Chocolate Veggie Muffins

5 from 4 votes

This post may contain affiliate links. Please read our disclosure policy.

These healthy Chocolate Veggie Muffins are a delightful way to sneak in some greens without losing any of the delicious taste. Perfect for toddlers and adults, they combine the natural sweetness of bananas with the richness of cocoa and the nutritional benefits of spinach. Whether you’re looking for a quick breakfast, a lunchbox addition, or a wholesome snack, these muffins have got you covered.

Several chocolate veggie muffins on a white plate

Why Chocolate Veggie Muffins are Perfect for Kids

1. A Double Dose of Deliciousness: Not only do the muffins taste amazing, but they are packed with veggies! You will love feeding these to your kids.

2. Sneaky Veggie Goodness: If your kids give veggies the side-eye, these muffins are your secret weapon. They are packed with the goodness of spinach, which blends into the chocolaty batter. The result? A muffin that kids adore and parents love for the added nutrients.

3. Breakfast or Snack – You Decide: Chocolate Veggie Muffins aren’t just for breakfast. They make for an excellent snack or even a treat after dinner. They’re versatile companions that bring joy to every part of the day.

4. Perfect for On-the-Go Moms: Life as a parent is busy, and snacks should be hassle-free. These muffins are easy to whip up and can be stored for those moments when hunger strikes – whether you’re at home or on the move.

5. Kid-Approved, Mom-Recommended: When your little ones ask for seconds, you know you’ve struck gold. These muffins have a kid-friendly taste with a hidden twist that parents can wholeheartedly appreciate. These healthy chocolate veggie muffins for toddlers are sugar-free, freezer-friendly, and perfect for baby-led weaning.


Ingredients

  • 2 mashed bananas
  • 2 eggs
  • 1 cup flour (whole wheat or all-purpose)
  • 2 tbsp cocoa powder
  • 2 big handfuls of spinach
  • 2 tsp baking powder
  • 1/2 cup chocolate chips (because a touch of chocolate is essential!)

Tools:

  • Muffin tin
  • Muffin liners (optional)
  • Food processor or blender

How to Make Chocolate Spinach Muffins

Step 1: Blend Start by adding all the ingredients to your blender or food processor. Blend until the spinach is finely chopped.

Step 2: Chocolate Bliss Add a handful of chocolate chips to the batter. These chips will melt as the muffins bake, creating pockets of gooey chocolate.

Step 3: Bake to Perfection Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Lightly grease it. Fill each muffin cup with the batter, leaving a little space at the top for the muffins to rise. Bake for about 12 minutes or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.

Step 4: Cool and Share Allow the muffins to cool in the tin for a few minutes before transferring them to a wire rack.

A stack of chocolate veggie muffins

Substitutions

  • Flour: You can use whole wheat flour for added fiber or go for a gluten-free blend.
  • Eggs: Replace with flax eggs (1 tablespoon ground flaxseed mixed with 3 tablespoons water per egg) for an egg-free version.
  • Bananas: If you’re out of bananas, unsweetened applesauce can be a suitable alternative, though it may slightly change the flavor.
  • Spinach: Kale can be used instead of spinach, but it has a stronger flavor and may affect the taste profile.
  • Chocolate Chips: Feel free to use dairy-free chocolate chips or omit them for a less sweet version.

Storing Healthy Chocolate Muffins

After these muffins have cooled completely, you can store them in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days. If you’re planning for longer storage, pop them into the refrigerator for up to a week, or freeze them in a zip lock bag for up to three months. To enjoy, simply warm them up in the microwave or oven.


Common Questions

Can I make either mini muffins or regular-sized muffins?

  • Yes you can! This recipe works well in both mini and standard muffin tins. For mini muffins, bake for about 12-14 minutes, and for regular-sized muffins, bake for 15–18 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean. Just make sure to adjust the baking time based on the size you choose.

Does it have to be fresh spinach or can I use frozen?

  • Fresh spinach works the best, but if you’re using frozen spinach make sure to thaw and drain the extra liquid.

Can I add other veggies?

  • While spinach is the main veggie here, finely grated zucchini or carrots can be added. Make sure they are well-drained to prevent excess moisture.

More Easy Muffins for Toddlers

Cottage Cheese Muffins – These protein-packed cottage cheese muffins are soft, savory, and toddler-approved. Made with simple ingredients, they’re a great high-protein breakfast or snack option for little ones—and they freeze beautifully for meal prep!

