What is banana split bread?

Banana split bread is a dessert-inspired loaf that combines ripe bananas, chocolate, and optional fruits or nuts to mimic the flavors of a classic banana split. This banana split bread recipe is moist, flavorful, and perfect for breakfast, snacks, or dessert.

Can I make banana split bread pudding from this recipe?

Yes! Leftover banana split bread can be cubed and baked with a custard mixture to create banana split bread pudding. It’s a delicious way to enjoy the same flavors in a creamy dessert.

How long does banana split bread last?

When stored in an airtight container at room temperature, this banana split bread stays fresh for 3–4 days. Refrigeration can extend its life to a week, and it freezes well for up to 2 months.

Can I customize this banana split bread recipe?

Absolutely! You can add chopped nuts, diced strawberries, chocolate chips, or even swirl in caramel or peanut butter. This banana split bread recipe is flexible and perfect for adapting to your taste preferences.

Banana Split Bread Recipe – Moist, Easy, and Family-Friendly 2026

Name: Banana Split Bread
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 60 min
Total time: 1 h 15 min
Yield: 8-10 servings
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: 1 ¾ cups all-purpose flour; 1 teaspoon baking soda; ½ teaspoon salt; ½ teaspoon cinnamon (optional); ½ cup unsalted butter, softened; ¾ cup granulated sugar; 2 large eggs; 1 teaspoon vanilla extract; 3 ripe bananas, mashed (about 1 ½ cups); ½ cup sour cream or Greek yogurt; ½ cup chocolate chips; ¼ cup chopped walnuts or pecans (optional); ¼ cup diced strawberries (optional, for banana split twist); Sliced banana (optional, for topping); Mini chocolate chips (optional, for topping); Chopped nuts (optional, for topping); Whipped cream (optional, for serving); Maraschino cherry (optional, for garnish)

Description

A moist, dessert-inspired banana bread that captures the flavors of a classic banana split. Loaded with ripe bananas, chocolate chips, and optional fruit or nuts, it can also be enjoyed as a bread pudding or a fun split-top loaf. Perfect for breakfast, dessert, or snacking.

Ingredients

Scale

🛒 Ingredients (for one standard loaf):

For the Bread:

1 ¾ cups all-purpose flour
1 teaspoon baking soda
½ teaspoon salt
½ teaspoon cinnamon (optional)
½ cup unsalted butter, softened
¾ cup granulated sugar
2 large eggs
1 teaspoon vanilla extract
3 ripe bananas, mashed (about 1 ½ cups)
½ cup sour cream or Greek yogurt
½ cup chocolate chips
¼ cup chopped walnuts or pecans (optional)
¼ cup diced strawberries (optional, for banana split twist)

For Topping (optional):

Sliced banana
Mini chocolate chips
Chopped nuts
Whipped cream (for serving)
Maraschino cherry (for garnish)

Instructions

📝 Instructions:

Step 1: Prepare Oven & Pan
Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease a 9×5-inch loaf pan and lightly flour it.

Step 2: Mix Dry Ingredients
In a medium bowl, whisk together flour, baking soda, salt, and cinnamon (if using).

Step 3: Cream Butter & Sugar
In a large bowl, beat softened butter and sugar until light and fluffy. Add eggs one at a time, then mix in vanilla extract.

Step 4: Add Bananas & Dairy
Stir in mashed bananas and sour cream until combined.

Step 5: Combine Dry & Wet Ingredients
Gradually fold the flour mixture into the banana mixture. Do not overmix.

Step 6: Add Mix-ins
Fold in chocolate chips, nuts, and strawberries (if using).

Step 7: Bake
Pour batter into the prepared loaf pan. Top with optional sliced bananas, mini chocolate chips, and nuts. Bake for 55–65 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.

Step 8: Cool & Serve
Let the bread cool in the pan for 10–15 minutes, then transfer to a wire rack. Slice and serve. For extra indulgence, top with whipped cream and a cherry to mimic a banana split.

Notes

Split-Top Style: For a bakery-style top, gently slash the top of the batter lengthwise before baking.
Moist Bread: Use very ripe bananas for maximum sweetness and moisture.
Banana Split Twist: Add diced strawberries, chocolate drizzle, or even a bit of caramel sauce for a dessert version.
Bread Pudding: Turn leftovers into a delicious banana split bread pudding with custard and baked topping.

Prep Time: 15 minutes
Cook Time: 55–65 minutes
Category: Dessert / Quick Bread
Method: Baked
Cuisine: American