Tucked away in my kitchen one rainy afternoon, I stumbled upon a lingering craving—a blend of bananas and cookies worthy of my baking efforts. That’s when I decided to whip up this mouthwatering Oreo Banana Bread, a delightful twist on the classic. Combining the sweetness of overripe bananas with crunchy bits of chocolatey Oreos, this recipe is an irresistible crowd-pleaser. Not only does it take minimal time to prepare, but it also transforms into a luscious dessert-like treat, perfect for a cozy brunch or a midnight snack! Curious about how this unique combination can elevate your baking game? Let’s dive into the delicious details!
Why is Oreo Banana Bread a must-try?
Irresistible Combination: The fusion of ripe bananas and crunchy Oreos creates a flavor explosion that’s both nostalgic and innovative.
Quick and Simple: Whipping this up requires no advanced skills or fancy equipment—perfect for both beginner bakers and seasoned chefs alike!
Dessert Twist: Enjoy a delectable bread that feels like a dessert but is still comforting for breakfast or a snack.
Crowd-Pleasing: Serve it at brunch or family gatherings, and watch as everyone reaches for a second (or third) slice! Plus, if you’re curious about more unique breads, check out this Monkey Bread From.
Customizable: Not feeling the Oreos? Try adding nuts or chocolate chips for a personal touch. Your options are deliciously endless!
Oreo Banana Bread Ingredients
For the Bread
• Mashed Ripe Bananas – Provide natural sweetness and moisture; overripe bananas with brown spots yield the best flavor.
• Vegetable Oil – Adds moisture and richness to the bread; can be replaced with melted butter or coconut oil if preferred.
• Baking Soda – Acts as a leavening agent to help the bread rise; no substitutions needed.
• Salt – Enhances flavor; essential for balancing the sweetness.
• Vanilla Extract – Adds depth of flavor and aroma; for a different flavor profile, almond extract can be used.
• Large Eggs – Bind ingredients together and contribute to the rise; can substitute with egg replacer for a vegan option.
• Granulated Sugar – Provides sweetness and contributes to browning.
• Brown Sugar – Adds a deeper flavor and moisture to the bread.
• All-Purpose Flour – The structure of the bread; substitution: whole wheat flour can be used for a healthier option.
• Chopped Oreos – Adds flavor and texture with every bite; store-brand chocolate sandwich cookies are budget-friendly alternatives.
For the Glaze
• Powdered Sugar – Used to create a smooth glaze that sweetens without graininess.
• Milk – Helps to create a smooth glaze; non-dairy milk works as well.
• More Chopped Oreos – For topping the glaze, enhancing flavor and presentation.
This Oreo Banana Bread recipe is a sweet delight that combines the goodness of ripe bananas and the joy of cookies, making it a must-try for any home chef!
Step‑by‑Step Instructions for Oreo Banana Bread
Step 1: Preheat and Prepare
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and greasing an 8×4 inch loaf pan with non-stick spray or butter. This preparation ensures the Oreo Banana Bread releases easily after baking. While the oven warms, gather all your ingredients to streamline the mixing process, creating a smooth workflow in your kitchen.
Step 2: Mash Those Bananas
In a large mixing bowl, peel and mash about three ripe bananas until they achieve a smooth consistency. Aim for a creamy texture without large lumps, which helps to evenly distribute their natural sweetness. Using a fork or a potato masher, this step will infuse your batter with moisture and flavor, forming the base for your delightful Oreo Banana Bread.
Step 3: Mix in the Oil
Stir in 1/3 cup of vegetable oil to the mashed bananas until fully integrated. This addition enhances the bread’s moistness and contributes to the rich texture. Make sure there are no oily streaks left; the mixture should blend seamlessly, resembling a smooth banana puree, which serves as a foundation for the rest of your ingredients.
Step 4: Add Dry Ingredients
Incorporate 1 teaspoon of baking soda and a pinch of salt into the banana-oil mixture, stirring until just combined. This step introduces the leavening agent essential for your Oreo Banana Bread to rise beautifully in the oven. The mixture should look slightly bubbly, signaling that the baking soda is activated and ready to help your bread rise.
Step 5: Sweeten the Mix
Next, add 1 teaspoon of vanilla extract, 2 large eggs, 1/2 cup of granulated sugar, and 1/2 cup of brown sugar. Whisk these ingredients together until smooth and well combined. The sugars will dissolve and incorporate, allowing you to achieve a sweet, flavorful base for your batter. You’ll notice the mixture becoming thicker as the eggs blend in, creating a glossy appearance.
