Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Quick and easy to make using the Instant Pot
- Moist, fluffy banana bread in bite-sized portions
- No oven required, making it perfect for hot days or when you’re short on time
- Perfect for meal prep, snacks, or even lunchboxes
- Customizable with chocolate chips, nuts, or dried fruit
Ingredients
(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)
- 2 ripe bananas, mashed
- 1/2 cup granulated sugar or brown sugar
- 1/4 cup melted butter or vegetable oil
- 1/2 cup milk (dairy or plant-based)
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1 1/2 cups all-purpose flour
- 1 teaspoon baking soda
- 1/2 teaspoon ground cinnamon (optional)
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 cup chopped walnuts or chocolate chips (optional)
- 1 tablespoon of water (for the Instant Pot)
Directions
- Prepare the Instant Pot: Add 1 tablespoon of water to the bottom of the Instant Pot and place the trivet or steamer basket inside.
- Make the batter: In a large bowl, mash the bananas until smooth. Add the sugar, melted butter or oil, milk, and vanilla extract. Stir to combine.
- In another bowl, whisk together the flour, baking soda, cinnamon (if using), and salt. Add the dry ingredients to the wet ingredients and stir until just combined. If you want to add chocolate chips or walnuts, fold them into the batter now.
- Prepare the baking pan: Lightly grease a silicone mold or a heatproof dish that fits inside your Instant Pot (such as a 7-inch round cake pan or a silicone egg bite mold).
- Fill the mold: Pour the banana bread batter into the prepared pan, filling it about halfway. This will allow room for the batter to rise as it cooks.
- Cook in the Instant Pot: Carefully lower the mold onto the trivet in the Instant Pot. Close the lid and set the valve to sealing. Cook on “Manual” or “Pressure Cook” on high for 18-20 minutes.
- Release the pressure: Once the cooking time is complete, let the Instant Pot naturally release pressure for 10 minutes, then carefully do a quick release.
- Check for doneness: Open the Instant Pot and check that the banana bread bites are fully cooked by inserting a toothpick into the center of one. It should come out clean. If not, you can cook for an additional 2-3 minutes on high pressure.
- Cool and serve: Let the banana bread bites cool slightly before serving. You can serve them warm or let them cool completely before enjoying.
Servings and timing
- Serves 4–6 people
- Prep time: 10 minutes
- Cook time: 18-20 minutes (plus time for natural release)
Variations
- Chocolate chips: Stir in mini chocolate chips for a decadent treat.
- Nuts: Add chopped walnuts, pecans, or almonds for a crunchy texture.
- Spices: Add ground nutmeg, cardamom, or a pinch of ginger to spice up the flavor.
- Vegan version: Use plant-based butter, almond milk, and flax eggs (1 tablespoon ground flaxseed + 3 tablespoons water) to make this recipe vegan-friendly.
- Fruit: Mix in dried fruits such as raisins or cranberries for an extra burst of flavor.
Storage/reheating
- Store leftover banana bread bites in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 2 days.
- You can also refrigerate them for up to 4 days.
- To reheat, warm in the microwave for 10-15 seconds or in the oven at 350°F for a few minutes.
FAQs
Can I use frozen bananas?
Yes! Frozen bananas work great for banana bread. Just thaw them first and mash them well before adding them to the batter.
Can I make these banana bread bites in the oven?
Yes, you can bake them in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 25-30 minutes in a greased muffin tin or mini loaf pan. Check for doneness with a toothpick.
Can I double this recipe?
You can double the recipe, but make sure your Instant Pot can accommodate the larger mold. You may need to cook it in batches or adjust the cooking time slightly.
How do I know when the banana bread bites are done?
Insert a toothpick into the center of the banana bread bites. If it comes out clean, the bites are done. If there’s batter on the toothpick, cook for a few more minutes.
Can I add more sugar?
If you like your banana bread sweeter, you can increase the sugar to 3/4 cup or use brown sugar for a richer flavor.
Conclusion
Instant Pot Banana Bread Bites are a quick and easy way to enjoy banana bread in bite-sized portions. With their soft, moist texture and the option to add your favorite mix-ins like chocolate chips or nuts, these bites make for the perfect breakfast, snack, or dessert. Plus, the Instant Pot makes them faster and more convenient than traditional baking—ideal for busy mornings or when you’re craving a sweet treat without the wait!
PrintInstant Pot Banana Bread Bites
