Maple-Bourbon Banana Bread – Moist, Sweet, and Comforting

There’s nothing quite like the smell of freshly baked banana bread filling the kitchen, and this Maple-Bourbon Banana Bread takes the classic comfort bake to an irresistible new level. The sweetness of ripe bananas pairs beautifully with rich maple syrup, while a splash of bourbon adds warmth and depth. The result is a moist, tender loaf that feels both cozy and a little bit indulgent.

This isn’t your everyday banana bread—it’s the kind you serve when you want to impress guests, bring something special to a brunch table, or treat yourself on a weekend morning. The bourbon doesn’t overpower; instead, it enhances the natural sweetness of the bananas and maple while giving the bread a subtle richness.

Whether enjoyed warm with butter, toasted the next day, or topped with cream cheese, this Maple-Bourbon Banana Bread is versatile and always a hit. It’s easy to make, doesn’t require fancy equipment, and uses ingredients you probably already have on hand.

If you’re ready to upgrade your banana bread game with a flavorful twist, this recipe is the one to try.

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What Makes This Maple-Bourbon Banana Bread Special?

• Moist and Tender: Bananas and maple syrup keep this loaf soft and flavorful.

• Rich Bourbon Flavor: Adds warmth without being overwhelming.

• Naturally Sweetened: Uses maple syrup instead of refined sugar.

• Simple Ingredients: Pantry staples with one special twist.

• Perfect Anytime Treat: Great for breakfast, dessert, or snacking.

This is comfort baking with just the right touch of sophistication.

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Ingredient Notes

• Bananas: Use overripe bananas with plenty of brown spots for maximum sweetness.

• Maple syrup: Pure maple syrup gives authentic flavor (avoid artificial pancake syrup).

• Bourbon: Adds depth; can be swapped for whiskey or left out if preferred.

• Flour: All-purpose flour works best, though whole wheat can be used for a heartier loaf.

• Butter: Keeps the bread rich and tender; can substitute with coconut oil for dairy-free.

• Eggs: Help bind and add structure.

• Baking soda & baking powder: Ensure the loaf rises properly.

• Spices: Cinnamon and nutmeg add warmth and complement banana flavor.

• Nuts (optional): Walnuts or pecans add crunch and balance sweetness.

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How To Make Maple-Bourbon Banana Bread

1. Preheat oven: Set to 350°F (175°C). Grease and line a 9×5-inch loaf pan with parchment paper.

2. Mash bananas: In a bowl, mash 3 large overripe bananas until smooth.

3. Mix wet ingredients: Stir in ½ cup melted butter, ½ cup pure maple syrup, ¼ cup bourbon, and 2 eggs. Whisk until combined.

4. Add dry ingredients: In another bowl, whisk 2 cups all-purpose flour, 1 tsp baking soda, 1 tsp baking powder, 1 tsp cinnamon, ½ tsp nutmeg, and ½ tsp salt.

5. Combine batter: Fold dry ingredients into wet mixture just until combined. Do not overmix.

6. Optional add-ins: Stir in ½ cup chopped nuts or chocolate chips.

7. Bake: Pour batter into prepared loaf pan. Bake 55–65 minutes, until a toothpick comes out clean.

8. Cool & serve: Let cool in pan 10 minutes, then transfer to a wire rack. Slice and serve warm or at room temperature.

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Storage Options

• Room temperature: Store wrapped in foil or airtight container up to 3 days.

• Refrigeration: Lasts up to 1 week; keep tightly wrapped to prevent drying.

• Freezing: Wrap slices or whole loaf in plastic wrap + foil, freeze up to 3 months.

• Reheating: Warm slices in microwave for 10–15 seconds or toast lightly.

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Variations and Substitutions

• Add chocolate chips for a sweeter loaf.

• Swap bourbon for dark rum or Irish whiskey.

• Stir in dried fruit (cranberries, raisins) for extra texture.

• Use whole wheat flour for a heartier bread.

• Top with maple glaze for a dessert-style version.

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Frequently Asked Questions

Can I make this without bourbon?
Yes, just replace it with extra maple syrup or milk.

What’s the best banana stage to use?
Very ripe bananas with lots of brown spots are ideal.

Can I make muffins instead of a loaf?
Yes, bake in muffin tins at 350°F for 20–22 minutes.

Can I reduce the sweetness?
You can cut maple syrup to ⅓ cup, though flavor will be less rich.

Why is my bread dense?
Overmixing the batter can make the loaf heavy. Mix until just combined.

Can I double the recipe?
Yes, bake in two loaf pans or a 9×13 pan (adjust time to 40–45 minutes).

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Conclusion

Maple-Bourbon Banana Bread is everything you love about traditional banana bread with a grown-up twist. The maple adds natural sweetness, the bourbon deepens the flavor, and the bananas keep it wonderfully moist. Whether you enjoy it plain, toasted, or topped with butter, this loaf is sure to become a favorite in your kitchen. Bake it once, and you’ll be hooked.

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