Nothing says fall flavor quite like the warm, comforting blend of pumpkin and banana in a soft and moist quick bread. This Cinnamon Brown Sugar Pumpkin Banana Bread combines the best of both worlds—the rich, spiced goodness of pumpkin bread and the naturally sweet, tender texture of banana bread.
This recipe is the perfect fall bake, filling your kitchen with the irresistible aroma of cinnamon, pumpkin pie spice, and brown sugar caramelization. Whether you’re looking for a cozy breakfast, an afternoon snack, or a holiday treat, this easy quick bread is a must-try.
Unlike traditional banana bread, adding pumpkin puree makes the loaf incredibly soft and moist, while a hint of cinnamon and pumpkin pie spice enhances its cozy, autumn-inspired taste. Plus, it’s an excellent way to use up overripe bananas and leftover pumpkin puree!
Ready to enjoy a slice of fall in every bite? Let’s dive into this simple yet delicious pumpkin banana bread recipe!
Pumpkin Banana bread
Ingredients
- Dry Ingredients:
- 1 ¾ cups all-purpose flour
- ¾ cup light brown sugar
- 1 teaspoon baking soda
- ½ teaspoon salt
- 1 ½ teaspoons cinnamon
- 1 teaspoon pumpkin pie spice
- Wet Ingredients:
- 2 ripe bananas
- ¾ cup pumpkin puree
- 2 large eggs
- ⅓ cup melted butter or coconut oil
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
Instructions
- Preheat the Oven & Prepare the Loaf Pan
- Mash the Bananas & Mix the Wet Ingredients
- Combine the Dry Ingredients
- Mix the Batter
- Pour the Batter & Bake
- Cool the Bread
Table of Contents
Key Benefits
This Cinnamon Brown Sugar Pumpkin Banana Bread isn’t just delicious—it’s packed with benefits that make it a go-to fall recipe. Here’s why you’ll love this easy, moist quick bread:
1. Ultra-Moist Texture
The combination of mashed banana and pumpkin puree creates an incredibly soft and moist loaf. Bananas add natural sweetness, while pumpkin puree keeps the bread from drying out. Say goodbye to dry, crumbly bread—this one stays tender and fluffy!
2. Perfect Fall Flavors
With the warm spices of cinnamon and pumpkin pie spice, this bread embodies the essence of fall. Every bite is filled with the comforting taste of pumpkin, banana, and brown sugar caramelization.
3. Simple & Easy to Make
This is a one-bowl, no-fuss quick bread recipe! Just mix the wet ingredients, fold in the dry ingredients, pour the batter into the prepared loaf pan, and bake. Whether you’re a beginner or an experienced baker, this recipe is fail-proof.
4. Naturally Sweetened & Nutritious
Bananas and light brown sugar provide the perfect balance of natural sweetness. Plus, pumpkin puree is packed with fiber and vitamins, making this a slightly healthier option than traditional banana bread.
5. Versatile & Customizable
Want to make it healthier? Swap all-purpose flour for whole wheat flour. Prefer some crunch? Add chopped pecans or walnuts. Love extra sweetness? Stir in some chocolate chips or a drizzle of cream cheese glaze. This recipe is easy to tweak to your taste!
6. Great for Storing & Freezing
This pumpkin and banana quick bread stays fresh for days when stored in an airtight container at room temperature. You can also freeze pumpkin banana bread for later—just wrap it tightly in plastic wrap and store in the freezer for up to 3 months.
7. The Best of Both Worlds
Can’t decide between pumpkin bread and banana bread? This recipe gives you the best of both worlds—the richness of pumpkin with the sweetness and moisture of ripe bananas.
This bread is soft, spiced, and completely irresistible—the perfect cozy treat for crisp fall mornings!
Ingredients
To make this Cinnamon Brown Sugar Pumpkin Banana Bread, you’ll need simple pantry staples that create the perfect balance of moist texture, warm fall spices, and natural sweetness.
