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    MJ & Hungryman » Baby/Kid-Friendly Recipes

    Healthy Carrot Banana Muffins

    By Min On April 29, 2022, Updated September 11, 2022

    This post may contain affiliate links. Please see our disclosure policy for more details.

    Share or Save It for Later!

    Jump to Recipe
    A close up shot sliced muffin on toddler's hand.

    These carrot banana muffins are perfectly moist, healthy, and flavorful! Made with all natural ingredients, they are a great breakfast that you can enjoy with your toddler or kids!

    Three stacked muffins on a wire rack.

    Carrot Muffins with Banana

    If you are looking for a satisfying breakfast muffin recipe for the whole family that is easy to make and freezes well, you've come to the right place!

    Loaded with banana, carrots, applesauce, and whole grains, these muffins are sure to become one of your new favorites!

    Just imagine carrot cake meets banana bread.

    You can also add grated carrots to these oh so incredibly moist yogurt muffins too!

    Jump to:
    • Carrot Muffins with Banana
    • Ingredients
    • Step-by-Step Instructions
    • Tips for Success (be sure to read!)
    • Frequently Asked Questions
    • Other Muffins to try!
    • Healthy Carrot Banana Muffins

    Ingredients

    All the ingredients laid out on a white background.

    I am highlighting just the ones that need further explanation. The complete list is in the recipe card below.

    • Eggs - use room temperature
    • Flour- you can also use all purpose flour or 1:1 gluten free flour mix
    • Applesauce - Can use homemade applesauce or store-bought
    • Maple syrup - can also use honey

    Step-by-Step Instructions

    A four image collage showing step by step cooking process.
    1. In a large mixing bowl, stir together dry ingredients.
    2. In a separate medium bowl, whisk together the wet ingredients.
    3. Combine the dry and wet ingredients.
    4. Be careful not to over mix! Super important.
    A two image collage showing before and after baking.

    5. Scoop batter evenly into a 12-cup muffin tin. I like to use a silicone muffin pan because there's no need to grease and the muffins just pop right out!

    6. Bake until golden and inserted toothpick comes out clean.

    Tips for Success (be sure to read!)

    A close up shot sliced muffin on toddler's hand.
    • Use over ripe bananas - Your muffins will turn out sweeter and moister.
    • Use room temperature eggs - This will help the muffins rise more.
    • Pre-shredded carrots are convenient but I don't recommend using them for this recipe as they tend to be thicker and drier.
    • Grate carrots using the large holes of a box grater or shred in a food processor. You can finely grate if you want to add even more moisture to your muffins.
    • DO NOT over mix the batter! Prepare the wet and dry ingredients separately. Once added together, use a spatula (instead of a whisk) to gently combine until all the flour is wet. The less you stir the mixture, the lighter and fluffier your muffins will be.
    • Allow the muffins to cool for 3-5 minutes before transferring to a wire rack to cool completely.

    Frequently Asked Questions

    Are these muffins suitable for babies?

    Yes! Just leave out the maple syrup and slice in half or bite sized pieces depending on their age.

    Here are some more baby muffins to try!

    What makes these carrot muffins great for toddlers?

    These are an easy and delicious way to incorporate more fruits, vegetables, and whole grains into your child's diet, especially if they're going through a picky eating phase. They are not overly sweet, and the fiber will help keep them fuller for longer.

    While I say breakfast, these are great for snack time  and lunchboxes as well!
    Sliced muffin with almonds and purple and white carrots.

    How can I make the muffins sweeter?

    These muffins are not overly sweet and that is intentional. I always rely on fruits to limit the use of refined sugars, especially since it is best to avoid added sugars until the age of 2.

    These muffins are plenty sweet for babies and toddlers (and perhaps even you!). If after trying the recipe as is, you feel they need more sweetness, you can add more maple syrup or honey.

    What's a good substitute for eggs?

    You can use egg replacer like this one or flax eggs. In a bowl, combine 2 tablespoons of flaxseed meal (ground flaxseed) and 6 tablespoons of water. Allow the mixture to sit for 8-10 minutes until thickened like gel-like consistency.

    You should also try these eggless banana muffins!

    What is the best way to store these healthy muffins?

    Place in an airtight container for up to 2 days on the counter or up to 4 days in the fridge. Enjoy at room temperature or microwave briefly.

    Can I freeze carrot muffins?

    Absolutely! These freeze beautifully. I recommend flash freezing. Will keep for up to 3 months. Thaw in the refrigerator overnight.

