Banana Nut Bread Recipe

Banana nut bread is a warm, comforting treat that’s perfect for breakfast, snack time, or even a cozy evening dessert. Soft, moist, and lightly sweetened, this recipe is the kind of home-baked goodness that makes the kitchen smell amazing. I like to mash the bananas just before mixing to get a smooth, creamy texture. It’s ideal for busy mornings, family gatherings, or chilly nights when a slice with a cup of tea feels just right.

Why You Will Love This Recipe

This banana nut bread recipe is wonderfully simple yet packed with flavor. The ripe bananas lend natural sweetness, while the crunchy nuts add a satisfying texture. It’s forgiving, budget-friendly, and flexible—you can mix in chocolate chips, dried fruit, or extra spices depending on your mood. Leftovers stay moist for days and freeze beautifully, making it perfect for weeknight breakfasts or last-minute snack needs. Cozy, inviting, and easy to whip up, this bread is a crowd-pleaser that feels homemade every time, perfect for saving on Pinterest and revisiting whenever you need a quick, comforting bake.

Ingredients

Tip: Use very ripe bananas for the best natural sweetness and moist texture.

3 ripe bananas, mashed
1/2 cup unsalted butter, melted
1/2 cup brown sugar
1/4 cup granulated sugar
2 large eggs
1 tsp vanilla extract
1 1/2 cups all-purpose flour
1 tsp baking soda
1/2 tsp salt
1/2 cup chopped walnuts or pecans
Optional: 1/4 cup chocolate chips

Instructions

Step 1: Preparation
Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease a 9×5-inch loaf pan and line with parchment paper. Mash the bananas in a large bowl until smooth. Gather all ingredients for an easy, smooth assembly.

Step 2: Main Cooking Process
In a separate bowl, whisk melted butter with brown and granulated sugar. Add eggs one at a time, then stir in vanilla. Combine until creamy and well-mixed.

Step 3: Combining Ingredients
Fold the mashed bananas into the butter mixture. Add flour, baking soda, and salt gradually. Mix gently until just combined. Stir in nuts and optional chocolate chips.

Step 4: Finishing & Final Simmer
Pour batter into prepared pan. Bake for 55–65 minutes or until a toothpick comes out clean. Cool for 10 minutes in the pan, then transfer to a wire rack. Slice and serve warm or at room temperature.

Why This Recipe Works for Busy Days

Banana nut bread is perfect for busy schedules. You can prep the batter in under 10 minutes, bake while doing other tasks, and enjoy leftovers throughout the week. It freezes well, so you can bake a batch ahead and have a wholesome, grab-and-go snack or breakfast ready anytime, saving both time and effort without sacrificing flavor.

Tips & Tricks

Moist texture: Don’t overmix the batter; folding ingredients just until combined keeps the bread tender and light.
Even baking: Check at 50 minutes and tent with foil if the top browns too fast. This prevents overcooked edges.
Nut distribution: Toast nuts lightly before adding for extra crunch and flavor. Avoid dumping in all at once to prevent sinking.
Banana selection: Use very ripe bananas with brown spots. Under-ripe fruit results in a bland, dry loaf.

Variations

Meaty version: Pair slices with crispy bacon or sausage on the side for a hearty breakfast loaf experience.
Vegetarian option: Substitute butter with coconut oil or plant-based spread for a dairy-free-friendly loaf.
Ingredient swap: Use almond flour for half the flour to add nutty flavor and a slightly denser texture.
Flavor or herb boost: Add a teaspoon of cinnamon or a pinch of nutmeg for a warm, aromatic twist that elevates the cozy feel.

Serving Suggestions

Breakfast slice: Serve with a smear of butter or cream cheese and a hot cup of coffee.
Snack time: Pair with yogurt or a smoothie for a balanced afternoon treat.
Dessert plate: Top with a drizzle of honey or chocolate for a sweet, cozy dessert.
Pinterest-style presentation: Slice diagonally, garnish with extra nuts, and place on a rustic wooden board for a photo-ready look.

Storage Instructions

Fridge storage: Wrap tightly or store in an airtight container for up to 5 days.
Reheating: Warm slices in the microwave or oven for 20–30 seconds to refresh softness.
Freezing: Wrap slices individually in plastic wrap and store in a freezer-safe bag for up to 2 months.
Make-ahead tips: Mash bananas and pre-measure dry ingredients in advance. Combine and bake when ready for a quick, hassle-free loaf.

Recipe Timing

Prep Time: 15 minutes
Cook Time: 55–65 minutes
Rest Time: 10 minutes
Total Time: 70–80 minutes

Nutrition Information (Approximate)

Calories: 250–300 per slice
Protein: 4–5g
Key nutrients: potassium (from bananas), healthy fats (from nuts)
Values may vary depending on ingredient brands and portion sizes.

FAQs

Yes, bake and store at room temperature for a few days or freeze for later.

Overmixing or under-ripe bananas can cause dryness; fold gently and use very ripe fruit.

Yes, pecans, almonds, or hazelnuts work well.

Likely overmixing or using too much flour; measure carefully.

3–5 days at room temperature, up to 2 months frozen.

Conclusion

This banana nut bread recipe is a cozy, approachable bake that can be customized to suit your taste. From adding spices to swapping nuts or using chocolate chips, it’s forgiving and versatile. Perfect for breakfasts, snacks, or a comforting treat, this bread brings warmth and homemade charm to your kitchen. Keep this recipe handy—it’s the kind of loaf you’ll return to again and again.

Banana Nut Bread Recipe

Recipe by Tasty VaultCourse: Bread Recipe

Servings

Ingredients

3 ripe bananas, mashed
1/2 cup unsalted butter, melted
1/2 cup brown sugar
1/4 cup granulated sugar
2 large eggs
1 tsp vanilla extract
1 1/2 cups all-purpose flour
1 tsp baking soda
1/2 tsp salt
1/2 cup chopped walnuts or pecans
Optional: 1/4 cup chocolate chips

Directions

Preparation
Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease a 9×5-inch loaf pan and line with parchment paper. Mash bananas until smooth. Gather all ingredients for a smooth, easy assembly.
Main Cooking Process
In a separate bowl, whisk melted butter with brown and granulated sugar. Add eggs one at a time, then stir in vanilla until creamy and well-mixed.
Combining Ingredients
Fold mashed bananas into the butter mixture. Gradually add flour, baking soda, and salt. Mix gently until just combined. Stir in nuts and optional chocolate chips.
Finishing & Final Simmer
Pour batter into prepared pan. Bake 55–65 minutes, or until a toothpick comes out clean. Cool 10 minutes in pan, then transfer to wire rack. Slice and serve.