Pumpkin Banana Bread

Name: Pumpkin Banana Bread
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 1 h
Total time: 1 h 15 min
Yield: 1 loaf
Ingredients: 1 cup ripe bananas, mashed (about 2 large); 1 cup pumpkin puree; 1/2 cup vegetable oil; 3/4 cup brown sugar; 2 large eggs; 1 teaspoon vanilla extract; 2 cups all-purpose flour; 1 teaspoon baking soda; 1/2 teaspoon baking powder; 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon; 1/2 teaspoon ground nutmeg; 1/2 teaspoon salt

Highlighted under: Sweet Moments Studio

I absolutely love baking, and this Pumpkin Banana Bread is one of my all-time favorites. The blend of ripe bananas and pumpkin creates a wonderfully moist texture that is hard to resist. Not only is it incredibly easy to make, but it also fills the kitchen with the most delightful aroma. Every bite feels like a warm hug, making it perfect for cozy afternoons or as a heartfelt gift to friends and family. I can’t wait for you to try it and experience the joy it brings!

Created by

Elodie Brooks

Last updated on 2026-02-07T21:43:36.503Z

When I first decided to put pumpkin and bananas together in a loaf, I wasn't sure how it would turn out. But as soon as I took it out of the oven, the beautiful color and tempting scent had me hooked. I’ve learned that the key is to ensure your bananas are super ripe for optimal sweetness and flavor, which perfectly complements the warm spices often found in pumpkin recipes.

With every slice, I realized that not only did it taste fantastic, but it was also versatile! I've even tried adding chocolate chips and nuts for a delightful twist. Whether enjoyed plain or topped with a bit of butter, each piece is a scrumptious treat.

Why You'll Love This Recipe
Deliciously moist with a perfect blend of banana and pumpkin
Warm spices make it an ideal fall and winter treat
Simple ingredients that come together effortlessly

The Magic of Pumpkin and Banana

In this Pumpkin Banana Bread, the combination of ripe bananas and pumpkin puree not only enhances the flavor profile but also contributes significantly to the bread's moistness. Bananas provide natural sweetness, while pumpkin adds a subtle earthiness and vibrant color. This duo ensures that each slice remains tender, making it ideal for those who enjoy a softer crumb. Together, they create a delightful balance that can be enjoyed fresh or toasted.

Moreover, the moisture from the pumpkin helps to prevent the bread from drying out, which is often a problem with quick breads. If you find yourself with overripe bananas, this recipe is a perfect way to utilize them while incorporating the seasonal flavor of pumpkin. This means you can bake your bread even while managing ripe produce, making it a practical choice for many home bakers.

Embracing Warm Spices

The spices in this recipe—cinnamon and nutmeg—are not just for flavor but also enhance the overall baking experience. These warm spices are synonymous with fall and winter, creating an inviting aroma that fills your kitchen and wraps you in comfort as it bakes. Since spices can vary in potency, consider fresh ground spices for a more vibrant flavor. If you're looking to customize, experimenting with a pinch of ginger or cloves can add a delightful twist.

For an even deeper flavor, you might toast your spices briefly in a dry pan before mixing them into the dry ingredients. This step releases essential oils and intensifies their aroma, ensuring that their warmth permeates every bite. It's a simple yet effective technique that can elevate your Pumpkin Banana Bread to extraordinary levels.

Ingredients

Wet Ingredients

1 cup ripe bananas, mashed (about 2 large)
1 cup pumpkin puree
1/2 cup vegetable oil
3/4 cup brown sugar
2 large eggs
1 teaspoon vanilla extract

Dry Ingredients

2 cups all-purpose flour
1 teaspoon baking soda
1/2 teaspoon baking powder
1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
1/2 teaspoon ground nutmeg
1/2 teaspoon salt

Instructions

Preheat the Oven

Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and grease a 9x5 inch loaf pan.

Mix Wet Ingredients

In a large bowl, combine the mashed bananas, pumpkin puree, vegetable oil, brown sugar, eggs, and vanilla extract. Mix well until smooth.

Combine Dry Ingredients

In another bowl, whisk together the flour, baking soda, baking powder, cinnamon, nutmeg, and salt.

Combine Mixtures

Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet ingredients, mixing until just combined. Be careful not to overmix.

Bake

Pour the batter into the prepared loaf pan and bake for 60 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean.

Cool and Serve

Allow the bread to cool in the pan for about 10 minutes before transferring it to a wire rack. Slice and enjoy!

Pro Tips

For added flavor, consider folding in some walnuts or chocolate chips before baking. Ensure your bananas are overly ripe for maximum sweetness and flavor.

Storage and Freezing

Once baked and cooled, Pumpkin Banana Bread can be stored at room temperature for up to three days. Make sure to wrap it tightly in plastic wrap or keep it in an airtight container to maintain its moisture. If you want to extend its shelf life, consider slicing the bread and freezing individual pieces. This makes for a perfect quick snack or breakfast option; simply thaw a slice at room temperature or pop it in the toaster for a few minutes.

For longer storage, the bread can be frozen for up to three months. Be sure to use a freezer-safe bag for best results. When you're ready to enjoy it again, just let it thaw in the fridge overnight or at room temperature until soft. You can reheat slices in the microwave or oven for a fresh-baked feel.

Variations and Add-Ins

While the basic recipe is delicious on its own, consider adding a few variations to make it your own. Chopped nuts like walnuts or pecans can provide a lovely crunch and additional flavor contrast. For a touch of indulgence, fold in chocolate chips or dried cranberries into the batter before baking. These add-ins not only diversify the texture but also introduce exciting flavor elements with each bite.

Another variation to try is swapping half of the all-purpose flour for whole wheat flour. This substitution can boost the nutritional profile while still keeping the bread moist and flavorful. Adjusting the sugar is also an option; you can reduce it slightly if you prefer a less sweet profile, especially since the bananas already contribute natural sweetness.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use frozen bananas for this recipe?

Yes, just thaw them beforehand and drain any excess liquid.

→ Is there a gluten-free alternative for this recipe?

Absolutely! Use gluten-free flour in place of all-purpose flour.

→ How should I store the bread?

Store it in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days, or refrigerate for longer freshness.

→ Can I freeze pumpkin banana bread?

Yes, it freezes well! Wrap it tightly in plastic wrap and then aluminum foil before freezing.