Savory Banana Cornbread

Name: Savory Banana Cornbread
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 30 min
Total time: 45 min
Yield: 8 servings
Ingredients: 1 cup cornmeal; 1 cup all-purpose flour; 1 tablespoon baking powder; 1/2 teaspoon salt; 2 ripe bananas, mashed; 1/4 cup honey; 2 large eggs; 1 cup milk; 1/4 cup melted butter; 1/2 cup grated cheese (optional)

Highlighted under: Comfort Food

A unique twist on the classic cornbread, this Savory Banana Cornbread combines the sweetness of ripe bananas with savory ingredients for a delicious side dish or snack.

Created by

Emily

Last updated on 2026-01-04T03:30:29.025Z

This Savory Banana Cornbread is perfect for those who love to experiment in the kitchen. It combines the natural sweetness of ripe bananas with the hearty texture of cornmeal, creating a delightful contrast of flavors. Ideal for a cozy dinner or as a breakfast treat, this cornbread will surprise and satisfy your taste buds.

        Why You'll Love This Recipe
        Unexpected savory and sweet flavor combination
Moist and fluffy texture with a crisp crust
Great as a side dish or enjoyed on its own
Simple to make with everyday ingredients

      

The Perfect Blend of Flavors

Savory Banana Cornbread offers an extraordinary flavor profile that beautifully melds the sweetness of ripe bananas with the hearty, comforting taste of cornbread. This innovative approach transforms a traditional favorite into a delightful dish that surprises and delights the palate. The initial sweetness from the bananas is perfectly balanced with the subtle saltiness of the cheese, creating a harmonious blend of flavors that is both unique and satisfying.

The addition of honey not only enhances the sweetness but also contributes to the moist texture of the cornbread. As the cornbread bakes, the sugars caramelize slightly, forming a crisp crust that contrasts wonderfully with the tender interior. This texture plays a crucial role in making each bite of Savory Banana Cornbread a joyful experience, whether served as a side or enjoyed on its own.

Versatile and Easy to Make

One of the standout features of Savory Banana Cornbread is its versatility. It can effortlessly transition from a breakfast option to a side dish for dinner or even a midday snack. Pair it with soups, stews, or salads, and you'll find that it complements a wide array of meals. Alternatively, enjoy it plain or with a smear of butter for a simple yet satisfying treat.

The recipe is designed to be straightforward, utilizing everyday ingredients that are likely already in your pantry. With just a few simple steps, you can whip up this delicious cornbread without the need for specialized equipment or lengthy preparation times. This makes it an ideal choice for both seasoned bakers and those new to the kitchen.

Storage and Serving Suggestions

If you find yourself with leftover Savory Banana Cornbread, storing it is easy. Allow it to cool completely, then wrap it tightly in plastic wrap or aluminum foil to maintain freshness. It can be stored at room temperature for a couple of days or in the refrigerator for up to a week. For longer storage, consider freezing individual slices for a quick, on-the-go snack.

When it comes to serving, the options are endless. Enjoy it warm with a drizzle of honey or maple syrup for a sweet twist or serve it alongside savory dishes to enhance their flavors. Experiment with different cheeses or add herbs and spices to customize your cornbread to your liking, making each batch a little different from the last.

Ingredients

Gather the following ingredients to make your Savory Banana Cornbread:

Dry Ingredients

1 cup cornmeal
1 cup all-purpose flour
1 tablespoon baking powder
1/2 teaspoon salt

Wet Ingredients

2 ripe bananas, mashed
1/4 cup honey
2 large eggs
1 cup milk
1/4 cup melted butter
1/2 cup grated cheese (optional)

Make sure all ingredients are at room temperature for the best results.

Instructions

Follow these easy steps to prepare your Savory Banana Cornbread:

Preheat the Oven

Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and grease a 9-inch baking pan.

Mix Dry Ingredients

In a bowl, combine cornmeal, flour, baking powder, and salt.

Combine Wet Ingredients

In another bowl, mix the mashed bananas, honey, eggs, milk, and melted butter until well combined.

Combine Mixtures

Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet mixture, stirring until just combined. If using, fold in the grated cheese.

Bake

Pour the batter into the prepared pan and bake for 30 minutes or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.

Cool and Serve

Allow the cornbread to cool in the pan for 10 minutes before transferring to a wire rack. Serve warm.

Enjoy your delicious Savory Banana Cornbread warm or at room temperature!

Nutritional Benefits

Savory Banana Cornbread not only pleases the taste buds but also offers several nutritional benefits. Bananas are rich in potassium, vitamin C, and dietary fiber, making them a healthy addition to this dish. The cornmeal provides whole grains, which are an excellent source of energy and can aid in digestion, while the optional cheese adds protein and calcium, contributing to a well-rounded snack or side dish.

By incorporating simple, wholesome ingredients, this cornbread can be a part of a balanced diet. You can even make it healthier by using whole wheat flour or swapping out the honey for a natural sweetener like agave or maple syrup, allowing you to enjoy this delicious treat with a bit less guilt.

Customizing Your Cornbread

Feel free to get creative with your Savory Banana Cornbread! While the base recipe is delicious as is, you can enhance the flavor profile by adding ingredients like diced jalapeños for a spicy kick, or fresh herbs such as chives or thyme for a fragrant twist. Incorporating nuts such as walnuts or pecans can add a delightful crunch and additional nutrients.

You can also modify the cheese type based on your preferences. Cheddar and pepper jack lend a robust flavor, while a milder cheese like mozzarella keeps the cornbread subtle yet delicious. Experimenting with mix-ins and toppings allows you to make this cornbread your own, ensuring that it always matches your taste and mood.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use whole wheat flour instead of all-purpose flour?

Yes, whole wheat flour can be used, but it may change the texture slightly.

→ How can I store leftover cornbread?

Store in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. You can also freeze it for up to 3 months.

→ Can I add nuts or seeds to the recipe?

Absolutely! Chopped walnuts or sunflower seeds would add a nice crunch.

→ Is this recipe gluten-free?

To make it gluten-free, substitute the all-purpose flour with a gluten-free flour blend.