Name: Heavenly Lavender Banana Bread That Will Brighten Your Day
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 55 min
Total time: 1 h 10 min
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: 3 ripe bananas, mashed; 1/2 cup unsalted butter, melted; 3/4 cup granulated sugar; 2 large eggs; 1 teaspoon vanilla extract; 1 3/4 cups all-purpose flour; 1 teaspoon baking soda; 1/2 teaspoon salt; 1 tablespoon culinary dried lavender, finely ground; 1/4 cup milk

Why You’ll Love Heavenly Lavender Banana Bread Recipe

This recipe transforms classic banana bread into something elegant and unique. The lavender adds a subtle floral note that complements the natural sweetness of the bananas without overpowering them. It’s easy to prepare with simple pantry ingredients, and the result is a beautifully moist loaf topped with a lightly sweet glaze. Whether you’re baking for guests or simply treating yourself, this recipe feels special while still being wonderfully comforting.

Ingredients

(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

For the Bread

2 cups all-purpose flour
1 teaspoon baking soda
1/4 teaspoon salt
1/2 cup unsalted butter, melted and cooled
3/4 cup brown sugar
2 large eggs, lightly beaten
1 teaspoon vanilla extract
1/4 teaspoon lavender extract
4 medium ripe bananas, mashed

For the Lavender Glaze

1 1/4 cups powdered sugar
1/2 teaspoon vanilla extract
1/4 teaspoon lavender extract
2 tablespoons heavy cream
2 1/2 tablespoons milk
1 drop light pink or purple food coloring (optional)
culinary lavender flowers for garnish (optional)

Directions

Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Lightly grease a 6-cup loaf pan or line it with parchment paper.
In a medium bowl, whisk together the flour, baking soda, and salt. Set aside.
In a large bowl, stir the melted butter and brown sugar until smooth.
Add the beaten eggs, vanilla extract, and lavender extract. Mix until fully combined.
Stir in the mashed bananas until incorporated.
Gradually fold the dry ingredients into the wet mixture, stirring just until combined. Avoid overmixing.
Pour the batter into the prepared loaf pan and smooth the top.
Bake for 55 to 60 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.
Let the bread cool in the pan for about 15 minutes before transferring it to a wire rack to cool completely.
To prepare the glaze, whisk together powdered sugar, vanilla extract, lavender extract, heavy cream, and milk until smooth. Adjust the consistency with additional milk if needed. Add food coloring if desired.
Once the bread is fully cooled, drizzle the glaze over the top and garnish with culinary lavender flowers if using.

Servings and timing

This recipe yields approximately 8 slices.
Preparation time: 15 minutes
Baking time: 55 to 60 minutes
Total time: About 1 hour and 15 minutes

Variations
For a nutty twist, add 1/2 cup chopped walnuts or pecans to the batter.
For a chocolate variation, stir in 1/2 cup chocolate chips.
For a fruit-forward option, fold in 1/2 cup fresh blueberries.
To make it gluten-free, substitute a 1:1 gluten-free baking flour blend.
For a warmer flavor profile, add 1 teaspoon cinnamon or a pinch of nutmeg.

Storage/Reheating

Store the banana bread in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days. For longer storage, refrigerate it for up to one week. You can also freeze individual slices wrapped tightly in plastic wrap and placed in a freezer-safe bag for up to 3 months.

To reheat, warm slices in the microwave for 10 to 15 seconds or in a low oven until heated through. If frozen, allow slices to thaw at room temperature before reheating.

FAQs

Can I use dried culinary lavender instead of lavender extract?

Yes, but use it sparingly. Finely crush the dried lavender and add a small amount to avoid overpowering the flavor.

How ripe should the bananas be?

The bananas should be very ripe with brown spots on the peel. The riper they are, the sweeter and more flavorful your bread will be.

Can I make this recipe without the glaze?

Absolutely. The bread is delicious on its own, and the glaze is optional if you prefer a less sweet finish.

What if I don’t have brown sugar?

You can substitute granulated sugar, though brown sugar adds extra moisture and depth of flavor.

How do I prevent my banana bread from becoming dry?

Avoid overmixing the batter and be careful not to overbake. Check for doneness with a toothpick around the 55-minute mark.

Can I make this recipe into muffins?

Yes. Divide the batter into a lined muffin tin and bake at 350°F (175°C) for about 18 to 22 minutes.

Is the lavender flavor strong?

No, it should be subtle and fragrant. Use the recommended amount to keep it balanced.

Can I make this dairy-free?

You can substitute the butter with melted coconut oil and use a plant-based milk alternative in the glaze.

Why did my bread sink in the middle?

This can happen if the bread is underbaked or if the oven door was opened too early during baking.

Can I double the recipe?

Yes, you can double the ingredients and bake in two loaf pans. Adjust baking time as needed and check for doneness with a toothpick.

Conclusion

Lavender Banana Bread is a delightful twist on a traditional favorite. The gentle floral notes elevate the classic banana flavor, creating a loaf that feels both comforting and refined. With its moist texture and delicate glaze, this recipe is perfect for sharing, gifting, or simply enjoying with a warm cup of tea.