Pumpkin Banana Bread

By Adeline

Published on July 18, 2025

This pumpkin banana bread recipe truly stands out. It brings together the warmth of pumpkin and the naturally sweet comfort of ripe bananas. Each slice is incredibly moist, tender, and bursting with flavor. The chocolate chips melt into gooey pockets, making every bite pure bliss.

I often bake a double batch on Sunday. It fills my home with the best smells. My kids love it for breakfast, and it’s perfect with an afternoon coffee. It never lasts long in my house, and my friends always ask for the recipe!

Why I Love This Recipe

Honestly, I just adore how simple yet decadent this pumpkin banana bread is. It’s perfect for busy weeknights when I crave something homemade. Whipping it up takes no time at all. Plus, it always impresses guests, smelling divine as it bakes. This recipe truly offers comforting flavors without any fuss. It’s a reliable favorite in my kitchen.

Pumpkin Banana Bread Ingredients

Gathering these simple ingredients truly feels like magic. Each one plays a vital role. Together, they create the most delightful pumpkin banana bread you’ll ever taste. You’re just a few steps away from pure kitchen happiness.

Essential Components for Delicious Pumpkin Banana Bread

Large Eggs: These are our binders. They give structure to the loaf. They also make it wonderfully tender.
Unsalted Butter: Softened butter adds rich flavor. It also creates that unbelievably moist texture.
Canola Oil (or Vegetable Oil): Oil keeps the bread incredibly tender. It also adds a light crumb.
Sugar: Just enough sweetness balances everything. It also helps with browning.
All-Purpose Flour: This is our foundation. It creates the perfect bread structure.
Baking Powder & Baking Soda: These leavening agents help the bread rise. They create a light and airy loaf.
Pumpkin Puree: Make sure it’s pure, not pie filling! It brings moisture and that signature fall flavor. This is key for our pumpkin banana bread.
Mashed Bananas: Ripe bananas add natural sweetness. They also contribute to the bread’s amazing moistness.
Chocolate Chips: My personal favorite addition! They melt into gooey pockets. They add a lovely richness.

Flavor Enhancers and Spices

Vanilla Extract: Just a touch enhances all the other flavors. It adds a warm, comforting aroma.
Salt: A pinch always balances the sweetness. It makes all the flavors pop.
Pumpkin Pie Spice: This spice blend truly brings the autumn charm. It perfectly complements the pumpkin.

Substitutions and Tips for Your Pumpkin Banana Bread

Don’t worry if you’re missing something. You can swap canola oil for melted coconut oil. For a richer flavor, use brown sugar instead of white. If you’re out of pumpkin pie spice, make your own! Just mix cinnamon, nutmeg, ginger, and cloves. You can also add walnuts or pecans for crunch. Fold them in with the chocolate chips. Exact quantities are listed in the handy recipe card below. Get ready to bake a perfect loaf!

How to Make Pumpkin Banana Bread

Making this delightful pumpkin banana bread is surprisingly simple. Just follow these steps. You’ll be enjoying a warm slice soon. It’s a truly rewarding kitchen adventure!

Prepare Your Oven and Pans

First, preheat your oven to 350 degrees F. This makes sure it’s ready to go. Next, spray two bread pans. Use nonstick cooking spray for this. This helps prevent sticking. Your beautiful bread will slide right out.

Combine Wet Ingredients for Your Pumpkin Banana Bread

Grab a large mixer bowl for this step. Add your eggs, softened butter, and oil. Pour in the sugar and vanilla extract too. Mix everything until it’s super smooth. This creates your wet base. It’s crucial for moist pumpkin banana bread.

Whisk Dry Ingredients Separately

Now, in a separate bowl, whisk together your dry ingredients. Combine the flour, baking powder, and baking soda. Don’t forget the salt and pumpkin pie spice. Whisking ensures they are well mixed. This prevents lumps in your bread.

