Banana bread is a classic treat, but the holidays call for something extra special. By adding crushed candy cane, warm spices, and a splash of rum, this festive twist transforms overripe bananas into a dessert fit for the season. The peppermint crunch of candy cane brings a refreshing contrast to the sweetness of bananas, while cinnamon and nutmeg provide the comforting warmth we all crave during the holidays. Perfect for gifting, serving at a holiday brunch, or simply enjoying with a cup of coffee, Candy Cane Banana Bread is sure to become a seasonal favourite.
Candy Cane Banana Bread Recipe
Ingredients
- 2–3 overripe bananas (about 1 cup mashed)
- 1/2 cup unsalted butter, melted
- 3/4 cup brown sugar
- 2 large eggs
- 2 tbsp rum (optional)
- 1 tsp vanilla extract (optional)
- 1 1/2 cups all-purpose flour
- 1 tsp baking soda
- 1/2 tsp salt
- 1 tsp cinnamon
- 1/4 tsp nutmeg
- 1/4 cup heavy cream
- 1 candy cane, crushed (reserve a little for topping)
- 1 cup cherries (optional)
Instructions
- Preheat Oven: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease a 9×5-inch loaf pan or line it with parchment paper.
- Prepare Wet Ingredients: Mash bananas in a large bowl. Add melted butter, brown sugar, eggs, rum, heavy cream, and vanilla extract (if using). Stir until smooth.
- Mix Dry Ingredients: In a separate bowl, whisk together flour, baking soda, salt, cinnamon, and nutmeg.
- Combine Mixtures: Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet mixture, stirring gently until just combined. Be careful not to overmix.
- Add Candy Cane: Fold in most of the crushed candy cane, and cherries (if using) reserving some for topping.
- Bake: Pour the batter into the prepared loaf pan. Sprinkle the remaining crushed candy cane on top. Bake for 50–60 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.
- Cool: Allow the bread to cool in the pan for 10 minutes, then transfer to a wire rack to cool completely.
Optional Glaze
For an extra festive touch, drizzle the cooled bread with a glaze made from 1/2 cup powdered sugar, 1–2 tsp heavy cream, and a dash of rum. Sprinkle with an additional crushed candy cane.
With its delightful mix of banana sweetness and peppermint crunch, Candy Cane Banana Bread is a unique way to celebrate the season. Bake a loaf (or two) and share the joy of the holidays!
