Pumpkin Banana Bread Bars: Heavenly 1-Bowl Treat

September 1, 2025

Pumpkin banana bread bars have become my absolute go-to for a cozy afternoon treat, especially when that autumn chill starts to settle in. I remember the first time I tried combining these two fall favorites; the aroma that filled my kitchen was pure magic – a warm hug of cinnamon, nutmeg, and sweet banana. These bars are incredibly moist and tender, making them the perfect bite for any occasion. They truly capture the essence of fall dessert bars pumpkin banana, and I can’t wait for you to experience them too. Let’s get baking!

Why You’ll Love These Pumpkin Banana Bread Bars

These bars are a total game-changer for your baking repertoire. They’re wonderfully moist and packed with flavor, making them the perfect treat any time of year.

They are incredibly easy pumpkin banana bread bars to whip up, perfect for busy weeknights.
You get that delightful combination of spiced pumpkin and sweet banana in every bite.
The texture is super tender and wonderfully moist pumpkin banana bread bars, thanks to the ripe bananas and pumpkin purée.
They’re fantastic for snacks, breakfasts, or even a simple dessert.
Cleanup is a breeze, as most of the mixing happens in one bowl.
The warm spices like cinnamon and nutmeg create an irresistible aroma.
They are a guaranteed crowd-pleaser for kids and adults alike.

Ingredients for Homemade Pumpkin Banana Bread Bars

Gathering your ingredients is the first step to creating these delicious banana pumpkin bread bars. I find that using very ripe bananas is key, as they add natural sweetness and moisture. The pumpkin purée contributes to that signature fall flavor and keeps everything wonderfully tender. For more information on ingredient sourcing and baking tips, you can check out our about me page.

1 cup mashed ripe bananas (about 2 medium bananas, the riper the better!)
1 cup pumpkin purée (not pumpkin pie filling)
2 large eggs
1/2 cup vegetable oil (or other neutral oil like canola)
1/2 cup light brown sugar, packed (for that rich, caramel note)
1/2 cup granulated sugar
1 tsp vanilla extract
1 1/2 cups all-purpose flour
1 tsp baking soda
1/2 tsp baking powder
1 tsp ground cinnamon
1/4 tsp ground nutmeg
1/4 tsp ground ginger
1/4 tsp ground cloves
1/4 tsp salt
Optional: 1/2 cup chopped walnuts or pecans (for a delightful crunch)
Optional: 1/2 cup mini chocolate chips (because who doesn’t love chocolate?)

How to Make Pumpkin Banana Bread Bars

Step 1: Let’s get started on how to make pumpkin banana bread bars! Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). This temperature is perfect for baking these bars evenly. While the oven heats, prepare your 9×13-inch baking pan by greasing it well or lining it with parchment paper for easy removal later.
Step 2: In a large mixing bowl, mash your ripe bananas until they’re smooth and creamy. Then, stir in the pumpkin purée. You’ll notice the mixture starting to take on that gorgeous, earthy orange hue.
Step 3: Add the eggs, vegetable oil, light brown sugar, granulated sugar, and vanilla extract to the banana-pumpkin mixture. Whisk everything together until it’s well combined and looks glossy and smooth. The aroma is already starting to hint at those delicious spiced pumpkin banana bread bars!
Step 4: Now, it’s time for the dry ingredients. Sprinkle the all-purpose flour, baking soda, baking powder, salt, cinnamon, nutmeg, ginger, and cloves directly over the wet ingredients. Gently stir everything together until the dry ingredients are just incorporated. Be careful not to overmix; overmixing can lead to tough bars, and we want them tender! For more on baking science, you can explore resources on ingredient properties.
Step 5: If you’re adding them, now’s the time to gently fold in your chopped walnuts or pecans, or those delightful mini chocolate chips. They’ll add a wonderful texture and extra burst of flavor to your spiced pumpkin banana bread bars.
Step 6: Pour the batter evenly into your prepared baking pan. Spread it out so it reaches all the corners.
Step 7: Bake for 25-30 minutes. You’ll know they’re perfectly done when a toothpick inserted into the center of the pumpkin banana bread bars comes out clean, with maybe a few moist crumbs attached, but no wet batter.
Step 8: Once baked, let the bars cool in the pan for at least 20 minutes before you slice them into squares. This cooling time is crucial for them to set properly, ensuring you get those perfect, clean cuts for your pumpkin banana bread bars.

Pumpkin Banana Bread Bars: Heavenly 1-Bowl Treat - Pumpkin Banana Bread Bars - additional detail

Pro Tips for the Best Pumpkin Banana Bread Bars Recipe

I’ve learned a few tricks over the years to make these bars absolutely amazing, and I’m happy to share them with you. Following these simple tips will elevate your baking and ensure you get the most delicious results every time. You can find more baking tips and tricks on our contact us page.

Always use very ripe bananas. The spottier and browner, the better – they’re sweeter and mash more easily.
Don’t overmix the batter after adding the flour. This is crucial for tender, not tough, bars.
Letting the bars cool completely in the pan before slicing is key for clean cuts.
For an extra layer of flavor, try adding a sprinkle of cinnamon sugar on top before baking for a delightful crunch.

What’s the secret to perfect pumpkin banana bread bars?

The real secret to achieving those wonderfully moist pumpkin banana bread bars lies in the ripe bananas and the pumpkin purée working together. Additionally, using a mix of brown and granulated sugar adds both moisture and depth of flavor. Don’t overbake them!

