Combining the warm flavors of pumpkin, banana, and nuts, this bread recipe is a comforting treat that's perfect for any time of the year. Its moist texture and the blend of spices make it a delightful breakfast option or a satisfying snack.
Photos of Pumpkin Banana Nut Bread Recipe
This recipe uses white whole wheat flour and pureed pumpkin, both of which may not be readily available in your kitchen. White whole wheat flour has a lighter color and flavor than regular whole wheat flour but retains the same nutritional benefits. Pureed pumpkin, which is often sold canned, adds a rich, autumnal flavor to the bread. If you're unable to find these ingredients at your local supermarket, they can be easily substituted with regular whole wheat flour and homemade pumpkin puree.
Ingredients for Pumpkin Banana Nut Bread
All purpose flour: A pantry staple that provides structure to our bread.
White whole wheat flour: A lighter variant of whole wheat flour that adds a subtle nutty flavor.
Baking soda: Acts as a leavening agent, helping our bread rise.
Salt: Enhances the other flavors in the bread.
Spices: A blend of cinnamon, cloves, and nutmeg that gives our bread its warm, comforting flavor.
Bananas: Adds moisture and sweetness to the bread.
Pureed pumpkin: Gives our bread its distinctive pumpkin flavor.
Butter: Adds richness and moisture.
Light brown sugar: Sweetens the bread and adds a hint of caramel flavor.
Egg and egg white: Binds the ingredients together and helps the bread rise.
Vanilla extract: Enhances the flavors and adds a touch of sweetness.
Pecans: Adds a delightful crunch and nutty flavor to the bread.
One reader, Deanna Resendez says:
This pumpkin banana nut bread recipe is a game-changer! The combination of pumpkin and banana creates a moist and flavorful bread, and the addition of pecans gives it a delightful crunch. It's the perfect treat for fall, and my family can't get enough of it!
Techniques Required for Making Pumpkin Banana Nut Bread
How to preheat oven: Preheat the oven to 325 degrees Fahrenheit before starting to bake the bread. This ensures that the oven reaches the desired temperature for baking.
How to grease a loaf pan: Use baking spray to coat a 9 x 5-inch loaf pan evenly. This prevents the bread from sticking to the pan and makes it easier to remove after baking.
How to combine dry ingredients: In a medium bowl, whisk together the all-purpose flour, white whole wheat flour, baking soda, salt, cinnamon, ground cloves, and ground nutmeg until well combined. This ensures even distribution of the leavening agents and spices in the bread.
How to cream butter and sugar: In a large bowl, use an electric mixer to beat the butter and sugar until creamy and well combined. This step helps to incorporate air into the mixture, resulting in a lighter texture for the bread.
How to test for doneness: Insert a toothpick into the center of the bread to check for doneness. If it comes out clean, the bread is ready. If there is batter or crumbs clinging to the toothpick, continue baking for a few more minutes before testing again.
How to cool the bread: Allow the bread to cool in the loaf pan for at least 20 minutes before removing it. This helps the bread to set and become firm enough for slicing without falling apart.
How To Make Pumpkin Banana Nut Bread
This banana nut bread is a savory and flavorful twist to the classic banana bread. Add pumpkin and spices for an earthier, unforgettable taste!
Serves:
Ingredients
- Pam baking spray
- ¾cupall purpose flour
- ½cupwhite whole wheat flour
- ¾tspbaking soda
- ½tspsalt
- 1tspCinnamon
- ½tspground cloves
- ½tspground nutmeg
- 3bananas,mashed
- ½cuppureed pumpkin
- 2tbspbutter,softened
- ½cuplight brown sugar,unpacked
- 1egg white,large
- 1egg,large
- 1tspvanilla extract
- ¼cuppecans
Instructions
-
Preheat oven to 325 degrees F.
-
Grease a 9 x 5-inch loaf pan with baking spray.
-
In a medium bowl, combine flour, baking soda, pumpkin spice and salt with a wire whisk. Set aside.
-
In a large bowl, cream butter and sugar with an electric mixer.
-
Add egg whites, egg, bananas, pumpkin and vanilla, and beat at medium speed until thick.
-
Scrape down sides of the bowl.
-
Add flour mixture and nuts, then blend at low speed until combined.