Dry Ingredients:
1 ¾ cups all-purpose flour (or substitute with whole wheat flour for a healthier option)
¾ cup light brown sugar (adds caramel-like sweetness and depth of flavor)
1 teaspoon baking soda (helps the loaf rise and stay fluffy)
½ teaspoon salt (balances the sweetness and enhances flavor)
1 ½ teaspoons cinnamon (brings warmth and depth to the bread)
1 teaspoon pumpkin pie spice (a perfect blend of nutmeg, cloves, ginger, and cinnamon)
Wet Ingredients:
2 ripe bananas, mashed (adds moisture and natural sweetness)
¾ cup pumpkin puree (use homemade pumpkin puree or canned for convenience)
2 large eggs, room temperature (helps bind the ingredients for a fluffy texture)
⅓ cup melted butter or coconut oil (keeps the bread soft and moist)
1 teaspoon vanilla extract (adds a hint of warm, sweet flavor)
Optional Add-Ins:
½ cup chopped walnuts or pecans (for added crunch and nutty flavor)
½ cup chocolate chips (for a touch of sweetness and indulgence)
Cream cheese glaze (drizzle on top for extra richness!)
For the Loaf Pan:
Nonstick spray or butter (to prevent sticking)
This ingredient list ensures a perfectly soft, moist, and flavorful pumpkin banana bread with a beautifully spiced aroma.
How To Make Pumpkin Banana bread
Follow these easy steps to make a soft and moist pumpkin banana bread with the perfect fall flavors.
Step 1: Preheat the Oven & Prepare the Loaf Pan
- Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C).
- Grease a 9×5-inch loaf pan with nonstick spray or butter. You can also line it with parchment paper for easy removal.
Step 2: Mash the Bananas & Mix the Wet Ingredients
- In a large bowl, mash 2 ripe bananas until smooth.
- Add ¾ cup pumpkin puree, 2 large eggs, ⅓ cup melted butter, and 1 teaspoon vanilla extract.
- Whisk the wet ingredients until fully combined.
Step 3: Combine the Dry Ingredients
- In a separate bowl, whisk together:
- 1 ¾ cups all-purpose flour
- ¾ cup light brown sugar
- 1 teaspoon baking soda
- ½ teaspoon salt
- 1 ½ teaspoons cinnamon
- 1 teaspoon pumpkin pie spice
- Stir well to distribute the spices evenly.
Step 4: Mix the Batter
- Gradually fold the dry ingredients into the wet ingredients using a spatula or wooden spoon.
- Mix until just combined—don’t overmix, or the bread may become dense.
- If adding mix-ins (chocolate chips, nuts), gently fold them in.
Step 5: Pour the Batter & Bake
- Pour the batter into the prepared loaf pan, spreading it evenly.
- Smooth the top and, if desired, sprinkle a little extra cinnamon and brown sugar for a caramelized crust.
- Bake for 50–60 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean.
Step 6: Cool the Bread
- Let the bread cool in the pan for 10 minutes before transferring it to a wire rack.
- Allow it to cool completely before slicing for the best texture.
Your Cinnamon Brown Sugar Pumpkin Banana Bread is now ready to enjoy! Serve warm or at room temperature for a cozy fall treat.
Pro Tips and Variations
Want to make the best pumpkin banana bread every time? Follow these expert tips and variations to customize your loaf!
Pro Tips for Perfect Pumpkin Banana Bread
Use Overripe Bananas – The riper the bananas, the sweeter and more moist your bread will be. Look for bananas with brown spots for the best results.
Don’t Overmix the Batter – Stir the wet and dry ingredients until just combined. Overmixing can make the bread dense instead of soft and fluffy.
Check for Doneness the Right Way – Insert a toothpick into the center of the loaf. If it comes out clean or with a few moist crumbs, the bread is done.
Let the Bread Cool Before Slicing – It may be tempting to cut into the warm loaf, but letting it cool helps set the texture and prevents crumbling.
Store Properly for Freshness – Keep the bread in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days or in the fridge for a week.
Freeze for Later – Wrap slices or the whole loaf in plastic wrap, then place in an airtight container or freezer bag. It stays fresh in the freezer for up to 3 months. Thaw at room temperature before serving.
Easy Variations to Try
Make It Healthier – Swap half the flour for whole wheat flour for added fiber. Reduce the brown sugar slightly for a less sweet version.
Chocolate Lover’s Twist – Stir in ½ cup chocolate chips for extra indulgence. Dark chocolate pairs beautifully with pumpkin spice!
Nutty Crunch – Add ½ cup chopped walnuts or pecans for a toasty crunch and richer flavor.
Cream Cheese Swirl – For a decadent touch, swirl a sweetened cream cheese mixture into the batter before baking.
Pumpkin Spice Muffins – Instead of a loaf, divide the batter into muffin tins and bake at 350°F (175°C) for 18–22 minutes. Perfect for grab-and-go breakfasts!
