Name: Pumpkin Banana Bread
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 1 h 5 min
Total time: 1 h 20 min
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: 1 3/4 cups all-purpose flour; 1 teaspoon baking soda; 1/2 teaspoon salt; 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon; 1/2 teaspoon ground nutmeg; 1/4 teaspoon ground cloves; 1/4 teaspoon ground ginger; 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened; 1/2 cup granulated sugar; 1/2 cup light brown sugar, packed; 2 large eggs; 1 cup mashed ripe bananas (about 2-3 bananas); 1 cup canned pumpkin puree; 1 teaspoon vanilla extract; Optional: 1/2 cup chopped walnuts or chocolate chips

Why You’ll Love Pumpkin Banana Bread Recipe

This bread is easy to make with simple pantry staples, and the combination of pumpkin and banana creates a wonderfully moist texture. The warm spices make it ideal for autumn, holidays, or anytime you want a comforting treat. It also freezes well and makes lovely gifts or potluck contributions.

Ingredients

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

all-purpose flour
granulated sugar
pumpkin pie spice
ground cinnamon
baking soda
baking powder
salt
pumpkin puree
mashed bananas
eggs
vanilla extract
vegetable oil or melted butter
optional mix-ins (chopped nuts, chocolate chips)

Directions

Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease one or two loaf pans.
In a large bowl, whisk together the dry ingredients: flour, sugar, pumpkin pie spice, cinnamon, baking soda, baking powder, and salt.
In a separate bowl, mix the wet ingredients: pumpkin puree, mashed bananas, eggs, vanilla extract, and vegetable oil or melted butter.
Pour the wet mixture into the dry mixture and stir until just combined. Fold in any optional mix-ins if desired.
Divide the batter evenly between the prepared loaf pans and smooth the tops.
Bake for 55–65 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean. Start checking at 50 minutes.
Let the bread cool in the pans for 10 minutes, then transfer to a wire rack to cool completely.

Servings and timing

Makes 1–2 loaves, depending on the pan size.
Prep time: about 15 minutes
Bake time: approximately 55–65 minutes
Total time: around 1 hour and 15 minutes

Variations

Nutty twist: Add chopped walnuts or pecans for extra crunch.
Chocolate chip: Stir in semi-sweet chocolate chips for a sweeter loaf.
Spice boost: Increase cinnamon or add a pinch of nutmeg for deeper flavor.
Muffins: Use the batter to make muffins and bake at 350°F for 20–25 minutes.
Gluten-free: Substitute with a gluten-free all-purpose flour blend.

Storage/Reheating

Room temperature: Store covered at room temperature for up to 3–4 days.
Refrigerator: Wrap tightly and refrigerate for up to 1 week.
Freezer: Wrap well or store in a freezer bag for 2–3 months.
Reheating: Warm slices in the microwave for 10–15 seconds or in a 350°F oven for 10 minutes.

FAQs

What makes this bread moist?

The combination of pumpkin puree and ripe bananas ensures a rich, moist texture that holds up for days.

Can I use fresh pumpkin instead of canned?

Yes, you can use fresh pumpkin puree. Just be sure to cook and strain it to remove excess moisture.

Do I need to peel the bananas?

Yes, peel the bananas before mashing them. Only the mashed fruit is used in the recipe.

Can I make this vegan?

Yes. Use flax eggs in place of regular eggs and opt for plant-based oil or butter.

Why did my bread sink in the middle?

This could be due to underbaking, too much leavening, or opening the oven door before the center is set.

How do I know when the bread is done?

Insert a toothpick into the center of the loaf. If it comes out clean or with a few crumbs, it’s ready.

Can I add other spices?

Absolutely. Nutmeg, ginger, and allspice pair wonderfully with the pumpkin-banana flavor.

Can I halve the recipe?

Yes, the recipe can be halved. Use a smaller loaf pan and reduce the baking time slightly.

Is this bread sweet?

It has a balanced sweetness, with the natural sugars of banana and pumpkin complemented by added sugar and spices.

Can I make this ahead?

Yes, it tastes great the next day. Store it at room temperature or in the fridge to keep it fresh.

Conclusion

This Pumpkin Banana Bread is the perfect union of two classic flavors in one irresistibly moist loaf. Whether you’re enjoying a slice with your morning coffee or serving it as an after-dinner treat, this easy recipe delivers every time. With its cozy spices and rich texture, it’s sure to become a seasonal favorite—and perhaps a year-round staple.