This red velvet banana bread is a stunning fusion of two beloved flavors: rich red velvet cake and sweet banana bread. Made with just four ingredients—including a boxed cake mix—it’s quick, easy, and perfect for holidays, brunches, or gifting. Expect a moist, tender crumb with cocoa notes and banana sweetness, finished with a dusting of powdered sugar or your favorite glaze. Add chocolate chips, nuts, or cranberries for extra flair. This treat looks impressive and tastes even better, making it a go-to for effortless baking that delivers on both flavor and presentation.
This red velvet banana bread brings together the rich indulgence of red velvet cake with the sweet comforting warmth of banana bread. It is quick to make and perfect for sharing. Whether you are craving something cozy or preparing a showstopper for a brunch table this loaf always delivers.
Red Velvet Banana Bread : Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Uses boxed cake mix for ease
- Requires only four ingredients
- Perfect for holidays brunch or casual snacking
- Moist rich texture with cocoa and banana flavors
- Freezes well and makes great gifts
I started making this one winter morning when I had overripe bananas and a forgotten box of red velvet mix. It came out so beautiful and tasty I have been baking it ever since especially when friends are visiting.
Red Velvet Banana Bread : Ingredients
- Red velvet cake mix: provides the color and cocoa vanilla base that sets this bread apart use a high quality brand for best results
- Eggs: bind everything together and add richness bring them to room temperature for easier mixing
- Vegetable oil: keeps the texture soft and moist it also helps the bread store better
- Mashed ripe bananas: sweeten naturally and provide structure and moisture choose deeply spotted or blackened bananas for the most flavor
Red Velvet Banana Bread : Step-by-Step Instructions
Preheat the Oven
Set your oven to 350 degrees Fahrenheit and line two eight by four inch loaf pans with parchment paper pressing it into the corners to avoid sticking
Prepare the Wet Base
Mash the ripe bananas in a large mixing bowl until smooth then whisk in the eggs and vegetable oil until the mixture is completely blended and creamy
Incorporate the Cake Mix
Gradually stir the red velvet cake mix into the wet mixture using a spatula until just combined avoid overmixing to maintain a tender crumb
Fill the Pans
Divide the batter evenly between the prepared pans smoothing the tops gently with a spatula
Bake the Loaves
Place in the center of the oven and bake for thirty five to forty minutes check doneness with a toothpick inserted in the center it should come out with just a few moist crumbs
Cool and Finish
Let the loaves cool in their pans for five to ten minutes then transfer them to a wire rack to cool fully dust with powdered sugar if desired before slicing
Red Velvet Banana Bread What You’ll Need
→ Main Ingredients
1 box red velvet cake mix (15.25 oz)
3 large eggs, room temperature
1/2 cup vegetable oil
1 1/2 cups mashed ripe bananas (about 3 medium)
Step-by-Step Directions
Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C) and line two 8×4-inch loaf pans with parchment paper.
In a large bowl, mash the bananas until smooth. Whisk in the eggs and vegetable oil until well combined.
Add the red velvet cake mix to the banana mixture and stir just until the batter is combined. Do not overmix.
Evenly divide the batter between the prepared loaf pans and bake for 35-40 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted comes out clean.
Allow the loaves to cool in the pans for 5-10 minutes, then transfer to a wire rack to cool completely. Dust with powdered sugar if desired before slicing.
Helpful Notes
- Use very ripe bananas with black peels for the best flavor and moisture content.
- Wrap cooled loaf in plastic and rest before slicing to prevent crumbling.
- Add 1 cup of chopped nuts, chocolate chips, or dried fruit for texture and flavor variations.
- Top with cream cheese glaze, white chocolate drizzle, or powdered sugar for extra flair.
Recommended Tools
- Loaf pans (8×4-inch)
- Mixing bowls
- Whisk
- Parchment paper
- Wire cooling rack
Allergen Information
Always review ingredients for any allergens and consult a healthcare provider with any concerns.
- Contains eggs
- May contain wheat (gluten) in cake mix
Red Velvet Banana Bread : Nutritional Information (Per Serving)
These details are estimates and shouldn’t be considered professional health advice.
Storage Tips
Let the bread cool completely then store in an airtight container lined with paper towels to absorb moisture. It keeps well at room temperature for up to four days. To extend freshness refrigerate wrapped tightly for up to a week. You can also freeze whole loaves or individual slices for up to three months.
Ingredient Substitutions
You can substitute applesauce for half of the oil if you want a lighter texture. If you are out of vegetable oil melted coconut oil also works but will give a slight coconut flavor. For extra indulgence swap in chocolate chips or white chocolate chunks.
Serving Suggestions
Slice thickly and serve with a dollop of whipped cream or a smear of cream cheese. It also pairs nicely with a cup of coffee or tea as an afternoon treat. You can even toast slices lightly and top with butter for a breakfast twist.
Learn more : Red Velvet Cupcakes Recipe: Perfectly Fluffy and Delicious
Red velvet has deep roots in American baking tradition with its vibrant hue and subtle cocoa flavor. Combining it with banana bread blends Southern flair with a classic homestyle favorite creating a loaf that feels both nostalgic and new.
Professional Kitchen Secrets for perfect Red Velvet Banana Bread
- Always use bananas that are black on the outside for maximum sweetness
- Let the baked loaves rest before slicing for cleaner cuts
- Try adding nuts or dried cranberries to give texture and extra flavor
Commonly Asked Questions about Red Velvet Banana Bread
→ Can I use homemade red velvet cake mix?
Yes, you can use a homemade mix of flour, sugar, cocoa, and food coloring. Just ensure it’s equivalent to a standard box mix in volume.
→ What bananas are best for this bread?
Use very ripe bananas with black or heavily spotted peels for maximum sweetness and moisture.
→ How do I prevent the bread from crumbling when slicing?
Let the loaf cool completely, wrap it in plastic, and rest for a few hours before slicing with a sharp serrated knife.
→ Can I freeze this banana bread?
Yes, wrap it tightly in plastic wrap and foil, then freeze in a sealed bag for up to 3 months. Thaw at room temperature.
→ What toppings go well with this bread?
Cream cheese glaze, chocolate drizzle, or powdered sugar work beautifully. Get creative with your favorite flavors!
→ Can I add mix-ins to the batter?
Absolutely. Add chocolate chips, chopped nuts, dried fruit, or toffee bits to enhance texture and flavor.
