Banana nut bread is a timeless classic loved by home bakers across the United States, United Kingdom, and Canada. Its moist, tender crumb combined with the rich, nutty flavor makes it a perfect treat for breakfast, snacks, or even dessert. Whether you’re a beginner or an experienced baker, you’ll love this banana nut bread recipe for its simplicity and delicious results.
Why Banana Nut Bread Is a Must-Try
Banana nut bread is not just delicious—it’s also a clever way to use overripe bananas. Overripe bananas are naturally sweeter and add incredible moisture to your bread, meaning you don’t need to add too much sugar or fat. Pairing bananas with chopped nuts, like walnuts or pecans, adds texture and a pleasant crunch, creating the perfect balance of flavors.
This classic treat is versatile. Enjoy it warm from the oven, toasted with a little butter, or sliced and served alongside coffee or tea.
Ingredients You’ll Need
To make this banana nut bread recipe, gather the following simple ingredients:
3–4 ripe bananas, mashed
1/3 cup melted butter
3/4 cup sugar (adjust to taste)
1 large egg, beaten
1 teaspoon vanilla extract
1 teaspoon baking soda
Pinch of salt
1 1/2 cups all-purpose flour
1/2 cup chopped walnuts (or pecans)
Optional: sprinkle some cinnamon or nutmeg for added warmth and flavor.
Step-by-Step Instructions
Step 1: Preheat the Oven
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease a 9×5-inch loaf pan or line it with parchment paper to prevent sticking.
Step 2: Mash the Bananas
In a large mixing bowl, mash the ripe bananas with a fork until smooth. A few small lumps are okay—they add texture to the bread.
Step 3: Mix Wet Ingredients
Add melted butter to the mashed bananas and mix well. Then stir in the sugar, beaten egg, and vanilla extract until fully combined.
Step 4: Combine Dry Ingredients
In a separate bowl, whisk together the flour, baking soda, and salt. Gradually add this dry mixture to the banana mixture, folding gently until just combined. Be careful not to overmix, as this can make the bread dense.
Step 5: Add Nuts
Fold in the chopped walnuts or pecans. These nuts add crunch and complement the sweet banana flavor perfectly.
Step 6: Bake the Bread
Pour the batter into the prepared loaf pan and bake for 50–60 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean.
Step 7: Cool and Serve
Let the bread cool in the pan for about 10 minutes, then transfer to a wire rack to cool completely. Slice and enjoy warm or at room temperature.
Tips for the Perfect Banana Nut Bread
Use Very Ripe Bananas: The riper the bananas, the sweeter and more flavorful your bread will be.
Don’t Overmix: Overmixing the batter can lead to tough, dense bread. Fold ingredients gently.
Toast the Nuts: For extra flavor, toast your walnuts or pecans lightly in a dry skillet before adding them.
Add Chocolate Chips: For a sweet twist, add 1/2 cup of chocolate chips to the batter.
Storage: Store in an airtight container at room temperature for 2–3 days, or refrigerate for up to a week.
Following these tips ensures your banana nut bread turns out moist, flavorful, and full of texture every time.
Variations to Try
Gluten-Free Banana Nut Bread: Substitute all-purpose flour with a gluten-free flour blend.
Vegan Version: Replace the egg with flaxseed meal mixed with water and use coconut oil instead of butter.
Spiced Banana Bread: Add 1 teaspoon cinnamon and 1/4 teaspoon nutmeg for a warm, spiced flavor.
Topped with Streusel: Add a simple brown sugar and butter streusel on top for a sweet crunch.
These variations keep the classic recipe exciting while allowing you to tailor it to your taste preferences.
Why You Should Try This Recipe Today
Banana nut bread is easy to make, requires minimal ingredients, and yields a comforting, delicious result. It’s perfect for using up overripe bananas, impressing guests, or simply enjoying as a wholesome snack. With its soft texture, nutty crunch, and rich banana flavor, this bread is bound to become a favorite in your household.
By following this recipe and practical tips, you’ll achieve the perfect balance of sweetness, moisture, and flavor.
Conclusion
Don’t wait—try this banana nut bread recipe today! It’s a simple, foolproof way to create a classic treat that’s loved across the United States, United Kingdom, and Canada. Whether you’re serving it for breakfast, dessert, or a cozy afternoon snack, this bread is sure to delight everyone at your table.
Enjoy the comfort of homemade banana nut bread, knowing that with just a few simple ingredients and steps, you can create a delicious, satisfying loaf that’s perfect for any occasion.
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