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Copycat Starbucks Banana Bread
Some days just sprint by, and suddenly I’m craving comfort that’s both familiar and effortless. I was inspired to whip up this Copycat Starbucks Banana Bread after one of those busy mornings where my kitchen was a whirlwind, but I still wanted to bake something that felt like a warm hug. This recipe, inspired by Starbucks’ famous loaf, is my new go-to treat that keeps the family happy and my craving satisfied. If you like the recipe, please share it!
What is Copycat Starbucks Banana Bread?
Copycat Starbucks Banana Bread is a moist, flavorful loaf inspired by the iconic Starbucks banana nut bread. It’s packed with ripe bananas, a hint of brown sugar for sweetness, and a touch of buttermilk to keep it tender. This version offers that bakery feel — perfect for breakfast, a snack, or paired with your morning coffee. It’s similar in spirit to the Pumpkin Bread Starbucks Copycat or Copycat Starbucks Lemon Loaf you might love, but with a simple banana twist.
Ingredients
- 1 1/2 cups all-purpose flour
- 1 teaspoon baking soda
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 teaspoon ground cinnamon
- 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened
- 3/4 cup brown sugar
- 2 large eggs
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 3 ripe bananas, mashed
- 1/4 cup buttermilk
- 1/2 cup chopped walnuts (optional)
Kitchen Equipment Needed
- Mixing bowls
- Measuring cups and spoons
- Hand mixer or stand mixer
- Spatula
- 9×5 inch loaf pan
- Cooling rack
How to Make Copycat Starbucks Banana Bread
Step 1:
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and grease the loaf pan.
Step 2:
In a bowl, whisk together flour, baking soda, salt, and cinnamon; set aside.
Step 3:
In a large bowl, cream together the softened butter and brown sugar until light and fluffy.
Step 4:
Beat in the eggs one at a time, then stir in vanilla.
Step 5:
Mix in mashed bananas and buttermilk until combined.
Step 6:
Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet ingredients and mix just until incorporated.
Step 7:
Fold in walnuts if using.
Step 8:
Pour batter into the prepared loaf pan and smooth the top.
Step 9:
Bake for 60-70 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean.
Step 10:
Let the bread cool in the pan for 10 minutes before transferring to a cooling rack.
Some Tips!
- Use overripe bananas with lots of brown spots for maximum sweetness and moisture.
- Don’t overmix the batter; mix just until you see no dry flour to keep it tender.
- Buttermilk can be substituted with milk plus a teaspoon of lemon juice if you don’t have it on hand.
- Toast the walnuts before adding for a nuttier flavor.
- For a banana bread coffee cake vibe, sprinkle a cinnamon sugar topping before baking.
How to Store Leftovers
Store leftover banana bread wrapped tightly in plastic wrap or in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days. For longer storage, freeze the bread wrapped in foil and then placed in a freezer bag for up to 3 months.
What to Eat With
This Copycat Starbucks Banana Bread is amazing paired with a cozy cup of Homemade Hot Cocoa or a Pumpkin Spice Latte when you’re in the mood for warm fall flavors. It also goes great alongside sweet treats like Mini Pumpkin Pies or a soft Lemon Bread Starbucks loaf for a varied, comforting snack spread.
FAQ
Can I make this banana bread without nuts?
Absolutely! Simply leave out the walnuts for a nut-free loaf.
Can I substitute buttermilk?
Yes, you can use regular milk with a tablespoon of lemon juice or vinegar added, let it sit for 5 minutes to thicken.
How do I keep the banana bread moist?
Using ripe bananas, proper mixing, and buttermilk helps keep the bread moist and tender.
Can I add chocolate chips?
Definitely! Adding 1/2 cup chocolate chips is a yummy variation.
How long does it take to bake?
Usually about 60-70 minutes at 350°F, but check with a toothpick starting at 60 minutes.
Conclusion
This Copycat Starbucks Banana Bread really hits the spot when you want a moist, sweet banana treat reminiscent of your favorite coffee shop. With simple ingredients like brown sugar, buttermilk, and walnuts, it’s an easy recipe that feels special. I hope you try this recipe and find it as rewarding and comforting as I do — the perfect homemade version of the classic Starbucks banana nut bread.
Copycat Starbucks Banana Bread
Course: DessertCuisine: AmericanDifficulty: Easy10
servings15
minutes1
hour170
kcal1
hour15
minutesMake bakery-style banana bread at home with this Copycat Starbucks Banana Bread recipe. Moist, flavorful, and easy to bake with ripe bananas, brown sugar, buttermilk, and optional walnuts. Perfect for breakfast, snacks, or coffee breaks!
Ingredients
1 1/2 cups all-purpose flour
1 teaspoon baking soda
1/2 teaspoon salt
1/4 teaspoon ground cinnamon
1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened
3/4 cup brown sugar
2 large eggs
1 teaspoon vanilla extract
3 ripe bananas, mashed
1/4 cup buttermilk
1/2 cup chopped walnuts (optional)
Directions
- Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C) and grease a 9×5 inch loaf pan. In a bowl, whisk together flour, baking soda, salt, and cinnamon.
- In a large bowl, cream together softened butter and brown sugar until light and fluffy. Beat in eggs one at a time, then stir in vanilla. Mix in mashed bananas and buttermilk.
- Gradually fold in the dry ingredients until just combined. Fold in walnuts if using. Pour batter into prepared loaf pan and smooth the top.
- Bake for 60-70 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted comes out clean. Cool in pan for 10 minutes, then transfer to a cooling rack.
Notes
- Use overripe bananas for maximum sweetness and moisture.
Don’t overmix the batter to keep the bread tender.
Buttermilk can be substituted with milk plus 1 tsp lemon juice or vinegar.
Toast walnuts before adding for extra flavor.
For a coffee cake twist, sprinkle cinnamon sugar on top before baking.



