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; 1/2 cup brown sugar; 1/4 cup granulated sugar; 2 large eggs; 1 teaspoon vanilla extract; 1 1/2 cups all-purpose flour; 1 teaspoon baking soda; 1/2 teaspoon salt; 1 tablespoon ground ginger; 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon; 1/2 teaspoon ground nutmeg; 1/4 teaspoon ground cloves

Highlighted under: Home-Style Dessert Bakes

A delightful blend of warm spices and ripe bananas, this Gingerbread Banana Loaf is perfect for cozy mornings or as a sweet treat any time of the day.

Created by

Tina

Last updated on 2026-01-03T13:46:29.972Z

This Gingerbread Banana Loaf is a unique twist on traditional banana bread, combining the rich flavors of ginger and spices with the sweetness of ripe bananas. It's perfect for holiday gatherings or as a comforting snack.

        Why You Will Love This Recipe
        Warm, aromatic spices that evoke the holiday spirit
Moist and tender texture with a hint of sweetness
Easy to make with simple ingredients

      

The Perfect Blend of Flavors

The Gingerbread Banana Loaf is a delightful treat that marries the sweet, mellow flavor of ripe bananas with the warm, spicy notes of gingerbread. Each slice is infused with aromatic spices like cinnamon and nutmeg, creating a comforting experience that is reminiscent of holiday baking. This loaf not only satisfies your sweet tooth but also fills your home with a heavenly aroma that invites everyone to gather around the kitchen.

Incorporating spices like ground cloves and ginger elevates this loaf beyond a standard banana bread. The combination of these spices not only provides depth of flavor but also offers potential health benefits, making it a perfect choice for those seeking comfort food with a twist. The use of both brown and granulated sugars adds to the complexity of the flavor, ensuring that each bite is a delightful surprise.

A Moist and Tender Texture

One of the hallmarks of a great banana loaf is its moist and tender texture, and this Gingerbread Banana Loaf does not disappoint. The ripe bananas contribute natural sweetness and moisture, while the combination of butter and eggs ensures a rich, tender crumb. This loaf is perfect for slicing and toasting, making it a great option for breakfast or an afternoon snack.

To achieve that perfect texture, it’s important not to overmix the batter. Mix just until the dry ingredients are incorporated to maintain a light and fluffy loaf. The result is a beautifully risen cake-like loaf that is both satisfying and delicious, making it a must-try for banana bread enthusiasts.

Simple Ingredients, Easy Preparation

One of the best aspects of the Gingerbread Banana Loaf is how easy it is to prepare with simple pantry ingredients. You likely already have most of the ingredients on hand, making this an ideal recipe for a last-minute treat or a cozy weekend baking project. With just a few steps, you can whip up this delightful loaf without any complicated techniques or specialized equipment.

Whether you’re an experienced baker or a novice in the kitchen, this recipe is straightforward and accessible. The combination of wet and dry ingredients is easy to follow, and the entire process can be completed in under two hours. This means you can enjoy the fruits of your labor without spending the whole day in the kitchen.

Ingredients

For the Gingerbread Banana Loaf

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

Instructions

Preheat the Oven

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

Mix Wet Ingredients

In a large bowl, cream together the softened butter, brown sugar, and granulated sugar. Beat in the eggs one at a time, then stir in the mashed bananas and vanilla extract.

Combine Dry Ingredients

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

Combine Mixtures

Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet ingredients, mixing until just combined. Do not overmix.

Bake

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

Cool and Serve

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

Tips for Perfecting Your Loaf

To ensure your Gingerbread Banana Loaf comes out perfectly every time, use very ripe bananas. The riper the bananas, the sweeter and more flavorful your loaf will be. If you find yourself with bananas that are overripe, don’t hesitate to use them; they add the best flavor and moisture to your loaf.

Additionally, consider adding mix-ins like chopped nuts or chocolate chips for an extra layer of texture and flavor. Just remember to adjust the baking time slightly if you add more ingredients, as they can alter the moisture content.

Storing and Serving Suggestions

Once your Gingerbread Banana Loaf is baked and cooled, it can be stored at room temperature for up to three days, wrapped tightly in plastic wrap. For longer storage, consider freezing slices of the loaf. Simply wrap each slice in plastic wrap and place them in a freezer-safe bag. They can be thawed at room temperature or toasted directly from the freezer for a quick treat.

This loaf pairs wonderfully with a cup of tea or coffee, making it a delightful addition to your morning routine or an afternoon pick-me-up. For a special touch, serve slices with a smear of cream cheese or a dusting of powdered sugar for an extra layer of indulgence.

Variations to Try

While the classic Gingerbread Banana Loaf is a treat on its own, there are numerous variations you can try to keep things exciting. For a tropical twist, add shredded coconut or chopped pineapple to the batter for a unique flavor profile that complements the spices beautifully.

If you’re looking for a healthier version, consider using whole wheat flour instead of all-purpose flour and reducing the amount of sugar. You can also substitute Greek yogurt for some of the butter to lighten the loaf while still keeping it moist and delicious.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use frozen bananas?

Yes, frozen bananas work well. Just thaw them and mash before using.

→ How do I store the loaf?

Store the Gingerbread Banana Loaf in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days.

→ Can I make this recipe gluten-free?

Yes, you can substitute the all-purpose flour with a gluten-free flour blend.

→ Can I add nuts or chocolate chips?

Absolutely! Feel free to mix in your favorite nuts or chocolate chips for added flavor and texture.