There’s something about the smell of freshly baked muffins that can momentarily slow down the whirlwind of a toddler’s morning. I remember one day, trying to get my little one dressed while the scent of warm banana and cinnamon filled the kitchen. Somewhere between wiping a runny nose and answering a half-asked question, those muffins cooled enough to sneak a bite. The crumb was tender, almost melting in my mouth, and the natural sweetness from bananas made it feel like a little treat—even if it was just breakfast. It wasn’t perfect, the kitchen timer beeped twice while I was distracted, and I almost forgot to check the muffins. But that imperfect moment, with a toddler tugging at my sleeve and crumbs on the floor, felt somehow right.
- Soft and moist texture makes these muffins easy for toddlers to chew, even for those just starting on solids.
- They’re naturally sweetened with bananas and applesauce, so no added refined sugars – a little peace of mind for parents.
- This recipe is straightforward — and that’s kind of the point. Simple ingredients, simple steps, and a quick turnaround.
- Whole wheat flour adds a subtle nuttiness and fiber but keeps the muffins still tender enough to be loved by little ones.
- They’re versatile enough to be a grab-and-go breakfast or a quick afternoon snack, though they’re best enjoyed fresh.
If you’re new to toddler baking, this one’s a gentle introduction that doesn’t demand too much fuss. The muffins hold together nicely, so they’re not crumbly messes in tiny hands, which is a win in my book.
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Banana Muffins for Toddlers
- Total Time: 30 minutes
- Yield: 12 muffins 1x
Description
Soft and naturally sweet banana muffins made especially for toddlers. These muffins are moist, easy to chew, and free from added refined sugars, making them a perfect snack or breakfast option for little ones.
Ingredients
2 ripe bananas, mashed
1 large egg
1/4 cup unsweetened applesauce
1/4 cup whole milk
1 teaspoon vanilla extract
1 cup whole wheat flour
1/2 teaspoon baking soda
1/2 teaspoon baking powder
1/4 teaspoon ground cinnamon
1/4 teaspoon salt
Instructions
Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C). Line a 12-cup muffin tin with paper liners or lightly grease with cooking spray.
In a large mixing bowl, combine the mashed bananas, egg, unsweetened applesauce, whole milk, and vanilla extract. Mix well until smooth.
In a separate bowl, whisk together the whole wheat flour, baking soda, baking powder, ground cinnamon, and salt.
Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet ingredients and stir until just combined. Do not overmix.
Spoon the batter evenly into the prepared muffin cups, filling each about 3/4 full.
Bake for 18 to 20 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center of a muffin comes out clean.
Remove the muffins from the oven and let them cool in the pan for 5 minutes, then transfer to a wire rack to cool completely before serving.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
These muffins bake up beautifully in any regular muffin tin—no fancy equipment needed. I usually line mine with paper liners, but greasing the pan works just as well and makes for rustic edges that some kids seem to prefer. Pair them with a little yogurt or a splash of milk to round out a quick breakfast. Sometimes I toss in a handful of raisins or a pinch of nutmeg just to mix things up, but honestly, the classic version is hard to beat. If you’re feeling adventurous, mashed avocado could replace the applesauce for a subtle twist, though I haven’t tested that extensively.
FAQ
Can I freeze these muffins? Yes, they freeze well for up to a month. Just thaw at room temperature or warm gently before serving.
Are these suitable for babies? They’re soft enough for toddlers, but if your baby is just starting solids, you might want to cut the muffins into very small pieces.
Can I substitute the milk? Whole milk is best for moisture and flavor, but you can try plant-based milk if needed—results may vary slightly.
Do I have to use whole wheat flour? Not necessarily. You can switch to all-purpose flour for a lighter texture, but the muffins might be less filling.
Ready to make mornings a bit easier and tastier? Grab your mixing bowl and let’s get baking!