Pumpkin banana bread combines two beloved flavors—pumpkin and banana—into one moist, delicious loaf that’s perfect for any time of the year, but especially during the fall season. With warm spices and natural sweetness from the bananas, this bread is a wonderful way to enjoy the flavors of autumn.
In this guide, you’ll learn everything you need to know to bake the perfect pumpkin banana bread. From ingredients to step-by-step instructions, we’ll also share tips for making it extra moist, how to store it, and variations to try. This recipe is perfect for breakfast, a snack, or dessert. If you’re in the mood for another fall favorite, you might enjoy this butterscotch pie recipe for a sweet and decadent treat.
Why Pumpkin Banana Bread?
Pumpkin banana bread is a delicious twist on classic banana bread, making it even more flavorful and perfect for fall. Here are a few reasons why pumpkin banana bread is the perfect bake:
- Moist and Tender: The combination of mashed bananas and pumpkin puree creates a super moist bread that’s soft and tender with every bite.
- Packed with Nutrients: Pumpkin is rich in vitamins A and C, while bananas are high in potassium and fiber. Together, they make this bread a somewhat healthier treat.
- Versatile Flavor: You can enjoy this bread plain or enhance it with mix-ins like walnuts, chocolate chips, or spices.
- Seasonal Appeal: Pumpkin is the star of fall recipes, making this bread a perfect way to celebrate the season.
For those looking for a versatile autumn treat, this bread also pairs wonderfully with other seasonal dishes like chicken vegetable soup or a comforting side like crockpot mac and cheese.
Ingredients You’ll Need
The ingredients for pumpkin banana bread are simple and likely already in your pantry. Here’s what you’ll need:
Wet Ingredients:
- 1 cup pumpkin puree (not pumpkin pie filling)
- 2 medium ripe bananas, mashed
- 1/2 cup unsalted butter, melted (or vegetable oil for a dairy-free option)
- 1/2 cup granulated sugar
- 1/4 cup packed brown sugar
- 2 large eggs, room temperature
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
Dry Ingredients:
- 1 1/2 cups all-purpose flour
- 1 teaspoon baking soda
- 1/2 teaspoon baking powder
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
- 1/2 teaspoon ground nutmeg
- 1/2 teaspoon ground ginger
- 1/4 teaspoon ground cloves
Optional Mix-Ins:
- 1/2 cup chopped walnuts
- 1/2 cup chocolate chips
- 1/2 cup raisins
These ingredients come together to form a flavorful, spiced loaf that’s perfect for fall. The pumpkin adds warmth, while the bananas provide natural sweetness. You can also adjust the sweetness or add-ins to suit your preferences.
If you’re looking for more comforting fall recipes, you can also try roasted vegetable soup as a hearty, savory complement to this sweet bread.
Step-by-Step Instructions
Step 1: Preheat the Oven
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease a 9×5-inch loaf pan with butter or nonstick cooking spray, or line it with parchment paper for easy removal.
Step 2: Prepare the Wet Ingredients
In a large mixing bowl, mash the ripe bananas until smooth. Add the pumpkin puree, melted butter, granulated sugar, brown sugar, eggs, and vanilla extract. Whisk together until the mixture is well combined and creamy.
Step 3: Mix the Dry Ingredients
In a separate bowl, whisk together the flour, baking soda, baking powder, salt, cinnamon, nutmeg, ginger, and cloves. Make sure the spices are well incorporated to evenly distribute the flavor throughout the bread.
Step 4: Combine the Wet and Dry Ingredients
Slowly add the dry ingredients to the wet ingredients, mixing gently until just combined. Be careful not to overmix the batter, as this can result in a dense loaf. If you’re adding mix-ins like walnuts, chocolate chips, or raisins, fold them into the batter at this stage.
Step 5: Bake the Bread
Pour the batter into the prepared loaf pan and smooth the top with a spatula. Place the pan in the preheated oven and bake for 60 to 70 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.
Step 6: Cool the Bread
Once the bread is done baking, remove it from the oven and allow it to cool in the pan for about 10 minutes. After that, transfer it to a wire rack to cool completely before slicing.
Tips for the Best Pumpkin Banana Bread
Creating the perfect pumpkin banana bread is easy if you follow these simple tips:
- Use Overripe Bananas: The riper the bananas, the sweeter and more flavorful the bread will be. Look for bananas with lots of brown spots for the best results.
- Don’t Overmix the Batter: Overmixing can result in a dense, tough bread. Mix just until the ingredients are combined for a tender loaf.
- Add Mix-Ins: Customize your bread with your favorite add-ins like chocolate chips, nuts, or dried fruit. They add both texture and flavor.
