Perfect Banana Nutella Muffins Recipe with Gooey Centers

Introduction

Picture this: the warm aroma of ripe bananas meeting the rich, chocolatey scent of Nutella wafting through your kitchen. It’s the kind of smell that gets everyone running to the oven with excitement—and honestly, who could resist? The first time I made these Perfect Banana Nutella Muffins with Gooey Centers, I was just trying to use up some overripe bananas. Little did I know, I was about to create a family-favorite recipe that feels like pure indulgence yet comes together so effortlessly.

When I pulled the first batch out of the oven, I couldn’t believe how good they looked. They had a golden brown exterior, fluffy banana-infused texture, and—best of all—a surprise gooey Nutella center that made every bite irresistible. My kids couldn’t stop sneaking extras, and even my picky eater declared these “the best muffins ever!” That’s when I knew I had to share this recipe with everyone.

These muffins are perfect for busy mornings, afternoon snacks, or even dessert. They’re dangerously easy to whip up, so don’t be surprised if they become a staple in your home just like they did in mine. If you’re looking for something that’s comforting, delicious, and guaranteed to make you smile, this recipe is it. Trust me—you’ll want to bookmark this one!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Quick & Easy: Ready in under 30 minutes, these muffins are perfect for those last-minute cravings.
• Simple Ingredients: Everything you need is likely already in your pantry—no fancy grocery trips required.
• Perfect for Any Occasion: Whether it’s breakfast, an after-school snack, or a potluck treat, these muffins always fit the bill.
• Crowd-Pleaser: Adults and kids alike adore the gooey Nutella surprise in the center.
• Unbelievably Delicious: The combination of ripe bananas and creamy Nutella makes every bite feel like pure comfort food.

Unlike other banana muffin recipes, this one stands out because of the gooey Nutella hidden inside. That little touch transforms them from great to unforgettable. The muffins are moist, tender, and perfectly sweet—not too overpowering, but just right. Plus, they’re ideal for impressing guests or making someone’s day a little brighter without spending hours in the kitchen. You’ll find yourself reaching for this recipe again and again.

What Ingredients You Will Need

This recipe uses simple, wholesome ingredients to deliver bold flavor and that irresistible gooey center. Here’s what you’ll need:

• Ripe bananas: About 3 medium bananas, mashed (the riper, the better for sweetness).
• Nutella: The star of the show—use about 1 teaspoon per muffin for a gooey center.
• All-purpose flour: 1 ¾ cups (220g). You can substitute with whole wheat flour if desired.
• Granulated sugar: ½ cup (100g), for just the right amount of sweetness.
• Brown sugar: ¼ cup (50g), for depth and a hint of caramel flavor.
• Eggs: 2 large eggs, room temperature.
• Unsalted butter: ½ cup (115g), melted and slightly cooled.
• Baking powder: 1 teaspoon, for fluffy muffins.
• Baking soda: ½ teaspoon, to help the muffins rise.
• Salt: ½ teaspoon, to balance the sweetness.
• Vanilla extract: 1 teaspoon, for added depth of flavor.
• Chopped walnuts: Optional, but they add a delightful crunch.

Feel free to substitute ingredients based on dietary needs. For example, swap regular flour for gluten-free flour or use a dairy-free butter alternative. These muffins are versatile, so don’t be afraid to make them your own!

Equipment Needed

• Muffin tin: A standard 12-cup muffin tin works perfectly.
• Mixing bowls: At least two—one for dry ingredients and one for wet.
• Whisk: To combine your ingredients smoothly.
• Measuring cups and spoons: Precision is key for the perfect muffins.
• Ice cream scoop or spoon: For evenly portioning the batter into the muffin cups.
• Cooling rack: Helps the muffins cool evenly without becoming soggy.

If you don’t have a muffin tin, you can use ramekins or silicone baking cups instead. And if you’re short on tools, mixing by hand works just fine—no need to overthink it!

