What makes Joanna Gaines banana bread different from other recipes?

What sets Joanna Gaines banana bread apart is its simplicity and warmth. Unlike many banana bread recipes that rely on oil, Joanna uses butter, which gives the loaf a rich flavor and soft, cake-like texture. She also adds a light sugar sprinkle on top before baking, creating that signature crisp crust. The end result is perfectly balanced—moist inside, golden outside, and not overly sweet. It’s comfort food made approachable, which is exactly why it’s so loved.

Can I make Joanna Gaines banana bread in a loaf pan instead of 9x13?

Absolutely. Joanna Gaines banana bread works beautifully in either a 9x5 loaf pan or a 9x13 baking dish. If you use a loaf pan, bake it at 350°F for about 45–55 minutes . For the 9x13 version, shorten the bake time to 30–40 minutes . The 9x13 option creates thinner, snack-style squares, while the loaf pan produces a taller, classic slice with a softer center. Both taste equally amazing.

How long does Joanna Gaines banana bread stay fresh?

When stored properly, Joanna Gaines banana bread stays fresh for 2–3 days at room temperature or up to one week in the refrigerator. Make sure to wrap it tightly in foil or place it in an airtight container to lock in moisture. For longer storage, you can freeze slices for up to three months . Simply reheat them in a toaster oven or microwave when ready to enjoy.

Can I freeze Joanna Gaines banana bread?

Yes, and it freezes perfectly. Once your Joanna Gaines banana bread has completely cooled, slice it and wrap each piece individually in plastic wrap. Then place the slices in a freezer-safe bag. When you’re ready to eat, defrost a slice overnight or microwave it for about 15 seconds. The bread retains its soft texture and rich flavor even after freezing.

What variations can I try with Joanna Gaines banana bread?

Joanna’s recipe is a great base for creativity. You can fold in chopped nuts , chocolate chips , or even blueberries for a fruity twist. For a fall-inspired version, add a pinch of cinnamon or nutmeg . Another popular variation is turning the batter into banana muffins , which bake faster and make easy grab-and-go snacks. These simple upgrades make Joanna Gaines banana bread feel fresh every time you bake it.

How many calories are in Joanna Gaines banana bread?

On average, one slice of Joanna Gaines banana bread contains about 220–250 calories , depending on portion size and any mix-ins you add. If you include nuts or chocolate chips, expect closer to 270 calories. Even though it’s not low-calorie, it’s made from wholesome ingredients, making it a satisfying and comforting choice for breakfast or dessert.

Joanna Gaines Banana Bread Recipe: The Best Magnolia Comfort Ever

Name: Joanna Gaines Banana Bread: The Ultimate Magnolia Comfort Treat You’ll Adore
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 45 min
Total time: 1 h
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: 4 very ripe bananas (mashed); ½ cup (1 stick) unsalted butter, softened; 1 cup granulated sugar (or half brown sugar); 2 large eggs; 1 tsp vanilla extract; 1½ cups all-purpose flour; 1 tsp baking soda; ½ tsp salt; Optional: ½–1 cup chopped pecans or walnuts; Optional: ½–1 cup semi-sweet chocolate chips; Topping: 1–2 tbsp granulated sugar for that Magnolia-style crunch

Description

Straight from Magnolia’s kitchen, this Joanna Gaines banana bread recipe is soft, buttery, and topped with a sugar crunch. Perfect for breakfast, dessert, or sharing with family.

Ingredients

Scale

4 very ripe bananas (mashed)

½ cup (1 stick) unsalted butter, softened

1 cup granulated sugar (or half brown sugar)

2 large eggs

1 tsp vanilla extract

1½ cups all-purpose flour

1 tsp baking soda

½ tsp salt

Optional: ½–1 cup chopped pecans or walnuts

Optional: ½–1 cup semi-sweet chocolate chips

Topping: 1–2 tbsp granulated sugar for that Magnolia-style crunch

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Instructions

1. Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease a 9×5 loaf pan or 9×13 baking dish.

2. Mash bananas until smooth in a large bowl.

3. Cream butter and sugar until fluffy, then add eggs one at a time. Stir in vanilla.

4. Add mashed bananas and mix until combined.

5. In another bowl, whisk flour, baking soda, and salt.

6. Combine dry and wet ingredients, mixing gently until just blended.

7. Fold in optional chocolate chips or nuts.

8. Pour batter into the prepared pan and sprinkle sugar on top.

9. Bake 45–55 minutes (loaf) or 30–40 minutes (9×13 pan), until a toothpick comes out clean.

10. Cool for 10–15 minutes before slicing and serving warm.

Notes

Joanna often uses a 9×13 pan for even baking and easy slicing.

For muffins, bake at 350°F for 18–22 minutes.

Store at room temperature for 2–3 days or freeze slices up to 3 months.

For extra flavor, add cinnamon or brown sugar to the batter.

Prep Time: 15 minutes
Cook Time: 45 minutes
Category: Baking
Method: Oven
Cuisine: American

Nutrition

Serving Size: 1 slice
Calories: 230
Sugar: 15g
Sodium: 190mg
Fat: 9g
Saturated Fat: 5g
Unsaturated Fat: 4g
Trans Fat: 0g
Carbohydrates: 34g
Fiber: 1g
Protein: 3g
Cholesterol: 40mg