Banana Chocolate Chip Coconut Muffins are a perfect combination of sweet, nutty, and chocolaty flavors packed into a moist, fluffy muffin. These muffins bring together the natural sweetness of ripe bananas, the richness of chocolate chips, and the tropical hint of coconut, creating a treat that’s perfect for breakfast, snacks, or dessert.
Whether you’re looking for a quick grab-and-go breakfast, an after-school snack, or a comforting homemade treat, these muffins are easy to make and packed with flavor. Plus, the addition of walnuts provides a delightful crunch, making each bite irresistible!
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
✔ Moist and Tender: The mashed bananas make the muffins soft and fluffy.
✔ Balanced Sweetness: Just the right amount of sugar enhances the flavors without being overly sweet.
✔ Chocolate and Coconut Delight: A perfect blend of rich chocolate chips and lightly toasted coconut.
✔ Easy to Make: Simple ingredients and straightforward steps make this a foolproof recipe.
✔ Great for Any Occasion: Ideal for breakfast, brunch, or a sweet snack.
Ingredients
Dry Ingredients:
- 2 cups all-purpose flour – Provides structure to the muffins.
- 1 teaspoon baking powder – Helps the muffins rise.
- ½ teaspoon baking soda – Works with the baking powder for a light texture.
- ½ teaspoon sea salt – Enhances the sweetness and balances flavors.
Wet Ingredients:
- ½ cup unsalted butter, softened – Adds richness and moisture.
- ¾ cup granulated sugar – Sweetens the muffins without overpowering the banana flavor.
- 2 large eggs – Binds the ingredients together and provides structure.
- 3 ripe bananas, mashed – Adds natural sweetness and moisture.
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract – Enhances the overall flavor.
- ½ teaspoon almond extract – Adds a subtle, nutty aroma.
Mix-Ins:
- ¾ cup shredded coconut – Provides a tropical touch and slight chewiness.
- ½ cup chopped walnuts – Adds a crunchy texture.
- ¾ cup semi-sweet chocolate chips – Melts into the muffins for chocolatey goodness.
Step-by-Step Instructions
Step 1: Preheat and Prepare the Muffin Tin
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
- Line a 12-cup muffin tin with paper liners or lightly grease with nonstick spray.
Step 2: Mix the Dry Ingredients
- In a medium-sized bowl, whisk together:
- Flour
- Baking powder
- Baking soda
- Sea salt
- Set the dry mixture aside.
Step 3: Cream the Butter and Sugar
- In a large mixing bowl, beat together the butter and sugar until light and fluffy.
- Use an electric mixer or a hand whisk to achieve a smooth texture.
Step 4: Add the Wet Ingredients
- Add eggs, one at a time, beating well after each addition.
- Stir in the mashed bananas, vanilla extract, and almond extract.
- Mix until the wet ingredients are fully combined.
Step 5: Combine Wet and Dry Ingredients
- Gradually add the dry ingredient mixture to the wet ingredients.
- Stir until just combined – do not overmix, as this can make the muffins dense.
Step 6: Fold in the Mix-Ins
- Gently fold in:
- Shredded coconut
- Chopped walnuts
- Chocolate chips
- Stir until evenly distributed throughout the batter.
Step 7: Fill the Muffin Cups
- Divide the batter evenly among the 12 prepared muffin cups.
- Fill each cup about ¾ full to allow space for rising.
Step 8: Bake the Muffins
- Place the muffin tin in the preheated oven.
- Bake for 20-25 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean.
- The tops should be lightly golden brown.
Step 9: Cool and Serve
- Let the muffins cool in the muffin tin for 5 minutes.
- Transfer them to a wire rack to cool completely.
- Enjoy warm or store for later!
Serving Suggestions
✔ With Coffee or Tea: Pair with a hot beverage for a cozy snack.
✔ Breakfast On-the-Go: Perfect for busy mornings.
✔ Drizzled with Honey: Adds extra sweetness and enhances the flavors.
✔ With Yogurt & Fruit: Serve alongside yogurt and berries for a complete meal.
Tips for Perfect Muffins
✔ Use Ripe Bananas: The riper the bananas, the sweeter and more flavorful your muffins will be.
✔ Don’t Overmix: Overmixing can result in dense muffins. Stir until just combined.
✔ Toast the Coconut (Optional): Toasting the coconut before adding it enhances its flavor.
✔ Evenly Distribute Batter: Use an ice cream scoop to portion out the batter evenly.
✔ Test for Doneness: Insert a toothpick in the center—if it comes out clean, the muffins are ready!
Variations & Substitutions
Nut-Free Version
- Omit walnuts or replace them with sunflower seeds for a nut-free option.
Dairy-Free Option
- Use coconut oil or vegan butter instead of regular butter.
- Substitute dairy-free chocolate chips.
Gluten-Free Version
- Replace all-purpose flour with a gluten-free flour blend.
Extra Chocolatey Muffins
- Increase the chocolate chips to 1 cup for a more decadent treat.
Healthier Option
- Replace ½ cup of flour with whole wheat flour.
- Reduce sugar to ½ cup and add an extra mashed banana for natural sweetness.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I Freeze These Muffins?
Yes! Let the muffins cool completely, then store them in an airtight container or freezer bag for up to 3 months.
How Do I Store Leftover Muffins?
- Store at room temperature in an airtight container for 3 days.
- Refrigerate for up to 1 week.
How Can I Make Mini Muffins?
Use a mini muffin tin and bake for 12-15 minutes instead of 20-25 minutes.
Can I Add More Mix-Ins?
Absolutely! You can add:
- Dried fruits like raisins or cranberries.
- Chopped almonds or pecans instead of walnuts.
- A swirl of peanut butter for extra richness.
Storage & Reheating Tips
✔ Room Temperature: Store in an airtight container for up to 3 days.
✔ Refrigerator: Store in the fridge for up to 1 week.
✔ Freezer: Freeze for up to 3 months.
✔ Reheating: Warm in the microwave for 15-20 seconds to soften before serving.
Conclusion
Banana Chocolate Chip Coconut Muffins are the perfect blend of moist, sweet, and nutty flavors, making them a fantastic addition to your breakfast table, snack time, or dessert platter. With simple ingredients and easy steps, these muffins are great for beginner bakers and experienced home cooks alike.
So, grab those ripe bananas, preheat your oven, and enjoy baking these delicious homemade muffins today!