Deliciously Moist Pumpkin Banana Muffins with Cinnamon Crumble – Your Ultimate Fall Baking Guide

Welcome to your new favorite autumn breakfast: Pumpkin Banana Muffins! These irresistibly cozy treats perfectly marry the warm, spicy notes of pumpkin with the natural sweetness of ripe bananas, all in one incredibly moist and flavorful package. They are not just quick and easy to whip up, but also the ideal solution for utilizing those perfectly ripe bananas sitting on your counter and any leftover pumpkin puree from your seasonal baking adventures. Get ready to bake a batch of these bakery-style muffins that will fill your home with the comforting aromas of fall.

About These Pumpkin Banana Muffins

If you’re searching for the ultimate fall baked good to brighten your mornings, look no further than these incredible pumpkin banana muffins. The inspiration for this recipe came from a common baking dilemma: having a solitary, slightly over-ripe banana on the counter, coupled with an undeniable craving for the comforting flavors of pumpkin. Instead of choosing one or the other, I decided to combine them, and the result was simply magical.

This recipe is your secret weapon for transforming those last few ripe bananas and any leftover pumpkin puree into something truly spectacular. It embodies the “waste not, want not” philosophy, offering a delicious solution that prevents food waste while creating an irresistible treat. You’ll find yourself looking forward to those perfectly speckled brown bananas, knowing they’re destined for this delightful creation.

These are more than just muffins; they are a celebration of autumn’s finest flavors. Each bite delivers a moist, tender crumb that’s soft and fluffy, bursting with the sweet, earthy taste of pumpkin, complemented by an aromatic blend of warming spices and the subtle sweetness of banana. The combination creates a uniquely cozy and harmonious flavor profile that’s perfect for the season.

Elevate your baking experience by adding a buttery, spiced cinnamon crumble on top, which transforms these humble muffins into impressive, bakery-style delights. Despite their gourmet appeal, they are surprisingly easy to make, making them suitable for any morning of the week – whether you’re rushing out the door or savoring a leisurely weekend breakfast. They’re sure to become a staple in your fall baking repertoire.

Key Ingredients for Perfect Muffins

Creating truly outstanding pumpkin banana muffins starts with selecting the right ingredients. Each component plays a vital role in achieving that perfect moist texture and comforting flavor. Here’s a detailed look at what you’ll need and why:

All-Purpose Flour. This forms the foundational structure of your muffins. While other flours might work, all-purpose flour provides the ideal balance for a tender crumb. For an even lighter texture, consider sifting your flour before measuring.

Brown Sugar. You can opt for either light or dark brown sugar in this recipe. Dark brown sugar will impart a richer, deeper molasses flavor, adding another layer of complexity to your muffins. Brown sugar also contributes to the muffins’ incredible moisture content, keeping them soft and fresh for longer.

Spices. A blend of kosher fine salt, ground cinnamon, and pumpkin pie spice creates that iconic, warming autumn flavor. The salt balances the sweetness and enhances all the other flavors, while cinnamon and pumpkin pie spice deliver the comforting, fragrant notes we all associate with fall baking. Feel free to adjust the amount of cinnamon or pumpkin pie spice to your personal preference for a bolder or milder spice profile.

Unsalted Butter. We highly recommend using unsalted butter for better control over the overall saltiness of your muffins. If you only have salted butter on hand, you can certainly use it, but be sure to omit the additional salt called for in the recipe to prevent them from becoming too salty.

Leavening Agents. A dynamic duo of baking soda and baking powder ensures your muffins rise beautifully and achieve that desirable fluffy texture. Baking soda reacts with acidic ingredients (like pumpkin puree and brown sugar) to create lift, while baking powder provides a secondary rise, resulting in a perfectly domed top.

100% Pumpkin Puree. This is crucial for both flavor and moisture. Always use 100% pumpkin puree, not pumpkin pie filling, which contains added sugars and spices that would alter the recipe’s balance. We also advise against using homemade pumpkin puree as it often contains a significantly higher moisture content than canned varieties, which can lead to a dense or soggy muffin.

Very Ripe Banana. The ripeness of your banana makes a huge difference! Look for bananas that are heavily speckled with brown or even mostly brown. These bananas are naturally sweeter and much easier to mash, lending a superior flavor and added moisture to your muffins.

High-Quality Vanilla Extract. Never underestimate the power of good vanilla. A high-quality vanilla extract enhances all the other flavors in your muffins, adding depth and a touch of warmth. We love making our own homemade vanilla extract, but you can also use a premium store-bought option like this Madagascar Bourbon Pure Vanilla Extract.