- Check for Doneness: Oven temperatures can vary, so start checking the bread at the 60-minute mark. Insert a toothpick into the center of the bread. If it comes out clean or with just a few crumbs, the bread is done.
- Let It Cool Completely: Allow the bread to cool fully before slicing to avoid a crumbly texture.
If you love experimenting with textures, consider adding a crunchy topping or mixing in your favorite nuts or seeds for an extra bite, much like the additions in this blueberry fritter bites recipe.
Delicious Variations
Pumpkin banana bread is a versatile recipe that you can adapt in many ways. Here are some fun variations to try:
1. Chocolate Chip Pumpkin Banana Bread
For a richer, sweeter version of this bread, fold 1/2 cup of chocolate chips into the batter before baking. The melty chocolate adds a wonderful contrast to the pumpkin and banana flavors.
2. Pumpkin Banana Nut Bread
Add 1/2 cup of chopped walnuts or pecans to the batter for a bit of crunch and nutty flavor. The nuts also complement the warm spices in the bread beautifully.
3. Spiced Pumpkin Banana Bread
If you love the flavors of fall spices, increase the amount of cinnamon and nutmeg, and add 1 teaspoon of pumpkin pie spice to the mix. This version has an extra kick of spice that’s perfect for cozy fall days.
4. Healthy Pumpkin Banana Bread
For a healthier twist, swap out the granulated sugar for maple syrup or honey and use whole wheat flour in place of all-purpose flour. You can also replace the butter with coconut oil for a dairy-free option.
These variations make it easy to tailor the bread to your preferences. For another take on classic baking, try this sourdough cinnamon rolls recipe, which has a wonderfully tangy flavor.
Serving and Storing Pumpkin Banana Bread
Serving Ideas:
- Plain: Enjoy a slice of pumpkin banana bread fresh from the oven, either plain or with a dab of butter.
- With Spreads: Spread some cream cheese, peanut butter, or a drizzle of honey on your slice for a richer, more decadent snack.
- Toasted: Toast slices and serve with a side of yogurt and fruit for a hearty breakfast.
How to Store Pumpkin Banana Bread:
- At Room Temperature: Wrap the cooled loaf tightly in plastic wrap or place it in an airtight container. It will stay fresh for up to 3 days at room temperature.
- In the Refrigerator: Store the bread in the fridge for up to 1 week. Just be sure to wrap it tightly to prevent it from drying out.
- Freezing Pumpkin Banana Bread: This bread freezes well. Wrap individual slices in plastic wrap, then place them in a freezer-safe bag or container. The bread will keep in the freezer for up to 3 months.
When you’re ready to enjoy it, simply thaw a slice at room temperature or pop it in the toaster for a warm treat.
Perfect Pairings for Pumpkin Banana Bread
Pumpkin banana bread pairs wonderfully with a variety of dishes and beverages. Here are a few suggestions:
- Coffee or Tea: A warm slice of this bread with a hot cup of coffee or chai tea makes for the perfect afternoon snack.
- Soup: Pair it with a savory soup, like chicken noodle soup, for a hearty, comforting meal.
- Ice Cream: For dessert, serve it alongside a scoop of vanilla or cinnamon ice cream.
For a comforting fall meal, try serving it alongside a warm bowl of ground beef vegetable soup.
Frequently Asked Questions
1. Can I use canned pumpkin puree?
Yes, make sure to use pure pumpkin puree and not pumpkin pie filling, which contains added sugars and spices.
2. Can I make this recipe vegan?
Yes, simply replace the eggs with flax eggs (1 tablespoon of ground flaxseed mixed with 3 tablespoons of water per egg), and use vegetable oil instead of butter.
3. How do I keep my bread moist?
To keep your bread moist, ensure that you do not overbake it. Storing it properly by wrapping it tightly also helps retain moisture.
4. Can I freeze pumpkin banana bread?
Absolutely! Wrap slices individually and freeze them for up to 3 months. Thaw them at room temperature or in the toaster when you’re ready to eat.
5. Can I add extra bananas?
Yes, but adding too many bananas could make the bread overly dense. Stick to the recommended amount for the best texture.
Conclusion
Pumpkin banana bread is the perfect fall treat—soft, moist, and filled with warm, spiced flavors. Whether you’re making it for breakfast, a snack, or dessert, this bread is sure to please. Plus, it’s easy to customize with mix-ins and variations that suit your taste preferences. By following the steps in this guide, you’ll be able to bake a perfect loaf every time.
For more cozy fall baking ideas, don’t forget to check out this chocolate chip banana bread recipe, which is another delicious loaf that’s perfect for any occasion.