There is something so incredibly comforting about banana bread. I am not sure what it is. Perhaps it is the intoxicating smell as it bakes, or the comforting memories that I associate with it from my childhood. Whatever it is, it is so alluring that when I see the bananas in the fruit bowl beginning to turn brown, I get a little bit excited. I will often mix up loaves of classic banana bread, like my grandmother used to make, but occasionally I like to shake things up and make banana muffins instead. I have made Ina Garten’s famous Banana Crunch Muffins for years. People are always really surprised by what great texture and flavor they have compared to more commonly available banana nut muffins. I always add a dash of both cinnamon and freshly grated nutmeg, which her recipe doesn’t call for, and I will sometimes omit the granola (as was the case this morning), depending on what I have laying around the house. When I am making these muffins for myself I also leave out the nuts, since I am allergic to both walnuts and pecans, but they do impart a wonderful flavor and additional texture. I remember when I first made these muffins the addition of coconut was a revelation. I mean, what a delicious idea, right? And to top them all off, a sprinkling of banana chips before baking, which is just so perfectly rustic and charming. Sweet and spicy, moist and crunchy, these muffins always make a splash. Perfect for that on the go breakfast, business meeting, brunch, or delightful little afternoon snack with coffee. Enjoy!
Jacob's Kitchen 
these look delightful. i love the banana chip idea!
Wow! This banana muffins looks so so so beautiful. I love the yellow colour. It reminds me of sunflower. 😉
When my son was little banana was his favorite food. We have a number of recipes that are tried and true, but I love some of the differences in this one. The coconut is an excellent idea, and I love the bananas chips on top! These will be in our kitchen soon. Thank you so much for this post!
I recently developed an allergy to walnuts and pecans too. I miss them so much in banana bread, but the granola in Ina Gartens recipe seems like a wonderful substitute. Your muffins look amazing!
I know what you mean about the whole Banana thing, love it. Beautiful pictures.
I know what you mean about the comfort of banana bread. I made some this week and my kids were so excited, you’d have thought I’d made candy bars.
Those muffins with the chips are great; an added taste of banana in an unexpected way.
I love love love the banana chip idea!
ooo, i like the banana chips on the top. that would give it a nice crunch and let you know what type of muffin it is – looks great!