Pumpkin banana bread recipes capture the heart of fall in every slice—moist, tender, and packed with spice. If you’ve ever wondered how to bring together ripe bananas and canned pumpkin into one irresistible loaf, you’re in the right place. This version uses pantry staples and warm spices to create the perfect balance of flavor and softness. Whether you’re baking for breakfast or a cozy dessert, it’s the ultimate treat. For more fall inspiration, check out our Pumpkin Bread Recipe or this crowd-pleasing Snickerdoodle Banana Bread Recipe.
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My Story & Why This Is the Best Pumpkin Banana Bread
A cozy baking memory with banana and pumpkin
The first time I baked the best pumpkin banana bread, it started with leftover bananas and a can of pumpkin I’d meant to use for pie. I was hit with a burst of creativity and tossed them together into one loaf. As the scent of cinnamon and nutmeg filled my kitchen, I knew I’d made the right call. One bite—and I was hooked.
Since launching RecipesLoop in 2019, I’ve shared my love for global flavors and homemade comfort food. Some of my favorites include Pumpkin Dump Cake and even savory twists like Pumpkin Baked Brie, but this sweet, spiced bread is one of the most nostalgic.
Why pumpkin and banana belong together
Yes, you can—and should—add pumpkin purée to banana bread. It adds richness, moisture, and that earthy depth that pairs so well with fall spices. The mashed bananas keep it sweet and soft, while pumpkin balances with a subtle savory note. The result? The best pumpkin banana bread you’ll make this season.
I like to use both granulated and brown sugar for layered sweetness and caramel-like depth. If you’re feeling adventurous, stir in chopped walnuts for crunch or dark chocolate chips for contrast. If you love spiced treats, you might also enjoy our Pumpkin Chocolate Chip Muffins.
This loaf is beginner-friendly and fuss-free. No stand mixer, no fancy techniques—just a bowl, whisk, and your favorite fall ingredients. And like our Banana Bread Cake Mix hack, it proves simple can still be sensational.
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Best Pumpkin Banana Bread – Ultimate Cozy Fall Recipe
- Total Time: 65 minutes
- Yield: 1 loaf 1x
- Diet: Vegetarian
Description
A rich, moist banana bread blended with pumpkin purée, warm spices, and a touch of brown sugar—perfect for fall or any cozy day.
Ingredients
2 cups all-purpose flour
2 teaspoons pumpkin pie spice
1/2 teaspoon cinnamon
1 teaspoon baking soda
1/2 teaspoon baking powder
1/4 teaspoon salt
1/2 cup vegetable oil
1/2 cup sugar
1/2 cup brown sugar
2 large eggs
2 teaspoons vanilla extract
2 medium bananas mashed
1 cup canned pumpkin puree (not pumpkin pie filling)
1/2 cup chopped walnuts (optional)
Instructions
1. Preheat oven to 350°F. Grease and flour a 9×5 inch loaf pan.
2. In a medium bowl, whisk flour, spices, baking soda, baking powder, and salt.
3. In a large bowl, whisk oil, sugars, eggs, and vanilla until smooth.
4. Add mashed bananas and pumpkin puree. Mix to combine.
5. Stir dry ingredients into wet until just combined. Do not overmix.
6. Fold in walnuts if using.
7. Pour batter into pan and bake for 50-60 minutes, or until a toothpick comes out clean.
8. Cool in pan for 10 minutes, then transfer to a wire rack to cool completely.
Notes
For extra richness, add 1/4 cup Greek yogurt.
Top with streusel or cream cheese glaze for a festive twist.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 55 minutes
- Category: Quick Breads
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 slice
- Calories: 210
- Sugar: 17g
- Sodium: 160mg
- Fat: 8g
- Saturated Fat: 1g
- Unsaturated Fat: 6g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 31g
- Fiber: 2g
- Protein: 3g
- Cholesterol: 30mg
Keywords: Best Pumpkin Banana Bread, Fall Bread, Banana Pumpkin Loaf
Avoid These Common Mistakes in Pumpkin Banana Bread
What ruins Pumpkin banana bread (and how to avoid it)
One of the top questions people ask is, “What is the number one mistake made when making banana bread?” The answer is simple: overmixing. It’s tempting to beat your batter smooth, but that’s a surefire way to end up with a dense, rubbery loaf. For the best pumpkin banana bread, you want to gently stir the dry ingredients into the wet—just until combined. Lumps are totally fine. In fact, they help keep the crumb tender.
Another common mistake? Not measuring your flour correctly. Scooping straight from the bag can compact the flour and throw off the texture. Instead, spoon it into your measuring cup and level it off. Using too much flour is one of the quickest ways to lose the softness that makes this bread special.
