Easy & Moist Instant Pot Banana Bread Recipe (video)

Instant Pot banana bread is a moist and fluffy banana bread that is pressure cooked in an Instant Pot. This method allows for quick and easy preparation of banana bread and results in a delicious dessert that is perfect for any occasion.

Banana bread is one of the most delicious, moist bread recipes made with overly ripe bananas and a handful of ingredients. I can eat it for breakfast, as a mid-afternoon snack, or even as a dessert!! It's a perfect treat for any time of the day. 

The key to making this best, sinfully delicious, banana bread is to use overly ripe bananas. Yes, the riper the bananas, the better the bread tastes. I use bananas that turned almost black from the outside. Those are the best bananas, so sweet, and add so much flavor to this bread. I always buy a few extra bananas, so that I can make this delicious banana bread, that disappears in no time.

Banana bread is easy to make and does not require any fancy gadgets. All you need is a fork, a spatula, and an Instant Pot to make this banana bread. You can make this bread nut-free, simply omit the nuts. If you like chocolate, add chocolate chips, for yummy chocolate banana bread. This banana bread is delicious. I bet, this will become your new favorite recipe. Enjoy this easy, moist, homemade banana bread with some fresh homemade butter.

I. Introduction

Explanation of Instant Pot Banana Bread

Instant Pot banana bread is a variation of traditional banana bread that is cooked using the pressure cooking function of an Instant Pot. The recipe typically includes mashed bananas, flour, eggs, sugar, and other ingredients commonly used in banana bread recipes. The Instant Pot allows for a moist and fluffy bread to be made in less time than traditional oven baking.

Benefits of making banana bread in an Instant Pot

There are several benefits to making banana bread in an Instant Pot:

1. Time-saving: Banana bread can be made in less time using an Instant Pot than using a traditional oven. This is because the pressure cooking function of an Instant Pot allows for faster cooking times.
2. Moisture retention: Because the Instant Pot is a sealed environment, the moisture in the bread is retained during cooking, resulting in a moist and fluffy texture.
3. Energy-efficient: The Instant Pot uses less energy than a traditional oven, which can result in cost savings on electricity bills.
4. No need to preheat: Unlike an oven, there is no need to preheat the Instant Pot, making the process even faster.
5. Convenience: Making banana bread in an Instant Pot is a convenient option, especially if you do not have access to an oven or if you want to save space in your kitchen.

II. Ingredients and equipment

List of ingredients needed for Instant Pot banana bread

Here is a list of ingredients needed for Instant Pot banana bread:

• 4 overly ripe bananas
• 2 cups all-purpose flour, sifted
• 2 large eggs, at room temperature
• ½ cup oil or unsalted butter, softened
• ⅔ cup brown sugar, firmly packed
• Note: If adding chocolate chips, reduce sugar to ½ cup or to taste.
• ½ cup walnuts or pecans, chopped
• 1 teaspoon baking soda
• 1 teaspoon baking powder
• ½ teaspoon ground cinnamon
• 2 teaspoon pure vanilla extract
• ⅛ teaspoon salt

Optional mix-ins:

• ¼ cup semi sweet chocolate chips 
• ½ cup chopped nuts (such as walnuts or pecans)

Explanation of the equipment required

Here is an explanation of the equipment required for making Instant Pot banana bread:

1. Instant Pot: You will need an Instant Pot (electric pressure cooker) to cook the banana bread.
2. Mixing bowl: A mixing bowl is required to mix the ingredients for the banana bread.
3. Measuring cups and spoons: You will need measuring cups and spoons to measure out the ingredients accurately.
4. Spatula: A spatula will be useful to scrape the sides of the mixing bowl and to stir the ingredients together.
5. Paper Towel & Foil: To cover the pan first with paper towel and then with foil to prevent excess moisture from building up on the top of the bread during the pressure cooking process.
6. Trivet: A trivet at the bottom of the Instant Pot to keep the banana bread from touching the bottom of the pot directly.
7. Cake Pan: For making banana bread in an Instant Pot, you will need a 6-7 inch round cake pan that fits easily inside the Instant Pot. You can use a metal, silicone, springform or  CorningWare dish for this recipe.

III. Preparation

Step-by-step instructions for preparing the batter

Here are the step-by-step instructions for preparing the batter for Instant Pot banana bread:

1. Mash the ripe bananas in a mixing bowl using a fork or a potato masher.
2. Add the mashed bananas, eggs, sugar, vanilla extract, and oil to the mixing bowl. Mix well until all ingredients are combined.
3. In a separate mixing bowl, sift flour, salt, baking soda, baking powder, and cinnamon.
4. Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet ingredients. Add ⅓ at a time, be careful not to overmix the batter. Use the cut-and-fold technique to gently incorporate the dry mixture into the wet.
5. If using any optional mix-ins, such as chopped nuts or chocolate chips, fold them into the batter.
6. Grease a 7-inch cake pan. Pour the prepared batter into the pan. Top with some chocolate chips (optional).
7. Cover the pan with a piece of paper towel, and then with some foil.
8. Add 2 cups of water to the inner pot. Place a trivet, and gently place the cake pan onto the trivet.
9. Cover the Instant Pot with its lid and make sure the valve is set to "sealing."
10. Select the pressure cook function and set the time for 55 minutes. The Instant Pot will take some time to come to pressure before the cooking time starts.
11. After 55 minutes of cooking, allow the Instant Pot to naturally release the pressure for 10-15 minutes. Then, use the quick-release method to release any remaining pressure.
12. Lift the banana bread out of the inner pot using oven mitts or heat-resistant gloves and place it onto a wire rack. Remove the foil, and paper towel, and allow it to cool.
13. Once cooled, slice and serve the banana bread. Enjoy!