Spinach Muffins – These naturally sweetened spinach muffins are a sneaky way to get in extra greens! Soft, moist, and lightly spiced with banana, they’re perfect for picky eaters and baby-led weaning alike.

Banana Carrot Mini Muffins – A wholesome blend of ripe bananas and finely grated carrots makes these mini muffins a toddler favorite. They’re naturally sweetened, freezer-friendly, and perfect for baby-led weaning or healthy snacks on the go.

Raspberry Muffins – These soft and fruity raspberry muffins are bursting with juicy berries and naturally sweet flavors. Great for toddler snacks or breakfast, they’re made with wholesome ingredients and just the right amount of sweetness.

Healthy Pumpkin Muffins – Filled with cozy fall flavors and made with real pumpkin puree, these healthy pumpkin muffins are moist, gently spiced, and great for toddlers. No refined sugar, just nutritious goodness in every bite.


Did you and your little ones love these hidden-veggie chocolate muffins? I’d love to see your creations! Tag me on Instagram @reallittlemeals 🙂

Want to save this recipe?
Just enter your email and get it sent to your inbox! Plus you’ll get new recipes from us every week!
5 chocolate veggie muffins on a white divided plate with strawberries and blueberries
5 from 4 votes

Chocolate Veggie Muffins

These rich, fudgy chocolate muffins are secretly packed with spinach and banana—but you’d never know it! Naturally sweetened and freezer-friendly, they’re the perfect healthy treat for toddlers and picky eaters. Great for snacks, breakfast, or lunchboxes with a hidden veggie boost.
Prep: 5 minutes
Cook: 16 minutes
Servings: 12 mini muffins

Ingredients 

  • 2 bananas, mashed
  • 2 eggs
  • 1 cup flour
  • 2 tbsp cocoa powder
  • 2 cups spinach, fresh
  • 2 tsp baking powder
  • 1/2 cup chocolate chips

Instructions 

  • Preheat oven to 350 degrees Fahrenheit
  • Put all ingredients into a blender besides chocolate chips and blend until smooth.
  • Fold in chocolate chips.
  • Spray the mini muffin pan and scoop batter into each one.
  • Cook in the oven for 12-14 minutes.

Notes

Blending Tip: For a smoother texture, ensure the spinach is finely blended with the wet ingredients before combining with dry ingredients.
Muffin Size: This recipe yields approximately 12 mini muffins. If using a standard muffin tin, add 2-5 minutes to the baking time.
Sweetness Level: The natural sweetness from bananas is usually good, but you can add a tablespoon of honey or maple syrup if desired.
Serving Suggestions: Pair with fresh fruit or a dollop of yogurt for a balanced snack.

Nutrition

Calories: 107kcal, Carbohydrates: 18g, Protein: 3g, Fat: 3g, Saturated Fat: 2g, Polyunsaturated Fat: 0.2g, Monounsaturated Fat: 0.3g, Trans Fat: 0.003g, Cholesterol: 27mg, Sodium: 86mg, Potassium: 154mg, Fiber: 1g, Sugar: 7g, Vitamin A: 521IU, Vitamin C: 3mg, Calcium: 57mg, Iron: 1mg

Nutrition information is automatically calculated, so should only be used as an approximation.

Additional Info

Course: Snack
Cuisine: American
Tried this recipe?Mention @reallittlemeals or tag #reallittlemeals!

You May Also Like

About Ashley

As a mom to two, I know how stressful feeding little ones can be. That’s why I love helping other parents provide simple, healthy meals that your toddler and whole family will love. From quick and easy snacks, to full meals, I’ve got your mealtimes covered.

Get 5 Days of Meal Ideas!
Do you struggle to come up with meal ideas for your little one(s)? Subscribe to my newsletter and get a FREE email series with 5 days of realistic meal ideas!

Leave a comment

Your email address will not be published. Required fields are marked *

Recipe Rating




19 Comments

  1. 5 stars
    AMAZING!!!!!!!!!!!!!!
    Should they have a “fudgey” texture? I may need a better blender….
    THANK YOU!

    1. So yummy! I had to add 5 more minutes in my oven and added 1 fruit date in the blender for the sweetness as my toddler is alittle older. We love it. Thank you

  2. 5 stars
    Can I omit the baking soda/powder in the recipe? Will it still turn out fine? And may I know if I can substitute the banana with sugar. If yes, how much should I put? Thank you

  3. 5 stars
    I prefer using muffin liners over greasing the pan for easier clean up but every time I do half the muffins sticks to the liner. Why does this keep happening??
    Yummy muffins although my handful of spinach may have been too big lol