This Air Fryer Banana Bread bakes into perfectly moist, golden loaves in under 25 minutes. After testing multiple air fryer methods, this recipe consistently delivers tender interiors with a caramelized crust that rivals oven-baked banana bread.
Perfect Air Fryer Banana Bread Recipe
Baking banana bread in the air fryer is faster than the oven and creates evenly cooked mini loaves with a beautiful golden finish. Using overripe bananas ensures maximum sweetness, while optional add-ins like pecans, walnuts, or chocolate chips make this recipe versatile and crowd-pleasing.
Ingredients
- 1 ½ cups all-purpose flour
- 1 teaspoon baking soda
- ½ teaspoon kosher salt
- 1 cup granulated sugar
- 2 large or 3 medium overripe bananas (about 1 cup mashed)
- ¼ cup unsalted butter, melted and cooled (can swap with canola oil)
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1 large egg
- ½ cup pecans, chopped (optional; substitute walnuts or chocolate chips)
Ingredient Tips:
- Bananas should have brown spots for the sweetest flavor.
- For nut-free loaves, simply omit pecans.
- Butter creates richer flavor, while oil makes a slightly lighter texture.
Instructions
- Grease three mini loaf pans (about 5 ¾ x 3 ¼ inches) with nonstick spray.
- In a medium bowl, whisk together flour, baking soda, and salt. Set aside.
- In a large bowl, mash bananas and mix with sugar until creamy.
- Stir in melted butter, then add egg and vanilla extract until combined.
- Add half the dry ingredients to the wet mixture, stir gently, then add the rest. Do not overmix.
- Fold in chopped pecans or other add-ins.
- Preheat air fryer to 330°F (165°C) for 3 minutes.
- Fill mini loaf pans halfway with batter.
- Place 2 pans in the air fryer basket and cook for 20–25 minutes, checking doneness with a toothpick.
- Remove loaves, cool fully in pans before slicing and serving.
Air Fryer Settings & Tips for Banana Bread
Temperature & Timing Guide
- Standard basket air fryer (5.8 qt): 330°F (165°C), 20–25 minutes.
- Oven-style air fryer: Loaves may bake slightly faster—check at 18 minutes.
- Oven backup: 350°F (175°C), about 30 minutes.
Doneness Indicators:
- Toothpick inserted in center comes out clean.
- Loaf edges pull away from the pan slightly.
Pro Tips for Best Results
- Use overripe bananas—the darker the peel, the sweeter the bread.
- Do not overfill pans; leave room for rise.
- Bake in batches for even cooking.
- Let loaves cool before slicing to prevent crumbling.
- If tops brown too quickly, tent with foil during the last 5 minutes.
Serving & Storage for Air Fryer Banana Bread
Best Pairings
- Spread with salted butter or cream cheese.
- Drizzle with honey or maple syrup for extra sweetness.
- Add chocolate drizzle for dessert-style banana bread.
Perfect Side Dishes
- Pair with Air Fryer Bacon for a sweet and savory breakfast.
- Serve with Air Fryer Coffee Cake Muffins for a brunch spread.
- Enjoy with a warm cup of coffee or tea.
Storage & Reheating
- Room Temperature: Store in an airtight container up to 3–4 days.
- Freezer: Wrap in plastic and foil, freeze up to 4 months. Thaw in fridge overnight.
- Reheating: Warm slices in the air fryer at 300°F (150°C) for 3–4 minutes.
Conclusion
This Air Fryer Banana Bread is proof that homemade baking doesn’t need an oven. With just 25 minutes and a few ripe bananas, you’ll have moist, golden mini loaves perfect for breakfast, snacks, or freezing for later.