Tips for mixing the ingredients

When mixing the ingredients for Instant Pot banana bread, it's important to not overmix the batter. Overmixing can lead to a tough and dense texture in the finished bread. To avoid overmixing, mix the dry ingredients in a separate bowl and then add them gradually to the wet ingredients, stirring gently with a spatula or wooden spoon until just combined. It's also important to mash the bananas well, as this helps to distribute their moisture and flavor evenly throughout the batter.

IV. Cooking in the Instant Pot

Explanation of the pressure cooking process

Cooking banana bread in an Instant Pot involves using the pressure cooking function, which involves sealing the pot and allowing steam to build up inside to create pressure. The pressure helps to cook the bread quickly and evenly. The cook time and pressure level can be adjusted based on the recipe and size of the pan being used. Once the cooking time is complete, the pressure is released and the bread is carefully removed from the Instant Pot.

Cook time and temperature for Instant Pot banana bread

The cook time and temperature for Instant Pot banana bread can vary depending on the recipe and the size of the pan being used. Typically, the bread is pressure cooked on high pressure for 50-60 minutes, with a natural pressure release of 10-15 minutes before carefully removing the pan from the Instant Pot. The internal temperature of the bread should reach 200-205°F (93-96°C) to ensure it is fully cooked.

Use a trivet or a foil sling to lift the bread out of the Instant Pot

To easily remove the bread from the Instant Pot, a trivet or a foil sling can be used. A trivet is placed at the bottom of the Instant Pot before adding the cake pan, allowing the pan to sit above the water. A foil sling is made by folding a long piece of foil into thirds lengthwise and placing it under the cake pan, with the ends of the foil hanging over the sides to create handles. Once the bread is cooked, the handles can be used to carefully lift the pan out of the Instant Pot.

V. Serving and storing

Instructions for cooling and slicing the bread

After removing the banana bread from the Instant Pot, it should be allowed to cool completely on a wire rack for about 15-20 minutes. Once cooled, the bread can be removed from the pan and sliced into desired portions using a sharp knife or a serrated bread knife.

Tips for storing and reheating leftover bread

To store leftover banana bread, wrap it tightly in plastic wrap or store it in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 2-3 days. It can also be stored in the refrigerator for up to a week or frozen for up to 3 months. When reheating, microwave for 15-20 seconds or wrap the bread in foil and place it in a preheated oven at 350°F for about 10-15 minutes, or until heated through.

VI. Variations

Ideas for customizing the recipe with mix-ins like chocolate chips or nuts

Adding mix-ins like chocolate chips or nuts can take your Instant Pot banana bread to the next level. Here are some ideas for customizing the recipe:

• Chocolate chips: Add ½ to 1 cup of chocolate chips to the batter before pouring it into the Instant Pot. You can use semi-sweet, dark, or milk chocolate chips depending on your preference. You can also try using flavored chips like peanut butter or white chocolate for a twist.
• Nuts: Chopped nuts like walnuts, pecans, or almonds can add a crunchy texture and nutty flavor to the banana bread. Add ½ to 1 cup of chopped nuts to the batter before cooking. Toasting the nuts before adding them to the batter can enhance their flavor and aroma.
• Dried fruit: Dried fruit like raisins, cranberries, or chopped apricots can add a sweet and chewy texture to the banana bread. Add ½ to 1 cup of dried fruit to the batter before cooking.
• Spices: Adding spices like cinnamon, nutmeg, or ginger can add a warm and cozy flavor to the banana bread.

VII. Tips For Moist Instant Pot Banana Bread

1. Use overly ripe bananas to make this recipe. I find using over-ripe bananas (the banana peel has turned almost black) is best for this recipe. They are naturally sweet and add a ton of banana flavor to this bread.
2. It is best to start with ingredients at room temperature.
3. You can mash the bananas to a smooth consistency or leave them a bit chunky for some texture in the bread.
4. I prefer brown sugar for this recipe. You can use granulated sugar as well. Adjust the amount of sugar to taste.
5. Do not over-beat the bread batter. Just fold in dry ingredients into wet, using the cut and fold technique, for moist banana bread.
6. Allow natural pressure release for around 10 minutes, and then release the remaining pressure. 
7. If using semi-sweet chocolate chips, reduce the amount of sugar in the recipe.
8. The bread stays good for 3-5 days in the refrigerator or 2-3 days at room temperature. Allow it to come to room temperature, wrap in a paper towel, and place it in a Ziploc bag or clean, dry container.

VIII. Frequently Asked Questions

If you haven't tried making banana bread in an Instant Pot yet, I encourage you to give it a try! It's a simple and convenient way to make delicious and moist banana bread with less effort and in less time than traditional baking methods. Plus, the pressure cooking process locks in the banana flavor and creates perfectly cooked bread every time. So grab your Instant Pot, gather your ingredients, and get ready to enjoy a warm slice of freshly baked banana bread straight from your pressure cooker!

Some more Bread Recipes

• Pumpkin Banana Nut Bread
• Homemade Whole Wheat Bread
• Healthy Chocolate Zucchini Bread
• Honey Oat Bread
• Chocolate Babka

Some more Instant Pot desserts

Homemade Apple Cake Recipe

Instant Pot Strawberry Cake

Pumpkin Cheesecake

Homemade Cherry Pie Filling

Strawberry Jam

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