If you're on the hunt for a delicious, easy-to-make banana nut bread recipe that will fill your kitchen with an irresistible aroma, look no further. Whether it's for a cozy weekend breakfast, a sweet treat to enjoy with a cup of coffee, or to impress your guests, this recipe promises not only simplicity but also a tender, moist texture, and the perfect crunch from the nuts. Here's how to make banana nut bread from scratch, perfect for any occasion.
Why Make Banana Nut Bread?
- Versatility: It can be served as breakfast, dessert, or a snack.
- Freezability: It keeps well in the freezer, making it a convenient option for meal prep.
- Nutritious: Bananas add natural sweetness and a good dose of potassium, while nuts provide healthy fats, fiber, and protein.
Ingredients for Banana Nut Bread
| Ingredient | Quantity |
|---|---|
| Ripe Bananas | 3 |
| Butter | 1⁄3 cup, softened |
| Sugar | 3⁄4 cup |
| Egg | 1 large |
| Vanilla Extract | 1 tsp |
| All-Purpose Flour | 1 1⁄2 cups |
| Baking Powder | 1 tsp |
| Baking Soda | 1⁄2 tsp |
| Cinnamon | 1⁄2 tsp |
| Nuts (Walnuts, Pecans, etc.) | 1⁄2 cup, chopped |
| Salt | Pinch |
Steps to Make Banana Nut Bread
- Preheat Oven: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
- Prepare Bread Pan: Grease a 9x5 inch loaf pan with butter or non-stick spray.
- Mash Bananas: In a large bowl, mash the ripe bananas with a fork until mostly smooth.
- Combine Wet Ingredients: Add the softened butter and sugar to the bananas, and mix well. Beat in the egg and vanilla extract.
- Mix Dry Ingredients: In a separate bowl, whisk together flour, baking powder, baking soda, cinnamon, and salt.
- Combine: Gradually mix the dry ingredients into the banana mixture, stirring just until incorporated. Fold in the chopped nuts.
- Pour Batter: Transfer the batter into the prepared loaf pan, spreading it evenly.
- Bake: Bake for about 55-60 minutes or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.
- Cool: Let the bread cool in the pan for 10 minutes, then transfer to a wire rack to cool completely.
🍌 Note: Overripe bananas with black spots are perfect for this recipe as they mash more easily and have a stronger banana flavor.
Tips for the Perfect Banana Nut Bread
- Use Overripe Bananas: For the best flavor, use bananas that are very ripe or even overripe.
- Don’t Overmix: Mix just until the flour is combined to keep the bread tender.
- Customize: Feel free to add chocolate chips, coconut, or dried fruit for variations.
- Ensure Even Baking: You might need to tent the bread with foil during the last 15 minutes to prevent over-browning.
Storing and Serving Suggestions
Storing this banana nut bread properly will ensure its freshness and moistness:
- Wrap the bread tightly in plastic wrap or store in an airtight container. It will stay fresh at room temperature for up to 3 days.
- For longer storage, slice and freeze individual pieces. Defrost at room temperature when needed.
- Serve warm, either plain or with a dollop of whipped cream, a drizzle of honey, or simply spread with butter.
The joy of baking banana nut bread comes from the rich flavor of ripe bananas combined with the subtle crunch of nuts. This banana nut bread recipe is not only straightforward but also yields a bread that's incredibly moist and flavorful, making it a favorite for all ages. Whether you're a baking novice or a seasoned pro, this recipe will become a staple in your kitchen. Enjoy the delightful aroma while it bakes and savor the sweet, nutty taste of each slice.
Can I use frozen bananas?
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Yes, you can use frozen bananas. Thaw them at room temperature or in the microwave, and drain any excess liquid before mashing.
How do I know when the bread is done baking?
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Insert a toothpick into the center of the loaf; if it comes out clean or with just a few crumbs, the bread is done. Oven temperatures can vary, so check after 50 minutes.
Can I substitute the nuts?
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Absolutely! You can use different nuts like almonds, pecans, or even omit the nuts altogether for a smooth banana bread.
