Pumpkin Banana Bread with Maple Glaze Recipe

Autumn calls for cozy flavors, and the Pumpkin Banana Bread with Maple Glaze Recipe delivers exactly that. Imagine the rich sweetness of ripe bananas paired with the earthy warmth of pumpkin, all crowned with a glossy, sweet maple glaze. This recipe is more than a quick bread—it’s a comforting hug on a plate, perfect for breakfast, dessert, or even a snack with your afternoon coffee. By following this guide, you’ll achieve a moist, flavorful loaf that melts in your mouth, and thanks to the simple maple glaze, every bite is decadently sweet without being overpowering.

Why You’ll Love This Pumpkin Banana Bread with Maple Glaze Recipe

  • Moist & Tender Crumb – The combination of pumpkin puree and overripe bananas ensures a soft, melt-in-your-mouth texture.

  • Fall-Inspired Flavor – Pumpkin pie spice and cinnamon deliver the cozy taste of autumn in every bite.

  • Quick & Easy – With pantry staples, you can mix this loaf in under 20 minutes.

  • Versatile Serving Options – Perfect for breakfast, brunch, dessert, or gifting.

  • Naturally Sweet – Relying on bananas and maple syrup, it reduces the need for extra sugar.

  • Budget-Friendly Ingredients – Simple staples create a bakery-worthy bread without breaking the bank.

  • Kid & Adult Friendly – Loved by all ages, making it a family favorite.

  • Gluten Flexibility – Easily adaptable with gluten-free flour for dietary preferences.

Ingredients

Each ingredient in this Pumpkin Banana Bread with Maple Glaze Recipe plays a crucial role:

For the Bread:

  • Unsalted Butter (½ cup, softened) – Creams with sugar for light texture.

  • Dark Brown Sugar (¾ cup) – Adds molasses depth that complements pumpkin.

  • Eggs (2 large) – Binds ingredients and supports the rise.

  • Pumpkin Puree (1 cup) – Provides moisture and natural sweetness.

  • Overripe Bananas (2–3 medium) – Key for tender crumb and natural sugar.

  • Vanilla Extract (1 tsp) – Rounds out flavors.

  • All-Purpose Flour (2 cups) – Forms structure.

  • Pumpkin Pie Spice (1 tsp) – Cinnamon, nutmeg, ginger, and cloves for cozy flavor.

  • Baking Soda (1 tsp) – Leavening for perfect lift.

  • Salt (½ tsp) – Balances sweetness.

  • Cinnamon (½ tsp, optional) – Enhances warmth beyond pumpkin pie spice.

For the Maple Glaze:

  • Salted Butter (2 tbsp, melted) – Richness and smooth texture.

  • Pure Maple Syrup (¼ cup) – Sweet, natural highlight.

  • Powdered Sugar (½ cup) – Smooth consistency and sweetness.

Substitutions & Tips:

  • Use coconut oil for dairy-free variation.

  • Swap brown sugar with coconut sugar for a lower-glycemic option.

  • Gluten-free flour blends work one-to-one for a GF loaf.

Step-by-Step Instructions

1. Preheat & Prepare Pan

Set your oven to 375°F (190°C). Grease a 9×5-inch loaf pan or line with parchment paper for easy removal.

2. Mix Dry Ingredients

In a large bowl, whisk together flour, pumpkin pie spice, baking soda, cinnamon, and salt. This ensures even distribution of leavening and spices.

3. Combine Wet Ingredients

In a separate bowl, mash bananas and combine with pumpkin puree, softened butter, eggs, brown sugar, and vanilla extract. The natural sugars help caramelize during baking, creating a golden crust.

4. Assemble the Batter

Gently fold wet ingredients into dry. Overmixing can toughen the loaf, so stir until just combined. The batter should be thick but pourable.

5. Bake

Pour into the prepared pan and bake for 50–60 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean.

6. Prepare Maple Glaze

While the bread cools slightly, whisk together melted butter, maple syrup, and powdered sugar until smooth. Drizzle over warm bread for the perfect glossy finish.

7. Cool & Serve

Let cool for at least 15 minutes before slicing. Serve warm with a pat of butter or extra maple drizzle.

Pro Tips

How do you make Pumpkin Banana Bread with Maple Glaze extra moist?

Use overripe bananas and 100% pumpkin puree. Avoid overmixing the batter. A quick 5–10 minute rest before baking allows the ingredients to hydrate fully.

Can I make this bread ahead of time?

Yes! Bake and store in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days, or freeze slices individually for up to 2 months.

What’s the best way to serve this bread?

Serve warm for breakfast, toasted for brunch, or alongside a cup of coffee or chai tea for a fall-inspired snack.

Can I add nuts or chocolate chips?

Absolutely. Fold in ½ cup of chopped walnuts or chocolate chips for extra flavor and texture.

Best Ways to Serve

  • Pair with Pumpkin Spice Latte or Hot Apple Cider for seasonal flair.

  • Slice and top with cream cheese frosting for a dessert twist.

  • Use leftover slices to make French toast with maple drizzle.

Nutrition (Per Serving, 12 servings)

  • Calories: 210

  • Fat: 7g

  • Saturated Fat: 4g

  • Carbohydrates: 34g

  • Sugars: 17g

  • Fiber: 2g

  • Protein: 3g

  • Sodium: 160mg

Storage & Leftovers

  • Room Temperature: 3 days in airtight container.

  • Refrigerator: 5–7 days. Wrap tightly to retain moisture.

  • Freezer: Slice and wrap individually; lasts up to 2 months.

  • Reheating: Microwave for 15–20 seconds or toast lightly to revive freshness.

Variations

  • Gluten-Free: Swap all-purpose flour with a 1:1 gluten-free blend.

  • Vegan: Replace eggs with flax eggs, butter with coconut oil.

  • Spiced Upgrade: Add cardamom or allspice for deeper flavor.

  • Mini Loaves: Bake in muffin tins for portable treats.

  • Maple-Less Option: Dust with powdered sugar or drizzle with honey.

FAQs

What type of pumpkin should I use?
Use pure pumpkin puree, not pumpkin pie filling, for balanced sweetness.

Can I use ripe bananas only?
Yes, but overripe bananas give a moister texture and deeper sweetness.

Is this bread suitable for holidays?
Perfect for Thanksgiving, Halloween, or any fall gathering.

Can I reduce sugar in the glaze?
Yes, reduce powdered sugar to ¼ cup, but maintain maple syrup for flavor balance.

Conclusion

The Pumpkin Banana Bread with Maple Glaze Recipe is a seasonal star that balances natural sweetness, warm spices, and the comforting aroma of fall. With its soft crumb and indulgent maple topping, it’s a treat that brings smiles to any table. Try this recipe today, share it with friends and family, and watch your kitchen fill with the irresistible scent of autumn.

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