Name: Banana Lentil Muffins Recipe
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 22 min
Total time: 32 min
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: 2 large eggs; ⅓ cup maple syrup (or honey); ¼ cup plain Greek yogurt (low fat or full fat for best results); ¼ cup avocado oil (or neutral oil); 2 teaspoons vanilla flavoring; 1 ¼ cup ripe, mashed bananas (about 2 large bananas); 1 cup cooked red lentils (cooled and well drained; green or brown lentils also work); 1½ teaspoons cinnamon; ½ teaspoon baking soda; 1 teaspoon baking powder; ½ teaspoon salt; 1 ¼ cups whole wheat flour; ¼ cup mini chocolate chips (+ extra for topping, if desired)

Jump to Recipe· 4.2 from 15 reviews

If you are looking for a wholesome treat that combines a delightful natural sweetness with a boost of protein and fiber, this Banana Lentil Muffins Recipe is exactly what you need. These muffins are a perfect balance of moist texture and subtle chocolatey hints, all while sneaking in nutritious lentils that keep you full and satisfied. Whether you’re grabbing a quick breakfast or an afternoon pick-me-up, these muffins always deliver comfort and energy in every bite.

Ingredients You’ll Need

The image shows a flat layout of several cooking ingredients on a white marbled surface. There are two whole yellow bananas with brown spots on the right side, placed diagonally. Below the bananas is a white bowl filled with crushed orange lentils. Above the lentils are two brown eggs resting side by side. Above the eggs is a shallow wooden bowl filled with a light brown flour. To the left of the flour are three small wooden bowls arranged vertically: the top one has white powder, the middle one has a slightly coarser white powder, and the bottom has fine white salt. At the center right is a small glass bowl with white butter or cream. Next to it is a tiny white cup filled with a dark amber liquid, possibly vanilla extract. Above these is a clear glass bowl with a light liquid. At the center is a white bowl filled with many small dark brown chocolate chips. Near the top center is a small wooden bowl with orange-brown cinnamon powder, and next to it on the left is a glass bowl with a golden liquid resembling honey. The scene looks clean and bright, photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

This Banana Lentil Muffins Recipe relies on simple, everyday ingredients, each playing a special role in creating the perfect muffin texture and flavor. From ripe bananas adding natural sweetness and moisture to lentils bringing a hearty, nutritious touch, every component counts.

2 large eggs: Acts as the binding agent and provides structure for the muffins.

⅓ cup maple syrup (or honey): Adds sweetness with a rich, natural flavor.
¼ cup plain Greek yogurt: Contributes moisture and a slight tang, keeping the muffins tender.
¼ cup avocado oil (or neutral oil): Keeps the muffins moist and soft without overpowering flavors.

2 teaspoons vanilla flavoring: Enhances the sweetness and aroma beautifully.
1 ¼ cup ripe, mashed bananas: The star ingredient, providing natural sweetness, moisture, and flavor.
1 cup cooked red lentils (cooled and well drained): A surprising ingredient that adds protein, fiber, and excellent texture.

1½ teaspoons cinnamon: Warms up the flavor profile with a cozy spice note.
½ teaspoon baking soda: Helps the muffins rise perfectly fluffy.
1 teaspoon baking powder: Provides additional lift and airiness.
½ teaspoon salt: Balances sweetness and enhances flavor depth.
1 ¼ cups whole wheat flour: Gives the muffins a nutty flavor and hearty texture.

¼ cup mini chocolate chips: Adds a delightful, melty chocolate surprise in every bite.

How to Make Banana Lentil Muffins Recipe

Step 1: Preheat and Prepare

Start by heating your oven to 350℉. Line a 12-cup muffin tin with paper liners to make for easy removal and cleanup. Getting this ready upfront means everything else will flow smoothly.

Step 2: Blend the Wet Ingredients

In a blender, add eggs, maple syrup or honey, avocado oil, Greek yogurt, vanilla, mashed bananas, cooked lentils, cinnamon, baking soda, baking powder, and salt in that order. Putting the wet ingredients at the bottom helps the blades move easily to create a perfectly smooth batter, so blend until everything is silky before moving on.

