Pumpkin Banana Bread is a delightful fusion of two classic flavors—pumpkin and banana—creating a moist, flavorful, and aromatic loaf perfect for breakfast, dessert, or a cozy snack. The combination of ripe bananas and pumpkin puree results in a naturally sweet and tender bread, enhanced with warm spices like cinnamon and nutmeg. Whether enjoyed plain or with a spread of butter, this bread is a comforting treat that embodies the essence of fall.
Ingredients:
- 2 cups all-purpose flour
- 2 teaspoons pumpkin pie spice
- ½ teaspoon cinnamon
- 1 teaspoon baking soda
- ½ teaspoon baking powder
- ¼ teaspoon salt
- ½ cup vegetable oil
- ½ cup sugar
- ½ cup brown sugar
- 2 large eggs
- 2 teaspoons vanilla extract
- 2 medium bananas, mashed
- 1 cup canned pumpkin puree
- ½ cup chopped walnuts (optional)
Instructions:
- Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease and flour a 9×5-inch loaf pan to prevent sticking.
- Mix dry ingredients: In a medium bowl, whisk together the flour, pumpkin pie spice, cinnamon, baking soda, baking powder, and salt.
- Prepare wet ingredients: In a large bowl, whisk together the vegetable oil, sugar, brown sugar, eggs, and vanilla extract until smooth.
- Incorporate bananas and pumpkin: Stir in the mashed bananas and pumpkin puree until well combined.
- Combine mixtures: Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet ingredients, stirring gently with a rubber spatula or wooden spoon until just combined. Avoid overmixing to maintain a tender texture.
- Add nuts: If using walnuts, fold them into the batter for added crunch and flavor.
- Transfer to pan: Pour the batter into the prepared loaf pan, smoothing the top with a spatula.
- Bake: Place the pan in the preheated oven and bake for 50-60 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.
- Cool: Allow the bread to cool in the pan for 10 minutes, then transfer it to a wire rack to cool completely.
- Serve: Slice and enjoy warm or at room temperature. Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 5 days.
Tips for the Best Pumpkin Banana Bread:
- Use ripe bananas: The riper the bananas, the sweeter and more flavorful the bread.
- Enhance the spice: Add a pinch of nutmeg or cloves for a deeper autumnal flavor.
- Make it healthier: Substitute half of the all-purpose flour with whole wheat flour for added fiber.
- Customize toppings: Try adding chocolate chips, pecans, or a streusel topping for extra indulgence.
This Pumpkin Banana Bread is a perfect balance of sweetness, spice, and texture, making it a must-try for anyone who loves comforting baked goods. Enjoy baking! 🍂🍌🎃