Large Eggs. Eggs act as a binder, provide structure, and contribute to the richness of the muffins. Using large, room temperature eggs is best for baking, as they incorporate more easily into the batter, leading to a more homogenous mixture and a better overall texture.

Essential Equipment for Muffin Making

You don’t need a gourmet kitchen full of specialized tools to make these fantastic pumpkin banana muffins. Most of the equipment you’ll need are standard kitchen items, but having them ready makes the process smooth and enjoyable:

• Mixing Bowls: A set of various sizes will be incredibly helpful for separating dry and wet ingredients and preparing the crumble topping. Stainless steel mixing bowls are durable and easy to clean.
• Whisk: An essential for thoroughly combining dry ingredients and smoothly blending wet ingredients. A good French wire whisk makes light work of lumps.
• Wooden Spoon or Spatula: Perfect for gently folding the wet and dry ingredients together without overmixing the batter, which is key for tender muffins.
• 12-Cup Muffin Tin: This is your primary baking vessel. A sturdy metal muffin tin will ensure even baking.
• Muffin Liners: While optional, parchment paper liners are excellent as they prevent sticking and make for easy cleanup. You can also use silicone liners or simply grease your muffin pan well with cooking spray.
• Measuring Cups and Spoons: Accurate measurements are crucial in baking, so ensure you have a reliable set for both dry and liquid ingredients.

Having these basic tools on hand will make your muffin-making experience a breeze, from mixing to baking!

How to Make Moist Pumpkin Banana Muffins: Step-by-Step

Crafting these delectable muffins is a straightforward process, but paying attention to a few key steps will ensure they turn out perfectly moist, tender, and bursting with flavor every time. Follow these instructions for a truly delightful baking experience.

Crafting the Muffin Batter

1. Combine Dry Ingredients: In a large mixing bowl, meticulously whisk together the all-purpose flour, baking powder, baking soda, kosher salt, ground cinnamon, and pumpkin pie spice. Whisking ensures all leavening agents and spices are evenly distributed, which is crucial for uniform texture and flavor in your finished muffins. Set this bowl aside.
2. Combine Wet Ingredients: In a separate medium bowl, whisk together the melted and cooled unsalted butter, 100% pumpkin puree, perfectly mashed ripe banana, light brown sugar, vanilla extract, and room temperature large eggs. Whisk until all these wet ingredients are thoroughly combined and smooth. The room temperature eggs will emulsify better, creating a more consistent batter.
3. Fold Wet into Dry: Gently pour the wet ingredient mixture into the bowl with the dry ingredients. Using a wooden spoon or spatula, mix until they are just combined. It’s essential not to overmix the batter. Overmixing can develop the gluten in the flour, leading to tough, chewy muffins instead of light and fluffy ones. A few lumps in the batter are perfectly fine, even desirable!

Preparing the Cinnamon Crumble Topping

A good crumble topping adds an incredible texture and an extra layer of spice to these muffins. Here’s how to make it:

1. Mix Dry Crumble Ingredients: In a small bowl, combine the all-purpose flour, light brown sugar, and pumpkin pie spice for the crumble. Use a fork to mix these dry ingredients thoroughly.
2. Add Butter: Pour the melted unsalted butter into the dry crumble mixture. Continue mixing with a fork until the ingredients are well combined and form a crumbly, sandy texture with some larger clumps. For best results and to prevent the crumble from melting too quickly during baking, you can place this bowl in the fridge while you prepare the muffin batter. This helps it hold its shape and get extra crisp.

Assembling Your Muffins

1. Prepare Muffin Tin: Line a 12-cup muffin tin with parchment paper liners or your preferred cupcake/muffin liners. If you don’t have liners, you can generously grease the muffin pan cavities with cooking spray or butter to prevent sticking.
2. Fill Muffin Cups: Evenly distribute the muffin batter among the prepared cups, making sure to fill each one almost to the very top. This is a crucial step for achieving those beautiful, domed bakery-style muffin tops.
3. Top with Crumble: Retrieve your prepared cinnamon crumble from the fridge. Use your fingertips to break up any large clumps and then generously sprinkle a good helping of the crumble mixture over the top of each muffin. Don’t be shy – the more crumble, the better!