Preparation Method

1. Preheat your oven: Set it to 375°F (190°C) and line your muffin tin with paper liners or lightly grease it.
2. Combine dry ingredients: In a large bowl, whisk together the flour, baking powder, baking soda, and salt.
3. Mix wet ingredients: In another bowl, mash the bananas until smooth. Add the melted butter, eggs, vanilla extract, granulated sugar, and brown sugar. Whisk until well combined.
4. Combine wet and dry ingredients: Gradually add the dry ingredients into the wet mixture. Stir gently until just combined—don’t overmix, as this can make your muffins dense.
5. Add Nutella: Fill each muffin cup halfway with batter. Place about 1 teaspoon of Nutella in the center, then cover with more batter until the cup is about ¾ full.
6. Optional topping: Sprinkle chopped walnuts on top for added texture and flavor.
7. Bake: Place the muffins in the oven and bake for 18-22 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the edge (not the Nutella center) comes out clean.
8. Cool: Remove the muffins from the oven and allow them to cool in the pan for 5 minutes. Transfer them to a cooling rack to cool completely—or enjoy warm for the ultimate gooey Nutella experience!

If your Nutella sinks to the bottom, try freezing small dollops of Nutella beforehand and placing them in the batter. This helps keep the center intact during baking.

Cooking Tips & Techniques

• Don’t overmix: Overmixing the batter can lead to dense muffins. Stir just until the ingredients are combined.
• Use ripe bananas: The riper the bananas, the sweeter and more flavorful your muffins will be.
• Freeze Nutella: If you want a perfect gooey center, freeze small dollops of Nutella before adding them to the batter.
• Check for doneness: Insert a toothpick near the edge of the muffin—it should come out clean. Avoid testing the center, as the Nutella will always be gooey.
• Adjust sweetness: If your bananas are very ripe, you can reduce the sugar slightly to suit your taste.

Variations & Adaptations

• Gluten-Free Option: Replace all-purpose flour with a 1:1 gluten-free flour blend for equally delicious muffins.
• Nut-Free Version: Skip the walnuts and substitute the Nutella with a seed butter like sunflower seed spread.
• Chocolate Lover’s Twist: Add chocolate chips to the batter for an extra indulgent treat.
• Seasonal Additions: Mix in warm spices like cinnamon or nutmeg during the fall months for a cozy flavor profile.
• Dairy-Free Adaptation: Use coconut oil or vegan butter instead of regular butter, and swap out Nutella for a dairy-free chocolate spread.

Serving & Storage Suggestions

These Banana Nutella Muffins are best enjoyed warm so you can savor the gooey center, but they’re delicious at room temperature too. Serve them with a hot cup of coffee or milk for the ultimate pairing. If you’re hosting a brunch, pair them with fresh fruit and a side of yogurt for a well-rounded spread.

Store any leftovers in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 2 days, or in the refrigerator for up to a week. To freeze, wrap each muffin individually in plastic wrap and store in a freezer-safe bag for up to 3 months. To reheat, simply microwave for 15-20 seconds or warm in a 300°F (150°C) oven for 5-7 minutes.

Pro tip: The muffins develop even deeper flavor after a day, so don’t worry if you can’t finish them all at once!

Nutritional Information & Benefits

Each muffin contains approximately:

• Calories: 210
• Carbohydrates: 28g
• Protein: 4g
• Fat: 8g
• Fiber: 2g

The bananas provide natural sweetness along with a good dose of potassium and fiber, while the Nutella gives you that satisfying chocolate-hazelnut flavor. Walnuts add heart-healthy fats and a delightful crunch. This recipe can be adapted to fit gluten-free or dairy-free diets, making it a versatile option for all.

Conclusion

These Perfect Banana Nutella Muffins with Gooey Centers are everything you could want in a homemade treat—easy, delicious, and guaranteed to bring joy. Whether you tweak the recipe to suit your dietary needs or stick to the classic version, you’ll find yourself making these muffins again and again. They’re the perfect combination of comforting banana flavor and indulgent chocolatey goodness.

I hope you love this recipe as much as my family does! If you try it, let me know in the comments how it turned out—or share your own creative twist. Don’t forget to bookmark this recipe for the next time you need a quick, crowd-pleasing treat. Happy baking!

FAQs

Can I use frozen bananas for this recipe?

Yes, just make sure to thaw and drain any excess liquid before mashing them.

Can I make these muffins without Nutella?

Absolutely! You can skip the Nutella or substitute it with peanut butter, jam, or any spread you like.

How do I keep the Nutella from sinking to the bottom?

Freezing small dollops of Nutella before adding them helps keep the center gooey and intact.

Can I make these muffins vegan?

Yes! Replace the eggs with flaxseed meal (1 tablespoon mixed with 3 tablespoons water per egg) and use vegan butter and a dairy-free chocolate spread.

How do I know when the muffins are done baking?

Insert a toothpick into the edge of a muffin—it should come out clean. Avoid testing the center since the Nutella will remain gooey.

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