Step 6: Incorporate Flour
Gradually fold in 1 and 1/2 cups of all-purpose flour until no visible streaks remain. Be gentle while mixing; overmixing can lead to a dense texture. The batter should be thick and somewhat elastic as the flour absorbs the wet ingredients. This step is crucial, as maintaining the right texture will ensure a light and fluffy loaf of Oreo Banana Bread.
Step 7: Add Chopped Oreos
Gently mix in 1 cup of chopped Oreos until evenly distributed throughout the batter. This is where the “cookies and cream” magic happens! The iconic chocolate cookie pieces will give bursts of flavor in every bite. Make sure to keep folding the mixture until all Oreos are nestled nicely without breaking them down too much.
Step 8: Pour and Level
Carefully pour the batter into the prepared loaf pan, using a spatula to smooth the top for an even bake. Ensure that the batter fills approximately three-quarters of the pan to allow enough room for rising while baking. This step is crucial as it affects how evenly the Oreo Banana Bread will cook and its overall appearance.
Step 9: Bake to Perfection
Place the loaf pan in your preheated oven and bake for 50-60 minutes. Start checking for doneness at the 50-minute mark by inserting a toothpick into the center. If it comes out clean or with a few crumbs, your Oreo Banana Bread is ready to come out! The top should be golden brown and slightly domed, a beautiful sight to behold.
Step 10: Cool Before Removing
Allow the bread to cool in the pan for about 10 minutes. This resting period helps solidify the structure of your Oreo Banana Bread, making it easier to remove. After cooling, gently transfer the loaf to a wire rack to cool completely. This step helps prevent excess moisture from accumulating.
Step 11: Glaze It Up
To make the glaze, whisk together 1 cup of powdered sugar, 2 tablespoons of milk, and 1 teaspoon of vanilla extract until smooth. The glaze should be silky and pourable, enhancing the sweet finish on your bread. Drizzle this mixture over the cooled loaf, ensuring every slice will receive a deliciously sweet touch.
Step 12: Add the Finishing Touches
Top the glaze with more chopped Oreos for added flavor and visual appeal. Allow the glaze to set for about 5-10 minutes before slicing into your Oreo Banana Bread. This final step elevates the presentation and brings the cookies’ crunch to your delightful treat. Now your beautiful bread is ready for slicing and sharing!
Oreo Banana Bread Variations & Substitutions
Feel free to get creative with this delightful Oreo Banana Bread recipe, allowing your taste buds to explore new flavors and textures.
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Sweetness Adjustments: Reduce the number of Oreos in the batter for a less sweet taste while still enjoying the banana flavor.
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Chocolate Chips: Swap chopped Oreos for chocolate chips to create a rich chocolatey experience. The gooey texture of melted chocolate pairs beautifully with bananas.
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Nutty Add-ins: Toss in some walnuts or pecans for a delightful crunch. This addition brings in a satisfying contrast against the soft banana bread.
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Dried Fruits: Add raisins or dried cranberries for bursts of sweetness and chewiness, elevating the flavor profile without overpowering the dessert feel.
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Experiment with Extracts: While vanilla is classic, using almond extract gives a wonderful twist. Just a teaspoon can turn this into an almond-banana bliss.
Don’t forget to share this delightful creation at your next brunch. If you’re looking for more comforting recipes, the Monkey Bread From is another sugary delight that will wow your guests!
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Spice it Up: Incorporate cinnamon or nutmeg into the batter for a warm, cozy flavor. Just half a teaspoon can add a whole new dimension to your bread.
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Dairy-Free Delight: Substitute dairy milk with almond or oat milk in the glaze to keep everything dairy-free while still achieving a creamy finish.
Embrace these variations, and make this Oreo Banana Bread truly your own!
Make Ahead Options
These Oreo Banana Bread recipes are fantastic for busy weeknights or meal prep enthusiasts! You can prep the batter up to 24 hours in advance—just cover the mixing bowl tightly with plastic wrap and refrigerate it. For the best results, mix in the chopped Oreos just before pouring the batter into the loaf pan to maintain their crunch. If you prefer, you can also bake the bread and freeze it for up to 3 months (unglazed). To finish, simply thaw in the fridge overnight and glaze just before serving for that fresh, delicious touch. Enjoy the convenience of having this delectable treat ready to slice and serve any time!
What to Serve with Oreo Banana Bread?
Whether you’re enjoying a slice for breakfast or as a sweet afternoon pick-me-up, pairing can elevate the experience.
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Creamy Mashed Potatoes: The rich, buttery texture creates a comforting contrast to the sweet bread, perfect for a cozy meal.
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Fresh Fruit Salad: Bright, juicy fruits add a refreshing, tangy balance to the sweetness of the Oreo Banana Bread, making it an energizing snack.
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Whipped Cream: A dollop of airy whipped cream enhances the dessert vibe, adding a creamy texture that complements the flavors beautifully.
