If you love classic banana bread but crave something extra moist and irresistibly tender, you are in for a treat with this Pudding Banana Bread Recipe. Incorporating instant vanilla pudding mix gives this beloved comfort food a delightful twist, infusing it with luscious moisture and a soft, almost cake-like crumb that feels like a warm hug with every bite. The sweet aroma of ripe bananas combined with hints of cinnamon and optional chunks of walnuts or chocolate chips creates a perfect harmony of flavors that will have you reaching for seconds — or thirds! Trust me, once you try this recipe, it will quickly become a staple in your baking rotation.

Pudding Banana Bread Recipe - Recipe Image

Ingredients You’ll Need

This Pudding Banana Bread Recipe calls for simple, pantry-friendly ingredients that come together effortlessly. Each component plays a key role: from the creamy vanilla pudding mix that locks in moisture to the ripe bananas that add natural sweetness and flavor, and the combination of sugars and oil which ensure a tender texture and rich taste.

Instant vanilla pudding mix (3.4 oz): This secret ingredient keeps the bread incredibly moist and gives it that soft, tender crumb.
Mashed ripe bananas (1 1/2 cups, about 3 bananas): The heart of the recipe, adding sweetness and moisture naturally.
Large eggs (2): They provide structure and richness, helping the bread rise beautifully.
Vegetable oil (1/2 cup): Keeps the bread wonderfully moist without making it heavy.
Granulated sugar (1/2 cup): Adds sweetness with a little crunch and balance to the brown sugar.
Brown sugar (1/2 cup): Adds a deeper, caramel-like flavor and enhances moisture retention.
Milk (1/4 cup): Helps soften the batter and blend flavors smoothly.
Vanilla extract (1 teaspoon): Elevates overall flavor with a warm vanilla note.
All-purpose flour (2 cups): The foundation of the bread that gives it structure.
Baking soda (1 teaspoon): Ensures a light, fluffy rise.
Salt (1/2 teaspoon): Balances sweetness and enhances all other flavors.
Cinnamon (1/2 teaspoon, optional): Adds a subtle warm spice that complements bananas perfectly.
Chopped walnuts or chocolate chips (1/2 cup, optional): For added texture and bursts of flavor.

How to Make Pudding Banana Bread Recipe

Step 1: Prepare Your Oven and Pan

Start by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease a 9×5-inch loaf pan or line it with parchment paper to ensure your banana bread comes out cleanly without sticking. Prepping your baking vessel ahead of time sets you up for a smooth process.

Step 2: Mix the Wet Ingredients

In a large mixing bowl, whisk together the mashed bananas, eggs, vegetable oil, granulated sugar, brown sugar, milk, and vanilla extract until everything is luscious and well combined. This mixture forms the moist, sweet base that carries the flavor throughout the bread.

Step 3: Add the Instant Pudding Mix

Now, stir in the dry instant vanilla pudding mix. This is the secret that elevates the texture of your banana bread, making it incredibly moist yet light. The pudding mix adds that slight creaminess and tenderness you don’t get with traditional banana bread recipes.

Step 4: Combine the Dry Ingredients

In a separate bowl, whisk together the flour, baking soda, salt, and cinnamon if you’re using it. This dry mix is essential for achieving the perfect rise and balance of flavors. Carefully fold the dry ingredients into the wet banana mixture, taking care not to overmix—just combine until you no longer see flour.

Step 5: Add Your Mix-Ins

Fold in the walnuts or chocolate chips if you love a bit of crunch or melty surprises throughout your loaf. These little extras take the Pudding Banana Bread Recipe to the next level with additional texture and bursts of flavor.

Step 6: Bake to Perfection

Pour the batter into your prepared loaf pan, smoothing the top with a spatula. Bake in your preheated oven for 55 to 65 minutes. To check doneness, insert a toothpick in the center—it should come out clean or with just a few moist crumbs. If the top starts browning too fast, loosely tent the bread with foil for the last 15 minutes of baking.

Step 7: Cool and Slice

Allow your Pudding Banana Bread to cool in the pan for 10 to 15 minutes before transferring it to a wire rack. Cooling completely before slicing ensures the bread holds together beautifully and slices cleanly, ready to be enjoyed.

How to Serve Pudding Banana Bread Recipe

Garnishes

Enhance your banana bread presentation by topping slices with a light spread of softened butter, a drizzle of honey, or a sprinkle of powdered sugar. For an extra indulgent touch, add a dollop of whipped cream or a smear of cream cheese frosting.

Side Dishes

This banana bread pairs brilliantly with a cup of freshly brewed coffee or tea for breakfast or an afternoon snack. For a hearty treat, serve alongside yogurt topped with fresh berries or a small bowl of fruit salad to balance the bread’s sweet richness.

Creative Ways to Present

Try cutting the bread into cubes for a fun bread pudding twist, or toast slices lightly and top with sliced bananas and a drizzle of nut butter. You can also turn slices into French toast for a new way to enjoy your favorite Pudding Banana Bread Recipe.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Wrap leftover banana bread tightly in plastic wrap or place it in an airtight container to keep it fresh for up to 3 days at room temperature. This prevents it from drying out so every slice stays moist and flavorful.

Freezing

If you want to enjoy your Pudding Banana Bread Recipe later, freeze individual slices or the entire loaf tightly wrapped in plastic wrap and then foil. It will keep well for up to 3 months. Thaw overnight in the fridge or for a few hours at room temperature before serving.

Reheating

Warm up slices in the microwave for 15 to 20 seconds or toast them lightly to revive that fresh-baked feeling. Adding a little butter or cream cheese while reheating enhances the cozy experience.

FAQs

Can I use other pudding flavors besides vanilla?

Absolutely! Butterscotch or banana-flavored pudding mixes are fantastic alternatives that add a unique twist without compromising moisture or texture. Just be sure to use the instant dry mix.

Do I need to use oil, or can I substitute butter?

Vegetable oil keeps the bread extra moist, but melted butter can be used if you prefer a richer flavor. Keep quantities equal, though, to maintain the right texture.

Is it okay to use frozen bananas?

Yes, thaw and drain frozen bananas before mashing. Even slightly watery bananas work well in this Pudding Banana Bread Recipe thanks to the pudding mix that helps retain moisture.

Can I make this recipe gluten-free?

You can substitute the all-purpose flour for a gluten-free baking blend, but results may vary. Make sure your blend contains xanthan gum or a similar binder for optimal texture.

How long does the banana bread stay fresh?

Stored at room temperature wrapped well, the bread stays fresh for about 3 days. Refrigerating can extend freshness to a week but might slightly dry it out unless wrapped tightly.

Final Thoughts

If you’re looking for a banana bread that is moist, flavorful, and just a bit different from your usual loaf, this Pudding Banana Bread Recipe will quickly become your go-to. Its soft texture and rich flavor that only instant pudding mix can provide make it a standout treat to share with family and friends. I can’t wait for you to try it and enjoy every delicious bite as much as I do!