Cake Mix Banana Bread
Cake mix banana bread is the perfect shortcut recipe for busy days, combining ripe bananas with a simple boxed cake mix for an easy, moist, and flavorful treat. It’s a fuss-free way to use up overripe bananas without needing too many extra ingredients.
This recipe delivers bakery-style banana bread with minimal effort, making it ideal for beginners and seasoned bakers alike. You’ll love how quick and versatile it is.
Whether enjoyed as breakfast, a snack, or a dessert, cake mix banana bread is sure to become a household favorite with its rich banana flavor and tender crumb.
Ingredients List
– 1 box yellow cake mix (15.25 oz)
– 3 ripe bananas, mashed
– 2 large eggs
– ⅓ cup vegetable oil or melted butter
– ½ teaspoon cinnamon (optional)
– ½ teaspoon vanilla extract (optional)
– ½ cup chopped walnuts or chocolate chips (optional add-ins)
Step-by-Step Instructions
Step 1: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease a 9×5-inch loaf pan or line it with parchment paper for easy removal.
Step 2: In a large mixing bowl, mash the bananas until smooth. Add eggs and oil (or melted butter), whisking until combined.
Step 3: Pour in the boxed cake mix, cinnamon, and vanilla extract (if using). Stir until the batter is well mixed but avoid overmixing.
Step 4: Fold in optional add-ins such as walnuts, pecans, or chocolate chips for added flavor and texture.
Step 5: Pour the batter into the prepared loaf pan, spreading it evenly. Tap the pan gently on the counter to release air bubbles.
Step 6: Bake for 50–60 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean. If the top browns too quickly, cover loosely with foil during the last 10 minutes.
Step 7: Allow the banana bread to cool in the pan for 10 minutes, then transfer to a wire rack to cool completely before slicing.
Cook Time
Prep Time: 10 minutes
Cook Time: 55 minutes
Total Time: 1 hour 5 minutes
Servings
Makes 1 standard loaf (about 10–12 slices)
Nutritional Information (approx. per slice)
Calories: 220
Carbs: 35g
Protein: 3g
Fat: 8g
Storage Instructions
Store banana bread in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days.
Refrigerate for up to 1 week for longer freshness.
Freeze slices or the entire loaf for up to 3 months. Thaw overnight at room temperature or warm individual slices in the microwave.
Pairings/Suggestions
Enjoy warm banana bread with a pat of butter or cream cheese.
Pair with coffee, tea, or a glass of cold milk for a comforting snack.
Top slices with peanut butter, Nutella, or honey for an indulgent twist.
Seasonal Relevance
Perfect for fall and winter when you want a cozy, comforting treat.
Great for spring brunches, potlucks, and holiday gatherings.
A smart way to use up overripe bananas year-round.
Health Benefits
Bananas provide potassium, vitamin B6, and dietary fiber, which support heart health and digestion.
Using bananas helps reduce added sugar since they provide natural sweetness.
Adding nuts increases healthy fats and protein for a more balanced snack.
By substituting oil with Greek yogurt or applesauce, you can make this recipe lighter while still maintaining moisture.
Pros and Cons
| Pros | Cons |
|---|---|
| Quick and easy with minimal ingredients | Texture may vary slightly from traditional banana bread |
| Great way to use overripe bananas | Less customizable compared to scratch recipes |
| Moist and flavorful | Can be sweeter than traditional recipes |
| Beginner-friendly and kid-approved | Dependent on cake mix flavor |
| Freezer-friendly for meal prep | Some may prefer scratch-baked bread |
Conclusion
Cake mix banana bread is an easy, delicious, and practical way to make homemade banana bread without the hassle of starting from scratch. The combination of ripe bananas and cake mix delivers a moist, flavorful loaf that feels special yet requires minimal effort.
It’s the perfect recipe for busy mornings, after-school snacks, or cozy evenings. With its simplicity, versatility, and satisfying taste, this banana bread is bound to become a staple in your baking rotation. Try it once, and you’ll appreciate how effortlessly it comes together.
Cake Mix Banana Bread
Course: Banana Bread Recipe1
servings10
minutes50
minutes220
kcalThis cake mix banana bread is the ultimate shortcut recipe—soft, moist, and full of banana flavor. With just a few simple ingredients, you’ll have a homemade treat ready in no time. Add your favorite mix-ins like nuts or chocolate chips for extra flair.
Ingredients
– 1 box yellow cake mix (15.25 oz)
– 3 ripe bananas, mashed
– 2 large eggs
– ⅓ cup vegetable oil or melted butter
– ½ teaspoon cinnamon (optional)
– ½ teaspoon vanilla extract (optional)
– ½ cup chopped walnuts or chocolate chips (optional add-ins)
Directions
- Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease a 9×5-inch loaf pan or line with parchment paper.
- In a large bowl, mash bananas until smooth. Add eggs and oil (or melted butter), whisk until combined.
- Stir in boxed cake mix, cinnamon, and vanilla extract (if using). Mix until just combined, avoiding overmixing.
- Fold in optional add-ins like walnuts, pecans, or chocolate chips.
- Pour batter into prepared loaf pan, spread evenly, and tap gently to release air bubbles.
- Bake 50–60 minutes, until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean. Cover loosely with foil if top browns too quickly.
- Cool in pan for 10 minutes, then transfer to a wire rack to cool completely before slicing.
Recipe Video
Notes
- Moist, fluffy banana bread made easy with cake mix.
Perfect for breakfast, snacks, or a quick dessert.
Customizable with nuts, chocolate chips, or spices.
FAQs
Q1: Can I use a different cake mix flavor?
Yes! Spice cake mix adds warm notes, while chocolate cake mix creates a decadent banana-chocolate loaf.
Q2: Can I make muffins instead of a loaf?
Absolutely. Divide the batter into a muffin tin and bake at 350°F (175°C) for 18–22 minutes.
Q3: Can I reduce the sweetness?
Yes, you can use only two bananas instead of three, or choose an unsweetened cake mix base if available.