    Other Muffins to try!

    • Healthy Carrot Oatmeal Muffins
    • Healthy Beet Muffins
    • Healthy Carrot Zucchini Muffins (Baby and Kid-friendly)
    • Vegan Vegetable Quinoa Muffins

    Easy Snack Ideas for Toddlers

    Did you make this recipe? Leave a rating below and let me know how you liked the recipe! Your feedback means so much to me!

    A close up shot sliced muffin on toddler's hand.

    Healthy Carrot Banana Muffins

    These banana carrot muffins are perfectly moist, healthy, and flavorful! Made with all natural ingredients, they are a great breakfast that even your baby and toddler can enjoy!
    5 from 46 votes
    Print Pin Rate
    Prep Time: 5 minutes
    Cook Time: 25 minutes
    Total Time: 30 minutes
    Servings: 12 muffins
    Author: Min | MJ and Hungryman

    Equipment

    • Muffin Pan

    Ingredients

    Dry

    • 1 cup whole wheat flour (170g)
    • ½ cup rolled oats (50g)
    • 1 teaspoon baking powder
    • ½ teaspoon baking soda
    • ½ teaspoon cinnamon

    Wet

    • 1 cup mashed overripe banana (240g), 2 medium
    • 1 cup grated carrots (120g), 2-3 medium carrots
    • ⅓ cup unsweetened applesauce (70g)
    • 2 eggs, room temperature
    • 3-4 tablespoons maple syrup
    • 3 tablespoons olive oil
    • 1 teaspoon vanilla extract

    Instructions

    • Preheat oven to 350° Fahrenheit.
    • In a large bowl, stir together dry ingredients.
    • In a separate bowl, whisk together the wet ingredients.
    • Combine the dry and wet ingredients. Be careful not to over mix. Use a spatula (instead of a whisk) to gently stir together until all the flour is wet. The less you stir the mixture, the lighter and fluffier your muffins will be.
    • Scoop batter evenly into a greased, lined or silicone 12-cup muffin pan.
    • Bake for 20-25 minutes, or until the inserted toothpick comes out clean. Allow the muffins to cool for 3-5 minutes before transferring to a wire rack to cool completely.

    Notes

    • If after trying the recipe as is, you feel they need more sweetness, you can add more maple syrup or honey
    • Egg-free? Use an egg replacer or flax eggs.
    • To store, place in an airtight container for up to 2 days on the counter or up to 4 days in the fridge. Enjoy at room temperature or microwave briefly.
    • Freeze for up to 3 months.

    Nutrition

    Calories: 122kcal | Carbohydrates: 18g | Protein: 3g | Fat: 5g | Sodium: 65mg | Fiber: 2g | Sugar: 6g
    Course Breakfast
    Cuisine American
    Tried this Recipe? Tag me Today!Tag me @KidFriendly.Meals today!

    More Baby/Kid-Friendly Recipes

    • Fluffy Vegetable Rice
    • How to Freeze Yogurt
    • Creamy Chicken Orzo
    • Custard Yogurt Toast (Sweet and Savory)

    Share or Save It for Later!

    Share: [addtoany]

    About Min

    Thank you so much for stopping by! I am Min, a Registered Dietitian, a Christ follower, a wife, and a mom to our two miracle babies! Currently, I’m having a ton of fun feeding their tummies and sharing our baby led weaning journey! Follow me on Instagram if interested in seeing daily menu as well as tips and tricks.

    Reader Interactions

    Comments

    1. R says

      March 09, 2023 at 11:27 am

      5 stars
      Hi! I just made this for my baby and it's amazing 🙂
      I have a quick question, after defrosting in the fridge, how long will they last?

      Reply
      • Min says

        March 09, 2023 at 4:21 pm

        Hi! I would eat within a day or two

        Reply
    2. Jen says

      February 13, 2023 at 8:26 pm

      Hi there, I was wondering if buckwheat flour would work in this recipe?

      Thank you!

      Reply
      • Min says

        February 14, 2023 at 12:09 pm

        I haven't tried but imagine the texture will be more dense. Try using half All purpose flour and half buckwheat

        Reply
    3. Jessica says

      February 13, 2023 at 12:33 pm

      Hi
      I cant find the ammounts of the ingridients... so how many gramm of what i need.
      Maybe you can help me?

      Reply
      • Min says

        February 14, 2023 at 12:09 pm

        Hi the recipe card is at the bottom of this post!

