Gingerbread Banana Bread

Warm spices meet sweet ripe bananas in this cozy and aromatic Gingerbread Banana Bread. Infused with molasses, cinnamon, ginger, and nutmeg, this twist on the classic banana loaf is perfect for holiday mornings, winter snacks, or anytime you crave something nostalgic and comforting. Moist, flavorful, and easy to make, it’s the ultimate cold-weather bake.

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Why You’ll Love This Recipe
Holiday-Inspired Flavor – Gingerbread spices add a seasonal twist to classic banana bread.
Super Moist – Bananas and molasses ensure a tender crumb.
Simple Pantry Ingredients – No fancy tools or ingredients required.
Freezer-Friendly – Make a loaf now, save one for later.
Perfect for Gifting – Wrap and share this festive loaf with family and friends.

Ingredients You’ll Need

For the Bread:
1 ½ cups all-purpose flour
1 tsp baking soda
½ tsp salt
1 tsp ground cinnamon
1 tsp ground ginger
¼ tsp ground cloves
¼ tsp ground nutmeg
2 ripe bananas, mashed (about 1 cup)
⅓ cup molasses
½ cup brown sugar
2 large eggs
¼ cup vegetable oil
¼ cup milk (dairy or plant-based)
1 tsp vanilla extract

Optional Add-Ins:
½ cup chopped walnuts or pecans
½ cup chocolate chips
¼ cup candied ginger, chopped
Sprinkle of turbinado sugar on top for crunch

Tools You’ll Need
Mixing bowls
Whisk or hand mixer
Measuring cups and spoons
9×5 inch loaf pan
Parchment paper or non-stick spray
Cooling rack

Step-by-Step Instructions

Step 1: Prep the Oven and Pan
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
Grease and line a 9×5 inch loaf pan with parchment paper or spray with non-stick spray.

Step 2: Mix Dry Ingredients
In a medium bowl, whisk together flour, baking soda, salt, cinnamon, ginger, cloves, and nutmeg. Set aside.

Step 3: Combine Wet Ingredients
In a large bowl, whisk together mashed bananas, molasses, brown sugar, eggs, oil, milk, and vanilla extract until smooth and well combined.

Step 4: Combine Wet and Dry
Add the dry ingredients to the wet mixture and stir until just combined—do not overmix.
Gently fold in any optional add-ins like nuts or chocolate chips.

Step 5: Pour and Bake
Pour the batter into the prepared loaf pan.
Smooth the top and sprinkle with turbinado sugar if desired.
Bake for 50–60 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean.

Step 6: Cool and Serve
Let the bread cool in the pan for 10 minutes.
Transfer to a wire rack and cool completely before slicing.

Tips for Perfect Gingerbread Banana Bread
Use Very Ripe Bananas – The browner, the better for natural sweetness.
Don’t Overmix – Stir until just combined to avoid a dense loaf.
Check Doneness – Insert a toothpick into the center; it should come out clean.
Let It Cool – Fully cooling enhances flavor and makes slicing easier.
Double the Batch – One to eat, one to freeze or gift!

Serving Suggestions
With Hot Coffee or Tea – A warm slice with your morning drink.
Toasted with Butter – Adds richness and melts beautifully.
Holiday Brunch – Serve with fruit, yogurt, and warm drinks.
Dessert Option – Add a scoop of vanilla ice cream for an indulgent treat.
Snack Time – Pack a slice for an on-the-go bite.

How to Store & Reheat

Storing:
Room Temperature: Store in an airtight container for up to 3 days.
Refrigerate: Extend freshness up to 5 days.

Freezing:
Wrap tightly in plastic and foil or store in a freezer-safe bag for up to 2 months.
Thaw at room temperature or microwave gently.

Reheating:
Microwave: Heat slices for 10–15 seconds for a soft, warm texture.
Toaster: Lightly toast for a crisp edge and melty inside.

Frequently Asked Questions

1. Can I use blackstrap molasses?
   It’s best to use regular unsulphured molasses for a sweeter flavor. Blackstrap is more bitter.
2. Can I make this gluten-free?
   Yes, use a 1:1 gluten-free flour blend.
3. Can I substitute oil with butter?
   Yes, melted butter works great and adds a rich flavor.
4. What if I don’t have cloves or nutmeg?
   Increase the cinnamon and ginger slightly, or use a pumpkin spice blend.
5. Can I make muffins with this batter?
   Absolutely! Bake at 350°F for 18–22 minutes.

Final Thoughts
This Gingerbread Banana Bread is the perfect cozy bake for chilly mornings and festive seasons. With its moist texture and spiced aroma, it brings together the best of two comforting classics. Whether you’re baking for yourself, your family, or a holiday gift basket, this loaf is bound to be a warm and welcoming hit.

Try it once, and it’ll be your go-to winter bread recipe!

Preparation Time: 15 minutes
Cooking Time: 55 minutes
Cuisine: American

Nutritional Information (Per Slice):
Calories: 210 | Protein: 3g | Carbohydrates: 32g | Fat: 8g | Fiber: 1g | Sodium: 190mg

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