Gingerbread Banana Bread

There’s something magical about the combination of flavors in Gingerbread Banana Bread. I remember baking this delightful treat on chilly autumn afternoons, the air filled with the aroma of spices and sweetness wafting through the kitchen. The rich, earthy scent of ginger intertwined with the warm notes of cinnamon and nutmeg creates an inviting atmosphere that makes you want to curl up with a cozy blanket and a slice of this bread. I often find myself making it when I have ripe bananas staring back at me, begging to be transformed into something delicious. This isn’t just any banana bread; it’s a warm, spiced hug in loaf form that brings back fond memories of family gatherings and festive celebrations.

Ingredients You’ll Need for Gingerbread Banana Bread

The ingredients you’ll need for Gingerbread Banana Bread come together beautifully. Each plays a crucial role, from the moistness provided by the ripe bananas to the warmth of the spices. The mixture of all-purpose flour, dark brown sugar, and molasses creates a rich base, while the addition of fresh ginger gives it a distinctive kick. Let’s dive into the essential ingredients that make this bread so special.

• 1-1/2 cups all-purpose flour – This forms the foundation of the bread, providing structure and texture.
• 2 teaspoons baking soda – Essential for leavening, helping the bread rise and become light and fluffy.
• 1 teaspoon cinnamon – Adds a warm, sweet flavor that enhances the overall taste.
• 1 teaspoon allspice – Contributes to the festive aroma and taste, pairing perfectly with ginger.
• 1/2 teaspoon ground nutmeg – Offers a hint of warmth and complexity.
• 1/2 teaspoon kosher salt – Brings balance to the sweetness of the bread.
• 1/4 teaspoon ground cloves – Adds a rich, aromatic flavor.
• 4 ounces unsalted butter, melted – Provides moisture and richness to the bread.
• 1/2 cup dark brown sugar – Adds depth of flavor with its rich sweetness.
• 1/2 cup molasses – Brings moisture and a deep, caramel-like sweetness.
• 3 tablespoons milk – Contributes to the bread’s moisture.
• 2 tablespoons grated fresh ginger – Provides a fresh, zesty flavor.
• 1 tablespoon vanilla bean paste – Adds a luxurious vanilla flavor.
• 2 teaspoons maple extract – Enhances the overall sweetness with a hint of maple.
• 2 large eggs – Binds the ingredients together and adds moisture.
• 1 cup mashed ripe bananas, about 3 large bananas – The star ingredient that adds natural sweetness and moisture.
• 2 ounces crystallized ginger, roughly chopped – Adds a chewy texture and additional zing.

Gingerbread Banana Bread Instructions

Making Gingerbread Banana Bread is an enjoyable process that fills your kitchen with delightful aromas. Follow these simple steps to create a loaf that’s sure to impress. Remember, taking your time and enjoying the process is part of the fun!

1. Preheat your oven to 350 degrees F and prepare a 9×5 loaf pan by spraying it with non-stick spray. This will ensure your loaf comes out easily once baked.
2. In a medium-sized mixing bowl, combine all-purpose flour, baking soda, cinnamon, allspice, ground nutmeg, kosher salt, and ground cloves. Whisk these together thoroughly to ensure an even distribution of the spices and leavening agent.
3. In the bowl of an electric mixer, combine the melted butter, dark brown sugar, and molasses. Beat on medium speed for about 3 minutes until the mixture is well combined and creamy.
4. Add in the milk, grated fresh ginger, vanilla bean paste, and maple extract. Mix on low speed for about 1 minute until everything is well incorporated.
5. Crack the eggs into the mixture one at a time, ensuring each is fully blended before adding the next. Scrape down the sides of the bowl as necessary.
6. Gently fold in the mashed ripe bananas until just combined. The mixture should be slightly lumpy, which is perfect.
7. With the mixer on low, gradually add the flour mixture to the wet ingredients. Mix until just combined, being careful not to overmix.
8. Finally, fold in the diced crystallized ginger. This will add lovely pockets of chewy sweetness to your loaf.
9. Pour the batter into the prepared loaf pan, smoothing out the top with a spatula. Bake in the preheated oven for 45 to 55 minutes. You’ll know it’s done when the middle is set and a toothpick inserted comes out clean.
10. Once baked, allow the bread to cool in the pan for about 10 minutes before transferring it to a wire rack to cool completely. This step is crucial to maintaining its structure and preventing sogginess.

Change It Up

If you’re feeling adventurous, here are some exciting ways to customize your Gingerbread Banana Bread. Each option adds a unique twist!

• Add nuts: Chopped walnuts or pecans can add a delightful crunch to your bread.
• Incorporate chocolate: Swirling in some chocolate chips or chunks can create a heavenly chocolate-ginger flavor.
• Try different spices: Experiment with other spices like cardamom or ginger for a different flavor profile.
• Make it vegan: Substitute the eggs with flaxseed meal mixed with water and use a plant-based butter.
• Storage: Keep any leftover bread in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days.
• Freezing: This bread freezes well! Wrap it tightly in plastic wrap and store in the freezer for up to 3 months.
• Pairing: Serve with cream cheese or a dollop of whipped cream for an extra treat.