Mix Wet and Dry Ingredients

Add the dry ingredient mixture to the mixer. Pour in the pumpkin puree next. Then, add your mashed bananas. Mix until everything is just combined. Be careful not to overmix the batter. Overmixing can make bread tough. We want tender, moist pumpkin banana bread!

Fold in Chocolate Chips and Bake Your Pumpkin Banana Bread

Gently fold in all those delicious chocolate chips. Make sure they are evenly distributed. Divide this scrumptious batter between your two prepared pans. Now, pop them into your preheated oven. Let them bake for 50 minutes. The aroma will fill your kitchen.

The Final Bake for Perfect Pumpkin Banana Bread

After 50 minutes, gently open the oven door. Carefully lay a piece of foil over both loaves. This prevents the tops from burning. Bake for an additional 10 minutes. This brings your total bake time to 60 minutes. A toothpick inserted should come out clean. Let your perfect pumpkin banana bread cool a bit. Then, slice and enjoy!

How to Store Pumpkin Banana Bread

Once your pumpkin banana bread has cooled completely, store it correctly. For short-term, keep it at room temperature. Wrap it tightly in plastic or foil. It stays fresh for 2-3 days on the counter. If you need it longer, refrigerate it. It will last about a week in the fridge. For extended freshness, freeze individual slices. Wrap them well in plastic wrap. Then, place them in a freezer bag. Frozen slices stay delicious for up to three months. Just thaw and enjoy whenever a craving strikes!

Tips for Success

Use very ripe, spotty bananas. They are sweeter.
Don’t overmix the batter. It can make the bread tough.
Measure flour correctly. Spoon it into the cup.
Ensure your butter is truly softened. It mixes better.
Do not open the oven door too early. This avoids sinking.
Let the bread cool a bit. It slices much cleaner then.
Use quality pumpkin puree. It makes a big difference.

Kitchen Tools You’ll Need

Large Mixing Bowls: You’ll need two, one for wet and one for dry.
Electric Mixer: Handheld or stand mixer works great. A whisk works too.
Rubber Spatula: Perfect for folding in chocolate chips.
Measuring Cups and Spoons: Essential for accuracy.
Loaf Pans: Two standard 9×5 inch pans.
Wire Rack: For cooling your beautiful bread.

Serving Suggestions

Serve warm with a pat of butter.
A dollop of cream cheese frosting is divine.
Enjoy with a hot cup of coffee.
Perfect alongside a glass of cold milk.
Dust with powdered sugar for a simple treat.
Add a scoop of vanilla ice cream for dessert.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I make this pumpkin banana bread ahead of time?

Absolutely! This pumpkin banana bread is perfect for prepping. You can bake it a day or two in advance. Store it properly at room temperature. The flavors actually deepen beautifully overnight.

What’s the best way to ensure my pumpkin banana bread is moist?

Using very ripe bananas is key. Also, be sure not to overmix the batter. Overmixing develops too much gluten, making bread tough. The pumpkin puree and oil also contribute to amazing moistness in this delicious pumpkin banana bread.

Can I substitute the chocolate chips in this pumpkin banana bread?

Of course! Feel free to get creative. Walnuts or pecans are wonderful additions. You could also try dried cranberries or raisins. Just fold in an equal amount when adding the chocolate chips.

How do I know when my pumpkin banana bread is fully baked?

The best way is the toothpick test. Insert a wooden toothpick into the center of the loaf. If it comes out clean or with a few moist crumbs, it’s done. If there’s wet batter, bake for a few more minutes. Every oven can vary slightly.

Conclusion

Baking this pumpkin banana bread is more than just following a recipe; it’s about creating moments. It fills your home with warmth. This delicious treat brings smiles to everyone. It’s perfect for cozy mornings or sharing with loved ones. I hope you find as much joy in making it as I do. Embrace the simple pleasure of homemade goodness. This easy recipe truly brings comfort and happiness. Go on, bake a batch today!