If you’re craving a banana bread that’s bursting with warmth and a delightful twist, this Maple-Bourbon Banana Bread is the perfect recipe to try. It combines the rich sweetness of maple extract with the subtle kick of bourbon, creating a moist, tender loaf packed with deep flavors and the comforting familiarity of ripe bananas and toffee bits. Whether you’re baking for a cozy breakfast, an afternoon snack, or a charming dessert, this bread brings a touch of homemade magic to every bite.

Ingredients You’ll Need

These ingredients are straightforward but carefully selected to create the perfect balance of flavor and texture in your Maple-Bourbon Banana Bread. Each plays a crucial role, from the leavening agents that ensure a light crumb to the aromatic spices and sweet extracts that elevate the loaf beyond ordinary banana bread.

3 ½ cups all-purpose flour: Provides the structure and balance to keep the loaf moist yet sturdy.
2 teaspoons baking soda: Helps the bread rise and become delightfully fluffy.
1 ½ teaspoons salt: Enhances all the flavors and balances the sweetness.
1 teaspoon cinnamon: Adds a warm, spicy note that complements the bananas perfectly.
½ teaspoon baking powder: Works with the baking soda for the perfect rise.
1 cup white sugar: Sweetens the bread and contributes to the tender crumb.
1 cup packed dark brown sugar: Adds moisture and a rich, caramel-like sweetness.
4 eggs (room temperature): Bind the ingredients together and add richness.
1 cup vegetable oil: Keeps the bread moist and tender without overpowering flavors.
⅔ cup whole milk: Adds creaminess and helps achieve the perfect batter consistency.
¼ cup bourbon: Offers a subtle, warming depth that makes this banana bread truly special.
1 ½ teaspoons maple extract: Infuses the loaf with a lovely maple-sweet aroma and taste.
1 teaspoon vanilla extract: Enhances all the flavors with its sweet, floral notes.
2 cups mashed overripe bananas: The heart of the bread, delivering natural sweetness and moisture.
1 (8-ounce) package chopped toffee: Adds wonderful crunch and buttery flavor in every bite.

How to Make Maple-Bourbon Banana Bread

Step 1: Preheat and Prepare Your Oven

Set your oven to 350 degrees Fahrenheit to get it nicely warmed up. This temperature is ideal for a thorough bake that allows the flavors in your Maple-Bourbon Banana Bread to develop beautifully without drying out the loaf.

Step 2: Mix Your Dry Ingredients

In a large bowl, whisk together the all-purpose flour, baking soda, salt, cinnamon, and baking powder. These dry ingredients create the backbone of your bread, ensuring it’s light and flavorful with the perfect crumb.

Step 3: Combine Sugars and Wet Ingredients

In a separate large bowl, whisk the white and dark brown sugars together, breaking up any lumps to create a smooth base. Then add the eggs, vegetable oil, whole milk, bourbon, maple extract, and vanilla extract, whisking until everything is well combined and silky smooth. The alcohol aroma will play nicely in the background, enhancing those rich maple and banana notes.

Step 4: Add Bananas and Incorporate Flour

Stir in the mashed overripe bananas until evenly distributed. Now, add a few spoonfuls of the flour mixture to the wet ingredients, stirring gently after each addition. This gradual mixing prevents overworking the batter, resulting in a tender texture. Finish by folding in the chopped toffee, which will create delightful pockets of sweetness.

Step 5: Prepare Your Pans and Bake

Grease two large loaf pans or eight mini loaf pans with cooking spray to prevent sticking. Pour your batter evenly into the pans, leaving a little space at the top for rising. Bake for about 40-45 minutes for mini loaves or 55-60 minutes for larger loaves. Test doneness with a toothpick; it should come out clean or with just a few crumbs attached. You can even bake different pan sizes simultaneously—just adjust timing accordingly.

Step 6: Cool and Enjoy

Let your Maple-Bourbon Banana Bread cool completely before slicing. This resting time lets the flavors settle and the texture firm up just right. Wrap tightly with plastic wrap if not eating immediately to lock in freshness and moisture.

How to Serve Maple-Bourbon Banana Bread

Garnishes

A simple spread of softened butter or a drizzle of maple syrup enhances the sweet, warm flavors beautifully. For a special treat, try a light dusting of powdered sugar or a dollop of whipped cream infused with a touch of bourbon for that extra wow factor.

Side Dishes

Pair this banana bread with a cup of strong coffee or warm chai tea to complement its sweet and spicy personality. It also goes wonderfully alongside fresh fruit or a small bowl of Greek yogurt for a balanced snack or breakfast.

Creative Ways to Present

Turn your Maple-Bourbon Banana Bread into a dessert star by serving slices warm with vanilla ice cream and caramel sauce. Alternatively, toast slices lightly and top with cream cheese and a sprinkle of chopped nuts for an irresistible brunch addition that will impress guests.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Your Maple-Bourbon Banana Bread will stay fresh for a few days when wrapped tightly and stored at room temperature. This keeps it moist and flavorful without becoming dry or crumbly.

Freezing

If you want to save some for later, wrap the bread tightly in plastic wrap and place it inside a freezer-safe bag. Frozen banana bread can last up to three months, allowing you to enjoy this delightful treat anytime with minimal effort.

Reheating

To bring your frozen or stored bread back to life, warm slices in a toaster oven or microwave for a few seconds. This revives the soft texture and intensifies the aroma of the maple and bourbon, making every bite taste freshly baked.

FAQs

Can I substitute bourbon with something else?

Absolutely! If you prefer to avoid alcohol, you can replace bourbon with an equal amount of apple cider, orange juice, or even brewed coffee. Each option will add a unique note without overpowering the other flavors.

What type of bananas works best?

Overripe bananas with plenty of brown spots are ideal. They are sweeter and softer, which contributes to the moistness and natural sweetness of the bread.

Can I use maple syrup instead of maple extract?

While pure maple syrup is delicious, maple extract gives a concentrated flavor without adding extra liquid. You can try substituting, but reduce other liquids slightly to maintain the right batter consistency.

How do I avoid my banana bread from becoming too dense?

Be careful not to overmix when combining the wet and dry ingredients. Stir just until the flour disappears to keep the texture light and tender.

Is it possible to make this bread gluten-free?

You can try using a gluten-free all-purpose flour blend, but results may vary. Ensure your baking powder and baking soda are gluten-free too, and consider adding a binding agent like xanthan gum if your blend doesn’t already include it.

Final Thoughts

There’s something so comforting about slicing into a warm loaf of Maple-Bourbon Banana Bread—the aroma filling your kitchen, the perfect balance of flavors dancing on your tongue. It’s a recipe that’s sure to become a favorite in your household, whether for breakfast, a midday pick-me-up, or a sweet ending to any day. Give it a try, and watch how every bite brings joy and warmth straight to your table.