Small Batch One Banana Muffins are the perfect answer for those moments when you have just one ripe banana sitting on your counter and a craving for something sweet and home-baked.
These moist, tender muffins are designed for small households, singles, or anyone who prefers not to have a surplus of baked goods lying around. The concept of the small batch one banana muffins originated from practical home cooking, where waste not, want not was a guiding principle.
By transforming a single overripe banana into a delightful breakfast or snack, this recipe minimizes food waste while maximizing flavor. Muffins themselves are a beloved comfort food across the world, valued for their versatility and simplicity.
The magic of small batch baking is its adaptability; you get all the warm, inviting experience of homemade muffins without leftovers. Perfect for busy mornings or as a quick afternoon treat, these one banana muffins bake up in just minutes and fill your kitchen with a cozy, irresistible aroma.
Plus, the small batch one banana muffins are easily customizable-think chocolate chips, nuts, or even a cinnamon swirl for added variety. Whether you are new to baking or an experienced home baker, this one banana muffin recipe is a must-try staple that delivers delicious results every time.
From the kid-friendly, portable size to the perfect sweetness and texture, small batch one banana muffins will quickly become a favorite in your household.
Ingredients
- 1 ripe medium banana, mashed
- ¼ cup granulated sugar
- ¼ cup unsalted butter, melted and slightly cooled
- 1 large egg
- ½ teaspoon vanilla extract
- ¾ cup all-purpose flour
- ½ teaspoon baking soda
- ¼ teaspoon baking powder
- ¼ teaspoon salt
- 2 tablespoons milk
- Optional: ¼ cup chocolate chips or chopped nuts
Instructions
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Line a muffin tin with 6 paper liners or lightly grease it.
- In a medium mixing bowl, mash the ripe banana thoroughly until mostly smooth.
- Add the granulated sugar, melted butter, egg, and vanilla extract to the mashed banana. Whisk together until well combined.
- In a separate small bowl, whisk together the flour, baking soda, baking powder, and salt.
- Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet banana mixture, gently mixing until just incorporated. Do not overmix; a few lumps are okay.
- Stir in the milk to loosen the batter. If using chocolate chips or nuts, fold them in now.
- Divide the batter evenly among the prepared muffin cups, filling each about two-thirds full.
- Bake for 16-20 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center of a muffin comes out clean or with a few moist crumbs.
- Allow the muffins to cool in the pan for 5 minutes before transferring to a wire rack to cool completely.
- Enjoy the small batch one banana muffins warm or at room temperature!
Nutritional Information
Small Batch One Banana Muffins are satisfyingly delicious while being relatively light in calories compared to typical bakery muffins. Each muffin provides roughly 150-170 calories, depending on add-ins like chocolate chips or nuts.
They offer a modest amount of protein, about 2-3 grams per muffin, due to the combination of egg and flour. The banana contributes essential vitamins like vitamin B6, vitamin C, and potassium, making these muffins a better-for-you treat.
The use of a single banana helps add natural sweetness and moisture, so you can use less added sugar than other recipes. Fat content sits at around 6-8 grams per muffin thanks to the inclusion of butter, which also imparts a rich flavor and tender texture.
These muffins contain approximately 20-24 grams of carbohydrates, mostly from the flour and sugar, providing a quick energy boost. With a small batch size, portion control is easy, so you aren't tempted to overindulge.
For even healthier results, you can swap in whole wheat flour for some or all of the all-purpose flour or reduce the sugar slightly.
If desired, reducing or eliminating chocolate chips and using a plant-based butter alternative can decrease fat and calories, making small batch one banana muffins a smart addition to any balanced diet.
Wine and Beverage Pairings
A warm cup of coffee or a freshly brewed latte makes an excellent pairing with small batch one banana muffins, balancing the muffins' gentle sweetness with a hint of bitterness. For non-caffeinated options, try black or chai tea, which complement the baked banana flavor beautifully.
A glass of cold milk is also a classic match, especially if you add chocolate chips or nuts to the muffins. For a brunch-friendly twist, pair the muffins with a mimosa made from orange juice and champagne.
If you're looking for a bolder pairing, consider a light, fruity white wine such as a Riesling or Moscato, which highlights the banana's natural sweetness without overpowering the delicate flavor of the muffins.
An oat milk latte or an iced matcha provide plant-based alternatives that bring out the comforting, homestyle taste of the one banana muffins.
Cooking Tips and Variations
Achieving perfect small batch one banana muffins is all about technique and subtle customization. First, always use a very ripe banana, ideally with lots of brown spots-this ensures maximum sweetness and moisture.
For best texture, avoid overmixing the batter once you combine the wet and dry ingredients; overworking can cause the muffins to become dense and tough. If you want to introduce additional flavors, try folding in a pinch of cinnamon or nutmeg, or stirring in lemon zest for brightness.
To make your muffins extra moist, substitute sour cream or plain Greek yogurt for the milk. If you prefer a healthier twist, replace half the flour with whole wheat pastry flour or use coconut sugar instead of granulated sugar.
For those with dietary restrictions, this recipe easily adapts: swap the butter for melted coconut oil or canola oil for a dairy-free version. Splurge on optional mix-ins like mini chocolate chips, walnuts, or dried cranberries for variety.