-
Pour batter into loaf pan and bake on the center rack for 60 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean.
-
Let the pan cool at least 20 minutes, bread should be room temperature before slicing.
Nutrition
- Calories: 139.74kcal
- Fat: 4.36g
- Saturated Fat: 1.58g
- Trans Fat: 0.08g
- Monounsaturated Fat: 1.66g
- Polyunsaturated Fat: 0.77g
- Carbohydrates: 23.63g
- Fiber: 2.16g
- Sugar: 9.94g
- Protein: 2.82g
- Cholesterol: 18.42mg
- Sodium: 161.70mg
- Calcium: 19.13mg
- Potassium: 179.36mg
- Iron: 0.95mg
- Vitamin A: 102.32µg
- Vitamin C: 2.98mg
Technique Tip for Perfect Pumpkin Banana Nut Bread
When preparing the pumpkin banana nut bread, ensure your bananas are ripe. Overripe bananas are even better as they are sweeter and easier to mash, which will result in a moist and flavorful bread. Additionally, when adding the dry ingredients to the wet, be careful not to overmix. Overmixing can lead to a dense, tough loaf. Instead, stir until just combined for a tender, delicious bread.
Time-Saving Tips for Making Pumpkin Banana Nut Bread
Prep ahead: Prepare and measure out all your ingredients before starting to save time during the cooking process.
Use kitchen gadgets: Utilize tools like food processors, blenders, and mixers to speed up the preparation process.
One-pot meals: Opt for recipes that allow you to cook everything in a single pot or pan to minimize cleanup time.
Batch cooking: Make larger quantities of certain components, such as sauces or grains, and store them for future use in other recipes.
Follow the recipe: Read through the entire recipe before starting to ensure you understand the steps and can streamline the process.
Substitute Ingredients For Pumpkin Banana Nut Bread Recipe
all purpose flour - Substitute with whole wheat flour: Whole wheat flour can be used as a healthier alternative, adding more fiber and nutrients to the bread.
white whole wheat flour - Substitute with whole wheat flour: Regular whole wheat flour can be used as a substitute, although it may result in a slightly denser texture.
baking soda - Substitute with baking powder: Baking powder can be used as a substitute, but the quantity should be adjusted as it is not as strong as baking soda.
cinnamon - Substitute with pumpkin pie spice: Pumpkin pie spice can be used to add a warm, aromatic flavor with a blend of cinnamon, nutmeg, and cloves.
ground cloves - Substitute with allspice: Allspice can be used as a substitute, providing a similar warm and aromatic flavor profile.
ground nutmeg - Substitute with cinnamon: Cinnamon can be used as a substitute, providing a warm and slightly sweet flavor to the bread.
bananas - Substitute with applesauce: Applesauce can be used to add moisture and natural sweetness to the bread, similar to bananas.
pureed pumpkin - Substitute with butternut squash puree: Butternut squash puree can be used as a substitute, providing a similar earthy and sweet flavor.
butter - Substitute with coconut oil: Coconut oil can be used as a dairy-free alternative, adding a subtle coconut flavor to the bread.
light brown sugar - Substitute with maple syrup: Maple syrup can be used as a natural sweetener, adding a rich and distinct flavor to the bread.
egg white - Substitute with flaxseed meal: Flaxseed meal mixed with water can be used as a vegan alternative, providing binding properties similar to egg whites.
egg - Substitute with applesauce: Applesauce can be used as a vegan alternative, providing moisture and binding properties similar to eggs.
vanilla extract - Substitute with almond extract: Almond extract can be used to add a nutty and sweet flavor to the bread.
pecans - Substitute with walnuts: Walnuts can be used as a substitute, adding a similar nutty flavor and crunchy texture to the bread.
Presenting Your Pumpkin Banana Nut Bread
Elevate the plating: When presenting the pumpkin banana nut bread, ensure that the plating is elegant and visually appealing. Use a minimalist approach to showcase the bread as the star of the dish.
Garnish with precision: Add a touch of sophistication by garnishing the plate with a dusting of powdered sugar and a sprinkle of finely chopped pecans. This will enhance the visual appeal and add a delightful crunch to each bite.
