Banana Nut Bread Recipe

Banana nut bread is a timeless baked good that brings together the sweetness of ripe bananas with the crunch of nuts. Its soft, moist crumb and nutty flavor make it perfect for breakfast, dessert, or an afternoon snack. This recipe balances ease with taste, making it ideal for both beginner bakers and seasoned cooks.

It requires only simple pantry staples, yet the results are comforting and indulgent. The natural sweetness of bananas means you can adjust sugar levels to suit your preference without compromising flavor. Best of all, the aroma of freshly baked banana nut bread fills your home with warmth and nostalgia.

Whether served plain, toasted with butter, or paired with coffee or tea, banana nut bread is a versatile treat that never goes out of style.

Ingredients List

– 2 to 3 very ripe bananas, mashed
– ½ cup unsalted butter, melted
– ¾ cup granulated sugar (adjustable to taste)
– 2 large eggs
– 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
– 1 teaspoon baking soda
– ½ teaspoon salt
– 1 ½ cups all-purpose flour
– ½ teaspoon ground cinnamon (optional for warmth)
– ½ cup chopped walnuts or pecans
– 2 tablespoons milk or buttermilk (optional for extra moisture)
– Additional nuts for topping (optional)

Step-by-Step Instructions

Step 1: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease a 9×5-inch loaf pan or line it with parchment paper for easy removal.

Step 2: In a large mixing bowl, mash the ripe bananas with a fork until smooth. Stir in the melted butter until well combined.

Step 3: Add sugar, eggs, and vanilla extract to the banana mixture. Whisk until everything is incorporated and smooth.

Step 4: Sprinkle in baking soda, salt, and cinnamon. Mix gently. Gradually add the flour, stirring until just combined. Avoid overmixing to keep the bread tender.

Step 5: Fold in chopped walnuts or pecans using a spatula. If using milk or buttermilk, gently stir it in at this stage to ensure a moist loaf.

Step 6: Pour the batter into the prepared loaf pan. Smooth the top and sprinkle extra nuts over the surface if desired.

Step 7: Bake for 55–65 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean. If the top browns too quickly, tent loosely with foil during the last 15 minutes.

Step 8: Remove from the oven and let cool in the pan for 10 minutes. Transfer to a wire rack to cool completely before slicing.

Cook Time

Prep Time: 10 minutes
Cook Time: 60 minutes
Total Time: 1 hour 10 minutes

Servings

Makes 1 loaf (8–10 slices)

Nutritional Information (approx. per slice)

Calories: 250
Carbs: 32g
Protein: 4g
Fat: 12g

Storage Instructions

Store banana nut bread in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days. For longer storage, refrigerate for up to 1 week. To freeze, wrap tightly in plastic wrap and then foil; freeze for up to 3 months. Thaw overnight at room temperature before serving.

Pairings/Suggestions

Banana nut bread pairs beautifully with a hot cup of coffee, black tea, or a glass of cold milk. For a richer twist, serve slices toasted with butter, cream cheese, or nut butter. You can also turn it into a dessert by topping it with whipped cream or a drizzle of caramel sauce.

Seasonal Relevance

This recipe works all year round but feels especially cozy in fall and winter. The combination of bananas and nuts makes it a favorite during the holiday season when warm, comforting flavors are most appreciated. It’s also a great way to use up overripe bananas in summer or spring.

Health Benefits

Banana nut bread not only satisfies sweet cravings but also delivers nutritional value. Bananas are rich in potassium, vitamin B6, and dietary fiber, supporting heart and digestive health. Walnuts and pecans add omega-3 fatty acids, protein, and antioxidants, contributing to brain and heart wellness. By moderating sugar and using whole wheat flour, you can make the recipe even healthier without losing flavor.

Pros and Cons

Pros	Cons
Easy to make with basic ingredients	Can be high in sugar and fat if not adjusted
Great way to use ripe bananas	Longer baking time compared to cookies or muffins
Moist and flavorful texture	May become dense if overmixed
Customizable with nuts, chocolate, or spices	Not ideal for those with nut allergies

Conclusion

Banana nut bread is a comforting, flavorful bake that turns simple ingredients into something extraordinary. With ripe bananas and crunchy nuts, it strikes the perfect balance of sweet and nutty. The steps are straightforward, making it accessible even for beginner bakers, and the end result is a moist loaf that can be enjoyed any time of day.

Whether you enjoy it warm from the oven, as a quick breakfast, or as an afternoon treat, banana nut bread offers nostalgic charm and lasting satisfaction. Once you try this recipe, it may become a staple in your kitchen, perfect for sharing with family and friends.

FAQs

Q1: Can I substitute the nuts with something else?
Yes, you can use chocolate chips, dried fruit, or seeds as alternatives if you prefer a nut-free version.

Q2: How do I know when banana nut bread is fully baked?
Insert a toothpick into the center; if it comes out clean or with only a few moist crumbs, it’s done.

Q3: Can I make banana nut bread gluten-free?
Absolutely. Replace all-purpose flour with a gluten-free flour blend designed for baking. The texture may vary slightly but will still be delicious.