WEEKEND FAVORITES • BAKING & DESSERTS
Maple-Glazed Banana Bread
Some recipes never stay in the recipe box for long because they're always being shared. This Maple-Glazed Banana Bread is one of those recipes. Wonderfully moist, rich with brown sugar and ripe bananas, and finished with a warm brushing of pure maple syrup, it's the loaf friends and family request time and time again. Whether enjoyed with your morning coffee, shared with neighbors, or served as an afternoon treat, every slice tastes like home.
PREP TIME
20 Minutes
BAKE TIME
1 Hour 20 Minutes
Recipe Details
Servings
10-12
DIFFICULTY
Easy
Ingredients
For the Banana Bread
¾ cup unsalted butter, softened
1 cup packed brown sugar
⅓ cup + 1 tablespoon granulated sugar
1⅓ cups mashed ripe bananas
2 large eggs
1½ teaspoons vanilla bean paste
1 teaspoon molasses
2 cups all-purpose flour
1 teaspoon baking soda
¼ teaspoon salt
4 ounces buttermilk
Maple Glaze
¼–½ cup Grade A pure maple syrup
Timeless Tip 🌿
The sweeter and darker your bananas, the better your bread will be. Bananas with plenty of brown spots bring the richest flavor and natural sweetness, making every slice even more delicious.
Instructions
1. Prepare the Pan
Preheat the oven to 350°F.
Lightly spray a standard loaf pan and line it with parchment paper.
2. Cream the Butter and Sugars
In a large bowl, cream together the softened butter, brown sugar, and granulated sugar until light and fluffy.
3. Add the Wet Ingredients
Mix in the mashed bananas until combined.
Add the eggs, vanilla bean paste, and molasses.
Don't worry if the batter looks slightly separated—that's perfectly normal.
4. Mix the Dry Ingredients
In a separate bowl, whisk together:
Flour
Baking soda
Salt
5. Finish the Batter
Gradually add the dry ingredients to the banana mixture.
Pour in half of the buttermilk and mix.
Add the remaining buttermilk and continue mixing until smooth.
Avoid overmixing.
6. Bake
Pour the batter into the prepared loaf pan.
Bake for approximately 1 hour 20 minutes.
Begin checking after 1 hour.
The loaf is done when:
A toothpick comes out mostly clean, or
The internal temperature reaches 200–205°F.
The top should be beautifully golden with a classic split down the center.
7. The Signature Finish
Immediately after removing the bread from the oven, slowly brush Grade A maple syrup over the hot loaf.
Work in small sections, allowing the syrup to soak in before adding more.
This simple finishing touch creates the beautiful glossy top and keeps every slice wonderfully moist.
Serving Suggestions
Serve slightly warm with softened butter, alongside a hot cup of coffee or tea, or simply enjoy it as is. It also makes a wonderful breakfast, afternoon snack, or thoughtful homemade gift.
Storage & Leftovers
Keep It Fresh
Store tightly wrapped at room temperature for up to 4 days.
Refrigerate for up to 1 week.
Freeze whole or sliced for up to 3 months.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I use frozen bananas?
Yes. Thaw completely and drain any excess liquid before mashing.
Why brush maple syrup on after baking?
Applying the maple syrup while the loaf is still hot allows it to soak into the bread, adding moisture, a subtle maple flavor, and a beautiful glossy finish.
Can I add nuts?
Absolutely. Chopped pecans or walnuts are delicious additions.
Can I make muffins?
Yes. Bake at 350°F for approximately 20–25 minutes, checking for doneness.
Around Our Table
Some recipes become part of everyday life without anyone planning for them. This banana bread has become one of those recipes in our kitchen. Friends have often told us it's the best banana bread they've ever tasted, and they're always surprised to learn the secret isn't hidden in the batter—it's the warm maple syrup brushed over the loaf the moment it comes out of the oven. That simple finishing touch keeps every slice incredibly moist and turns a familiar favorite into something truly memorable.
If you enjoyed this recipe, here are a few more favorites from our kitchen that we think you’ll love.
From Our Kitchen
Rustic Rosmary Focaccia
A golden, olive oil–kissed Italian bread topped with fragrant rosemary and flaky sea salt. Crisp on the outside, soft and airy inside, it's perfect alongside soups, salads, or simply dipped in olive oil.
Ultimate Baked Mac &
Creamy three-cheese macaroni baked until golden and bubbly with tender cavatappi pasta and a rich homemade cheese sauce. Comfort food that's perfect for holidays, gatherings, or a cozy family dinner.
Summer Peach Cobbler
Sweet, juicy peaches tucked beneath a buttery golden topping that's crisp on the outside and tender inside. Best served warm with a scoop of vanilla ice cream for the perfect taste of summer.