Baking to Golden Perfection

1. Initial High Heat Bake: Preheat your oven to 425˚F (220˚C). Place the muffin tin in the preheated oven and bake for 5 minutes at this higher temperature. The initial burst of high heat creates what’s called “oven spring,” which helps the muffins rise quickly and develop those desirable tall, domed tops.
2. Lower Temperature Bake: After 5 minutes, without opening the oven door, reduce the temperature to 375˚F (190˚C). Continue to bake for an additional 12 to 14 minutes. This lower temperature ensures the muffins bake through evenly without burning the tops.
3. Check for Doneness: The muffins are done when they are golden brown on top and a toothpick inserted into the center of a muffin comes out clean or with only a few moist crumbs attached.
4. Cooling Process: Allow the muffins to cool in the pan for about 10 minutes. This helps them set and makes them easier to remove without breaking. After 10 minutes, transfer the muffins to a wire cooling rack to cool completely. Cooling on a rack prevents the bottoms from becoming soggy due to trapped steam.

Expert Tips for the Best Pumpkin Banana Muffins

Achieving perfectly moist, fluffy, and flavorful muffins every time is easier than you think with these expert tips and tricks:

• Do Not Overmix the Batter: This is perhaps the most crucial rule for tender muffins. Mix your wet and dry ingredients only until they are just combined. A few lumps in the batter are completely normal and desired! Overmixing develops the gluten in the flour, leading to a tough, dense, and chewy muffin texture that no one wants.
• Fill Cups to the Top: For those impressive, domed, bakery-style muffin tops, fill your lined muffin cups almost to the very brim with batter. The initial high heat bake helps create that wonderful “oven spring” that gives muffins their characteristic rise and shape.
• Use Room Temperature Ingredients: Allowing cold ingredients like eggs and pumpkin puree to come to room temperature before mixing makes a significant difference. Room temperature ingredients emulsify more effectively, creating a smoother, more uniform batter. This leads to a more consistent texture and a better rise in your muffins, making them incredibly soft and fluffy.
• Accurate Measuring is Key: Especially for flour, spoon and level your dry ingredients. Scooping flour directly from the bag can compact it, leading you to use too much, which results in dry, dense muffins. Use a kitchen scale for the most precise measurements if you have one.
• Don’t Peek Too Soon: Resist the urge to open the oven door during the initial baking phase. Fluctuations in temperature can cause your muffins to fall or prevent them from rising properly. Wait until at least 10-12 minutes into the baking process before checking.
• Ripe Bananas are a Must: As mentioned, the riper the banana (with plenty of brown spots), the sweeter and more flavorful your muffins will be. They also provide crucial moisture and mash much more easily.

More tasty muffins to bake: Red Velvet Muffins | Banana Bread Muffins | Honey Blackberry Oatmeal Muffins | Lemon Poppy Seed Muffins

Freezing Pumpkin Banana Muffins for Later

These pumpkin banana muffins are not only delicious fresh from the oven, but they are also incredibly freezer-friendly, making them perfect for meal prepping breakfasts or having a quick snack on hand. To freeze them effectively:

1. Cool Completely: Ensure your muffins are entirely cooled to room temperature before freezing. Freezing warm muffins will trap moisture, leading to ice crystals and a soggy texture when thawed.
2. Individual Wrapping: Once cool, wrap each individual muffin tightly in a layer of plastic wrap. This prevents freezer burn and helps maintain their moisture.
3. Airtight Storage: Place the individually wrapped muffins in a large freezer-safe resealable bag or an airtight container. Squeeze out as much air as possible from the bag to prevent oxidation and freezer burn.
4. Freeze Duration: Store them in the freezer for up to 2 months. Beyond this, they are still safe to eat but might start to lose some of their optimal flavor and texture.
5. Thawing: To thaw, simply remove a muffin from the freezer and let it sit at room temperature for 2-3 hours. For a quicker thaw and a “fresh from the oven” experience, you can microwave a frozen muffin for 30-60 seconds (or 10-15 seconds if already thawed).

Having a stash of these delightful muffins in your freezer means you’re always ready for a quick breakfast or a last-minute treat!

Crumble Topping: To Add or Not To Add?

The cinnamon crumble topping adds a delightful crunch, extra sweetness, and a burst of spiced flavor that truly elevates these pumpkin banana muffins to bakery-style status. However, if you’re looking to simplify the recipe or prefer a less sweet option, you certainly don’t have to add it. The muffins are still wonderfully moist and flavorful without the crumble.

If you choose to skip the crumble, keep in mind that the muffins will be slightly less sweet overall and will lack that textural contrast. As an alternative, you could sprinkle a little coarse sugar on top before baking for a subtle sparkle and light crunch, or even fold in some chocolate chips or chopped nuts into the batter for a different kind of textural element.