Tips for baking a perfect loaf every time : Pumpkin banana bread
Always use overripe bananas—the kind with freckles and deep sweetness. They mash more easily and infuse the loaf with natural sugar and moisture. As for pumpkin, make sure you’re using pure pumpkin purée, not pumpkin pie filling. The latter has added sugar and spices that can overpower your carefully balanced batter.
Keep an eye on baking time. The center should spring back lightly when touched, and a toothpick should come out clean. Avoid opening the oven door too often; sudden drops in temperature can cause the loaf to sink in the middle.
Want to try a celebrity twist? Check out the Chrissy Teigen Banana Bread Recipe for her chocolate-and-coconut-packed version. Or if you’re short on time, our Banana Bread Cake Mix shortcut gets you results fast with minimal ingredients.
Why Texture and Flavor Make All the Difference
What makes Maui banana bread so good?
Ever heard someone rave about banana bread they had in Hawaii? There’s a reason Maui banana bread gets so much attention. It’s ultra-moist, intensely banana-forward, and often baked in smaller batches, giving it that rich flavor and dense-but-soft texture. The tropical air may help, but it’s really about ripeness, moisture, and just the right bake time.
The best pumpkin banana bread borrows those same winning qualities. The blend of pumpkin purée and mashed banana gives this loaf an extra level of softness. The result is a slice that stays fresh for days and tastes even better the next morning with coffee.
Building flavor with spice and structure
Great quick breads are built on balance—between wet and dry ingredients, between sugar and spice. Pumpkin alone can sometimes make a loaf taste “flat,” but when paired with banana, cinnamon, and pumpkin pie spice, everything rounds out beautifully. Add a hint of vanilla and a touch of brown sugar, and you’re on your way to a crave-worthy bite.
This bread also holds up beautifully with add-ins like walnuts, pecans, or dark chocolate. For something different, try swirling in a bit of cream cheese before baking. Want more pumpkin dessert ideas? Don’t miss our Pumpkin Creme Brulee Cheesecake Bars or seasonal favorite Pumpkin Dump Cake.
The true joy of the best pumpkin banana bread lies in its texture—moist, tender, but never soggy. That golden crackly top and soft center make it feel like a bakery treat right out of your home oven.
Make It Your Own – Tips, Storage, and Serving about Pumpkin banana bread
How to customize your pumpkin banana bread
One of the best parts about making the best pumpkin banana bread at home is flexibility. Love a crunch? Add a half-cup of chopped walnuts or pecans. Prefer indulgence? Fold in dark chocolate chips or swirl in nut butter before baking. You can even use maple syrup in place of some sugar for a deeper, fall-inspired sweetness.
Try mini loaves or muffins for quicker baking and easy gifting. This batter works beautifully in different pan sizes—just adjust the time and keep a toothpick handy. For another fun twist, blend it into breakfast by toasting a slice and topping it with spiced butter or maple cream cheese.
Looking for more ideas? Our Pumpkin Chocolate Chip Muffins offer similar warm flavors in portable form. Or, if you’re after showstopping brunch, the Pumpkin Pie French Toast Bake is a dreamy next step.
Storage and serving tips about Pumpkin banana bread
Once baked and fully cooled, wrap your loaf in plastic wrap or store it in an airtight container. It stays fresh at room temperature for up to 4 days and freezes well for up to 2 months. Just slice and wrap individual pieces before freezing, and you’ll always have a treat ready.
Serve slices slightly warmed with a pat of butter, or enjoy them cold with a morning latte. However you slice it, the best pumpkin banana bread delivers flavor, comfort, and that cozy fall vibe every time.
Conclusion : Pumpkin banana bread
When fall flavors call, nothing answers quite like the best pumpkin banana bread. It’s moist, rich, warmly spiced, and easier to make than you’d think. Whether you’re baking for guests or just craving something sweet and seasonal, this loaf never disappoints. The combination of banana and pumpkin is pure comfort in every bite—and customizable to your heart’s content. From brunch to dessert, it’s a recipe you’ll reach for again and again.
For more cozy ideas, try our Pumpkin Bread Recipe or explore the dreamy Pumpkin Pie French Toast Bake. Happy baking!
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FAQ Section about Pumpkin banana bread
What is the number one mistake made when making banana bread?
Overmixing the batter is the biggest issue. It creates a tough texture. Stir just until the dry ingredients disappear for a softer loaf.
What’s in Chrissy Teigen’s banana bread?
Her recipe includes bananas, coconut, and chocolate chunks. It’s rich, indulgent, and has a cult following. Check our version here.
Can I add pumpkin purée to banana bread?
Yes! Pumpkin purée adds moisture, richness, and depth of flavor. It’s one of the best ways to upgrade traditional banana bread.
Why is Maui banana bread so good?
Maui banana bread is known for its ultra-moist texture and intense banana flavor, often baked fresh with local bananas and love.