The Ultimate Banana Nut Bread Recipe: Moist, Flavorful, and Easy to Make
There’s something magical about the aroma of banana nut bread baking in the oven. This beloved classic combines the sweet richness of overripe bananas with the satisfying crunch of toasted nuts, creating a treat that’s perfect for breakfast, snack time, or dessert. Our recipe delivers a loaf that’s incredibly moist, packed with banana flavor, and studded with perfectly toasted walnuts. Whether you’re a seasoned baker or trying your hand at homemade bread for the first time, this foolproof recipe will become your go-to favorite.
Ingredients for Perfect Banana Nut Bread
The secret to exceptional banana nut bread lies in using quality ingredients and perfectly ripened bananas. Here’s everything you’ll need to create this delicious loaf:
| Ingredient | Quantity | Notes |
| Ripe bananas | 3 medium-large | Very ripe with brown spots for best flavor |
| All-purpose flour | 1½ cups | Spooned and leveled |
| Unsalted butter | ½ cup (1 stick) | Softened to room temperature |
| Granulated sugar | ¾ cup | Can reduce to ⅔ cup if bananas are very sweet |
| Eggs | 2 large | Room temperature |
| Walnuts | 1 cup | Lightly toasted and coarsely chopped |
| Baking soda | 1 tsp | Make sure it’s fresh |
| Salt | ½ tsp | Omit if using salted butter |
| Vanilla extract | 1 tsp | Pure vanilla extract recommended |
Banana Tip
The riper your bananas, the sweeter and more flavorful your bread will be. Look for bananas with plenty of brown spots or even mostly black peels for the best results. They should be soft and fragrant.
How to Make Banana Nut Bread
This easy-to-follow recipe requires minimal equipment and delivers maximum flavor. Follow these simple steps for perfect banana nut bread every time:
Preparation Steps
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease a 9×5-inch loaf pan with butter or cooking spray, then line with parchment paper for easy removal.
- Toast the walnuts in a dry skillet over medium heat for 5-7 minutes, stirring frequently until fragrant. Let cool, then coarsely chop.
- Mash the bananas in a bowl using a fork until mostly smooth but still with some small chunks for texture.
- Whisk together the flour, baking soda, and salt in a medium bowl.
- In a large bowl, cream together the softened butter and sugar until light and fluffy, about 2-3 minutes.
- Add the eggs one at a time, beating well after each addition.
- Mix in the mashed bananas and vanilla extract until just combined.
- Gradually fold the dry ingredients into the wet ingredients using a spatula, being careful not to overmix.
- Gently fold in the toasted walnuts, reserving a small handful for topping if desired.
- Pour the batter into the prepared loaf pan and smooth the top. Sprinkle with the reserved walnuts.
Baking Instructions
- Bake for 55-60 minutes at 350°F (175°C), or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out with just a few moist crumbs.
- Check at 45 minutes and tent with foil if the top is browning too quickly.
- Cool in the pan for 10 minutes, then use the parchment paper to lift the bread out onto a wire rack to cool completely.
Perfect Baking Tip
The key to moist banana bread is to avoid overbaking. Remove the bread from the oven as soon as a toothpick comes out with just a few moist crumbs. The bread will continue cooking slightly as it cools.
Printable Recipe Card
Classic Banana Nut Bread
Prep Time: 15 minutes | Cook Time: 60 minutes | Total Time: 1 hour 15 minutes
Servings: 10 slices | Calories: 320 per slice
Tips for Perfect Banana Nut Bread
For the Perfect Texture
- Don’t overmix the batter – stir just until ingredients are combined to keep the bread light and fluffy
- Use room temperature ingredients for better incorporation
- Measure flour correctly by spooning into measuring cups and leveling off
- Check for doneness early – overbaking will result in dry bread
For Maximum Flavor
- Always toast your nuts before adding them to the batter
- Use the ripest bananas possible – they should be very soft and fragrant
- Add a pinch of cinnamon or nutmeg for warmth (optional)
- Let the bread cool completely before slicing for the best flavor development
Delicious Variations
While classic banana nut bread is perfect on its own, these variations can add exciting new flavors and textures:
Chocolate Chip
Add 1/2 cup of semi-sweet chocolate chips to the batter along with the walnuts for a decadent twist that kids and adults alike will love.
Gluten-Free
Substitute the all-purpose flour with a 1:1 gluten-free baking blend. Add 1/4 teaspoon of xanthan gum if your blend doesn’t include it.