Incorporate artistic drizzling: Create an artistic drizzle of caramel sauce on the plate, using a delicate hand to add a touch of sweetness and a beautiful design that complements the flavors of the bread.
Utilize complementary elements: Pair the pumpkin banana nut bread with a quenelle of vanilla bean ice cream to provide a contrasting temperature and texture, elevating the overall dining experience.
Present with precision: Pay attention to the placement of each element on the plate, ensuring that the presentation is balanced and visually striking. The arrangement should be meticulous and thoughtfully executed.
Emphasize the bread's texture: Highlight the moist, tender crumb of the bread by slicing it with precision and presenting it in a way that showcases its delightful texture.
Create a harmonious color palette: Consider the color scheme of the plate and select complementary elements that enhance the overall visual appeal, creating a harmonious and inviting presentation.
Incorporate a touch of nature: Introduce a sprig of fresh mint or a small edible flower to add a touch of natural beauty to the presentation, bringing a sense of freshness and vibrancy to the dish.
Essential Tools for Making Pumpkin Banana Nut Bread
- Oven: An essential appliance for baking and roasting dishes.
- 9 x 5-inch loaf pan: A baking pan used for making bread loaves.
- Wire whisk: A kitchen tool used for blending and mixing ingredients.
- Electric mixer: A kitchen appliance used for mixing, beating, and whipping ingredients.
- Toothpick: Used to check the doneness of baked goods by inserting it into the center and ensuring it comes out clean.
- Baking spray: A non-stick cooking spray used for greasing baking pans and dishes.
- Food processor: A versatile kitchen appliance used for pureeing, chopping, and blending ingredients.
- Mixing bowl: A bowl used for combining and mixing ingredients.
- Measuring cups and spoons: Essential tools for accurately measuring ingredients in cooking and baking.
Storing and Freezing Your Pumpkin Banana Nut Bread
Let the pumpkin banana nut bread cool completely on a wire rack before storing or freezing. This will prevent the bread from becoming soggy or developing condensation.
To store the bread at room temperature, wrap it tightly in plastic wrap or aluminum foil. Alternatively, place the bread in an airtight container or resealable plastic bag. The bread will stay fresh for up to 3-4 days at room temperature.
If you want to extend the shelf life of your pumpkin banana nut bread, you can store it in the refrigerator. Wrap the bread tightly in plastic wrap or aluminum foil, or place it in an airtight container before refrigerating. The bread will stay fresh for up to 1 week in the refrigerator.
For long-term storage, you can freeze the pumpkin banana nut bread. Wrap the cooled bread tightly in plastic wrap, then wrap it again in aluminum foil or place it in a freezer-safe container or resealable plastic bag. Label the package with the date and contents. The bread will maintain its quality for up to 3 months in the freezer.
To thaw frozen pumpkin banana nut bread, remove it from the freezer and let it thaw at room temperature for several hours or overnight. You can also thaw the bread in the refrigerator, which may take longer but will prevent condensation from forming on the surface of the bread.
If you prefer to enjoy your pumpkin banana nut bread warm, you can reheat it in the oven or microwave. To reheat in the oven, wrap the bread in aluminum foil and heat it at 350°F (175°C) for 10-15 minutes, or until warmed through. To reheat in the microwave, place a slice of bread on a microwave-safe plate and heat it on high for 15-30 seconds, or until warmed to your liking.
How To Reheat Leftover Pumpkin Banana Nut Bread
To reheat leftover pumpkin banana nut bread, preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Wrap the bread loosely in aluminum foil and place it on a baking sheet. Bake for 10-15 minutes, or until the bread is heated through and the exterior is slightly crispy. This method helps to restore the bread's texture and keeps it moist.
Another option is to use a toaster oven. Slice the pumpkin banana nut bread and place the slices on the toaster oven rack. Toast for 3-5 minutes, or until the bread is heated through and slightly crispy on the outside. This method is quick and convenient, especially if you only want to reheat a few slices.
For a softer, more tender reheated pumpkin banana nut bread, use the microwave. Place a slice of bread on a microwave-safe plate and heat it on high power for 15-20 seconds. If the bread isn't heated through, microwave it in 10-second intervals until it reaches the desired temperature. Be careful not to overheat the bread, as it can become tough or rubbery.
