There’s something quietly satisfying about the moment you pull a loaf of warm banana bread from the oven. Especially when it’s this Easy Jamaican Banana Bread, infused with spices that remind you of somewhere sunny but somehow still feels like home. I remember the last time I made it, the scent of cinnamon and nutmeg filled the kitchen and for a brief moment, I was distracted by the soft hum of the oven timer and almost forgot about the bread cooling on the rack. That pause—the one where you just breathe in the aroma and watch a few crumbs fall onto the counter—feels like a tiny celebration of simple pleasures.
This bread isn’t just about flavor. It’s about texture—the tender crumb that’s moist without being heavy, the subtle vanilla that lingers in the background, and the warm spices that invite you to take another slice (or two). It’s the kind of recipe that’s forgiving too; I usually don’t measure every little thing perfectly, and somehow it still turns out beautifully. It’s that relaxed, no-fuss vibe that makes it a go-to whenever ripe bananas start to pile up.
Why You’ll Love It
- Moist and flavorful with just the right hint of warm spices to feel cozy but not overwhelming.
- It’s simple—and that’s kind of the point. No complicated steps or ingredients that make your head spin.
- A versatile treat that works as a quick breakfast, afternoon snack, or even a casual dessert.
- Made with ingredients you probably already have on hand, which means less last-minute grocery runs.
- It’s forgiving—if you’re like me and sometimes get distracted mid-mix, this bread still comes through.
If you’ve ever hesitated to bake banana bread because it seems too fiddly, this recipe is your gentle nudge. The spices add a little extra warmth, but nothing too exotic or hard to find. It’s a straightforward take on a classic with a subtle twist.
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Easy Jamaican Banana Bread
- Total Time: 1 hour 15 minutes
- Yield: 8 1x
Description
A moist and flavorful Jamaican Banana Bread made with ripe bananas, warm spices, and a hint of vanilla. Perfect for breakfast or a sweet snack.
Ingredients
3 ripe bananas, mashed
1 cup granulated sugar
1/2 cup unsalted butter, melted
2 large eggs
1 teaspoon vanilla extract
1 1/2 cups all-purpose flour
1 teaspoon baking soda
1/2 teaspoon salt
1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
1/2 teaspoon ground nutmeg
1/4 teaspoon ground allspice
Instructions
Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease a 9×5-inch loaf pan and set aside.
In a large mixing bowl, combine the mashed bananas, granulated sugar, and melted butter. Mix well until smooth.
Add the eggs one at a time, beating well after each addition. Stir in the vanilla extract.
In a separate bowl, whisk together the all-purpose flour, baking soda, salt, ground cinnamon, ground nutmeg, and ground allspice.
Gradually add the dry ingredients to the banana mixture, stirring gently until just combined. Do not overmix.
Pour the batter into the prepared loaf pan and spread evenly.
Bake in the preheated oven for 55 to 60 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.
Remove the banana bread from the oven and let it cool in the pan for 10 minutes.
Transfer the bread to a wire rack and allow it to cool completely before slicing and serving.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 60 minutes
Kitchen Notes: No special equipment needed here—just your basic mixing bowls and a loaf pan. When serving, I like it lightly toasted with a smear of butter or a drizzle of honey, especially on cool mornings. Sometimes I toss in a handful of chopped nuts or raisins to mix things up, but honestly, it’s just as good plain. If you want to experiment, a splash of rum or a sprinkle of shredded coconut might bring a new dimension, though I haven’t tried these myself yet.
FAQ
Can I use less sugar? Sure, you can reduce it a bit, but the bread might be a bit less moist and sweet.
How ripe should the bananas be? The riper, the better—black spots and all. That’s where all the flavor and sweetness come from.
Can I freeze the bread? Yes, wrap it tightly and freeze for up to two months. Just thaw it at room temperature before enjoying.
Feeling inspired? Scroll back up, save this recipe, print it out, and get ready to fill your kitchen with that warm, cozy aroma. Let this Jamaican banana bread become your next easy, comforting go-to.