Maple or Honey Sweetened – Substitute brown sugar with maple syrup or honey for a naturally sweet, slightly different flavor.
With these pro tips and creative variations, you can customize your pumpkin banana bread to fit your taste while keeping it soft, moist, and full of fall flavors!
6. Serving Suggestions
This Cinnamon Brown Sugar Pumpkin Banana Bread is incredibly versatile and can be enjoyed in multiple ways. Whether you want a simple slice or a gourmet-style treat, here are some delicious ways to serve it!
Classic & Simple
- Enjoy a warm slice on its own—perfect with a morning coffee or afternoon tea.
- Spread with a pat of butter or drizzle of honey for extra richness.
Sweet & Indulgent
- Top with a cream cheese glaze or a dusting of powdered sugar for a bakery-style finish.
- Add a dollop of whipped cream and a sprinkle of cinnamon for a dessert-like treat.
- Serve with a scoop of vanilla ice cream for a cozy fall dessert.
Best Drink Pairings
- Pair with a pumpkin spice latte or chai tea for the ultimate fall experience.
- Enjoy with a glass of milk for a classic comfort-food moment.
- Serve alongside a spiced apple cider for a warm, seasonal pairing.
Breakfast & Brunch Ideas
- Toast a slice and spread with almond butter or peanut butter for a protein boost.
- Crumble it over Greek yogurt with some granola and honey for a nutritious parfait.
- Serve as part of a fall-themed brunch platter with fresh fruit, eggs, and coffee.
Creative Ways to Use Leftovers
- French Toast Style – Dip slices in an egg mixture and pan-fry for a fall-inspired pumpkin banana bread French toast.
- Bread Pudding – Cube leftover bread and bake into a warm bread pudding with a custard base.
- Pumpkin Banana Trifle – Layer crumbled bread with whipped cream and caramel sauce for a no-bake treat.
This pumpkin banana bread is delicious, versatile, and perfect for any occasion—whether it’s a quick snack, a cozy breakfast, or a holiday dessert.
This Cinnamon Brown Sugar Pumpkin Banana Bread is the ultimate fall bake, combining the best of banana bread and pumpkin bread into one soft, moist, and flavorful treat. With its warm cinnamon spice, rich brown sugar caramelization, and tender texture, this quick bread is perfect for cozy mornings, afternoon snacks, or even as a holiday dessert.
Not only is this recipe easy to make, but it’s also highly versatile. Whether you enjoy it plain, add mix-ins like chocolate chips or nuts, or top it with a cream cheese glaze, this loaf is guaranteed to be a favorite in your kitchen.
With simple ingredients, one-bowl prep, and fail-proof instructions, this pumpkin banana bread recipe is a great way to celebrate the flavors of fall. Plus, it stores well and can be frozen, so you can always have a slice of autumn comfort ready to enjoy!
Try this delicious pumpkin banana bread, and let the warm spices and sweet aroma fill your home. You’ll love this easy quick bread as much as we do!
FAQs
How do you know when pumpkin loaf is done?
To check for doneness, insert a toothpick into the center of the bread. If it comes out clean or with just a few moist crumbs, the loaf is ready. Another sign is when the top is golden brown and slightly firm to the touch. Avoid overbaking, as it can make the bread dry.
Why does my banana loaf not rise?
If your banana loaf doesn’t rise, it could be due to:
Expired baking soda – Make sure your baking soda is fresh and active.
Overmixing the batter – This can lead to a dense loaf instead of a light, fluffy texture.
Incorrect oven temperature – If the oven is too cool, the bread won’t rise properly. Always preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C) before baking.
How much pumpkin to add to banana bread?
This recipe calls for ¾ cup pumpkin puree, which provides moisture and a rich pumpkin flavor without overpowering the banana taste. You can adjust the ratio slightly, but adding too much pumpkin may affect the texture.
How long does pumpkin bread last?
Pumpkin bread stays fresh at room temperature for up to 3 days when stored in an airtight container. In the fridge, it lasts up to a week. For long-term storage, freeze it for up to 3 months and thaw at room temperature before serving.
How long does homemade banana loaf last?
A homemade banana loaf lasts 3–4 days at room temperature and about a week in the refrigerator when stored properly. If freezing, wrap slices in plastic wrap and store in an airtight container for up to 3 months.