Starbucks Banana Bread Recipe : How to Make

Craving that moist, nutty, and perfectly sweet banana bread from starbucks banana bread recipe but want to recreate it at home? You’re in the right place. This Starbucks banana bread recipe is a near-identical copy of the coffeehouse favorite, made with simple ingredients and tons of flavor.

Making banana bread at home is not only budget-friendly, but also gives you the freedom to customize each loaf to your liking. Plus, it makes your kitchen smell absolutely heavenly.

According to Fast Food Nutrition, one slice of Starbucks banana bread contains about 420 calories—making it a decadent treat that’s best enjoyed in moderation.

Why Everyone Loves Starbucks Banana Bread

Starbucks has mastered the banana bread game—thanks to its:

Soft texture and dense crumb
Rich banana flavor from super ripe bananas
Crunchy walnut topping
Perfect balance of sweetness

Want to understand what gives it that unique taste? This article by The Diary of a Debutante breaks down the recipe in detail and inspired our version below.

Ingredients You’ll Need

Here’s what you need to get that authentic Starbucks-style flavor:

2–3 overripe bananas, mashed
2 cups all-purpose flour
1 tsp baking soda
½ tsp salt
1 egg
¾ cup granulated sugar
½ cup brown sugar (for deeper flavor)
½ cup vegetable oil
¼ cup buttermilk
1 tsp vanilla extract
¾ cup chopped walnuts (plus more for topping)

Step-by-Step Instructions

1. Prep Your Oven and Pan

Preheat oven to 325°F (163°C).
Grease and flour a standard 9×5 inch loaf pan.

2. Mix the Dry Ingredients

In a large bowl, whisk together:
- Flour
- Baking soda
- Salt

3. Mix the Wet Ingredients

In a separate bowl, beat:
- Egg
- Both sugars
- Oil
- Buttermilk
- Vanilla
- Mashed bananas

4. Combine and Fold

Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet mixture.
Stir just until combined—do not overmix.
Fold in chopped walnuts.

5. Bake to Perfection

Pour batter into your prepared loaf pan.
Top with extra walnuts.
Bake for 60–70 minutes or until a toothpick comes out clean.

Pro Tips for Success

Use black-speckled bananas for maximum flavor.
Don’t overmix, or your bread will be dense.
Let it cool in the pan for 10 minutes, then fully on a rack.

Customization Ideas

Make it your own by trying these variations:

Chocolate chip banana bread – Add ½ cup dark chocolate chips.
Healthy swap – Use applesauce instead of oil.
Nut-free version – Skip the walnuts or use pumpkin seeds instead.

Storage & Freezing Tips

Room temp: Store in a sealed container for up to 3 days.
Fridge: Stays fresh for up to 1 week.
Freezer: Wrap tightly and freeze for up to 3 months.

FAQs: People Also Ask

What makes Starbucks banana bread so moist?

The secret is in the overripe bananas, oil, and buttermilk, which lock in moisture and give it that dense yet tender texture.

Can I make it gluten-free?

Yes, use a 1:1 gluten-free baking flour blend. Results may vary slightly in texture.

Is banana bread healthier than cake?

It depends on the recipe. While it contains fruit, it also has sugar and fat—so it’s still a treat!

Can I make muffins with this recipe?

Absolutely. Pour the batter into muffin tins and bake at 350°F for 18–22 minutes.

Can I reduce the sugar?

Yes, but don’t cut it too much or it’ll lose flavor and moisture. Try reducing each sugar by ¼ cup.

What is Starbucks banana bread made of?

Starbucks banana bread is made with ripe bananas, flour, sugar, eggs, oil, buttermilk, baking soda, vanilla extract, and walnuts. These ingredients create its signature moist, dense texture and sweet banana flavor.

Why is Starbucks banana bread so good?

The appeal lies in the use of super-ripe bananas, which intensify sweetness and moisture. The inclusion of buttermilk and vegetable oil ensures a soft crumb, while walnuts add a pleasant crunch.

How do you keep banana bread from getting soggy?

Let the bread cool completely before storing. Use a paper towel-lined airtight container to absorb excess moisture, and avoid storing while still warm. Room temp is ideal for 2–3 days.

Is Starbucks banana bread healthy?

It’s delicious but indulgent. One slice contains around 420 calories, with significant amounts of sugar and fat. While it includes bananas and nuts, it’s best enjoyed occasionally.

Is banana bread healthy or unhealthy?

It depends on the ingredients. Traditional banana bread, like Starbucks’, is high in sugar and carbs, making it more of a treat than a health food. Healthier versions use less sugar, whole wheat flour, or applesauce.

What kind of bread does Starbucks use in their protein box?

Starbucks typically includes a multigrain muesli bread or whole grain roll in their protein boxes, designed for higher fiber and nutritional content than sweet breads like banana bread.

Final Thoughts

There’s something undeniably comforting about a thick, warm slice of Starbucks banana bread. Whether you’re replicating it to save money, avoid lines, or simply bring the coffeehouse experience into your own kitchen, this recipe delivers in every way.

Its soft texture, sweet banana flavor, and crunchy walnut topping make each bite feel like a little indulgence. What’s even better? You control the ingredients—meaning you can tweak the sweetness, go nut-free, or experiment with add-ins like chocolate chips or dried fruit.

It’s a versatile loaf that’s ideal for breakfast on the go, an afternoon snack, or even dessert. Plus, the aroma of fresh banana bread wafting through your kitchen is reason enough to bake it again and again.

Don’t worry if you’re not a baking expert—this recipe is beginner-friendly, yet impressive enough to serve to guests. The ingredients are simple, the instructions are straightforward, and the results? Consistently delicious.

So go ahead—grab those overripe bananas, preheat your oven, and treat yourself to the homemade version of a Starbucks classic. Your tastebuds (and your wallet) will thank you.