Gingerbread Banana Loaf

Name: Gingerbread Banana Loaf
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 1 h
Total time: 1 h 15 min
Yield: 1 loaf
Ingredients: 3 ripe bananas, mashed; 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened; 1 cup brown sugar; 2 large eggs; 1 teaspoon vanilla extract; 1 1/2 cups all-purpose flour; 1 teaspoon baking soda; 1 teaspoon ground ginger; 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon; 1/2 teaspoon ground nutmeg; 1/4 teaspoon ground cloves; 1/4 teaspoon salt

Highlighted under: Sweet Baking Recipes

Enjoy the cozy flavors of gingerbread combined with the sweetness of ripe bananas in this delightful loaf.

Created by

Emily Carter

Last updated on 2026-01-03T14:38:30.853Z

This Gingerbread Banana Loaf combines the warm spices of gingerbread with the natural sweetness of ripe bananas, creating a perfect treat for any occasion.

        Why You'll Love This Recipe
        Warm spices that evoke holiday cheer
Moist and fluffy texture with every slice
Easy to make and perfect for sharing

      

A Perfect Blend of Flavors

Gingerbread and bananas come together beautifully in this loaf, creating a unique flavor profile that is both comforting and inviting. The warm spices associated with gingerbread, such as ginger, cinnamon, and nutmeg, provide a festive touch, while the ripe bananas add a natural sweetness and moisture. This combination is perfect for those chilly days when you crave something warm and delicious to enjoy with a cup of tea or coffee.

Each slice of this Gingerbread Banana Loaf is a delightful experience, offering a moist and fluffy texture that makes it hard to resist. The rich aroma wafting through your kitchen as it bakes will evoke fond memories of holiday gatherings and cozy family moments. It's a fantastic way to use up overripe bananas while bringing a little holiday cheer into your home.

Easy to Make and Share

One of the best things about this recipe is its simplicity. With just a few basic ingredients and a straightforward process, you can whip up this loaf in no time. It's perfect for bakers of all skill levels, whether you're a seasoned pro or a beginner in the kitchen. The ease of preparation makes it a great option for last-minute gatherings or a cozy evening at home.

Once your Gingerbread Banana Loaf is baked and cooled, it becomes an excellent treat for sharing. Wrap it up as a thoughtful gift for friends or family, or bring it along to a potluck or holiday party. Its appealing flavors and lovely presentation make it a sure hit, and you'll likely find yourself receiving requests for the recipe after everyone gets a taste!

Ingredients

For the Loaf

3 ripe bananas, mashed
1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened
1 cup brown sugar
2 large eggs
1 teaspoon vanilla extract
1 1/2 cups all-purpose flour
1 teaspoon baking soda
1 teaspoon ground ginger
1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
1/2 teaspoon ground nutmeg
1/4 teaspoon ground cloves
1/4 teaspoon salt

Mix all ingredients until just combined for best results.

Instructions

Preheat the Oven

Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and grease a 9x5 inch loaf pan.

Mix the Wet Ingredients

In a large bowl, cream together the softened butter and brown sugar. Add the mashed bananas, eggs, and vanilla extract; mix until well combined.

Combine Dry Ingredients

In another bowl, whisk together the flour, baking soda, ginger, cinnamon, nutmeg, cloves, and salt.

Combine Mixtures

Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet mixture, stirring until just combined.

Bake the Loaf

Pour the batter into the prepared loaf pan and smooth the top. Bake for 60 minutes or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.

Cool and Serve

Allow the loaf to cool in the pan for 10 minutes, then transfer it to a wire rack to cool completely before slicing.

Enjoy your Gingerbread Banana Loaf as a delightful snack or dessert!

Storage Tips

To keep your Gingerbread Banana Loaf fresh, store it in an airtight container at room temperature. It should stay delicious for up to three days. If you want to enjoy it longer, consider wrapping it tightly in plastic wrap and placing it in the freezer. This way, you can savor a slice of this delightful loaf even weeks later!

When ready to enjoy a frozen slice, simply remove it from the freezer and let it thaw at room temperature. You can also pop it in the microwave for a few seconds to warm it up if you prefer it slightly toasted. The flavors and textures will remain intact, allowing you to relive the cozy experience all over again.

Variations to Try

While this Gingerbread Banana Loaf is already perfect as it is, there are numerous variations you can try to suit your taste. For a nutty twist, consider adding chopped walnuts or pecans to the batter. The crunch of the nuts complements the soft texture of the loaf beautifully, adding an extra layer of flavor and richness.

If you love chocolate, consider folding in some chocolate chips or chunks just before baking. The combination of gingerbread spices with chocolate creates an indulgent experience that is hard to resist. You can also experiment with different spices or sweeteners to customize the loaf to your liking.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use frozen bananas?

Yes, just make sure they are thawed and well mashed before using.

→ How should I store the loaf?

Store in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days, or in the refrigerator for up to a week.

→ Can I freeze the banana loaf?

Absolutely! Wrap it tightly in plastic wrap and then aluminum foil before freezing for up to 3 months.

→ What can I substitute for brown sugar?

You can use white sugar, but the flavor will be slightly different. Adding a tablespoon of molasses can help mimic the taste.