why make this recipe

Pumpkin Banana Bread is a fantastic treat that combines two beloved flavors: pumpkin and bananas. This bread is moist, flavorful, and perfect for any time of the year. It’s a delightful way to use up overripe bananas and add a seasonal twist with pumpkin. Whether you’re enjoying it as a snack, breakfast, or dessert, this recipe will quickly become a favorite in your household.

how to make Pumpkin Banana Bread

Ingredients :

1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened
1 cup dark brown sugar, packed
2 large eggs
1 cup 100% pumpkin puree
3 overripe bananas, ~1 cup mashed
1 tsp. vanilla extract
2 cups all purpose flour, spooned and leveled
2 tsp. pumpkin pie spice
1 tsp. baking soda
1 tsp. salt
1/4 tsp. cinnamon
4 tbsp. salted butter
1/3 cup pure maple syrup
1 1/2 cups powdered sugar, sifted
1 tsp. vanilla extract
Pinch of salt

Directions :

Preheat the oven to 350°F. Grease a light-colored 9×5 inch baking pan with softened butter and sprinkle an even layer of flour around the pan, shaking out any excess flour. Alternatively, line with parchment paper. Set aside.
In a mixing bowl, beat the butter and brown sugar together until creamy.
Add in the eggs and beat until combined.
Then whisk in the pumpkin puree, bananas, and vanilla. It will look a little coagulated at this point, but it’s OK.
Add the dry ingredients and fold together just until combined. The batter will be thick.
Pour the batter into the prepared pan.
Bake for 55-60 minutes or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean. Allow to cool in the pan for 10 minutes, then turn out the bread onto a wire rack to cool completely.
For the maple glaze: melt the butter and maple syrup in the microwave in 30-second intervals until melted. Then add the powdered sugar, vanilla, and salt. Whisk until smooth. Add more powdered sugar to make a thicker glaze. Pour the glaze all over the cooled banana bread.
Optional: sprinkle a little sugar and pumpkin pie spice on top. Slice and enjoy!

how to serve Pumpkin Banana Bread

Pumpkin Banana Bread is best enjoyed warm or at room temperature. You can serve it plain or with a drizzle of maple glaze on top. It also pairs nicely with a cup of coffee or tea. For an extra special treat, consider adding a dollop of whipped cream or a scoop of ice cream on the side.

how to store Pumpkin Banana Bread

To store Pumpkin Banana Bread, keep it in an airtight container at room temperature for up to three days. If you want to keep it longer, you can refrigerate it for up to a week or freeze it for up to three months. Just make sure to wrap it tightly in plastic wrap and then in aluminum foil before freezing.

tips to make Pumpkin Banana Bread

Use very ripe bananas for better flavor and moisture.
Don’t overmix the batter; mix just until combined for a lighter texture.
If you want to make a larger batch, you can double the recipe and bake in two loaf pans.
For an additional flavor boost, consider adding in walnuts or chocolate chips.

variation

You can easily customize this Pumpkin Banana Bread by adding nuts such as walnuts or pecans for extra crunch. Chocolate chips also make a delicious addition for a sweet twist. If you prefer a more spiced flavor, you can increase the amount of pumpkin pie spice or even add nutmeg.

FAQs

1. Can I use fresh pumpkin instead of canned?
Yes, you can use fresh pumpkin, but be sure to cook and puree it until smooth first.

2. How can I tell when the bread is done?
The bread is done when a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean or with just a few crumbs attached.

3. Can I add other fruits to the recipe?
Yes, you can experiment with other fruits like apples or pears, but make sure to adjust the quantities to maintain the right moisture balance.