For a bakery-style dome, let the filled muffin tin rest for 5 minutes before placing it in the oven. Lastly, feel free to bake these muffins in a toaster oven if you don't want to heat up the whole kitchen-just adjust baking time as needed.
With these tips and variations, your small batch one banana muffins will always turn out delicious, moist, and perfectly tailored to your preferences.
Serving Suggestions
Small batch one banana muffins are wonderfully versatile and perfect for many occasions, thanks to their small yield and irresistible flavor. Present them as a special breakfast-in-bed treat, perhaps warmed up and slathered with a bit of butter or honey for extra indulgence.
Their portable size makes them ideal for packing in lunchboxes or grabbing for on-the-go snacking. For weekend brunch, place them on a platter alongside fresh seasonal fruit and a pot of yogurt to create an inviting breakfast spread.
If you are hosting a small gathering, serve the muffins as part of an afternoon tea with a variety of jams and sweet spreads for guests to sample. They also pair well with a scoop of vanilla ice cream for an easy dessert.
To impress family or friends, dust the tops with a sprinkle of powdered sugar before serving. For extra flair, slice the muffins in half and toast them lightly to caramelize the edges.
You can even turn these muffins into a mini dessert by adding a little dollop of whipped cream and a mint leaf on top. When serving for kids, mini muffin liners make them even more fun and perfectly sized for little hands.
However you enjoy them, small batch one banana muffins are sure to be a highlight of any breakfast, brunch, or snack table.
Health Benefits
There are genuine health benefits to enjoying small batch one banana muffins, especially when compared to the oversized, sugar-laden versions found at many bakeries. Using a single ripe banana as the foundation provides key nutrients like potassium, vitamin C, and dietary fiber, promoting heart health and steady energy levels.
Bananas are naturally fat-free and provide essential antioxidants. By controlling the amount of added sugar and fat, you can keep these muffins within a reasonable calorie range, making them suitable for those monitoring their carbohydrate intake.
The relatively small serving size encourages mindful eating, which is beneficial for maintaining a balanced diet and preventing unnecessary overconsumption. The bake-at-home nature means you can control every ingredient-increasing whole grains or reducing sugar as desired. Muffins baked with healthy additions like nuts contribute heart-healthy fats and added protein.
Choosing unsweetened plant-based milk or whole grain flour can further boost the health profile. Ultimately, small batch one banana muffins provide comfort food satisfaction, but with nutrient-rich ingredients and customizable recipes that fit into a healthy lifestyle.
Frequently Asked Questions
Yes, thawed frozen bananas work well for small batch one banana muffins. Let the banana defrost completely and drain any excess liquid before mashing and using in the recipe.
Absolutely! Simply double all ingredients to make a dozen muffins instead of six. Be sure to adjust baking time slightly and check doneness with a toothpick.
Store cooled muffins in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 2 days, or refrigerate for up to 4 days. For longer storage, freeze muffins tightly wrapped for up to 2 months.
Yes, substitute the all-purpose flour with a 1:1 gluten-free baking blend. Check other ingredients for cross-contamination if needed.
You can use an equal amount of melted coconut oil, canola oil, or a plant-based butter substitute for a dairy-free version of small batch one banana muffins.
Small Batch One Banana Muffins are the ultimate solution for turning a single ripe banana into a delightful, moist treat that's perfect for any time of the day. With their simple ingredients, quick preparation time, and built-in portion control, these muffins offer everything you want in a homemade baked good. The beauty of this recipe lies in its adaptability and minimal waste, making it a favorite for households of any size. From classic breakfast fare to an easy snack or light dessert, this muffin recipe ensures you'll have a warm, satisfying treat in less than half an hour-without weeks of leftovers. Whether you're a beginner baker looking for a fuss-free recipe or an experienced cook seeking a no-waste solution, small batch one banana muffins deserve a spot in your kitchen rotation. Enjoy their versatility, delicious taste, and ease of preparation anytime you crave something freshly baked.
Ingredients
- 1 ripe banana, mashed
- ¼ cup granulated sugar
- ¼ cup unsalted butter, melted
- 1 large egg
- ½ teaspoon vanilla extract
- ½ cup all-purpose flour
- ¼ teaspoon baking soda
- ⅛ teaspoon salt
Instructions
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1Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C) and line a muffin tin with 4 paper liners.
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2In a medium bowl, mash the ripe banana until smooth.
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3Add the sugar, melted butter, egg, and vanilla extract to the banana and mix until well combined.
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4In a separate bowl, whisk together the flour, baking soda, and salt. Add the dry ingredients to the wet mixture and gently stir until just combined. Do not overmix.
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5Divide the batter evenly among the 4 muffin liners. Bake for 18-20 minutes or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean.
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6Allow muffins to cool for a few minutes before serving. Enjoy warm or at room temperature.
Approximate Information for One Serving
Nutrition Disclaimers
Number of total servings shown is approximate. Actual number of servings will depend on your preferred portion sizes.
Nutritional values shown are general guidelines and reflect information for 1 serving using the ingredients listed, not including any optional ingredients. Actual macros may vary slightly depending on specific brands and types of ingredients used.
To determine the weight of one serving, prepare the recipe as instructed. Weigh the finished recipe, then divide the weight of the finished recipe (not including the weight of the container the food is in) by the desired number of servings. Result will be the weight of one serving.
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