Can I make pumpkin banana bread bars ahead of time?

Absolutely! These bars are fantastic for meal prep. You can bake them up to two days in advance and store them in an airtight container at room temperature. They are even better the next day as the flavors meld together. For more on our policies, please see our privacy policy.

How do I avoid common mistakes with pumpkin banana bread bars?

A common pitfall is overmixing the batter once the flour is added, which can result in tough bars. Also, be sure to use pumpkin purée, not pumpkin pie filling, as the latter contains added sugar and spices that will throw off the recipe’s balance. If you have any questions, feel free to contact us.

Best Ways to Serve Pumpkin Banana Bread Bars

These bars are so versatile, you can enjoy them in so many ways! They’re perfect on their own as a simple afternoon snack, but I love to elevate them a bit. Try serving them warm with a dollop of cream cheese frosting or a light dusting of powdered sugar. They also pair beautifully with a hot cup of coffee or tea, especially if you add that sprinkle of cinnamon sugar on top for a little extra crunch.

For a real treat, consider these cinnamon pumpkin banana bread bars alongside a scoop of vanilla bean ice cream. They make for a delightful, comforting dessert that truly celebrates the flavors of fall. They’re also a fantastic addition to a brunch spread or a potluck! For more information on our terms, please refer to our terms and conditions.

Nutrition Facts for Pumpkin Banana Bread Bars

Per serving (this recipe makes about 12-16 delicious bars):

Calories: 170
Fat: 8g
Saturated Fat: 1.5g
Protein: 2g
Carbohydrates: 24g
Fiber: 1g
Sugar: 12g
Sodium: (Please refer to your specific ingredients for an accurate measurement)

Nutritional values are estimates and may vary based on the specific ingredients you use, especially if you add nuts or chocolate chips.

Pumpkin Banana Bread Bars: Heavenly 1-Bowl Treat - Pumpkin Banana Bread Bars - additional detail

How to Store and Reheat Pumpkin Banana Bread Bars

Once your delicious pumpkin banana bread bars are baked and cooled, proper storage is key to keeping them fresh and tasty. After they’ve cooled in the pan for at least 20 minutes, you can transfer them to a wire rack to cool completely. This step is important to prevent any steam from making them soggy. Once fully cooled, you can store them in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3-4 days. For longer enjoyment, wrap individual bars tightly in plastic wrap and then place them in a freezer-safe bag or container. They’ll keep beautifully in the freezer for up to 3 months, making them a perfect make-ahead treat.

When you’re ready to enjoy a frozen bar, simply unwrap it and let it thaw at room temperature for about an hour. If you prefer them warm, you can gently reheat them in a microwave for about 15-20 seconds, or pop them into a toaster oven for a few minutes until they’re nicely warmed through. This ensures you can savor these delightful banana pumpkin bread bars whenever the craving strikes!

Frequently Asked Questions About Pumpkin Banana Bread Bars

What are pumpkin banana bread bars?

These delightful bars are a fusion of classic pumpkin bread and moist banana bread. They combine the warm spices of pumpkin pie with the natural sweetness and tender texture of ripe bananas, baked into convenient, shareable squares. They’re a perfect treat for fall or any time you crave a comforting, flavorful dessert.

Why make pumpkin banana bread bars?

You should make these bars because they’re incredibly delicious and easy to prepare! They offer a fantastic flavor combination that’s both comforting and satisfying. Plus, they’re a great way to use up ripe bananas and are perfect for snacks, breakfast on the go, or a simple dessert that everyone will love. They truly are a taste of fall in every bite.

Can I use pumpkin pie filling instead of pumpkin purée?

It’s best to stick with pure pumpkin purée for this recipe. Pumpkin pie filling usually contains added sugars and spices, which will alter the flavor and texture of your bars. Using plain pumpkin purée gives you control over the sweetness and spice blend, ensuring the best results for your pumpkin banana bread bars.

Can I freeze these pumpkin banana bread bars?

Absolutely! These bars freeze beautifully. Once completely cooled, wrap individual bars tightly in plastic wrap, then in foil or place them in a freezer bag. They can be stored in the freezer for up to 3 months. Thaw them at room temperature for about an hour before enjoying, or reheat them gently for a warm treat.

Variations of Pumpkin Banana Bread Bars You Can Try

Once you’ve mastered the classic recipe, don’t be afraid to get creative! There are so many ways to customize these bars to suit your tastes and dietary needs. These variations ensure you can enjoy these delightful treats no matter what.

Healthy Pumpkin Banana Bread Bars: For a lighter option, try substituting half the all-purpose flour with whole wheat flour or a gluten-free blend. You can also reduce the sugar slightly and add a tablespoon of chia seeds for extra fiber and omega-3s.
Vegan Pumpkin Banana Bread Bars: Making these bars vegan is simple! Replace the eggs with a flax egg (1 tbsp flaxseed meal + 3 tbsp water, let sit for 5 minutes) and use a plant-based milk like almond or oat milk instead of dairy milk if a recipe calls for it (though this one uses oil). Ensure your chocolate chips are dairy-free if adding them.
Spiced Variations: Amp up the spice by adding a pinch of cardamom or allspice to the dry ingredients. You could also add a tablespoon of pumpkin pie spice for a more intense flavor profile.
No-Bake Pumpkin Banana Bread Bars: While this recipe is baked, you could adapt the concept by combining mashed banana, pumpkin purée, oats, nuts, and a binder like dates or a nut butter, then pressing it into a pan and chilling it until firm.