If you’re a fan of warm, comforting flavors with a twist, this Pumpkin Spice Banana Bread with Walnuts is the perfect recipe for you. Combining the rich, earthy taste of pumpkin with the natural sweetness of ripe bananas, this bread creates an irresistible treat. Add in the nutty crunch of walnuts and a cozy blend of spices, and you’ve got a loaf that’s perfect for fall or anytime you need a little extra warmth in your kitchen.
Whether you’re looking for a delicious snack to enjoy with a cup of coffee or tea, or a perfect dessert to share with friends and family, this pumpkin spice banana bread hits all the right notes. It’s a blend of two classic flavors that complement each other beautifully, creating a loaf that’s soft, moist, and full of comforting spices. Ready to get baking? Let’s dive in!
Why You’ll Love This Pumpkin Spice Banana Bread with Walnuts
This recipe takes two beloved classics—banana bread and pumpkin bread—and combines them into one delectable loaf. The pumpkin not only adds a rich flavor but also contributes to the bread’s moist texture, making it irresistibly soft. The bananas bring their natural sweetness to the table, while the walnuts provide an added crunch that balances out the softness of the bread. The warming spices, such as cinnamon, nutmeg, and ginger, add a fragrant touch that evokes the cozy feelings of fall.
Here are a few reasons why you’ll love this Pumpkin Spice Banana Bread with Walnuts:
- Perfect balance of flavors: The blend of ripe bananas and pumpkin puree creates a moist, flavorful bread that’s not too sweet.
- Warm and comforting: The spices like cinnamon, nutmeg, and ginger give the bread that familiar, cozy aroma and taste, making it the perfect autumn treat.
- Texture perfection: The addition of walnuts gives a nice crunch to every bite, adding contrast to the soft bread.
- Versatile: Whether you enjoy it for breakfast, dessert, or as a snack, this banana bread works for any occasion.
- Easy to make: With just a few ingredients and simple steps, you’ll have a delightful homemade bread in no time.
What You’ll Need
For the Banana Bread:
- 2 ripe bananas, mashed – Overripe bananas are best for banana bread as they’re sweet and easy to mash. They also contribute to the moist texture of the bread.
- 1/2 cup canned pumpkin puree – Adds rich flavor and moisture, turning this bread into the perfect fall treat.
- 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened – Butter adds richness and helps the bread to rise beautifully.
- 1 cup brown sugar – Brown sugar gives the bread a slight molasses flavor, which complements the spices perfectly.
- 2 large eggs – Eggs bind the ingredients together and provide structure to the bread.
- 1 tsp vanilla extract – Enhances the flavor of the bananas, pumpkin, and spices.
- 2 cups all-purpose flour – Forms the base of the bread, giving it structure.
- 1 tsp baking powder – Helps the bread rise.
- 1/2 tsp baking soda – Assists with the leavening and contributes to a lighter texture.
- 1 tsp ground cinnamon – The key spice that brings warmth and depth to the bread.
- 1/2 tsp ground nutmeg – Adds a subtle, sweet spiciness that pairs beautifully with the pumpkin and banana.
- 1/4 tsp ground ginger – Offers a slightly zesty kick to complement the other spices.
- 1/2 tsp salt – Balances out the sweetness and enhances the flavors.
- 1 cup walnuts, chopped – Adds crunch and nuttiness, making each bite more satisfying.
Step-by-Step Instructions
1. Preheat the Oven and Prepare Your Pan
Start by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease and flour a 9×5-inch loaf pan, or line it with parchment paper for easy removal once baked.
2. Mix the Wet Ingredients
In a large mixing bowl, cream together the softened unsalted butter and brown sugar using an electric mixer or a whisk. Beat until the mixture is light and fluffy, about 3-4 minutes. This process helps incorporate air into the batter, which contributes to a light and tender loaf.
Add the mashed bananas, canned pumpkin puree, and vanilla extract to the butter-sugar mixture. Stir until everything is well combined.
Next, crack in the eggs, one at a time, beating well after each addition. Make sure the eggs are fully incorporated into the mixture.
3. Mix the Dry Ingredients
In a separate bowl, whisk together the all-purpose flour, baking powder, baking soda, ground cinnamon, ground nutmeg, ground ginger, and salt. This ensures that all the dry ingredients are evenly distributed and helps prevent clumps of spice or baking soda.
