Zucchini Banana Muffins with Oats – 7 Must‑Know Tips for Perfect Muffins

There’s something irresistibly comforting about muffins that feel like a warm hug. These Zucchini Banana Muffins with Oats are just that—moist, whisper-soft, and brimming with wholesome goodness. With humble pantry staples, a touch of sweetness from ripe bananas, and subtle veggie magic from zucchini, they’re a cozy treat perfect for family breakfasts, snack time, or a little self-care moment with your morning tea. Let’s make baking feel friendly again!

Moist zucchini banana muffins with oats on a cooling rack

Recipe InfoDetails
CategoryBreakfast / Snack
Prep Time15 minutes
Cook Time20–25 minutes
Servings12 standard muffins
CaloriesApproximately 180 kcal per muffin

Ingredients You’ll Need

  • 1 cup (120 g) rolled oats
  • 1 ½ cups (190 g) all-purpose flour
  • 1 tsp baking powder
  • ½ tsp baking soda
  • ½ tsp ground cinnamon
  • ¼ tsp salt
  • 2 ripe bananas, mashed (about 1 cup)
  • 1 cup (grated) zucchini, lightly packed
  • ½ cup (100 g) granulated sugar
  • ⅓ cup (80 ml) vegetable oil or melted butter
  • 2 large eggs
  • 1 tsp vanilla extract

Step‑By‑Step Instructions

  1. Preheat & Prep
    Preheat your oven to 350 °F (175 °C). Line a 12‑cup muffin tin with paper liners or lightly grease it.
  2. Mix Dry Ingredients
    In a large bowl, whisk together oats, flour, baking powder, baking soda, cinnamon, and salt.
  3. Combine Wet Ingredients
    In another bowl, mash the bananas until smooth. Stir in the grated zucchini, sugar, oil (or melted butter), eggs, and vanilla extract until well combined.
  4. Bring It All Together
    Pour the wet mixture into the dry ingredients. Gently stir just until you can’t see dry bits—don’t overmix, or your muffins might get a little tough.
  5. Fill the Muffin Cups
    Scoop batter into the muffin tin, filling each about ¾ full. A cookie scoop works like a charm here for even muffins.
  6. Bake
    Bake for 20–25 minutes—until the tops are golden and a toothpick in the center comes out clean or with a few moist crumbs.
  7. Cool & Enjoy
    Let muffins cool in the tin for about 5 minutes, then move them to a wire rack. They’re best slightly warm, so go ahead and take that first cozy bite!

Helpful Notes & Tips

  • Tip 1: Keep the zucchini moisture in check—after grating, you can gently squeeze it in a clean towel if your zucchini is watery.
  • Tip 2: Use ripe bananas with lots of brown spots for natural sweetness and moisture.
  • Tip 3: Want lighter muffins? Swap half the sugar for coconut sugar or reduce by ¼ cup.
  • Tip 4: To store, keep muffins in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days, or freeze for up to 2 months—just thaw or warm before enjoying.

Recipe Variations

  • Nutty Crunch: Stir in ½ cup chopped walnuts or pecans for added texture and flavor.
  • Chocolate Banana Zucchini: Fold in ½ cup of dark chocolate chips—because life is better with chocolate.
  • Whole Wheat Swap: Use half whole-wheat flour for a nuttier, heartier muffin.
  • Dairy‑Friendly: Replace eggs with flaxseed “eggs” (1 Tbsp ground flax + 3 Tbsp water per egg) and swap oil for apple sauce at a 1:1 ratio for lighter, egg‑free muffins.

Serving Suggestions

Pair these muffins with a cozy mug of hot coffee, herbal tea, or a cool glass of milk (dairy or plant-based). Spread a little nut butter or cream cheese on top, or enjoy them as-is for a hearty grab‑and‑go breakfast or snack. They’re also perfect alongside a bowl of yogurt and fresh fruit for a balanced treat.

Conclusion

These Zucchini Banana Muffins with Oats are more than just baked treats—they’re comfort, simplicity, and a touch of wholesome goodness packed into each bite. Especially when shared warm with a loved one, they’re the kind of magic that turns a simple moment into something heartwarming. I’d love to hear: what’s your favorite muffin flavor or cozy baking memory?