If you’re looking for a cozy, flavorful bake that combines two classic favorites, this apple pie banana bread is the perfect choice. It brings together the soft, moist texture of traditional banana bread with the warm, spiced sweetness of apple pie. Every bite is packed with ripe bananas, tender cinnamon apples, and a hint of vanilla, making it an irresistible treat for breakfast, dessert, or an afternoon snack. This apple pie banana bread recipe is easy to make, comforting, and perfect for fall-inspired baking any time of the year.
Method
Preheating the Oven
To start, preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). This temperature allows the bread to cook evenly and develop a beautifully golden crust. While the oven preheats, line a loaf tin with parchment paper. This not only makes cleanup easier but also ensures that the bread doesn’t stick to the pan when you’re ready to slice it.
Mixing the Wet Ingredients
In a large mixing bowl, combine the mashed ripe bananas, granulated sugar, eggs, melted coconut oil, and vanilla extract. Use a whisk to blend these ingredients until smooth and creamy. The bananas should be thoroughly mashed with no large lumps remaining, and the mixture should have a slightly thick, pourable consistency. The eggs help bind the ingredients while the coconut oil adds moisture, giving the bread its soft, tender texture.
Incorporating the Dry Ingredients
Once the wet ingredients are well combined, it’s time to add the dry ingredients. Sift the all-purpose flour, baking soda, and cinnamon powder into the wet mixture. Sifting helps to eliminate lumps and ensures an even distribution of the leavening agent. Gently fold the ingredients together with a spatula, being careful not to overmix. Overmixing can lead to a dense and tough bread rather than the desired fluffy texture. As you fold, you’ll notice the batter becoming thicker and well incorporated.
Adding the Apples
Next, gently fold in the diced apples. Choose crisp and slightly tart apples like Granny Smith or Honeycrisp for the best texture and flavor. The apples should be diced into small, uniform pieces to ensure even distribution throughout the loaf. Folding instead of stirring keeps the batter light and airy, while the apples provide bursts of sweetness in every bite.
Preparing the Cinnamon Sugar Topping
In a small bowl, combine the granulated sugar and cinnamon powder to make the topping. Mixing these two ingredients well ensures that every bite of the bread has a hint of cinnamon sweetness. Once the topping is ready, set it aside while you prepare the loaf.
Assembling and Baking
Pour the batter into the prepared loaf tin, spreading it evenly to ensure consistent baking. Once the batter is smooth, sprinkle the cinnamon sugar topping over the surface, covering it completely. The topping will create a lightly crisp, caramelized crust as the bread bakes. Place the loaf tin on the middle rack of the preheated oven and bake for 50 to 60 minutes. You’ll know it’s done when a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean or with just a few moist crumbs.
Cooling and Serving
Remove the loaf from the oven and let it cool in the tin for about 10 minutes. This resting period allows the bread to set and makes it easier to remove from the tin. After 10 minutes, carefully transfer the loaf to a wire rack to cool completely. Cooling on a wire rack prevents the bottom from becoming soggy.
Necessary Tools
- Large mixing bowl
- Whisk
- Measuring cups and spoons
- Parchment paper
- Loaf tin
- Toothpick
Apple Pie Banana Bread Recipe
Cuisine: AmericanDifficulty: Easy8
servings15
minutes1
hour1
hour15
minutesIngredients
For the Bread:
3 large ripe bananas, mashed
2/3 cup granulated sugar
2 large eggs
1/2 cup coconut oil, melted
2 tsp vanilla extract
2 cups all-purpose flour (or gluten-free)
1 1/2 tsp baking soda
1 1/2 tsp cinnamon powder
1 cup apples, diced
For the Cinnamon Sugar Topping:
1/4 cup granulated sugar
1-2 tsp cinnamon powder
Directions
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Line a loaf tin with parchment paper.
- In a large mixing bowl, combine the mashed bananas, granulated sugar, eggs, melted coconut oil, and vanilla extract. Mix until smooth.
- Add the flour, baking soda, and cinnamon powder to the wet ingredients. Stir until just combined don’t overmix! Gently fold in the diced apples.
- Pour the batter into the prepared loaf tin and smooth the top.
- In a small bowl, mix the cinnamon sugar topping ingredients. Sprinkle the mixture evenly over the batter.
- Bake for 50-60 minutes or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.Bake for 50-60 minutes or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.
- Remove from the oven and let cool in the tin for 10 minutes before transferring to a wire rack. Allow the bread to cool completely before slicing.
Notes
- Avoid overmixing the batter to keep the bread tender.
- Make sure the coconut oil is fully melted but not hot to prevent cooking the eggs.
- Let the bread cool completely before slicing to avoid crumbling.
Serving Suggestions
- Serve warm with a pat of butter.
- Try it with a dollop of whipped cream for dessert.
- For breakfast, pair with Greek yogurt and a drizzle of honey.
Fun Fact
Did you know? Bananas add natural sweetness and moisture to baked goods, making them a popular choice for healthier treats!
Conclusion
This apple pie banana bread is more than just a baked treat; it’s a warm, comforting fusion of two beloved desserts. With its soft banana base, juicy apple pieces, and cinnamon sugar topping, it delivers the perfect balance of sweetness and spice. Whether you enjoy it fresh out of the oven or toasted the next day, this apple pie banana bread is sure to become a family favorite that you’ll bake again and again.