Vegan
Replace butter with coconut oil, eggs with flax eggs (1 Tbsp ground flaxseed + 3 Tbsp water per egg), and add 1/4 cup applesauce for moisture.
Tropical
Add 1/2 cup shredded coconut and 1/4 cup diced dried pineapple to the batter for a tropical twist that’s perfect for summer.
Whole Wheat
Replace half or all of the all-purpose flour with whole wheat flour for added nutrition. Add an extra tablespoon of liquid if using 100% whole wheat.
Spiced
Add 1 teaspoon cinnamon, 1/4 teaspoon nutmeg, and a pinch of cloves for a warming spiced version perfect for fall and winter.
Serving Suggestions
Banana nut bread is delicious on its own, but these serving ideas can elevate it to something truly special:
For Breakfast
- Lightly toast a slice and spread with butter or cream cheese
- Serve alongside a cup of coffee or tea
- Top with a dollop of Greek yogurt and a drizzle of honey
- Make banana bread French toast for a decadent weekend breakfast
For Dessert
- Warm a slice and top with a scoop of vanilla ice cream
- Drizzle with caramel sauce for a sweet treat
- Spread with Nutella or chocolate hazelnut spread
- Layer with whipped cream and sliced bananas for a trifle-style dessert
Storage and Freezing
Keeping Your Banana Nut Bread Fresh
| Storage Method | Instructions | Shelf Life |
| Room Temperature | Store in an airtight container or wrap tightly in plastic wrap | 3-4 days |
| Refrigerator | Wrap tightly in plastic wrap or aluminum foil | Up to 1 week |
| Freezer (Whole Loaf) | Wrap in plastic wrap, then aluminum foil, and place in a freezer bag | Up to 3 months |
| Freezer (Slices) | Wrap individual slices in plastic wrap, then place in a freezer bag | Up to 3 months |
Reheating Tip
To reheat frozen banana bread, thaw at room temperature for several hours or overnight in the refrigerator. For a warm slice, microwave for 10-15 seconds or toast lightly. Frozen slices can be toasted directly from frozen for a quick breakfast.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I use overripe bananas for this recipe?
Absolutely! In fact, overripe bananas are preferred for banana nut bread. The browner and spottier they are, the sweeter and more flavorful your bread will be. Bananas with black peels are perfect for baking as they’re at their sweetest.
How do I prevent my banana bread from becoming dense?
To prevent dense banana bread: 1) Don’t overmix the batter – stir just until ingredients are combined; 2) Make sure your baking soda is fresh; 3) Measure flour correctly by spooning into measuring cups rather than scooping; 4) Don’t overbake; and 5) Use room temperature ingredients for better incorporation.
What are the best nuts to use in banana bread?
Walnuts are the traditional choice for banana nut bread because their slightly bitter flavor complements the sweet bananas perfectly. Pecans are an excellent alternative with their buttery, sweet flavor. Other good options include chopped almonds, hazelnuts, or macadamia nuts. Whatever nuts you choose, always toast them first to enhance their flavor.
Can I make this recipe into muffins instead of a loaf?
Yes! This recipe works beautifully as muffins. Simply divide the batter among 12 lined muffin cups and bake at 350°F for 18-22 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean. Muffins are perfect for portion control and freeze exceptionally well.
How can I ripen bananas quickly if mine aren’t ripe enough?
If your bananas aren’t ripe enough, you have two options: 1) Place them in a paper bag with an apple or ripe banana and close the bag. The ethylene gas will speed up ripening within 1-2 days. 2) For immediate use, place unpeeled bananas on a baking sheet and bake at 300°F for 15-20 minutes until the skins turn black. Let cool before using.
Ready to Become a Better Baker?
Join our baking community and receive weekly recipes, expert tips, and troubleshooting advice. Never experience a baking fail again!
Enjoy Your Homemade Banana Nut Bread
There’s nothing quite like the satisfaction of pulling a perfectly baked banana nut bread from your oven. With its moist texture, rich banana flavor, and crunchy walnuts, this recipe is sure to become a family favorite. Whether you enjoy it for breakfast with your morning coffee, as an afternoon snack, or as a comforting dessert, this versatile quick bread never disappoints.
Remember that baking is both a science and an art – don’t be afraid to experiment with different mix-ins and variations to make this recipe your own. We’d love to hear how your banana nut bread turns out and what personal touches you add to make it special. Happy baking!