If you have a steamer, you can use it to reheat the pumpkin banana nut bread. Place the bread in the steamer basket and steam for 3-5 minutes, or until the bread is heated through. This method helps to keep the bread moist and soft, while also warming it evenly.
For a unique twist, try reheating your leftover pumpkin banana nut bread in a skillet with a bit of butter. Melt a small amount of butter in a skillet over medium heat. Add the bread slices and cook for 1-2 minutes on each side, or until they are golden brown and heated through. This method adds a delicious, buttery flavor to the bread and creates a slightly crispy exterior.
Random Fact About Pumpkin Banana Nut Bread
The pumpkin banana nut bread recipe is a delightful combination of flavors and textures. It's a great way to use up overripe bananas and leftover pumpkin puree, reducing food waste. This bread is not only delicious but also a good source of potassium, fiber, and essential nutrients from the bananas and pumpkin. It's a versatile recipe that can be enjoyed for breakfast, as a snack, or as a dessert. The addition of pecans provides a delightful crunch and nutty flavor, enhancing the overall experience. This bread can be a great option for those looking for a healthier alternative to traditional banana bread.
Is Making Pumpkin Banana Nut Bread at Home Economical?
This pumpkin banana nut bread recipe is quite cost-effective for a household. The ingredients, such as bananas, pumpkin, and flour, are affordable and readily available. The addition of pecans might slightly increase the cost, but it's optional. The approximate cost for a household of 4 people would be around $10-$15, making it a budget-friendly choice. The overall verdict for this recipe would be 9/10, considering its taste, nutritional value, and affordability.
Is Pumpkin Banana Nut Bread Healthy or Unhealthy?
This pumpkin banana nut bread recipe has some healthy elements, but there's room for improvement. On the positive side, it includes nutrient-rich ingredients like bananas, pumpkin, whole wheat flour, and pecans. These provide essential vitamins, minerals, and fiber. The recipe also uses less butter and sugar compared to traditional banana bread recipes.
However, the recipe still contains refined all-purpose flour and added sugar, which can be detrimental to health when consumed in excess. The use of egg whites and a whole egg also increases the cholesterol content.
To make this recipe healthier:
- Replace all-purpose flour entirely with whole wheat flour or other whole grain flours like oat or almond flour
- Reduce the amount of brown sugar or replace it with natural sweeteners like honey, maple syrup, or dates
- Increase the proportion of bananas and pumpkin to reduce the need for added sugar and fat
- Use olive oil or coconut oil instead of butter for healthier fats
- Add more pecans or other nuts for extra protein, healthy fats, and fiber
- Consider adding other nutritious ingredients like chia seeds, flaxseeds, or grated zucchini for added health benefits
By making these adjustments, you can transform this bread into a more wholesome and nutritious treat that still satisfies your cravings for a delicious, comforting snack or breakfast option.
Editor's Thoughts on This Delightful Pumpkin Banana Nut Bread
This pumpkin banana nut bread recipe is a delightful combination of flavors and textures. The use of pureed pumpkin adds a subtle sweetness and moistness, while the bananas provide a rich, creamy texture. The addition of warm spices like cinnamon, cloves, and nutmeg creates a comforting aroma and taste. The incorporation of pecans adds a delightful crunch and nutty flavor. Overall, this recipe is a perfect balance of sweetness and warmth, making it a wonderful treat for any occasion.
Enhance Your Pumpkin Banana Nut Bread Recipe with These Unique Side Dishes:
Alternative Recipes Similar to Pumpkin Banana Nut Bread
Appetizers and Main Courses to Serve with Pumpkin Banana Nut Bread
Why trust this Pumpkin Banana Nut Bread Recipe:
This recipe is a delightful fusion of pumpkin and banana, creating a harmonious blend of flavors. The addition of pecans adds a delightful crunch and nuttiness. The use of pureed pumpkin and white whole wheat flour adds a nutritious twist, making it a wholesome treat. The combination of cinnamon, cloves, and nutmeg infuses warm, aromatic notes, making it a comforting choice for any occasion. The meticulous instructions ensure a moist and perfectly baked loaf every time. Trust in this recipe for a delightful and satisfying baking experience.
Was this page helpful?
Have your own special recipe to share? Submit Your Recipe Today!