Banana Nut Bread Recipe: Moist, Flavorful, and Crunchy

Byarlo Jack

Few baked treats are as comforting and versatile as banana nut bread. Combining ripe bananas, a tender, moist crumb, and crunchy nuts, this loaf is perfect for breakfast, brunch, snacks, or even dessert. It’s a classic recipe that brings warmth and nostalgia to any kitchen. Banana nut bread is more than just a quick bread, it’s a way to use overripe bananas while creating something rich, flavorful, and satisfying. The natural sweetness of the bananas pairs beautifully with the earthy, nutty crunch of walnuts or pecans, making each bite a perfect balance of texture and taste.

Why You’ll Love This Banana Nut Bread

  • Moist and tender: Thanks to ripe bananas and optional yogurt or sour cream.
  • Nutty crunch: Walnuts or pecans add texture and flavor.
  • Easy and quick: No yeast, ready in under an hour.
  • Versatile: Serve warm, toasted, or as a snack with coffee.
  • Customizable: Add chocolate chips, spices, or streusel for variety.

Ingredients

Wet Ingredients:

  • 3–4 very ripe bananas, mashed (about 1 ½ cups)
  • ½ cup unsalted butter, melted
  • ¼ cup vegetable oil (optional, for extra moisture)
  • 2 large eggs, room temperature
  • 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
  • ¼ cup plain yogurt or sour cream (optional, for extra softness)

Dry Ingredients:

  • 1 ¾ cups all-purpose flour
  • 1 teaspoon baking soda
  • ½ teaspoon baking powder
  • ¼ teaspoon salt
  • ½ teaspoon ground cinnamon (optional)
  • ¾ cup granulated sugar (or â…“ cup brown sugar + â…“ cup granulated sugar)

Nuts and Add-Ins:

  • ½ cup chopped walnuts or pecans
  • ½ cup chocolate chips (optional)
  • ½ teaspoon nutmeg (optional)

Step-by-Step Instructions

Step 1: Preheat Oven and Prepare Pan

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: Mash Bananas

In a large bowl, mash the ripe bananas until smooth, leaving a few small chunks for texture.

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Step 3: Mix Wet Ingredients

Add melted butter, vegetable oil (if using), eggs, vanilla extract, and yogurt or sour cream. Mix until combined.

Step 4: Combine Dry Ingredients

In a separate bowl, whisk together flour, baking soda, baking powder, salt, cinnamon, and sugar.

Step 5: Fold Wet and Dry Ingredients

Gently fold the dry ingredients into the wet mixture until just combined. Avoid overmixing to keep the bread tender. Fold in chopped nuts and optional chocolate chips.

Step 6: Pour Batter and Bake

Pour batter into the prepared loaf pan and smooth the top. Bake for 55–65 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean. Cover loosely with foil if the top begins to brown too quickly.

Step 7: Cool and Slice

Allow the bread to cool in the pan for 10–15 minutes, then transfer to a wire rack. Slice and enjoy warm or at room temperature.

Flavor and Texture

Banana nut bread is moist, tender, and full of rich banana flavor. The nuts provide a delightful crunch, while optional chocolate chips add pockets of melty sweetness. Ground cinnamon and nutmeg bring a warm, aromatic note that complements the sweetness of the bananas. The bread is soft yet sturdy, making it perfect for breakfast toast, a mid-morning snack, or an afternoon pick-me-up with coffee or tea.

Tips for Perfect Banana Nut Bread

  1. Use very ripe bananas: The riper, the sweeter and more flavorful.
  2. Do not overmix: Folding ingredients gently ensures a tender loaf.
  3. Add yogurt or sour cream: Optional but keeps the bread moist and soft.
  4. Prevent sinking: Toss nuts and chocolate chips in a tablespoon of flour before folding in.
  5. Check doneness: Toothpick should come out clean with a few moist crumbs.
  6. Pan size: A 9×5-inch loaf pan works best; adjust baking time for mini loaves or muffins.
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Variations

Classic Banana Nut Bread

Use only bananas and nuts for a traditional loaf with moist crumb and crunchy texture.

Chocolate Chip Banana Nut Bread

Add ½ cup chocolate chips for extra sweetness and gooey chocolate pockets.

Spiced Banana Nut Bread

Add ½ teaspoon nutmeg or allspice along with cinnamon for warm, cozy flavor.

Streusel-Topped Banana Nut Bread

Top with a simple mixture of butter, flour, and sugar for a crumbly, sweet topping.

Mini Loaves or Muffins

Divide the batter into mini loaf pans or a muffin tin. Bake 20–25 minutes for muffins, 35–40 minutes for mini loaves.

Vegan Banana Nut Bread

Use flax or chia eggs, plant-based butter, and non-dairy yogurt to make a vegan version.

Make-Ahead and Storage

Banana nut bread can be stored at room temperature in an airtight container for 2–3 days. For longer storage, refrigerate for up to a week. Slice and serve chilled or warm. This bread also freezes well for up to 3 months. Wrap tightly in plastic wrap and aluminum foil, then thaw overnight in the fridge or at room temperature. Individual slices can also be frozen for easy, grab-and-go snacks.

Serving Suggestions

  • Breakfast: Toast and serve with butter, honey, or nut butter.
  • Snack: Pair with coffee, tea, or milk for a satisfying treat.
  • Dessert: Serve warm with ice cream or a drizzle of chocolate sauce.
  • Brunch: Include alongside muffins, fruit, and yogurt for a complete spread.
  • Gift: Wrap slices as a thoughtful homemade gift.

Nutritional Highlights

To make it lighter, you can reduce sugar slightly or replace some butter with applesauce or mashed banana. While indulgent, banana nut bread has some nutritional benefits:

  • Bananas: High in potassium, vitamin C, and natural sweetness.
  • Nuts: Provide protein, healthy fats, and fiber.
  • Optional spices: Cinnamon and nutmeg add flavor without added sugar.
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Conclusion

This Banana Nut Bread Recipe is moist, tender, and bursting with flavor. The combination of ripe bananas and crunchy nuts creates a classic, comforting loaf that’s perfect for breakfast, snacks, or dessert. With tips for perfect moisture, optional add-ins like chocolate chips or spices, and make-ahead storage options, this banana nut bread is versatile, easy to make, and always delicious. Whether enjoyed fresh from the oven, toasted with butter, or gifted to a friend, every slice delivers comfort and flavor in every bite.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I use frozen bananas?
Yes, thaw and drain excess liquid before mashing.

Can I make banana nut bread vegan?
Yes, use flax or chia eggs, plant-based butter, and non-dairy yogurt.

How do I make it extra moist?
Use very ripe bananas, fold gently, and add yogurt or sour cream.

Can I add chocolate chips or extra nuts?
Yes, fold in ½ cup chocolate chips or additional nuts for extra texture and flavor.

Can I make mini loaves or muffins?
Yes, reduce baking time to 20–25 minutes for muffins and 35–40 minutes for mini loaves.

How do I prevent nuts from sinking?
Toss nuts in a tablespoon of flour before folding them into the batter.

Can I freeze banana nut bread?
Yes, wrap tightly in plastic wrap and foil. Freeze up to 3 months and thaw before serving.

What if my bread is dry?
Overmixing or using under-ripe bananas can cause dryness. Use very ripe bananas and fold ingredients gently.

Can I add a streusel topping?
Yes, mix ¼ cup flour, 2 tablespoons sugar, and 2 tablespoons butter for a crumbly topping before baking.