Serving This Gingerbread Banana Bread

When it comes to serving your Gingerbread Banana Bread, there are so many delightful options! Here’s how to enjoy it:

• Breakfast: Serve slices warm, perhaps with a spread of butter or cream cheese for a cozy breakfast.
• Snack Time: It’s perfect as a mid-afternoon snack paired with a hot cup of tea or coffee.
• Dessert: Top with whipped cream or a scoop of vanilla ice cream for a delicious dessert.
• Holiday Gatherings: This bread makes a wonderful contribution to holiday brunches or as a thoughtful homemade gift.
• Storage: To keep it fresh, store it in an airtight container at room temperature for about three days.
• Freezing: You can freeze slices individually to enjoy later; just thaw before serving.
• Seasonal Pairings: Try serving it alongside a warm cup of cider or spiced tea during fall festivities.

FAQ

Conclusion

In summary, Gingerbread Banana Bread is a perfect blend of flavors and traditions that warms the heart. It’s a delightful treat that not only makes use of ripe bananas but also fills your home with comforting aromas. I encourage you to try this recipe and experience the joy it brings to your kitchen!

Gingerbread Banana Bread

The ultimate comfort food that combines the warmth of spices with the sweetness of ripe bananas, Gingerbread Banana Bread is perfect for any occasion. Each slice is moist, fragrant, and simply irresistible. Make this treat tonight to warm your heart and home!

Print Recipe Pin Recipe

Prep Time 10 minutes mins

Cook Time 55 minutes mins

Total Time 1 hour hr 5 minutes mins

Course Desserts

Cuisine American

Servings 8 slices

Calories 210 kcal

Equipment

• 9×5 Loaf Pan

Ingredients

  

• 1.5 cups All-Purpose Flour
• 2 teaspoons Baking Soda
• 1 teaspoon Cinnamon
• 1 teaspoon Allspice
• 0.5 teaspoon Ground Nutmeg
• 0.5 teaspoon Kosher Salt
• 0.25 teaspoon Ground Cloves
• 4 ounces Unsalted Butter, melted
• 0.5 cup Dark Brown Sugar
• 0.5 cup Molasses
• 3 tablespoons Milk
• 2 tablespoons Grated Fresh Ginger
• 1 tablespoon Vanilla Bean Paste
• 2 teaspoons Maple Extract
• 2 large Eggs
• 1 cup Mashed Ripe Bananas, about 3 large bananas
• 2 ounces Crystallized Ginger, roughly chopped

Instructions

 

• Preheat your oven to 350 degrees F and prepare a 9×5 loaf pan by spraying it with non-stick spray. This will ensure your loaf comes out easily once baked.
• In a medium-sized mixing bowl, combine all-purpose flour, baking soda, cinnamon, allspice, ground nutmeg, kosher salt, and ground cloves. Whisk these together thoroughly to ensure an even distribution of the spices and leavening agent.
• In the bowl of an electric mixer, combine the melted butter, dark brown sugar, and molasses. Beat on medium speed for about 3 minutes until the mixture is well combined and creamy.
• Add in the milk, grated fresh ginger, vanilla bean paste, and maple extract. Mix on low speed for about 1 minute until everything is well incorporated.
• Crack the eggs into the mixture one at a time, ensuring each is fully blended before adding the next. Scrape down the sides of the bowl as necessary.
• Gently fold in the mashed ripe bananas until just combined. The mixture should be slightly lumpy, which is perfect.
• With the mixer on low, gradually add the flour mixture to the wet ingredients. Mix until just combined, being careful not to overmix.
• Finally, fold in the diced crystallized ginger. This will add lovely pockets of chewy sweetness to your loaf.
• Pour the batter into the prepared loaf pan, smoothing out the top with a spatula. Bake in the preheated oven for 45 to 55 minutes. You’ll know it’s done when the middle is set and a toothpick inserted comes out clean.
• Once baked, allow the bread to cool in the pan for about 10 minutes before transferring it to a wire rack to cool completely. This step is crucial to maintaining its structure and preventing sogginess.

Notes

• Tip 1: Keep any leftover bread in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days.
• Tip 2: This bread freezes well! Wrap it tightly in plastic wrap and store in the freezer for up to 3 months.
• Tip 3: Serve with cream cheese or a dollop of whipped cream for an extra treat.
• Tip 4: Toast slices for a crunchy exterior and warm interior.
• Tip 5: Experiment with spices like cardamom for a different flavor profile.

Keyword easy banana bread recipe, Gingerbread Banana Bread, holiday baking, spiced banana bread

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Meet Sophia Hayes

I founded YumRecettes to turn my messy, joyful kitchen experiments into something I could share. While I steer the ship, I am first and foremost a cook. I love tackling every type of recipe, from grandmother’s old classics to modern fusion dishes. For me, the magic isn’t in a specific type of food, but in the act of preparing it. I’m usually the one urging the team to try that “one last idea” that ends up making the dish perfect.