Step 3: Combine Dry Ingredients and Chocolate Chips

Sprinkle in the whole wheat flour and mini chocolate chips over your banana-lentil puree. Mix gently with a spatula until just combined. Avoid overmixing so the muffins stay light and tender instead of dense.

Step 4: Portion the Batter

Divide the batter evenly among the muffin cups. For a little extra chocolatey goodness, sprinkle some more mini chocolate chips on top before baking.

Step 5: Bake to Perfection

Place the muffin tin in the oven and bake for 20-22 minutes. A toothpick inserted into the center should come out clean. If you’re a bit more precise, the internal temperature should reach 200℉ to ensure they are cooked through yet moist.

Step 6: Cool and Enjoy

Let the muffins cool in the pan for about 10 minutes to set up, then transfer to a wire rack to cool completely. These Banana Lentil Muffins Recipe treats are best enjoyed once they’ve cooled but go ahead and sneak a warm one if you just can’t wait!

How to Serve Banana Lentil Muffins Recipe

A 12-slot muffin pan holds twelve golden brown muffins with small chocolate chips visible on the cracked tops, each muffin sitting in a light tan paper liner. The pan rests on a wire cooling rack above a white marbled surface. To the top left, two yellow bananas with some brown spots curve gently. At the top right, a stack of white plates has two forks resting on the top plate. A woman's hand with light skin holds a blue and white striped kitchen towel, grasping the bottom right corner of the muffin pan. photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

Garnishes

A simple dusting of powdered sugar or a light drizzle of honey enhances the natural sweetness without overpowering the flavors. For a little crunch and contrast, consider sprinkling chopped nuts on top before baking.

Side Dishes

Pair these muffins with a cup of your favorite coffee or tea for a cozy snack. If serving for breakfast, a side of fresh fruit or a dollop of Greek yogurt complements the hearty, nutritious muffins perfectly.

Creative Ways to Present

Transform these muffins into a fun brunch feature by slicing them horizontally and spreading with almond butter or cream cheese between layers to make mini muffin sandwiches. They also make outstanding grab-and-go snacks in a lunchbox!

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Once completely cooled, store any leftover Banana Lentil Muffins in an airtight container in the refrigerator. They stay fresh for up to four days, maintaining their tender crumb and flavor.

Freezing

These muffins freeze beautifully to extend their life. Wrap them individually or pack in a freezer-safe container for up to a month. To enjoy later, thaw at room temperature or warm gently in the oven.

Reheating

For best texture when reheating, pop the muffins into a 300℉ oven for about 5-7 minutes. Avoid the microwave when possible, as it can make them a bit soggy. A warm muffin with melty chocolate chips feels just like fresh-baked!

FAQs

Can I use other types of lentils instead of red lentils?

Absolutely! While red lentils are soft and blend easily, green or brown lentils can work fine as long as they are cooked and drained thoroughly. Just keep in mind that texture might be slightly different but delicious nonetheless.

Can I substitute the avocado oil with another oil?

Yes, you can use any neutral-tasting oil such as canola or light olive oil. The key is to keep the flavor mild so it doesn’t overpower the natural banana and lentil flavors.

Are these muffins gluten-free?

This Banana Lentil Muffins Recipe uses whole wheat flour, so it is not gluten-free by default. However, you could try substituting a gluten-free flour blend, though the texture may vary a bit.

How ripe should the bananas be for this recipe?

The riper, the better! Look for bananas with plenty of brown spots as they’ll provide maximum sweetness and moisture, which is perfect for these muffins.

Can I add other mix-ins besides chocolate chips?

Definitely! Nuts, dried fruits, or even shredded coconut would be fantastic additions. Just add about the same quantity as the chocolate chips to maintain the batter’s balance.

Final Thoughts

I can’t recommend this Banana Lentil Muffins Recipe enough for anyone who wants a delicious, nutritious muffin that feels both comforting and a little adventurous. It’s easy to make, uses simple ingredients, and sneaks in healthy lentils in a way your whole family will love. Give it a try—you might just find your new favorite muffin!