4. Combine Wet and Dry Ingredients
Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet ingredients, mixing just until combined. Be careful not to overmix, as this can make the bread dense. A few lumps are fine.
5. Add the Walnuts
Once the batter is mixed, fold in the chopped walnuts. This step adds crunch and flavor, making every bite of the bread more satisfying.
6. Bake the Banana Bread
Pour the batter into the prepared loaf pan, spreading it out evenly with a spatula. Place the pan in the preheated oven and bake for about 60-70 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean (a few moist crumbs are okay). The top of the bread should be golden brown and slightly cracked.
7. Cool and Serve
Once the bread is done baking, allow it to cool in the pan for about 10 minutes. After that, remove it from the pan and transfer it to a wire rack to cool completely. Slice and enjoy! This bread can be served warm, at room temperature, or even toasted with a bit of butter.
Tips for Success
- Use overripe bananas: The riper the bananas, the sweeter and more flavorful your bread will be. The blacker the bananas, the better!
- Don’t overmix: Overmixing the batter can lead to dense banana bread. Stir the dry and wet ingredients just until combined for the best texture.
- Add walnuts (or other nuts): Walnuts add a nice crunch to the bread, but feel free to swap them out for other nuts like pecans, or even leave them out if you prefer a nut-free version.
- Check doneness early: Oven temperatures can vary, so start checking the bread at about 55 minutes by inserting a toothpick into the center. If it comes out clean or with a few moist crumbs, it’s done.
- Let the bread cool completely: Allow the bread to cool completely before slicing to ensure it doesn’t fall apart when you cut into it.
Variations to Try
While this Pumpkin Spice Banana Bread with Walnuts is delicious as is, you can try some fun variations to give it a unique twist:
- Chocolate chips: Add a 1/2 cup of semisweet or milk chocolate chips to the batter for a decadent treat.
- Cranberries: Fresh or dried cranberries add a tart, juicy bite that pairs well with the sweetness of the bananas and pumpkin.
- Spices: Feel free to adjust the spices to your taste. Add a pinch of cloves for a spicier, more robust flavor or use pumpkin pie spice in place of the cinnamon, nutmeg, and ginger.
- Glaze: Drizzle a simple glaze made from powdered sugar and milk over the cooled bread for an extra touch of sweetness.
Storing and Reheating
This Pumpkin Spice Banana Bread with Walnuts is not only delicious but also keeps well for several days. Here’s how to store and reheat it:
- Room Temperature: Store the banana bread at room temperature in an airtight container or wrapped in plastic wrap for up to 3 days.
- Refrigerator: If you want the bread to last a little longer, you can store it in the refrigerator for up to one week.
- Freezing: For longer storage, you can freeze slices of banana bread. Wrap the individual slices in plastic wrap or foil, then place them in a freezer-safe bag or container. It will keep for up to 3 months. To reheat, simply thaw at room temperature or microwave for 20-30 seconds.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I use frozen bananas for this recipe?
Yes, you can use frozen bananas for this recipe. Just make sure to thaw them fully and drain any excess liquid before mashing.
Can I leave out the walnuts?
Absolutely! If you’re not a fan of walnuts, you can leave them out or substitute them with another type of nut, such as pecans or almonds. You could also add chocolate chips or dried fruit if you prefer.
Can I make this recipe gluten-free?
Yes, you can make this recipe gluten-free by substituting the all-purpose flour with a 1:1 gluten-free flour blend. Be sure to check the other ingredients, such as baking powder, to make sure they are gluten-free as well.
How can I make this bread even more moist?
To make your banana bread extra moist, you can add a little extra pumpkin puree or even a tablespoon of sour cream to the batter. This will help enhance the texture without affecting the flavor.
Can I add other spices to the bread?
Yes! Feel free to experiment with spices like cloves or allspice to customize the flavor. Just remember that a little goes a long way, so add them in moderation.
The Final Word
This Pumpkin Spice Banana Bread with Walnuts is the perfect combination of rich flavors, soft texture, and warm spices, making it a must-try for anyone who loves homemade baked goods. Whether you’re preparing it for a special occasion, a cozy afternoon snack, or a simple breakfast treat, this recipe will become a new favorite in your baking repertoire. Its moistness, spiced flavor, and crunchy walnut bits are bound to delight everyone who tries it. Plus, it’s so easy to make, you’ll want to bake it again and again. Enjoy!