Chai Banana Bread Recipe with Tea-Infused Butter
- Karina Stafford
- May 15
- 3 min read
Updated: Jun 6
Warm spices, rich flavor, and the magic of tea in every bite ✨
There’s something deeply comforting about a slice of banana bread fresh from the oven—especially when it’s kissed with the aromatic spice of chai. This chai-infused banana bread recipe adds a unique twist to the classic loaf by infusing butter with Catalyst Tea’s Spicy Chai Blend. It brings cozy complexity to every bite.
Whether you’re baking for Sunday brunch, a cozy tea moment, or just to use up those overripe bananas, this recipe feels both special and easy.
Why Add Chai to Banana Bread?
Chai spices—like cardamom, ginger, cinnamon, and cloves—not only add warm flavor but are also known for their comforting and digestive properties. Infusing your butter with a loose-leaf chai blend deepens the flavor. This transforms a simple bake into a sensory experience.
The result is a delightful combination of warmth and richness. Chai enhances the banana bread in unexpected but lovely ways. You’ll discover that it elevates the simple banana flavor into something truly unique.
Ingredients
(Makes one loaf or small cast iron round)
2 ripe bananas, mashed
1 stick (½ cup) unsalted butter
3 tbsp Catalyst Tea’s Spicy Chai Blend
½ cup granulated sugar
1 ½ cups all-purpose flour
1 tsp baking soda
A pinch of salt
A handful of chopped walnuts (optional)
How to Make Chai-Infused Butter
Start by melting your butter in a small saucepan over low heat. Once melted, add the chai blend and let it infuse for 5–7 minutes, stirring occasionally. Soon, you’ll notice the butter take on the rich, spiced aroma of the tea. Strain out the tea leaves and set the butter aside to cool slightly.
Baking Dish Options: Skillet or Loaf Pan?
This batter can be baked in a traditional loaf pan for a classic presentation. However, for a rustic twist, I love using a cast iron skillet.
Why Cast Iron?
Cast iron heats evenly and retains warmth. This characteristic gives your banana bread a golden, crisp edge while keeping the center soft and tender. It’s truly an essential tool in baking.
I recommend preheating the skillet while the oven warms up. When you pour the batter in, you’ll hear a gentle sizzle—that’s the crust forming! This technique is your secret weapon for an elevated bake.
Tip: If you choose to use cast iron, preheat it in the oven, grease it lightly, and pour in the batter while it’s hot for the best results.
Banana Bread Recipe Instructions:
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). If using cast iron, place it in the oven now to get warm.
Infuse the butter: Melt the butter, add the chai blend, and simmer for 5–7 minutes, then strain the mixture.
In a large bowl, mash your bananas.
Mix wet ingredients: Add the infused butter and sugar to the mashed bananas, blending until smooth.
Combine: Add flour, baking soda, and salt. Stir until everything is combined well.
Fold in the mashed bananas and walnuts, if using.
Pour your batter into the greased loaf pan or the hot cast iron skillet. Bake for 30–40 minutes, or until golden brown and a toothpick comes out clean.
Cool slightly, slice, and enjoy. Pair it with a hot cup of tea for the full experience!
Want to See the Process Step-by-Step?
Watch the short video on how I made it on YouTube and feel free to bake along with me!
Serving Suggestions
Serve warm with a drizzle of honey, a smear of nut butter, or simply on its own. Pair it with a cozy cup of Catalyst Tea for a true delight. This banana bread is a beautiful way to slow down and savor a quiet moment—or even impress your brunch guests.
Try the Recipe
Love this spiced banana bread? Tag @CatalystTeaCompany on Instagram to show us your creation. Don’t forget to shop for the Spicy Chai Blend used in this recipe here.
This recipe is a game-changer; you’ll never want to make banana bread without tea again 💚
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