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Nutty Granola: Sprinkling crunchy granola on top provides a delightful textural contrast, bringing an added layer of flavor to each bite.
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Iced Coffee: Pairing with a chilled cup of coffee balances the sweetness wonderfully, providing a perfect pick-me-up moment during the day.
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Chocolate Milkshake: Embrace dessert with a classic chocolate shake; its creaminess and chocolate flavor sync beautifully with the cookies and cream essence of the bread.
Expert Tips for Oreo Banana Bread
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Use Ripe Bananas: Ensure your bananas are very ripe, as they provide optimal sweetness and moisture, leading to a more flavorful Oreo Banana Bread.
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Avoid Overmixing: Gently fold the ingredients together; overmixing can make your bread dense instead of light and fluffy.
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Test Doneness Carefully: Start checking for doneness at 50 minutes using a toothpick. If it comes out clean, your Oreo Banana Bread is ready!
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Adjust Baking Pan Size: If you use a larger pan, reduce the baking time and monitor closely to avoid overcooking.
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Cool Before Glazing: Allow the bread to cool for about 10 minutes before removing it from the pan to retain its shape and moisture.
How to Store and Freeze Oreo Banana Bread
Room Temperature: Store the unglazed Oreo Banana Bread in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3-4 days to maintain freshness.
Fridge: For longer shelf life, you can refrigerate the bread in an airtight container for up to a week, though it may slightly dry out.
Freezer: To freeze, wrap slices tightly in plastic wrap, then place them in a zip-top freezer bag. It can be frozen for up to 3 months.
Reheating: To enjoy again, thaw in the fridge overnight and reheat slices in the microwave for 10-15 seconds or in a toaster oven for a few minutes.
Oreo Banana Bread Recipe FAQs
How do I choose ripe bananas for this recipe?
Absolutely! For the best flavor and moisture in your Oreo Banana Bread, look for bananas that are very ripe with plenty of brown spots. They should feel soft to the touch but not overly mushy. If you only have yellow bananas, you can speed up ripening by placing them in a brown paper bag for a day or two.
How should I store my Oreo Banana Bread?
You can store your unglazed Oreo Banana Bread in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3-4 days. If you want to keep it fresher longer, refrigerate it in an airtight container for about a week, although it may dry out a bit. If you’re not going to eat it within that timeframe, I recommend freezing it!
Can I freeze Oreo Banana Bread? If so, how?
Very! To freeze your Oreo Banana Bread, first allow it to cool completely. Then, wrap the whole loaf tightly in plastic wrap, or slice it up and wrap individual pieces. Place the wrapped bread in a zip-top freezer bag, making sure to remove as much air as possible. You can freeze it for up to 3 months! When ready to enjoy, simply thaw overnight in the fridge.
What do I do if my bread turns out too dense?
If your Oreo Banana Bread comes out dense, it may be due to overmixing the batter. When combining the flour with the wet ingredients, mix just until no streaks remain—it’s okay if a few lumps are still visible. Also, ensure your bananas are very ripe, as under ripe bananas won’t provide enough moisture. If you notice your bread seems to sink in the middle, it could also be due to too much moisture or not enough baking time.
Are there any dietary considerations for Oreo Banana Bread?
Absolutely! This recipe contains eggs and dairy due to the milk and optional glaze. If you have dietary restrictions, try substituting eggs with an egg replacer like flaxseed or applesauce for a vegan option. You can also use non-dairy milk in the glaze to make it completely vegan. Plus, substitute gluten-free flour if you’re looking for a gluten-free alternative!
Oreo Banana Bread: A Cookies and Cream Delight You’ll Love
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and grease an 8x4 inch loaf pan.
- In a large mixing bowl, peel and mash about three ripe bananas until smooth.
- Stir in 1/3 cup of vegetable oil to the mashed bananas until fully integrated.
- Incorporate 1 teaspoon of baking soda and a pinch of salt into the mixture.
- Add 1 teaspoon of vanilla extract, 2 large eggs, 1/2 cup of granulated sugar, and 1/2 cup of brown sugar. Whisk together.
- Gradually fold in 1 and 1/2 cups of all-purpose flour until no visible streaks remain.
- Gently mix in 1 cup of chopped Oreos until evenly distributed throughout the batter.
- Pour the batter into the prepared loaf pan, smoothing the top.
- Bake for 50-60 minutes, checking for doneness at the 50-minute mark.
- Allow the bread to cool in the pan for about 10 minutes.
- To make the glaze, whisk together 1 cup of powdered sugar, 2 tablespoons of milk, and 1 teaspoon of vanilla extract.
- Drizzle the glaze over the cooled loaf and top with more chopped Oreos.
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