Banana Nut Bread

Banana nut bread is a cozy, comforting loaf that fills your kitchen with a warm, sweet aroma. Ripe bananas and crunchy nuts come together in a soft, moist bread that’s perfect for busy mornings, family breakfasts, or a quiet night with tea. I love mashing the bananas gently to keep the texture tender. This easy recipe makes a heartwarming treat that’s simple enough to whip up anytime and always feels like a little homemade celebration.

Save

Why You Will Love This Recipe

This banana nut bread recipe is wonderfully flavorful, easy to make, and ideal for any home cook. The combination of ripe bananas and nuts creates a moist, slightly sweet loaf everyone enjoys. It’s weeknight-friendly and budget-conscious since overripe bananas are perfect for baking. Leftovers store well or freeze for later, making it great for meal prep. Its cozy aroma and tender crumb make it Pinterest-worthy and crowd-pleasing, while the flexible recipe lets you adjust nuts or spices as you like. This bread is a comforting, repeat-worthy staple in any kitchen.

Save

Ingredients

Tip: Use very ripe bananas for the sweetest, most flavorful bread.

  • 1 1/2 cups all-purpose flour
  • 1 teaspoon baking soda
  • 1/2 teaspoon salt
  • 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened
  • 1 cup sugar
  • 2 large eggs
  • 3 ripe bananas, mashed
  • 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
  • 1/2 cup chopped walnuts or pecans
Save

Instructions

Step 1: Preparation
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and grease a loaf pan. In a medium bowl, whisk together flour, baking soda, and salt until evenly combined and smooth. Set aside for later.

Step 2: Main Cooking Process
In a large bowl, cream butter and sugar together until light and fluffy. Beat in the eggs one at a time, then stir in mashed bananas and vanilla extract. The mixture should smell sweet and inviting.

See also  Cinnamon Raisin Bread

Step 3: Combining Ingredients
Fold the dry ingredients gently into the wet mixture until just combined. Add chopped nuts and mix lightly to distribute evenly without overworking the batter.

Step 4: Finishing & Final Simmer
Pour the batter into the prepared loaf pan and smooth the top. Bake for 60–70 minutes until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean and the top is golden brown. Cool for 10–15 minutes before slicing.

Why This Recipe Works for Busy Days

Banana nut bread is hands-off once baked, making it ideal for busy schedules. You can prep the batter in minutes, bake while doing other tasks, and enjoy later. It stores well at room temperature or in the freezer, so you can slice portions for quick breakfasts or snacks anytime.

Tips & Tricks

  • Mash bananas thoroughly but leave small chunks for texture. Over-mashing can make the bread overly dense.
  • Measure flour carefully; spoon it into the cup instead of scooping to avoid dry bread.
  • Don’t overmix after adding dry ingredients. Folding gently keeps the loaf soft and tender.
  • Toast nuts lightly before adding to enhance flavor. Be careful not to burn them, which can make the bread taste bitter.

Variations

  • Meaty Version: Add cooked, crumbled bacon for a sweet-and-savory twist. Keep the bacon pieces small and evenly distributed in the batter.
  • Vegetarian Option: Add shredded coconut or mini chocolate chips for extra texture and flavor without meat.
  • Ingredient Swap: Replace half the all-purpose flour with whole wheat flour for a nuttier flavor and added fiber.
  • Flavor or Herb Boost: Stir in 1 teaspoon cinnamon or nutmeg. A pinch of cardamom can also add warmth and depth.
See also  Olive oil dip for bread

Serving Suggestions

  • Breakfast Slice: Serve warm with butter or a light spread of cream cheese.
  • Afternoon Snack: Pair with a cup of tea or coffee for a cozy pick-me-up.
  • Dessert Plate: Top slices with fresh fruit or a drizzle of honey for a simple dessert.
  • Brunch Table: Arrange alongside yogurt, fruit, and nuts for a Pinterest-worthy spread.

Storage Instructions

  • Fridge Storage: Store in an airtight container for up to 5 days. Keep sliced portions covered to maintain moisture.
  • Reheating: Warm slices in a microwave or oven for 15–20 seconds to revive softness.
  • Freezing: Wrap tightly in foil or plastic wrap. Freeze for up to 2 months. Thaw at room temperature before slicing.
  • Make-ahead Tips: Prepare the batter in advance and refrigerate for a few hours before baking. This can help flavors meld without affecting texture.

Recipe Timing

  • Prep Time: 15 minutes
  • Cook Time: 60–70 minutes
  • Rest Time: 10–15 minutes
  • Total Time: 85–100 minutes

Nutrition Information

Calories: 250–300 per slice
Protein: 4–6 g
Key Nutrients: Potassium, Vitamin B6 from bananas
Values are estimates and may vary depending on ingredients and portion size.

FAQs

Yes, the batter can be prepared in advance and baked later for convenience.

Likely overmixing or too much flour; fold gently and measure carefully.

Mashed avocado or yogurt can replace butter for a healthier twist.

Underbaking or overly ripe bananas can cause this; test with a toothpick.

Up to 5 days in an airtight container; freeze for longer storage.

See also  Homemade bread

Conclusion

Banana nut bread is a comforting, versatile loaf that works for breakfast, snacks, or cozy evenings. You can adjust nuts, spices, or add chocolate chips for a personal touch. It’s simple to make, easy to store, and fills your kitchen with warmth. This banana nut bread recipe is perfect for sharing or enjoying solo with a cup of tea, making it a repeatable favorite for any occasion.

Banana Nut Bread Save
Print

Banana Nut Bread

Recipe by Tasty VaultCourse: Bread Recipe
Servings

8

servings
Prep time

15

minutes
Cooking time

1

hour 
Calories

300

kcal

A moist, flavorful banana bread with crunchy nuts, perfect for cozy mornings or afternoon treats.

Ingredients

  • 1 1/2 cups all-purpose flour

  • 1 teaspoon baking soda

  • 1/2 teaspoon salt

  • 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened

  • 1 cup sugar

  • 2 large eggs

  • 3 ripe bananas, mashed

  • 1 teaspoon vanilla extract

  • 1/2 cup chopped walnuts or pecans

Directions

  • Preheat oven to 350°F and grease a loaf pan. Whisk flour, baking soda, and salt.
  • Cream butter and sugar. Beat in eggs, then mashed bananas and vanilla.
  • Fold dry ingredients into wet mixture. Stir in nuts lightly.
  • Pour into pan and smooth top. Bake 60–70 minutes. Cool 10–15 minutes before slicing.

Similar Posts