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: 3 ripe bananas, mashed; 1 cup pumpkin puree; 1/2 cup sugar; 1/4 cup brown sugar; 1/2 cup vegetable oil; 2 large eggs; 1 1/2 cups all-purpose flour; 1 teaspoon baking soda; 1/2 teaspoon baking powder; 1 teaspoon cinnamon; 1/4 teaspoon nutmeg; 1/2 teaspoon salt; 1/2 cup chopped walnuts (optional)

Highlighted under: Homemade Baking Ideas

I love experimenting with flavors in my baking, and this Pumpkin Banana Bread has become one of my absolute favorites. The combination of ripe bananas and pumpkin puree creates a moist, dense loaf that’s perfect for breakfast or a snack. The warm spices add a comforting touch that envelops your senses with each slice. Plus, it’s a great way to use up any overripe bananas you have on hand. I promise you'll want to make this recipe over and over again.

Created by

Isolde Bennett

Last updated on 2026-02-08T06:49:36.354Z

Baking this Pumpkin Banana Bread has become a cherished tradition in my kitchen. The delightful aroma fills the house as the bread rises in the oven, tempting everyone to gather around. I find that using overripe bananas not only enhances the sweetness but also contributes to the bread's incredibly soft texture.

One of my secret weapons is adding a pinch of nutmeg along with the standard cinnamon. It brings out the flavors of the pumpkin beautifully and creates a depth that you wouldn't expect. Trust me, it's the little details that make this bread truly exceptional!

Reasons You'll Love This Recipe
The perfect blend of pumpkin and banana creates a unique flavor profile.
Spices like cinnamon and nutmeg make it a warm, comforting treat.
It’s a fantastic way to use overripe bananas and pumpkin puree.

The Role of Ingredients

Each ingredient in this Pumpkin Banana Bread plays a vital role in achieving the perfect texture and flavor. The ripe bananas not only sweeten the loaf but also add moisture, keeping it lush and dense. On the other hand, pumpkin puree contributes to the bread's festive flavor while enhancing its moistness. Together, they create a delightful base that is complemented by the warmth of spices.

Don't underestimate the power of spices like cinnamon and nutmeg! Cinnamon adds warmth that pairs beautifully with both banana and pumpkin, while nutmeg brings an aromatic depth. Used correctly, these spices can elevate your loaf from good to great, creating that comforting aroma that will fill your kitchen while it bakes.

Baking Tips for the Perfect Loaf

When combining wet and dry ingredients, aim for a gentle mixing technique. Overmixing can lead to a tough loaf, counteracting the moisture from the bananas and pumpkin. Mix until just combined and you’ll see small lumps. This approach ensures your bread rises beautifully while maintaining a tender crumb.

Oven temperatures can vary, so consider checking your bread a few minutes before the 60-minute mark. If the top appears golden brown and a toothpick inserted comes out clean, your loaf is ready. If you find the top browning too fast, cover it loosely with foil for the last 10-15 minutes to prevent burning while ensuring thorough baking.

Ingredients

Gather the following ingredients to create this delicious Pumpkin Banana Bread:

Ingredients

3 ripe bananas, mashed
1 cup pumpkin puree
1/2 cup sugar
1/4 cup brown sugar
1/2 cup vegetable oil
2 large eggs
1 1/2 cups all-purpose flour
1 teaspoon baking soda
1/2 teaspoon baking powder
1 teaspoon cinnamon
1/4 teaspoon nutmeg
1/2 teaspoon salt
1/2 cup chopped walnuts (optional)

Make sure to measure your ingredients accurately for the best results!

Instructions

Follow these simple steps to make your Pumpkin Banana Bread:

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, sugar, brown sugar, vegetable oil, and eggs. Mix until smooth.

Combine Dry Ingredients

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

Combine Mixtures

Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet mixture, stirring until just combined.

Add Walnuts (Optional)

If using, gently fold in the chopped walnuts.

Pour into Pan

Pour the batter into the prepared loaf pan and smooth the top with a spatula.

Bake

Bake in the preheated oven for 60 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.

Cool and Serve

Allow the bread to cool in the pan for 10 minutes before transferring it to a wire rack to cool completely.

Enjoy your freshly baked Pumpkin Banana Bread with a pat of butter or on its own!

Pro Tips

For an extra hint of flavor, consider adding chocolate chips or dried cranberries to the batter. They pair wonderfully with the pumpkin and banana.

Storage and Freezing

To keep your Pumpkin Banana Bread fresh, store it in an airtight container at room temperature for up to three days. You can also wrap it tightly in plastic wrap and refrigerate it for up to a week. Just note that the bread may lose some of its moisture if refrigerated for too long.

If you want to enjoy this bread later, freezing is an excellent option. Slice the loaf and individually wrap each piece in plastic wrap, followed by aluminum foil. This prevents freezer burn. Thaw slices at room temperature or pop them in the microwave for a few seconds to enjoy warm, as if it just came out of the oven!

Variations and Add-Ins

Feel free to experiment with your favorite flavor combinations. For a chocolate twist, add 1/2 cup of chocolate chips to the batter. Alternatively, you can exchange walnuts for pecans or even use dried fruit like cranberries for a tart contrast. Each variation offers a unique spin on this classic recipe, keeping your baking exciting.

If you're looking for a healthier option, consider replacing half of the all-purpose flour with whole wheat flour for added fiber. You could also substitute coconut oil for vegetable oil for a richer flavor profile. Just keep in mind that these changes may slightly alter the texture of your bread; it might turn out denser but still delicious.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use canned pumpkin puree?

Yes, canned pumpkin puree works great! Just ensure it's pure pumpkin and not pumpkin pie filling.

→ How do I store the bread?

Store it in an airtight container at room temperature for up to three days, or freeze it for longer storage.

→ Can I make this recipe gluten-free?

Yes, you can substitute all-purpose flour with a gluten-free flour blend that is suitable for baking.

→ What can I substitute for eggs?

You can use flax eggs or applesauce as an egg substitute in this recipe.