        Reply
    4. Shelley says

      January 25, 2023 at 10:07 pm

      Can you use quick oats if you don’t have rolled outs?

      Reply
      • Min says

        January 26, 2023 at 6:06 am

        Sure!

        Reply
    5. Julian says

      January 22, 2023 at 1:47 am

      Can these be made with coconut flour?

      Reply
      • Min says

        January 22, 2023 at 8:17 pm

        Hi! No it will not work, unfortunately

        Reply
      • Betsy says

        January 23, 2023 at 2:04 pm

        Can this be made with coconut flour?

        Reply
        • Min says

          January 23, 2023 at 4:47 pm

          Hi! No it won't work with coconut flour!

          Reply
    6. Julia says

      January 16, 2023 at 3:20 pm

      5 stars
      My 13 month old loves these muffins! I’ve made a few other baby friendly muffins from other sites, but these are by far her favorite. I love that she enjoys them and is getting some veggies in too!

      Reply
      • Min says

        January 16, 2023 at 6:46 pm

        This makes my heart so happy! Thank you so much for sharing!

        Reply
    7. Devon says

      December 23, 2022 at 6:24 pm

      5 stars
      These are so epic! Baby who is 11 months right now was obsessed with these (we omitted the maple syrup). We put a couple chocolate chips on top of some for mama and Dada! Thank you so much for this recipe.

      Reply
      • Min says

        December 23, 2022 at 8:36 pm

        I'm so glad that these muffins were a hit!!

        Reply
    8. Lauren Cornejo says

      December 20, 2022 at 11:36 am

      5 stars
      Husband and toddler (15mo) LOVED these. To be honest, I didn’t measure most of the wet ingredients but eyed it. Next time I’ll measure haha cuz there will definitely be a next time! I grated 3 carrots, eyed the maple syrup, put a tad less baking powder, eyed the applesauce, and added a little purée I had left over. They are so moist! Thank you for another great recipe!

      Reply
      • Lauren Cornejo says

        December 20, 2022 at 11:37 am

        When I told my husband I made muffins, he said he didn’t want any. After he tried a bite, he said I definitely need to make them again. Then he came back and ate a second muffin.

        Reply
        • Min says

          December 20, 2022 at 2:51 pm

          Haha love that!

          Reply
      • Min says

        December 20, 2022 at 2:51 pm

        I'm so glad to hear that the muffins turned out well! Thanks for sharing!

        Reply
    9. Del says

      December 12, 2022 at 12:52 am

      5 stars
      These muffins are awesome! I substitute the maple syrup with your date syrup and it turns out wonderful! So soft and moist yum!

      Reply
      • Min says

        December 12, 2022 at 8:36 pm

        I'm so glad!!!!

        Reply
    10. Rose says

      December 09, 2022 at 6:30 pm

      What’s your substitute for eggs? My son is allergic to eggs and many of recipes use it.

      Reply
      • Min says

        December 10, 2022 at 6:34 am

        Hi I try to offer substitutions as much as possible. Refer to the FAQ section 😉

        Reply
    11. Cynthia says

      December 05, 2022 at 4:07 pm

      5 stars
      Just finished making a batch of these. I didn't have any whole wheat flour so I used plain, and I used pureed prunes instead of apple sauce (happened to have a pouch in the cupboard which was exactly 70g). These turned out so moist and fluffy and they have a nice subtle sweetness. For a younger baby, you could probably get away with less maple syrup. The perfect recipe for my 1 year old's lunchbox.

      Reply
      • Min says

        December 06, 2022 at 7:25 pm

        pureed prunes!! Will have to try next time!

        Reply
    12. Lisa says

      November 26, 2022 at 1:42 am

      5 stars
      Delicious, easy, healthy option for my toddlers. Their favourite ‘cake’ so far. Adults loved these too!

      Reply
      • Min says

        November 26, 2022 at 8:23 pm

        Aww yay!! Thanks for sharing!

        Reply
    13. Barb says

      September 04, 2022 at 11:11 am

      Can you use quick oats?

      Reply
      • Min says

        September 04, 2022 at 9:32 pm

        You can!

        Reply
    14. Em says

      August 24, 2022 at 12:24 am

      5 stars
      A “go-to” thank you!

      Reply
      • Min says

        August 24, 2022 at 5:31 am

        Woohoo! Love hearing this. Thank you for sharing!

        Reply
    15. Kiran says

      July 27, 2022 at 12:55 pm

      5 stars
      This turned out to be so soft and fluffy!

