Savory Banana Cornbread

Name: Savory Banana Cornbread
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 25 min
Total time: 40 min
Yield: 8 servings
Ingredients: 2 ripe bananas, mashed; 1 cup cornmeal; 1 cup all-purpose flour; 1 tablespoon baking powder; 1/2 teaspoon salt; 1/2 cup shredded cheddar cheese; 1/4 cup diced green onions; 1/4 cup milk; 2 large eggs; 1/4 cup melted butter; 1 tablespoon chopped fresh thyme (optional)

Highlighted under: Comfort Dinner Recipes

I absolutely love making this Savory Banana Cornbread! It’s a unique twist on traditional cornbread, where the sweetness of ripe bananas perfectly complements the savory elements like cheese and herbs. Each bite is a delightful combination of flavors and textures that you won't find in typical cornbread recipes. Whether served as a side dish for a barbecue or enjoyed on its own with a bit of butter, this cornbread has quickly become a favorite in our household. It’s simple to prepare and truly satisfying.

Created by

Emily

Last updated on 2026-01-05T16:57:26.343Z

When I first tried making Savory Banana Cornbread, I was truly surprised by how well bananas work in a savory context. Initially hesitant, I decided to experiment with different cheeses, and it turned out to be a match made in heaven. The sharpness of cheddar alongside the natural sweetness of ripe bananas creates a wonderful harmony that elevates the dish.

I also discovered that adding fresh herbs like thyme or rosemary not only enhances the flavor but adds a lovely aromatic quality that makes the whole kitchen smell divine. Trust me, once you try this unique take on cornbread, you'll be hooked!

        Why You Will Love This Recipe
        The unexpected combination of sweet and savory that excites your palate.
Perfect for brunch or as a side for grilled meats.
Simple to make with ingredients you already have at home.

      

The Role of Bananas in Cornbread

Ripe bananas are the star ingredient in this Savory Banana Cornbread, contributing not only moisture but also a natural sweetness that balances the savory elements. They help create a tender crumb, making the cornbread more cake-like in texture. It's crucial to use bananas that are overripe; the more brown spots, the sweeter and more flavorful your cornbread will be.

When you mash the bananas, aim for a smooth consistency to ensure an even distribution of flavor throughout the batter. This step is essential because unevenly mashed bananas can lead to pockets of sweetness that might alter the expected flavor profile in different bites. Using a fork works well, but a potato masher can give you a smoother texture.

Cheese and Herb Variations

The addition of shredded cheddar cheese not only adds flavor but also enhances the cornbread's moisture and richness. If you want to experiment, consider substituting with other types of cheese, such as crumbled feta or pepper jack for a bit of spice. Just keep in mind that different cheeses can alter the overall taste, so choose one that complements the sweetness of the bananas.

Fresh herbs like thyme provide an aromatic quality that elevates the cornbread from simple to spectacular. Feel free to swap in other herbs you might have on hand, such as oregano or basil, to create your unique twist on the recipe. If using dried herbs instead of fresh, remember that their flavor is more concentrated, so reduce the amount by about one-third.

Ingredients

Gather the following ingredients to create your Savory Banana Cornbread:

Ingredients

2 ripe bananas, mashed
1 cup cornmeal
1 cup all-purpose flour
1 tablespoon baking powder
1/2 teaspoon salt
1/2 cup shredded cheddar cheese
1/4 cup diced green onions
1/4 cup milk
2 large eggs
1/4 cup melted butter
1 tablespoon chopped fresh thyme (optional)

Instructions

Follow these simple steps to make your Savory Banana Cornbread:

Preheat the Oven

Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and grease an 8-inch square baking dish.

Combine Dry Ingredients

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

Mix Wet Ingredients

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

Combine Everything

Pour the wet mixture into the dry ingredients and stir until just combined. Fold in the cheddar cheese, green onions, and thyme if using.

Bake

Pour the batter into the prepared baking dish and spread it evenly. Bake for 25-30 minutes, or until the top is golden and a toothpick inserted comes out clean.

Cool and Serve

Allow the cornbread to cool for a few minutes in the pan before slicing. Enjoy warm, perhaps with a little more butter!

Pro Tips

For an added flavor boost, try mixing in some crumbled bacon or jalapeños for a spicy kick.

Storage and Make-Ahead Tips

To enjoy the Savory Banana Cornbread over several days, store it in an airtight container at room temperature for up to two days, or in the fridge for up to a week. If you want to keep it longer, consider freezing individual slices. Simply wrap each slice tightly in plastic wrap and then place in a freezer bag. This way, you can enjoy a slice whenever the craving strikes!

When you're ready to enjoy frozen cornbread, simply remove from the freezer and let it thaw at room temperature for a few hours, or microwave for 20-30 seconds until warm. Reheating can help revive the softness of the bread; just be careful not to overdo it as excessive heat can dry it out.

Troubleshooting Common Issues

If your Savory Banana Cornbread doesn't rise as expected, check that your baking powder is fresh. Baking powder loses its potency over time, affecting the bread's ability to rise. You can test your baking powder by adding a teaspoon to warm water; if it fizzes, it's good to use. Otherwise, it's time to grab a new can.

Another common issue is a dense texture. This often occurs from overmixing the batter. When combining wet and dry ingredients, stop mixing as soon as you see no dry flour. A few lumps are fine; overmixing can create a tough texture instead of the light, airy crumb we want in cornbread.

Questions About Recipes

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

Yes, you can substitute whole wheat flour, but the texture may be denser.

→ How can I store leftovers?

Stored in an airtight container, leftover cornbread can be kept at room temperature for up to 2 days or refrigerated for a week.

→ Can I freeze the cornbread?

Absolutely! Wrap it tightly in plastic wrap and freeze for up to 3 months.

→ What can I serve with Savory Banana Cornbread?

It pairs wonderfully with soups, stews, or any grilled meats. You can also enjoy it on its own with butter.