Spinach Banana Muffins: A Healthy, Delicious Treat

Looking for a quick, nutritious snack or breakfast option that’s both kid-friendly and delicious? Spinach banana muffins are a great choice! These muffins are naturally sweetened with bananas and honey or maple syrup, packed with spinach for added nutrients, and made with whole wheat flour for a hearty and wholesome texture. They’re a fantastic way to sneak more greens into your diet while still indulging in a tasty treat.

What Are Spinach Banana Muffins?

Spinach banana muffins are moist, tender, and slightly sweet baked goods that combine the natural flavors of ripe bananas with the mild, earthy goodness of spinach. The recipe uses simple ingredients like Greek yogurt and whole wheat flour to keep it healthy while still being satisfying. Whether for breakfast, snacks, or even as a lunchbox addition, these muffins are a versatile and guilt-free option.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Nutrient-packed: Loaded with potassium from bananas, iron from spinach, and protein from Greek yogurt.
• Kid-friendly: A fun way to sneak in vegetables without them noticing!
• Easy to make: Just blend, mix, and bake. Perfect for busy mornings or meal prep.
• Naturally sweetened: Uses honey or maple syrup for a refined sugar-free option.
• Customizable: Adapt to fit dietary preferences like gluten-free or dairy-free.

Ingredients

Wet Ingredients:

• 2 ripe bananas
• 1 cup (packed) fresh spinach
• ⅓ cup honey or maple syrup
• ⅓ cup plain Greek yogurt
• 1 egg
• 1 tsp vanilla extract

Dry Ingredients:

• 1½ cups whole wheat flour
• 1 tsp baking powder
• ½ tsp baking soda
• ½ tsp cinnamon
• ¼ tsp salt

Step-by-Step Instructions

Preparing the Batter

1. Preheat the oven: Preheat to 350°F (175°C) and grease or line a muffin tin.
2. Blend wet ingredients: In a blender, combine ripe bananas, spinach, honey or maple syrup, Greek yogurt, egg, and vanilla extract. Blend until smooth and vibrant green.
3. Mix dry ingredients: In a large mixing bowl, whisk together whole wheat flour, baking powder, baking soda, cinnamon, and salt.

Combining the Mixture

4. Combine wet and dry ingredients: Pour the blended wet mixture into the dry ingredients. Gently fold together until just combined. Avoid overmixing to keep the muffins light and fluffy.

Baking

5. Divide the batter: Spoon the batter evenly into the muffin tin, filling each cup about ¾ full.
6. Bake: Place in the oven and bake for 18–20 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center of a muffin comes out clean.
7. Cool: Remove from the oven and let the muffins cool in the tin for 5 minutes before transferring them to a wire rack to cool completely.

Serving Suggestions

• Enjoy warm with a dollop of almond butter or cream cheese.
• Pair with a smoothie or fresh fruit for a balanced breakfast.
• Serve as a snack with a cup of tea or coffee.

Storing and Freezing

Storage Tips

• At room temperature: Store in an airtight container for up to 2 days.
• In the refrigerator: Keep them fresh for up to 5 days in an airtight container.

Freezing Instructions

• Wrap each muffin individually in plastic wrap, then place them in a freezer-safe bag or container. Freeze for up to 3 months.
• To thaw, let muffins sit at room temperature or warm in the microwave for 20–30 seconds.

Recipe Variations

• Gluten-free: Replace the whole wheat flour with a 1:1 gluten-free flour blend.
• Dairy-free: Use a dairy-free yogurt like almond or coconut yogurt.
• Nut-free: Substitute honey or maple syrup for sweetener instead of nut-based alternatives.
• Add-ins: Fold in ¼ cup of chocolate chips, chopped nuts, or raisins for extra flavor and texture.

FAQs

Can I use frozen spinach instead of fresh?
Yes, but thaw and squeeze out any excess water before blending it with the other wet ingredients.

Can I substitute the Greek yogurt?
You can replace Greek yogurt with unsweetened applesauce or a dairy-free yogurt alternative.

Why are my muffins dense?
Overmixing the batter can make the muffins dense. Stir just until the ingredients are combined.

Spinach banana muffins are a delightful way to enjoy a nutrient-rich snack that’s perfect for any time of day. With their vibrant color and naturally sweet flavor, they’re bound to become a household favorite. Give this recipe a try, and don’t forget to share your experience or any creative variations you come up with!

Print