      Reply
      • Min says

        July 27, 2022 at 1:23 pm

        Yay!! Enjoy!!

        Reply
    16. Noni says

      July 23, 2022 at 6:45 pm

      5 stars
      Thanks so much for the recipe these were really good! We didn’t have apple sauce so I made an apple purée using chai spices which made them smell even better! Great healthy recipe and they’re moist without being soggy which is a hard balance. Will make again 10/10

      Reply
      • Min says

        July 24, 2022 at 8:36 pm

        Ooh chai spices! Will have to try too! Thanks for such an encouraging comment ;).

        Reply
    17. Jo says

      July 20, 2022 at 7:57 pm

      Can I use oat flour as a substitute as my child has a wheat allergy?

      Reply
      • Min says

        July 23, 2022 at 4:08 pm

        Sure! Will be a bit denser but will still work! Just be sure to not overmix!

        Reply
    18. Maina says

      June 24, 2022 at 1:48 am

      Can I sub the all purpose flour for almond flour?

      Reply
      • Min says

        June 26, 2022 at 7:17 pm

        No almond flour won't work but if you need a GF alternative, you can use 1:1 gluten free baking flour

        Reply
    19. Ami says

      June 07, 2022 at 1:18 pm

      5 stars
      This turned out so good. My one year old loved it. Thank you for sharing the recipe.

      Reply
      • Min says

        June 09, 2022 at 1:33 pm

        So glad to hear! Thank you for sharing!

        Reply
    20. Melissa says

      June 06, 2022 at 12:33 pm

      Hi Min, I was curious - in a lot of your recipes I noticed you use vanilla extract. Most vanilla extracts contain a little bit of alcohol. Is it ok to use that in all the recipes when serving to babies? Or would I have to go look for non-alcohol containing vanilla extract (which I know is harder to find)? (Also side note: love all your recipes. Thank you! 😊)

      Reply
      • Min says

        June 06, 2022 at 7:13 pm

        Hi! A little bit is ok and also keep in mind it's for the whole recipe and your baby will only eat a small portion at a time. But I've found non-alcohol vanilla at Sprouts and Trader Joe's if that's what you'd prefer! And thank you so much!!

        Reply
    21. Luisa says

      May 31, 2022 at 7:04 pm

      5 stars
      These were so good! I made them for my 9 month old baby. My 5 year old got to enjoy some before the baby. Thank you for sharing such a great recipe for the fam!

      Reply
      • Min says

        May 31, 2022 at 7:13 pm

        Yay! Thank you for taking the time to share! Enjoy!!

        Reply
    22. Kristina says

      May 28, 2022 at 5:29 pm

      5 stars
      I’ve never left a comment on Pinterest before I know not irrelevant. But I had too, these muffins came out so good. It did not last long in the household today. Lol. thank you so much for creating and sharing this recipe very delicious moist lots of flavor. Kids and adults loved them.

      Reply
      • Min says

        May 28, 2022 at 7:10 pm

        I'm SO glad to hear that you guys enjoyed these muffins so much! And thank you for taking the time to share!

        Reply
    23. Pam says

      May 24, 2022 at 10:11 am

      Hello! I’m excited to try this recipe for my 1 year old! I do have a question. I’m thinking of making them into mini muffins, how would you adjust the bake time. Thanks so much! I love your recipes!

      Reply
      • Min says

        May 24, 2022 at 2:13 pm

        I can't wait for you guys to try these muffins! I would start checking 5 minutes before the suggested cooking time!

        Reply
    24. Sheetal Arora says

      May 02, 2022 at 6:56 am

      My little boy loved these! I made without apple sauce (I didn't have any) but they were so tasty! He ate 3 in one go! Thank you so much for the recipe! xxx

      Reply
      • Min says

        May 02, 2022 at 9:18 am

        Oh I'm so glad! And good to know these muffins still taste good without the applesauce! But do try with it next time. The muffins will be more moist 😉

        Reply
    25. Bonnie says

      May 01, 2022 at 10:34 am

      5 stars
      Very tasty and moist using all the tips. My 15mth old and 3 yo really like it.

      Reply
      • Min says

        May 01, 2022 at 8:41 pm

        So glad to hear!! Thanks for taking the time to share!

        Reply

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    I am MJ, a registered dietitian and a mom of 2. I truly hope you’ll enjoy all the recipes and tips that I share on what and how to feed your child!

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