake Muffins: Bake in the preheated oven for 18 to 22 minutes until golden brown and a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean or with a few crumbs.
- Prepare Cinnamon Sugar Topping: While muffins bake, mix the 1/4 cup granulated sugar and 1 teaspoon cinnamon together in a small bowl, and have the melted butter ready in a separate bowl.
- Cool Muffins: Once baked, allow the muffins to cool in the pan for 5 minutes.
- Coat Muffins: While still warm, dip the top of each muffin into the melted butter, then immediately dip into the cinnamon sugar mixture to coat the top well.
- Serve: Enjoy the muffins warm or allow them to cool completely before serving.
Notes
- Use overripe bananas for the best flavor and moisture.
- Do not overmix the batter to avoid dense muffins.
- The cinnamon sugar topping adds a sweet and crunchy contrast; feel free to adjust the sugar and cinnamon ratio to taste.
- These muffins can be stored in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days or refrigerated for up to a week.
- To reheat, warm in the oven for a few minutes or microwave briefly.
