Apple Banana Cake Bread

This easy apple banana cake bread recipe is bursting with fresh apple and banana flavor – sweet and moist enough to be a cake, sliced like bread, for the ultimate breakfast indulgence!

At Avdaye, we add lots of tips in all of our recipes – because we are a home cook without any formal training, and we find we are more confident making dishes when we understand why it works, and what each ingredient means to the flavor of a recipe. Our goal is for even the most beginner home cook to feel empowered in the kitchen.

Light Banana and Apple Bread

This apple banana cake bread is light and airy like a cake, with a moist and thicker crumb like a bread.

This bread is good slathered with creamy butter (and apple butter!), dusted with a bit of powdered sugar, or even drizzled with honey or fresh maple syrup.

There is nothing more good or cozy than a warm, crumbly apple bread recipe in fall – but this apple banana cake bread recipe is sure to become one of your favorite new dishes! We are so excited to join with a bunch of our favorite bloggers for a fall-inspired recipe tour spotlighting our favorite crisp weather indulgence – fresh fall apples! We love cooking with apples and am so excited to join in this group spotlighting tons of apple recipes to get you in the mood for fall. If you've been looking for a bunch of good apple recipes and ways to cook with apples, you're in luck! Please scroll down to find the other apple recipes!

Kitchen notes

Use Ripe Bananas: Overripe bananas with brown spots are ideal for maximum sweetness and moisture.

Grate the Apple: Grating the apple ensures it blends smoothly into the batter, adding moisture without large chunks.

Don't Overmix: Mix the batter until combined to avoid a dense loaf.

Add Spices: Enhance flavor with cinnamon, nutmeg, or a pinch of allspice.

Incorporate Nuts or Raisins: Fold in chopped walnuts, pecans, or raisins for added texture and flavor.

Use Greek Yogurt or Applesauce: Substitute some of the butter or oil with Greek yogurt or applesauce for a healthier, moist loaf.

Check for Doneness: Insert a toothpick into the center—if it comes out clean or with a few crumbs, it's done.

Cool Completely: Let the bread cool in the pan for 10 minutes, then transfer to a wire rack to cool completely before slicing.

Store Properly: Wrap in plastic or store in an airtight container to keep the bread moist for several days.

Freeze for Later: Slice and freeze individually wrapped portions for quick snacks or breakfast.

Adjust Sweetness: If your bananas and apples are ripe, reduce the sugar slightly to prevent it from being overly sweet.

Dust with Sugar and Cinnamon: Sprinkle sugar and cinnamon on top before baking for a crispy, flavorful crust.

A few answers

Do we need to peel the apples?

Peeling is optional. If you prefer a smoother texture, peel the apples. Otherwise, leaving the peel on adds fiber and nutrients.

Can we use frozen bananas?

Absolutely! Thaw the bananas first and drain any excess liquid before mashing.

What's the best way to mash bananas?

Use a fork or potato masher. For extra-smooth banana puree, you can use a blender or food processor.

Can we make this recipe gluten-free?

Yes, substitute the all-purpose flour with a gluten-free baking mix that includes xanthan gum for structure.

Can we reduce the sugar?

Yes, especially if your bananas and apples are ripe. You can cut the sugar by 25–50% without affecting the texture too much.

Why is our bread sinking in the middle?

This could be due to overmixing, underbaking, or using too much baking powder or soda. Ensure your oven is preheated and bake until a toothpick comes out clean.

Can we make this vegan?

Yes! Replace eggs with flax eggs (1 tablespoon flaxseed meal + 3 tablespoons water per egg), and use plant-based butter or oil instead of dairy butter.

Can we add other fruits?

Yes, you can include fruits like shredded zucchini, grated carrots, or blueberries, but adjust the batter's consistency if it becomes too wet.

How long does this bread stay fresh?

When stored in an airtight container at room temperature, it lasts 2–3 days. Refrigerate for up to a week or freeze for up to 3 months.

What toppings work well?

Streusel, chopped nuts, cinnamon sugar, or even a glaze made with powdered sugar and milk are great options.

Can we make it healthier?

Yes! Substitute half of the flour with whole wheat flour, reduce the sugar, and replace some of the fat with applesauce or Greek yogurt.

What to Enjoy with Banana Apple Spice Cake

Fresh Berries
Strawberries, blueberries, or raspberries add a burst of tartness and vibrant color to your plate.

Hot Coffee or Tea
The warm, aromatic notes of coffee or tea enhance the comforting flavors of the bread, making it suited to breakfast or an afternoon treat.

Cheddar or Creamy Brie Cheese
The savory, slightly tangy notes of cheese offer an unexpected yet good contrast to the sweet bread.

Caramel Sauce
A drizzle of caramel brings out the apple flavor and makes the bread irresistibly indulgent.

Breakfast Casserole

This good sausage and veggie packed breakfast casserole is topped with one of our favorites – classic tater tots!

PB&J Bombs – Fried peanut butter and jelly bombs are a decadent twist on a classic sandwich, featuring gooey peanut butter and jelly encased in a crispy, golden-brown exterior.

Ingredients

• 3 medium sweet apples, peeled and diced
• 2 Tablespoons unsalted butter
• 1-2 Tablespoon water
• ¼ cup brown sugar
• 1 teaspoon vanilla
• 1 teaspoon apple pie spice
• 1 teaspoon cinnamon
• ½ cup unsalted butter, softened to room temperature
• ½ cup granulated sugar
• ½ cup brown sugar
• 2 large eggs, at room temperature
• 2 teaspoons vanilla
• 3 whole over-ripe bananas, mashed, plus one for topping
• 2 teaspoon baking soda
• 1 teaspoon salt
• 1 teaspoon apple pie spice
• 2 ½ cups all-purpose flour

Method

1. Peel and dice the apples. Place in medium stock pan and add the remaining filling ingredients. Cook on medium heat until apples are soft, about 15 – 20 minutes. Remove to cool slightly.
2. Preheat oven to 350 degrees. Spray a round cake pan with oil or butter, set aside.
3. In a standing mixer, cream the butter and sugars together. Add the eggs, vanilla, and mashed bananas and mix well.
4. Combine the flour, baking soda, apple pie spice, and salt in a separate bowl. Add the dry ingredients to the wet ingredients, and mix until combined.
5. Pour the apple filling into the cake batter, and stir to combine. Pour the batter into the prepared pan and top with slices of banana, if desired.
6. Place cake pan in preheated oven and bake for approximately 40 minutes, or until toothpick, when inserted, comes out clean.
7. Let cake bread rest on counter for 15 minutes before flipping it onto a cooling rack. Top with powdered sugar or a simple icing.