Pumpkin Banana Bread combines the rich flavor of pumpkin with naturally sweet, ripe bananas for a soft and moist loaf. Warm cinnamon and pumpkin pie spice give this easy quick bread a cozy fall flavor.
It’s perfect for breakfast, an afternoon snack, or a simple homemade dessert during pumpkin season.
Why This Pumpkin Banana Bread Works
- Moist and tender: Pumpkin and ripe bananas help keep the loaf soft.
- Easy to make: No mixer is required.
- Full of fall flavor: Pumpkin spice and cinnamon add warmth.
- Great for ripe bananas: It’s an easy way to use bananas before they go to waste.
Ingredients
- 2 ripe bananas, mashed
- 1 cup pumpkin puree
- ½ cup unsalted butter, melted
- ¾ cup brown sugar
- 2 large eggs
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1 ¾ cups all-purpose flour
- 1 teaspoon baking soda
- ½ teaspoon baking powder
- 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
- 1 teaspoon pumpkin pie spice
- ½ teaspoon salt
- ½ cup chopped pecans or walnuts, optional
How to Make Pumpkin Banana Bread
1. Prepare the Oven
Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease a 9×5-inch loaf pan and line it with parchment paper if desired.
2. Mix the Wet Ingredients
In a large bowl, mash the bananas until mostly smooth.
Add the pumpkin puree, melted butter, brown sugar, eggs, and vanilla extract. Whisk until everything is well combined.
3. Combine the Dry Ingredients
In a separate bowl, whisk together the flour, baking soda, baking powder, cinnamon, pumpkin pie spice, and salt.
4. Make the Batter
Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet mixture.
Stir gently until just combined. If using nuts, fold them into the batter. Avoid overmixing.
5. Bake
Pour the batter into the prepared loaf pan and smooth the top.
Bake for 50–60 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean or with a few moist crumbs.
6. Cool and Serve
Let the bread cool in the pan for about 10–15 minutes. Transfer it to a wire rack and allow it to cool further before slicing.
Serve warm or at room temperature.
Tips for the Best Pumpkin Banana Bread
- Use very ripe bananas for the sweetest flavor and softest texture.
- Use pure pumpkin puree, not pumpkin pie filling.
- Don’t overmix the batter because this can make the bread dense.
- Check the loaf early since oven temperatures can vary.
- Let it cool before slicing so the loaf holds together better.
- Add nuts or chocolate chips for extra texture and flavor.
Final Thoughts
Pumpkin Banana Bread is a delicious combination of two classic ingredients in one soft, flavorful loaf. Ripe bananas, pumpkin puree, cinnamon, and pumpkin spice create a cozy fall treat that’s easy enough for everyday baking.
Enjoy a slice with coffee or tea for a comforting breakfast or afternoon snack.