Preventing Sticky Muffins: Storage Secrets

These pumpkin banana muffins are incredibly moist, which is fantastic for flavor and texture, but it can sometimes lead to them becoming a little sticky on top when stored at room temperature. This is due to the natural moisture evaporating and condensing inside an airtight container.

To combat this and keep your muffins looking and feeling their best, here’s a simple storage trick:

1. Cool Completely: Always allow your muffins to cool completely on a wire rack before storing them. Trapping any residual warmth will lead to even more condensation and stickiness.
2. Paper Towel Method: Line the bottom of your airtight storage container with a layer of paper towels.
3. Arrange Muffins: Place the cooled muffins in an even layer on top of the paper towels. Avoid stacking them if possible, but if you must, place another layer of paper towels between each tier.
4. Top Layer: Add another layer of paper towels on top of the muffins before sealing the container.

The paper towels will effectively absorb any excess moisture that accumulates inside the container, keeping the muffin tops from becoming overly sticky and preserving their delicate texture. This method ensures your muffins remain fresh and appealing for longer.

Need some inspiration for breakfast? Check out my breakfast recipes page!

Serving Suggestions: What Pairs Well with Pumpkin Banana Muffins?

These pumpkin banana muffins are incredibly versatile and delicious on their own, but pairing them with a few simple accompaniments can elevate your breakfast or snack experience. Here are some ideas:

• Warm and Fresh: There’s nothing quite like a muffin fresh out of the oven. Enjoy them when they’re still warm, perhaps with a generous dollop of whipped butter or a sweet swirl of honey butter. The butter melts into the warm crumb, creating an irresistible treat.
• Reheating for Freshness: For muffins stored for a day or two, simply pop one into the microwave for about 10 to 15 seconds. This quick reheat restores that wonderful “fresh from the oven” warmth and softness.
• Morning Beverage Companions: Serve these muffins alongside your favorite hot beverage. A steaming cup of coffee, a comforting latte, or a fragrant herbal tea makes for a perfect quick breakfast or a delightful afternoon pick-me-up.
• Brunch or Gathering Staple: Looking to impress at a fall gathering? Include these muffins on a beautifully arranged breakfast charcuterie board. They add a homemade touch and a burst of seasonal flavor that guests will adore.
• Sweet Spreads: Beyond butter, consider serving them with a dollop of cream cheese, a smear of apple butter, or your favorite fruit preserves for an extra layer of flavor.
• For a Heartier Meal: Pair a muffin with a side of scrambled eggs, crispy bacon, or a fruit salad for a more substantial breakfast.

However you choose to enjoy them, these pumpkin banana muffins are guaranteed to bring a smile to your face and a comforting warmth to your soul.

How to Store Your Muffins (General Guide)

Proper storage is essential to keep your pumpkin banana muffins fresh, moist, and delicious for as long as possible. Here’s how to store them effectively:

Store at Room Temperature:

• Ensure the muffins are completely cooled to room temperature before storing. Warm muffins will create condensation, leading to sogginess.
• Place the cooled muffins in an airtight container. As mentioned in our “Preventing Sticky Muffins” tip, lining the container with paper towels (top and bottom) can help absorb excess moisture and prevent stickiness.
• They will maintain their freshness and soft texture at room temperature for up to 4 days.

Freeze for Longer Storage:

• After the muffins have cooled completely to room temperature, wrap each individual muffin tightly in a layer of plastic wrap. This is crucial for preventing freezer burn.
• For extra protection, you can then wrap the individually plastic-wrapped muffins in a layer of aluminum foil, or place them all together in a large, freezer-safe resealable bag or an airtight freezer container.
• Muffins can be stored in the freezer for up to 2 months without significant loss of quality.

Thaw Frozen Muffins:

• To enjoy a frozen muffin, simply remove it from its wrapping and let it thaw at room temperature. This typically takes about 2 to 3 hours.
• For a quicker thaw or to warm them up, you can microwave a frozen muffin for 30-60 seconds, or a thawed muffin for 10-15 seconds, until heated through.

Following these storage guidelines will ensure you can enjoy these delightful pumpkin banana muffins whenever a craving strikes!

