Pumpkin Banana Bread: A Cozy Fall Recipe
Are you ready for a taste of autumn? This pumpkin banana bread recipe is the perfect blend of warm spices, moist banana, and creamy pumpkin puree. It's incredibly easy to make, and the result is a loaf of bread that's both delicious and satisfying. Perfect for breakfast, brunch, or a cozy afternoon snack!
Why This Recipe Works
This recipe isn't just about throwing ingredients together; it's about achieving the perfect balance of flavors and textures. Here's why it works so well:
- The Perfect Pumpkin-Banana Combo: The sweetness of ripe bananas perfectly complements the subtle earthiness of pumpkin puree. This creates a harmonious flavor profile that's both comforting and irresistible.
- Spiced to Perfection: A blend of cinnamon, nutmeg, and cloves adds warmth and depth to the bread, enhancing the autumnal flavors. Don't be shy with the spices!
- Moist and Tender Crumb: We use a combination of oil and mashed bananas to ensure a moist and tender crumb that's far superior to drier, cakier versions.
Ingredients You'll Need
Gathering the ingredients is a breeze! You likely already have many of them in your pantry.
- 1 ½ cups all-purpose flour (or gluten-free blend)
- 1 teaspoon baking soda
- ½ teaspoon baking powder
- 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
- ½ teaspoon ground nutmeg
- ¼ teaspoon ground cloves
- ½ teaspoon salt
- ¾ cup granulated sugar (or less, to taste)
- ½ cup packed light brown sugar
- ⅓ cup vegetable oil
- 2 large eggs
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1 cup mashed ripe bananas (about 3 medium)
- 1 cup pumpkin puree (not pumpkin pie filling)
- Optional: ½ cup chopped walnuts or pecans
Step-by-Step Instructions
Making this pumpkin banana bread is easier than you think! Follow these simple steps:
Step 1: Preheat & Prep
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease and flour a 9x5 inch loaf pan. This prevents sticking and ensures easy removal.
Step 2: Combine Dry Ingredients
In a large bowl, whisk together the flour, baking soda, baking powder, cinnamon, nutmeg, cloves, and salt. This ensures even distribution of the leavening agents.
Step 3: Combine Wet Ingredients
In a separate bowl, whisk together the granulated sugar, brown sugar, oil, eggs, and vanilla extract. Make sure the sugars are fully dissolved.
Step 4: Combine Wet & Dry
Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet ingredients, mixing until just combined. Don't overmix! Overmixing can lead to a tough bread.
Step 5: Add Pumpkin & Bananas
Gently fold in the mashed bananas and pumpkin puree. If using nuts, add them now as well.
Step 6: Bake
Pour the batter into the prepared loaf pan and bake for 50-60 minutes, or until a wooden skewer inserted into the center comes out clean.
Step 7: Cool & Enjoy
Let the bread cool in the pan for 10 minutes before transferring it to a wire rack to cool completely. Slice and enjoy!
Tips for Success
- Use ripe bananas: The riper the bananas, the sweeter and more flavorful your bread will be.
- Don't overmix: Overmixing develops gluten, resulting in a tough bread. Mix until just combined.
- Check for doneness: Use a wooden skewer or toothpick to check for doneness. If it comes out clean, the bread is ready.
- Cool completely: Allowing the bread to cool completely before slicing prevents it from crumbling.
Serving Suggestions
This pumpkin banana bread is delicious on its own, but you can also elevate it with:
- A smear of cream cheese
- A dollop of whipped cream
- A sprinkle of powdered sugar
Enjoy this delicious and easy pumpkin banana bread recipe! Let me know in the comments how yours turns out!
