Banana Bread with Walnuts Recipe

Name: Banana Bread with Walnuts Recipe
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 1 h
Total time: 1 h 15 min
Yield: 1 loaf
Ingredients: 3 ripe bananas, mashed; 1/3 cup melted butter; 1 teaspoon baking soda; Pinch of salt; 3/4 cup sugar; 1 large egg, beaten; 1 teaspoon vanilla extract; 1 1/2 cups all-purpose flour; 1/2 cup chopped walnuts

Highlighted under: Baking & Desserts

Delight in the comforting aroma and flavor of homemade banana bread, enhanced with crunchy walnuts for texture.

Created by

Piper Andrews

Last updated on 2025-12-30T00:16:15.472Z

This Banana Bread with Walnuts is a classic recipe that combines the sweetness of ripe bananas with the crunch of toasted walnuts, creating a deliciously moist loaf that is perfect for breakfast or a snack. Whether you're using overripe bananas or just looking to bake something comforting, this recipe is sure to please everyone!

        Why You'll Love This Recipe
        Moist and tender texture that melts in your mouth
Natural sweetness from ripe bananas
Crunchy walnuts add a delightful contrast
Perfect for breakfast, snacks, or desserts

      

The Perfect Banana Bread Experience

Banana bread is one of those classic recipes that brings a sense of warmth and nostalgia. The combination of ripe bananas and walnuts creates a delicious harmony of flavors and textures that is simply irresistible. This recipe not only emphasizes the sweetness of the bananas but also incorporates the crunch of walnuts, making each bite a delightful experience. Whether you're enjoying it fresh out of the oven or toasting a slice for breakfast, this banana bread will quickly become a family favorite.

One of the best things about this banana bread is its versatility. It can be served as a cozy breakfast option, a satisfying snack during the day, or even as a dessert after dinner. You can enjoy it plain, spread with butter, or topped with a dollop of cream cheese. The possibilities are endless, making it a go-to recipe for any occasion.

Tips for the Best Banana Bread

To achieve the moistest banana bread, it’s crucial to use very ripe bananas. Look for bananas that are heavily speckled or even blackened on the outside. These bananas are sweeter and will provide the best flavor and moisture to your bread. If you find yourself with ripe bananas that you can’t use right away, simply freeze them until you’re ready to bake.

Another tip for perfect banana bread is to avoid overmixing the batter once you add the flour. Overmixing can lead to a dense texture, which is not what we want in a light and fluffy banana bread. Gently fold the flour and walnuts until just combined for the best results.

Ingredients

Gather these simple ingredients to make your delicious banana bread.

Ingredients for Banana Bread

3 ripe bananas, mashed
1/3 cup melted butter
1 teaspoon baking soda
Pinch of salt
3/4 cup sugar
1 large egg, beaten
1 teaspoon vanilla extract
1 1/2 cups all-purpose flour
1/2 cup chopped walnuts

Make sure to have all the ingredients measured and ready before you start mixing.

Instructions

Follow these simple steps to create your banana bread masterpiece.

Preheat the Oven

Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and grease a 9x5 inch loaf pan.

Mix Ingredients

In a mixing bowl, mash the ripe bananas with a fork. Stir in the melted butter, then mix in the baking soda and salt.

Add Sugar and Egg

Mix in the sugar, beaten egg, and vanilla extract until well combined.

Incorporate Flour and Walnuts

Gently fold in the flour and chopped walnuts until just combined. Be careful not to overmix.

Pour and Bake

Pour the batter into the prepared loaf pan and bake for 60 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.

Cool and Serve

Allow the banana bread to cool in the pan for 10 minutes, then transfer to a wire rack to cool completely before slicing.

Enjoy your homemade banana bread fresh or toasted with a bit of butter.

Storage and Freezing

Storing banana bread properly is key to maintaining its freshness. Once cooled, wrap the bread tightly in plastic wrap or aluminum foil and store it at room temperature for up to three days. If you want to keep it longer, consider freezing it. Slice the bread before freezing for easy access later on. Wrap each slice individually in plastic wrap and place them in a freezer-safe bag. It can be stored in the freezer for up to three months.

When you're ready to enjoy your frozen banana bread, simply remove a slice and let it thaw at room temperature. For a warm treat, you can pop it in the microwave for a few seconds, or toast it for a nice, crispy edge.

Variations to Try

While this banana bread recipe is delicious as is, there are plenty of variations to suit your taste. For a chocolate twist, consider adding chocolate chips to the batter. The rich, melty chocolate pairs wonderfully with the banana flavor and adds an extra indulgent touch. Alternatively, you can substitute the walnuts for pecans or even omit them altogether if you're looking for a nut-free option.

Spices can also elevate the flavor profile of your banana bread. A teaspoon of cinnamon or a pinch of nutmeg can add a warm, aromatic dimension to the recipe. Feel free to experiment with your favorite spices to create a banana bread uniquely suited to your palate.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use frozen bananas?

Yes, just thaw them out and drain any excess liquid before mashing.

→ How can I store leftover banana bread?

Wrap it in plastic wrap and store it at room temperature for up to 3 days or refrigerate for up to a week.

→ Can I substitute the walnuts?

Absolutely! You can use pecans, chocolate chips, or even leave them out altogether.

→ What can I serve with banana bread?

Banana bread pairs wonderfully with butter, cream cheese, or even a scoop of vanilla ice cream.