More Delicious Pumpkin & Fall Baked Treats to Try

If you’ve fallen in love with these pumpkin banana muffins, you’re probably eager to explore more of autumn’s delightful baked goods. Here are some other fantastic recipes featuring pumpkin and other fall flavors that you’re sure to enjoy:

• Chewy pumpkin cheesecake cookies flawlessly combine the beloved flavors of fall spices with the creamy tang of cheesecake in every single bite. They’re a truly decadent treat for any season.
• For those who adore gooey, sweet indulgences, you absolutely need to bake up these caramel stuffed pumpkin cookies. They are incredibly soft, chewy, and feature a luscious caramel center that makes them utterly irresistible.
• If your palate leans towards savory bakes, consider making pumpkin sage biscuits for your next cozy soup or chili night. These buttery, flaky biscuits are made from scratch and are even more divine when generously spread with homemade honey butter.
• Perhaps you’re craving another bakery-style muffin, but want to venture beyond pumpkin? You can try these incredibly simple apple muffins with cake mix, a quick and easy way to enjoy fresh apple flavor.

We hope these recipes inspire even more delightful baking in your kitchen!

Finally, if you make this pumpkin banana muffins recipe, please be sure to give this recipe a star recipe rating on the recipe card and/or leave a comment! I love to hear when you all make recipes, and I do take the time to respond to every single comment. Your feedback means the world to me and helps others discover these wonderful recipes.

Feel free to drop questions below too, if you have them – I’m always happy to help!

Oh and be sure to tag me on Instagram, Facebook, or Pinterest if you make the recipe! I love being able to see these recipes come to life in your homes – it’s my favorite thing to look through those photos. It really means the world to me!

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Pumpkin Banana Muffins Recipe Card

These cozy treats combine two favorite flavors in one moist, delicious package.

Prep Time: 10 minutes mins

Cook Time: 18 minutes mins

Total Time: 28 minutes mins

Servings: 12 muffins

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Equipment

• Stainless Steel Mixing Bowls
• Wooden Spoon & Scraper
• French Wire Whisk
• Muffin Pan

Ingredients

Topping

• 1/4 cup all-purpose flour
• 1/4 cup light brown sugar packed
• 1 tsp pumpkin pie spice
• 2 Tbsp unsalted butter melted

Muffins

• 2 cups all-purpose flour
• 1 tsp baking soda
• 2 tsp baking powder
• 1/2 tsp salt
• 2 tsp ground cinnamon
• 1 tsp pumpkin pie spice
• 1/2 cup unsalted butter melted and cooled
• 1 cup pumpkin puree
• 1 medium very ripe banana mashed
• 3/4 cup light brown sugar packed
• 2 tsp vanilla extract
• 2 large eggs room temperature

Instructions

• Preheat the oven to 425°F (220°C). Line a 12-cup muffin pan with parchment liners.
• For the Topping: In a small bowl, combine flour, brown sugar, and pumpkin pie spice. Mix well. Pour in the melted butter and mix until combined and crumbly. Place in the fridge to chill while preparing the muffin batter.
• For the Muffins (Dry Ingredients): In a large bowl, whisk together the flour, baking powder, baking soda, salt, ground cinnamon, and pumpkin pie spice until thoroughly combined. Set aside.
• For the Muffins (Wet Ingredients): In a separate medium bowl, whisk together the melted butter, pumpkin puree, mashed ripe banana, light brown sugar, vanilla extract, and large eggs until smooth and well combined.
• Combine: Pour the wet ingredients into the dry ingredients. Mix gently with a wooden spoon or spatula until just combined. Be careful not to overmix; a few lumps are fine.
• Assemble: Distribute the muffin batter evenly among the lined muffin cups, filling them almost to the top for perfect domed muffins.
• Remove the crumble from the fridge and, using your hands, break it up into clumps. Generously sprinkle the crumble over the top of each muffin.
• Bake: Bake at 425°F (220°C) for 5 minutes. Then, reduce the oven temperature to 375°F (190°C) (without opening the oven door) and continue to bake for another 12 to 14 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center of a muffin comes out clean.
• Cool: Let the muffins cool in the pan for 10 minutes before carefully removing them to a wire cooling rack to cool completely.

Video

Nutrition

Calories: 270kcal | Carbohydrates: 41g | Protein: 4g | Fat: 11g | Saturated Fat: 6g | Polyunsaturated Fat: 1g | Monounsaturated Fat: 3g | Trans Fat: 0.4g | Cholesterol: 53mg | Sodium: 277mg | Potassium: 144mg | Fiber: 2g | Sugar: 20g | Vitamin A: 3520IU | Vitamin C: 2mg | Calcium: 76mg | Iron: 2mg

Calories: 270kcal

Cuisine: Baking

Category: Breakfast