Nutella Banana Swirl Mini Muffins are a sweet, soft, and bakery-style treat made with ripe bananas and rich chocolate hazelnut swirls baked into perfectly portioned mini muffins. This easy recipe delivers wonderful flavor in every bite and is ideal for breakfast, snacks, brunch spreads, or lunchboxes, especially when you want something homemade that feels special without being complicated.
Table of Contents
Why You’ll Love These Nutella Banana Swirl Mini Muffins
These mini muffins are moist, tender, and packed with classic banana bread flavor, while the Nutella swirl adds a creamy chocolate twist that feels indulgent but not overwhelming. The mini size makes them quick to bake and easy to serve, and they’re perfect for sharing. They’re also a great way to use up overripe bananas and can be made ahead for busy mornings or grab-and-go snacks.
Ingredients for Nutella Banana Swirl Mini Muffins
Muffin Batter Ingredients
- 1½ cups all-purpose flour
- ½ teaspoon baking soda
- ½ teaspoon kosher salt
- ½ teaspoon ground cinnamon
- ½ cup unsalted butter, melted and slightly cooled
- ½ cup granulated sugar
- ¼ cup light brown sugar, packed
- 2 large ripe bananas, mashed (about ¾ cup)
- 1 large egg
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
Swirl Ingredient
- ½ cup Nutella, slightly warmed for easier swirling
Ingredient Notes and Substitutions
Very ripe bananas with brown spots provide the best flavor and moisture. If you prefer, melted coconut oil or vegetable oil can be used instead of butter. For nut-free households, substitute Nutella with a chocolate sunflower seed spread. Mini muffins bake quickly, so accuracy in measurements helps ensure the best texture.
Step-by-Step Instructions
Step 1 – Prepare the Oven and Pan
Preheat the oven to 350°F. Lightly grease a 24-cup mini muffin pan or line with mini paper liners and set aside.
Step 2 – Mix the Dry Ingredients
In a medium bowl, whisk together the flour, baking soda, salt, and cinnamon until evenly combined.
Step 3 – Mix the Wet Ingredients
In a large bowl, whisk together the melted butter, granulated sugar, and brown sugar until smooth. Add the mashed bananas, egg, and vanilla extract, and mix until fully combined.
Step 4 – Combine the Batter
Add the dry ingredients to the wet ingredients and gently fold together just until no dry streaks remain. Do not overmix, as this can make the muffins dense.
Step 5 – Fill and Swirl
Spoon the batter evenly into the prepared mini muffin cups, filling each about three-quarters full. Add about 1 teaspoon of Nutella to the top of each muffin. Use a toothpick or skewer to gently swirl the Nutella into the batter.
Step 6 – Bake
Bake for 10 to 13 minutes, or until the muffins are set and a toothpick inserted into the muffin portion comes out clean. Allow the muffins to cool in the pan for 5 minutes, then transfer to a wire rack to cool completely.
Pro Tips for Success
Warm the Nutella slightly to make swirling easier. Use a light hand when swirling to keep distinct ribbons of Nutella. Do not overbake, as mini muffins can dry out quickly. Measure flour accurately by spooning and leveling. Let muffins cool slightly before removing to prevent sticking.
Flavor Variations
Add mini chocolate chips to the batter for extra chocolate flavor. Sprinkle chopped hazelnuts on top for crunch if allergies are not a concern. Swap cinnamon for a pinch of espresso powder to enhance the chocolate notes. Add a tablespoon of peanut butter to the swirl for a fun twist.
Serving Suggestions
Serve these mini muffins warm or at room temperature for breakfast or snacks. They pair well with milk, coffee, or tea. For brunch, arrange them on a platter with fresh fruit and yogurt for a balanced spread.
Storage and Freezing Instructions
Store muffins in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 2 days or in the refrigerator for up to 5 days. To freeze, place cooled muffins in a freezer-safe bag and freeze for up to 2 months. Thaw at room temperature or warm briefly before serving.
Nutella Banana Swirl Mini Muffins – Easy & Wonderful
- Total Time: 27 minutes
- Yield: 24 mini muffins
- Diet: Vegetarian
Description
Nutella Banana Swirl Mini Muffins are sweet, soft, bakery-style treats made with ripe bananas and rich chocolate hazelnut swirls. Easy to make and perfectly portioned, these mini muffins deliver wonderful flavor for breakfast, snacks, brunch, or lunchboxes.
Ingredients
- 1½ cups all-purpose flour
- ½ teaspoon baking soda
- ½ teaspoon kosher salt
- ½ teaspoon ground cinnamon
- ½ cup unsalted butter, melted and slightly cooled
- ½ cup granulated sugar
- ¼ cup light brown sugar, packed
- 2 large ripe bananas, mashed
- 1 large egg
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- ½ cup Nutella, slightly warmed
Instructions
- Preheat oven to 350°F and grease or line a mini muffin pan.
- Whisk together flour, baking soda, salt, and cinnamon.
- In a large bowl, whisk melted butter, granulated sugar, and brown sugar until smooth.
- Add mashed bananas, egg, and vanilla extract and mix well.
- Fold dry ingredients into wet ingredients just until combined.
- Fill mini muffin cups about three-quarters full with batter.
- Add about 1 teaspoon of Nutella on top of each muffin.
- Use a toothpick to gently swirl Nutella into the batter.
- Bake for 10–13 minutes until set.
- Cool briefly in pan, then transfer to a wire rack.
Notes
Warm Nutella slightly for easier swirling. Avoid overmixing the batter and do not overbake to keep muffins soft and moist.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 12 minutes
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition Facts (Per Mini Muffin)
| Nutrient | Amount |
|---|---|
| Calories | ~115 |
| Protein | 2 g |
| Carbohydrates | 16 g |
| Fat | 5 g |
| Fiber | 1 g |
| Sodium | ~90 mg |
FAQ About Nutella Banana Swirl Mini Muffins
Can I make these muffins full-sized?
Yes, you can bake this batter in a standard muffin pan. Increase the baking time to about 18 to 22 minutes and check for doneness with a toothpick.
Why did my Nutella sink to the bottom?
If Nutella is too warm or heavily swirled, it may sink slightly. A gentle swirl and thicker batter help keep it evenly distributed.
Can I make these muffins healthier?
You can reduce the sugar slightly or use whole wheat pastry flour, but the texture may be a bit denser. Using ripe bananas helps maintain sweetness naturally.
Do these muffins need to be refrigerated?
They can stay at room temperature for short storage, but refrigeration helps extend freshness, especially in warm climates.
Can kids help make this recipe?
Yes, this is a great recipe for kids to help with mashing bananas and swirling the Nutella, making it a fun and family-friendly baking project.
Final Thoughts
Nutella Banana Swirl Mini Muffins are an easy and wonderful homemade treat that combines classic banana bread comfort with a rich chocolate swirl. Whether you’re baking for your family, guests, or meal prep, these mini muffins deliver big flavor in a small, irresistible package.