Only five ingredients and one bowl — that’s all it takes to make this incredibly moist and fluffy Banana Bread with Cake Mix. This shortcut recipe transforms a simple box of yellow cake mix into a rich, tender loaf packed with sweet banana flavor. Add chocolate chips for an extra indulgent twist.
Perfect for busy weekdays, brunch spreads, or using up overripe bananas before they go to waste.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Only 5 simple ingredients
- One bowl, minimal cleanup
- No mixer required
- Ready in about 1 hour
- Perfect use for brown bananas
Ingredients
- 1 box (15.25 oz / 432 g) yellow cake mix
- 3 ripe bananas, mashed (about 1 ¼ cups)
- 2 large eggs
- 1/3 cup (80 ml) vegetable oil
- 1/2 cup chocolate chips (optional)
Instructions
1. Preheat the Oven
Preheat oven to 175°C (350°F). Grease a 9×5-inch loaf pan or line with parchment paper.
2. Mash the Bananas
In a large mixing bowl, mash the ripe bananas until smooth. Small lumps are fine.
3. Mix the Batter
Add the cake mix, eggs, and vegetable oil directly into the bowl with the bananas.
Stir until fully combined. Do not overmix.
If using chocolate chips, gently fold them in at the end.
4. Bake
Pour the batter into the prepared loaf pan and smooth the top.
Bake for 45–55 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.
5. Cool
Let the bread cool in the pan for 10–15 minutes, then transfer to a wire rack to cool completely before slicing.
Pro Tips
- The darker the bananas, the sweeter and more flavorful the bread.
- For extra richness, substitute melted butter for the oil.
- Add 1/2 teaspoon cinnamon for a warm spice note.
- Sprinkle extra chocolate chips on top before baking for bakery-style presentation.
Storage
- Room temperature: Store in an airtight container for up to 3 days.
- Refrigerator: Up to 1 week.
- Freezer: Wrap tightly and freeze for up to 3 months. Thaw at room temperature.
Variations
- Add chopped walnuts or pecans.
- Swirl in peanut butter or Nutella.
- Use spice cake mix instead of yellow for a fall version.
- Make muffins: Bake at 350°F (175°C) for 18–22 minutes.
Estimated Nutrition (Per Slice – 10 slices)
- Calories: ~280
- Carbohydrates: 38g
- Fat: 12g
- Protein: 3g
- Sugar: 22g
