Banana Nut Bread Recipe

This Banana Nut Bread is a classic for a reason! Moist, flavorful, and packed with ripe bananas and crunchy walnuts, it’s the perfect treat for breakfast, brunch, or an afternoon snack. This recipe is easy to follow and yields a delicious loaf that’s sure to become a family favorite.

Ingredients

• Salted butter: Adds richness and flavor to the bread.
• Granulated sugar: Sweetens the bread and creates a tender crumb.
• Large eggs: Bind the ingredients together and add structure.
• Sour cream or plain Greek yogurt: Adds moisture and tanginess to the bread.
• Vanilla extract: Enhances the flavor of the bread.
• All-purpose flour: The base of the bread, providing structure and a light texture.
• Baking soda: The leavening agent that helps the bread rise.
• Fine sea salt: Balances the sweetness and enhances the flavors.
• Mashed very ripe bananas: The star ingredient! The riper the bananas, the sweeter and more flavorful the bread will be.
• Chopped walnuts: Adds a crunchy texture and a nutty flavor.

How to Make Banana Nut Bread

Step 1: Prep

1. Preheat your oven to 325°F (160°C). Grease two 8×4-inch loaf pans (or one 9×5-inch loaf pan) with nonstick spray. If desired, line the bottom of the pans with parchment paper for easier removal.

Step 2: Cream Wet Ingredients

1. In a large bowl, cream together the softened butter and sugar using an electric mixer on medium-high speed until light and fluffy.
2. Beat in the eggs one at a time, then stir in the sour cream (or yogurt) and vanilla extract.

Step 3: Add Dry Ingredients

1. In a separate bowl, whisk together the flour, baking soda, and salt.
2. Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet ingredients, mixing until just combined. Be careful not to overmix.
3. Fold in the mashed bananas and chopped walnuts until evenly distributed.

Step 4: Bake

1. Pour the batter into the prepared loaf pans and spread it in an even layer.
2. Bake for 55 minutes, or until golden brown and a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean. If using a 9×5-inch loaf pan, bake for an additional 10 minutes. If the bread is browning too quickly, cover it loosely with foil.

Step 5: Cool

1. Let the bread cool in the pans for about 10 minutes before transferring it to a wire rack to cool completely.

How to Serve

This Banana Nut Bread is delicious served:

• Plain: Enjoy it as is for a simple and satisfying treat.
• Toasted: Toast slices of the bread for a warm and crispy treat.
• With toppings: Spread with butter, cream cheese, or your favorite nut butter.
• As a dessert: Serve it with a scoop of vanilla ice cream or whipped cream for a simple dessert.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Store leftover banana nut bread in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 5 days.

Freezing

You can freeze the bread for up to 3 months. Wrap it tightly in plastic wrap and then place it in a freezer-safe bag or container. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator before serving.

Reheating

You can reheat individual slices in the toaster oven or oven if desired.

FAQs

1. Can I use unsalted butter?

Yes, you can use unsalted butter, but you may want to add a pinch of salt to the dry ingredients to compensate.

2. Can I use a different type of nut?

Yes, you can substitute walnuts with pecans, almonds, or any other type of nut you prefer.

3. Can I make this bread without nuts?

Absolutely! Simply omit the nuts from the recipe.

4. How can I prevent the bread from sticking to the pan?

Make sure to grease the loaf pan well with nonstick spray or butter. You can also line the bottom of the pan with parchment paper for easier removal.

Print