Do you ever find a single overripe banana on the counter that no one wants to eat? I do. When that happens I ask, “What can I make with one banana?” The answer here is Banana Carrot Chocolate Chip Muffins. These muffins are an easy, kid-friendly after-school snack because they include both fruit and vegetables. I love sneaking veggies into treats, so I added grated carrot just like in my Banana Zucchini Muffins.
This recipe is versatile. Use 1–2 bananas for a mild banana flavor or up to 4 bananas for a stronger taste. If you use only 1–2 bananas and prefer sweeter muffins, add 1/4 cup sugar, or use vanilla yogurt to boost sweetness while keeping the fat at 1/2 cup butter or oil. You can also replace half of the butter or oil with 1/2 cup applesauce for a lighter version.
Swapping part of the fat for yogurt or applesauce and using some whole wheat flour yields a healthier muffin that still works well for breakfast or a quick snack. You can omit the chocolate chips for a more wholesome option, though a few chips often make these more appealing to kids.
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Step-by-Step Photos for How to Make Banana Carrot Chocolate Chip Muffins

Frequently Asked Questions about Banana Carrot Chocolate Chip Muffins
Will store-bought shredded carrots work in this recipe?
I don’t recommend pre-shredded carrots; they are usually drier than freshly grated carrots. Freshly grated carrot adds moisture and helps keep the muffins tender and moist.
Do you recommend using a food processor to grate the carrot?
A food processor works well if you want finely grated carrots quickly, and it saves time.
Can I use more than one banana in this recipe?
Yes. You can use up to four bananas if you prefer a stronger banana flavor; using more bananas may increase the batter volume and yield.
If I want to use Greek yogurt or applesauce in place of the butter, how much should I use?
Substitute half of the butter or oil with 1/2 cup Greek yogurt or 1/2 cup applesauce for a lighter texture and reduced fat.
Can I substitute all-purpose flour for whole wheat flour?
Using 100% whole wheat flour will make the muffins dense. For best results, use a mix of half whole wheat and half all-purpose flour.
How many muffins does this recipe make?
The recipe yields about 24 muffins. If you increase the number of bananas, you may get a slightly larger yield.
Baker’s Tools
- Muffin pan
- Muffin liners
- Cooking spray
- Food processor (optional)
- Mixing bowls
- Measuring cups
Mini Muffins Kids Love
- 1–2 ripe bananas (up to 4 for extra banana flavor)
- 1 cup finely grated carrot (about 1 medium carrot)
- 1 1/2 cups granulated sugar
- 2 eggs
- 1 cup melted butter or canola oil (substitute 1/2 cup with Greek yogurt or applesauce if desired)
- 1 tsp vanilla extract
- 3 cups all-purpose flour (or half whole wheat, half all-purpose)
- 2 tsp baking soda
- 2 tsp baking powder
- 1 1/2 tsp ground cinnamon
- 1 tsp salt
- 1 cup chocolate chips (optional)
- Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C).
- Prepare muffin tins with liners or spray with cooking spray and set aside.
- In a medium bowl, mash the banana(s) until mostly smooth.
- Add the grated carrot, sugar, melted butter or oil, eggs, and vanilla. Stir until combined.
- In another bowl, whisk together the flour, baking soda, baking powder, cinnamon, and salt.
- Add the dry ingredients to the wet ingredients and mix just until moistened, about 10–12 strokes; do not overmix.
- Fold in the chocolate chips until evenly distributed.
- Scoop the batter into the prepared muffin tin, filling each cup about two-thirds full.
- Bake at 375°F for 15–18 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean.
- Allow muffins to cool slightly, then enjoy.
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Frequently Asked Questions about Banana Carrot Chocolate Chip Muffins
If I want to use Greek yogurt or applesauce in place of the butter, how much should I use?
Baker’s Tools