Gingerbread Banana Bread Recipe

If you are a fan of cozy spices and moist, tender loaves, you are going to fall head over heels for this Gingerbread Banana Bread. It beautifully marries the warm, aromatic notes of gingerbread spices with the natural sweetness and moisture of ripe bananas, resulting in a loaf that feels like a hug in bread form. Whether it’s for a weekend treat or a festive gathering, this Gingerbread Banana Bread brings comfort and joy with every bite, making it a truly irresistible addition to your baking repertoire.

Ingredients You’ll Need

These ingredients are wonderfully simple but come together to create an incredible balance of flavor, texture, and color. Each one plays a pivotal role—from the creamy butter and sweet molasses to the spice blend that brings the Gingerbread Banana Bread to life.

• Cinnamon sugar: Coats the pan for a slightly sweet, spiced crust that adds texture and flavor.
• Unsalted butter: Provides rich moisture and tenderness to the bread.
• Dark brown sugar: Adds deep caramel notes and keeps the loaf nice and moist.
• Vanilla extract: Enhances all the sweet flavors and ties the spices together.
• Eggs: Bind the ingredients and give the bread structure.
• Mashed bananas: The star of the show for natural sweetness and moist crumb.
• Sour cream: Adds moisture and a subtle tanginess to balance the sweet spices.
• Molasses: Infuses the bread with that signature gingerbread richness and color.
• All-purpose flour: The foundation that supports the loaf’s tender crumb.
• Baking soda: Helps the bread rise and become light.
• Salt: Enhances all the other flavors beautifully.
• Cinnamon, ginger, nutmeg, and allspice: Create the warm, inviting spice profile essential for Gingerbread Banana Bread.
• Powdered sugar and milk: Combine to make a luscious glaze that adds sweetness and a pretty finishing touch.
• Holiday sprinkles: Optional, but perfect for adding a festive burst of color and fun.

How to Make Gingerbread Banana Bread

Step 1: Prepare the Pan

Start by preheating your oven to 350 degrees Fahrenheit. Spray a 9×5 loaf pan generously with nonstick spray, then sprinkle it evenly with cinnamon sugar. Gently tap the pan to coat every nook. This step gives your bread a subtly sweet, spiced crust that you’ll love biting into.

Step 2: Cream Butter and Sugar

In a large mixing bowl, beat the softened butter and dark brown sugar together until the mixture is creamy and fluffy. This ensures your bread will be rich and tender, creating the perfect base to build those delicious flavors on.

Step 3: Add Wet Ingredients

Next, add the vanilla extract, eggs, mashed bananas, sour cream, and molasses to the butter mixture. Beat everything together until it’s fully combined. This combination results in a moist, flavorful batter packed with the essence of banana and the unmistakable charm of molasses.

Step 4: Incorporate Dry Ingredients

In a separate bowl, whisk together the flour, baking soda, salt, cinnamon, ground ginger, nutmeg, and allspice. Slowly add these dry ingredients to your wet mixture, stirring just until combined. The spices will infuse the batter with that unmistakable gingerbread warmth that makes this bread stand out.

Step 5: Bake to Perfection

Pour the batter into your prepared pan, smoothing the top evenly. Bake for 65 to 70 minutes or until a skewer inserted into the center comes out mostly clean. This slow bake gives the bread time to develop a beautiful crust while staying moist inside. Let it cool in the pan for 10 minutes before gently flipping it onto a wire rack to cool completely.

Step 6: Add the Glaze and Sprinkles

Mix together powdered sugar and milk to form a smooth glaze. Pour this over the cooled bread in a gentle drizzle or spread it evenly with a spoon. If you’re feeling festive, sprinkle on some holiday sprinkles to add a playful splash of color and texture. This final touch makes your Gingerbread Banana Bread look as delightful as it tastes.

How to Serve Gingerbread Banana Bread

Garnishes

To elevate your Gingerbread Banana Bread, try garnishing slices with a dusting of powdered sugar or a light spread of soft butter. A dollop of whipped cream or a smear of cream cheese frosting can also add a creamy contrast that complements the spicy-sweet flavors beautifully.

Side Dishes

This bread pairs wonderfully with warm beverages like chai tea, coffee, or hot cocoa. You could also serve it alongside a fresh fruit salad or a bowl of spiced applesauce for a cozy and balanced snack or breakfast.

Creative Ways to Present

Slice the Gingerbread Banana Bread and arrange it on a rustic wooden board with a few sprigs of fresh rosemary or holly for a festive presentation. You could also cut it into mini loaf-sized portions to share at a holiday brunch or wrap individual slices in parchment paper for charming gifts.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Leftover Gingerbread Banana Bread keeps beautifully wrapped tightly in plastic wrap or stored in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days. This allows it to retain its moisture and flavor without drying out.

Freezing

You can freeze the loaf or individual slices by wrapping them in plastic wrap and then placing them in a freezer-safe bag. Frozen Gingerbread Banana Bread maintains its quality for up to 2 months. Thaw in the refrigerator or at room temperature before serving.

Reheating

To enjoy the bread warm, reheat slices in a toaster oven or regular oven at 300 degrees Fahrenheit for about 10 minutes, or until heated through. Avoid the microwave if possible, as it can make the texture slightly gummy.

FAQs

Can I use regular brown sugar instead of dark brown sugar?

Yes, you can substitute regular brown sugar if that’s what you have on hand. The flavor will be slightly lighter, but still delicious and moist.

What if I don’t have molasses?

Molasses is key for that true gingerbread flavor and deep color, but you can replace it with an equal amount of honey or dark corn syrup in a pinch. The taste will change slightly but remain lovely.

Can I add nuts or chocolate chips?

Absolutely! Chopped walnuts, pecans, or chocolate chips would be fantastic additions to make your Gingerbread Banana Bread even more special and texturally interesting.

How ripe should the bananas be?

Your bananas should be very ripe, ideally with brown spots or fully brown skin. This ensures maximum sweetness and moistness for the bread.

Is it possible to make this bread gluten-free?

Yes, you can substitute the all-purpose flour with a gluten-free flour blend suited for baking. Just ensure it includes xanthan gum or another binder for the best results.

Final Thoughts

This Gingerbread Banana Bread is a delightful way to combine two beloved flavors into one irresistible treat. It’s perfect for sharing, gifting, or keeping all to yourself on a cozy afternoon. I can’t wait for you to try it and experience the comforting warmth and sweet-spiced goodness that only this recipe delivers!

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