There’s something about the smell of baking banana bread that pulls you into the kitchen like a gentle nudge from the past. This Easy Jamaican Banana Bread carries that familiar warmth but with a twist — a hint of cinnamon, nutmeg, and allspice weaving through the soft crumb, whispering of island breezes and cozy mornings. I remember the first time I baked this loaf, the way my kitchen filled with that enchanting spice scent, and how I couldn’t resist sneaking a slightly warm slice before breakfast, butter melting in imperfect globs. It wasn’t flawless, but that’s part of the charm — the little drips of butter, the uneven crumb, the tiny crack on top that made it feel homemade and real.
This bread isn’t just a treat; it’s a pause button for hectic mornings or a sweet companion for afternoon tea. It’s simple — and that’s kind of the point. No elaborate ingredients or techniques, just a loaf that feels like a hug from someone who knows exactly how you like your snacks: with a bit of spice and a lot of heart.
- Brings a comforting warmth with island-inspired spices that make each bite interesting without overwhelming.
- Moist texture that stays soft even a day later, though it’s rarely around that long.
- Easy enough for a quick prep, but with a depth of flavor that feels like you spent hours on it.
- It’s simple — and that’s kind of the point. No fuss, no stress, just good old-fashioned banana bread with a twist.
If you’re a bit wary about baking with spices or adding nuts, don’t sweat it. This recipe is forgiving, and the flavors can be dialed up or down to suit your taste. Plus, it’s a crowd-pleaser even for those who usually pass on banana bread.
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Easy Jamaican Banana Bread
- Total Time: 1 hour 15 minutes
- Yield: 8 1x
Description
A moist and flavorful Jamaican-style banana bread infused with warm spices and a hint of vanilla. Perfect for breakfast or a sweet snack.
Ingredients
3 ripe bananas, mashed
1/2 cup granulated sugar
1/4 cup brown sugar, packed
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
1/4 cup chopped walnuts (optional)
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, brown 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 wet ingredients, stirring just until combined. Do not overmix.
If using, fold in the chopped walnuts gently.
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 to cool completely before slicing and serving.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 60 minutes
Kitchen Notes: I usually bake this in a standard loaf pan, which works perfectly for that tender crumb and crust. Sometimes I toss in a handful of chopped walnuts for extra texture, but that’s just me experimenting — not a must. If you want to switch things up, a sprinkle of shredded coconut or a few chocolate chips could be a fun twist, though I haven’t tested those variations extensively. Serving it slightly warm with butter or a smear of cream cheese brings out those spices even more, especially on a quiet weekend morning.
FAQ:
Can I use frozen bananas? Yes, just thaw and drain any excess liquid before mashing. It works well.
Is it okay to skip the nuts? Absolutely, they’re optional and don’t affect the core flavor.
How long does it keep fresh? Best within a couple of days stored in an airtight container, but it can be frozen for longer storage.
Ready to bring a little Jamaican spice to your kitchen? Save this recipe, print it out, and let a slice of this banana bread turn any ordinary moment into something a bit more special.