This Starbucks Copycat Banana Bread is soft, moist, and packed with ripe bananas and a hint of cinnamon that makes every bite feel warm and comforting. It’s a simple treat that’s perfect for breakfast, snack time, or whenever you want a little sweet pick-me-up.
I love making this banana bread when I have a bunch of bananas sitting on the counter that are just a bit too ripe to eat on their own. It’s such a great way to use them up, and the smell that fills the kitchen while it’s baking is incredible. Plus, it’s really easy to whip up, which is a big win in my book!
My favorite way to enjoy this banana bread is to slice it thick, toast it lightly, and spread a little butter on top while it’s still warm. It’s also great to share with friends or bring along to a potluck because everyone seems to love it. I’m pretty sure once you try this recipe, it will become a regular in your baking routine too.
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Bananas: Using very ripe bananas is key. The riper they are, the sweeter and more flavorful your bread will be. If you don’t have enough bananas, you could swap half of the mashed bananas with unsweetened applesauce for moisture.
Buttermilk: Buttermilk adds tenderness and a slight tang. If you don’t have any, mix 1/2 cup milk with 1/2 tablespoon lemon juice or vinegar. Let it sit 5 minutes, then use as a substitute.
Butter and Sugar: Butter makes this bread rich and moist, but you can use an equal amount of oil if you want a dairy-free option. Granulated sugar works best here, but you can also use light brown sugar for a deeper flavor.
Walnuts: I love the crunch and flavor walnuts add, but feel free to use pecans or skip nuts entirely if you prefer a nut-free version. Toast the nuts lightly for extra flavor.
How Do You Avoid Overmixing the Batter for Moist Banana Bread?
Overmixing can make your banana bread tough or dense. Here’s how to mix properly:
- Combine wet ingredients and dry ingredients in separate bowls first.
- Add dry ingredients to wet in small portions, stirring gently with a wooden spoon or spatula.
- Stop mixing as soon as you don’t see dry flour patches; some lumps are okay!
- Folding in the walnuts is the last step — do it gently to avoid breaking them up too much.
This method keeps the bread light and tender, just like the Starbucks original.
Equipment You’ll Need
- 9×5-inch loaf pan – I like this size because it gives the bread a nice shape and even baking.
- Mixing bowls – Use one for dry ingredients and another for wet to keep everything organized.
- Whisk or fork – Handy for mixing dry ingredients smoothly.
- Electric mixer or spoon – For creaming the butter and sugar easily.
- Measuring cups and spoons – Accurate measurements help get the best results.
- Toothpick or cake tester – To check if your bread is done baking.
Flavor Variations & Add-Ins
- Dark chocolate chips — Mix into the batter for a sweet, rich surprise inside.
- Caramelized walnuts — Toast and coat walnuts with a bit of sugar before adding for extra crunch and sweetness.
- Blueberries or dried fruit — Fold in berries or dried cranberries for a fruity twist.
- Spices — Add a pinch of ginger or cloves along with cinnamon for a warm, holiday vibe.
Starbucks Copycat Banana Bread
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- 1 3/4 cups (220g) all-purpose flour
- 1 teaspoon baking soda
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 teaspoon ground cinnamon
- 1/2 cup (115g) unsalted butter, softened
- 1 cup (200g) granulated sugar
- 2 large eggs
- 4 ripe bananas, mashed (about 1 2/3 cups)
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1/2 cup (120ml) buttermilk
- 1 cup chopped walnuts (plus extra for topping)
- Optional: 1/4 teaspoon ground nutmeg for extra warmth
How Much Time Will You Need?
This banana bread takes about 15 minutes to prepare, plus 60-70 minutes to bake. Allow an extra 15 minutes for cooling before slicing and enjoying!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Prep Your Pan and Oven:
Start by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease and flour a 9×5-inch loaf pan, or line it with parchment paper to prevent sticking.
2. Mix Dry Ingredients:
In a medium bowl, whisk together the flour, baking soda, salt, cinnamon, and nutmeg if you’re using it. Set this aside for later.
3. Cream Butter and Sugar:
In a large bowl, use an electric mixer or a sturdy spoon to cream the softened butter and sugar together until the mixture is light and fluffy, about 3 to 5 minutes.
4. Add Eggs and Vanilla:
Beat in the eggs one at a time, making sure each is fully mixed before adding the next. Stir in the vanilla extract to add sweetness and aroma.
5. Incorporate Bananas:
Mix the mashed bananas into the wet ingredients. This adds moisture and natural banana flavor to your bread.
6. Combine Dry and Wet Ingredients:
Alternately add the flour mixture and buttermilk to the wet ingredients, starting and finishing with the flour mixture. Stir gently and just until everything is combined — don’t overmix to keep the bread tender.
7. Add Walnuts:
Fold the chopped walnuts into the batter carefully to spread them evenly without breaking them up too much.
8. Bake the Bread:
Pour your batter into the prepared loaf pan and smooth out the top. Sprinkle a few more chopped walnuts on top for extra texture. Bake for 60 to 70 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean. If you notice the bread browning too fast, tent it with aluminum foil halfway through baking.
9. Cool and Serve:
Once baked, let the bread cool in the pan for about 15 minutes. Then, transfer it to a wire rack to cool completely before slicing. This helps it set properly and makes slicing easier.
Enjoy a delicious slice of this moist and flavorful Starbucks Copycat Banana Bread with your favorite cup of coffee or tea!
Can I Use Frozen Bananas for This Recipe?
Yes, frozen bananas work great! Just thaw them completely and drain any excess liquid before mashing to avoid making the batter too wet.
Can I Substitute the Butter with Oil?
Absolutely! You can replace the butter with an equal amount of vegetable or canola oil for a dairy-free option. The bread will be moist but with a slightly different texture.
How Should I Store Leftover Banana Bread?
Store leftovers in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days. To keep it longer, wrap tightly and refrigerate for up to a week, or freeze for up to 3 months.
What’s the Best Way to Reheat Banana Bread?
Warm slices gently in the microwave for 15-20 seconds or toast them lightly for a fresh-out-of-the-oven taste. Adding a little butter on top while warm makes it extra delicious!
