A mash-up of pancakes, muffins, and banana bread—all in one easy-to-grab bite.

Choco-Banana Pancake Muffins bring all the cozy, comforting vibes of banana pancakes—with a chocolatey twist—baked into a grab-and-go muffin. Perfect for busy mornings or afternoon snacks, these Choco-Banana Pancake Muffins are soft, lightly spiced, and made with pancake mix for extra-easy prep. They’re a great way to kick off back-to-school week with something familiar, fun, and ready when you are.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• They’re made with chocolate chip pancake mix for a quick shortcut.
• Mashed banana adds natural sweetness and moisture.
• Lightly spiced with cinnamon and nutmeg for cozy flavor.
• Perfect for breakfast, snack time, or lunchboxes.
• Choco-Banana Pancake Muffins are freezer-friendly and easy to reheat.
• Kid-approved and fun to make during back-to-school week.

Ingredient Notes

• Chocolate chip pancake mix – This shortcut adds built-in flavor and sweetness, saving time and ingredients. You can use any brand, but look for one that just needs water or milk.
• Mashed ripe banana – The riper, the better! It adds moisture, natural sweetness, and that classic banana bread flavor.
• Greek yogurt – Adds protein and helps keep the muffins tender without extra fat.
• Almond milk – Any milk works here, but unsweetened almond milk keeps it light and dairy-free (if you skip the yogurt).
• Cinnamon and nutmeg – These warm spices elevate the banana and chocolate flavors, giving the muffins that cozy, just-baked vibe.
• Optional nuts – Chopped walnuts or pecans add texture and make these feel a little more like banana bread in muffin form.

Before You Bake

Do I need to use chocolate chip pancake mix?
No, you can use regular pancake mix and stir in 2–3 tablespoons of mini chocolate chips. Just make sure the mix only requires water or milk—avoid ones that need eggs or oil added separately unless you’re ready to adjust.

Can I use a different milk?
Yes! While this recipe uses almond milk, any milk will work—dairy or non-dairy. Just stick to unsweetened if you’re trying to keep sugar low.

How ripe should the banana be?
Very ripe! The banana should have lots of brown spots for maximum flavor and sweetness. If it’s not ripe enough, the muffins may turn out bland or dry.

Choco-Banana Pancake Muffins

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• Author: Taryn Camp

Ingredients

Scale 1x2x3x

• 1 cup chocolate chip pancake mix
• 1/2 tsp baking powder
• 1/4 tsp ground cinnamon
• 1/4 tsp ground nutmeg
• 1 mashed ripe banana
• 1/2 cup unsweetened almond milk
• 1 tbsp plain Greek yogurt
• 1/2 tsp vanilla extract
• 2 tbsp chopped walnuts or pecans (optional)

Instructions

1. Preheat the oven to 350°F and grease a muffin tin or line with parchment liners.
2. In a medium bowl, stir together the pancake mix, baking powder, cinnamon, and nutmeg.
3. In a separate bowl, whisk together the mashed banana, almond milk, Greek yogurt, and vanilla extract until smooth.
4. Add the wet ingredients to the dry ingredients and mix until just combined. Fold in the nuts, if using.
5. Divide the batter evenly into 9 muffin cups, filling each about ¾ full.
6. Bake for 10–12 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean.
7. Let cool for a few minutes, then enjoy warm or store for later.

FAQ

How do I store Choco-Banana Pancake Muffins?
Let them cool completely, then store in an airtight container at room temperature for 2 days or in the fridge for up to 5. They also freeze well—wrap individually and freeze for up to a month.

Can I double the recipe?
Absolutely. Just double all ingredients and bake in two muffin tins. Keep an eye on baking time, as you may need an extra minute or two depending on your oven.

Are these muffins good for school lunches?
Yes! They’re soft, nut-free (if you leave out the optional nuts), and just sweet enough to feel like a treat without being a sugar bomb. They pack well and taste great at room temperature.

Sprinkle of Fun

These Choco-Banana Pancake Muffins are the perfect back-to-school treat to bake together while chatting about new teachers, classroom adventures, and the friends waiting to be made. A sweet way to start the school year!