Tasty Betty Crocker’s Recipe For Banana Nut Bread

Betty Crocker’s Recipe For Banana Nut Bread is a timeless classic that brings warmth and nostalgia to every kitchen. This beloved recipe has been a household favorite for generations, offering a perfect balance of sweet banana flavor and crunchy nuts in every bite. Originating from Betty Crocker’s trusted collection of home-baked recipes, this banana nut bread has stood the test of time, cherished by families for its simplicity and comforting taste. The moist texture, rich banana essence, and the delightful crunch of nuts make it an irresistible treat for breakfast, snacks, or even dessert. Whether you’re a seasoned baker or a beginner in the kitchen, this recipe is a must-try for anyone who loves homemade goodness.

Betty Crocker’s Recipe For Banana Nut Bread

Ingredients for Betty Crocker’s Banana Nut Bread

To make this delicious and moist banana nut bread, you’ll need the following ingredients:

Dry Ingredients:

• 2 cups all-purpose flour – Provides the structure and base for the bread.

• 1 cup granulated sugar – Adds sweetness and helps with moisture retention.

• 1 teaspoon baking soda – Acts as a leavening agent to help the bread rise.

• 1/2 teaspoon salt – Enhances the flavor and balances the sweetness.

Wet Ingredients:

• 1/2 cup butter (softened) – Adds richness and moisture to the bread.

• 2 large eggs – Provides structure and helps bind the ingredients together.

• 3 to 4 ripe bananas (mashed, about 1 1/2 cups) – The star ingredient, giving the bread its signature flavor and moist texture.

• 1/3 cup buttermilk – Adds moisture and a slight tangy flavor, enhancing the overall taste.

• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract – Brings out a warm and aromatic depth to the bread.

Additional Ingredients:

• 1/2 to 1 cup chopped nuts (walnuts or pecans) – Adds a delightful crunch and nutty flavor.

• Optional: 1/2 teaspoon cinnamon – Enhances the warmth and depth of flavor.

Ingredient Substitutions & Tips:

• If you don’t have buttermilk, you can substitute it with 1/3 cup milk mixed with 1 teaspoon lemon juice or vinegar.

• For a healthier alternative, swap half of the all-purpose flour with whole wheat flour.

• If you prefer a sweeter and more caramelized flavor, use brown sugar instead of white sugar.

• To make it dairy-free, replace butter with coconut oil or a plant-based alternative and use almond or oat milk instead of buttermilk.

With these ingredients, you’ll have a perfectly moist, flavorful, and nutty banana bread that everyone will love!

Step-by-Step Directions for Betty Crocker’s Banana Nut Bread

Step 1: Preheat the Oven & Prepare the Pan

• Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) to ensure even baking.

• Grease a 9×5-inch loaf pan with butter or nonstick spray. You can also line it with parchment paper for easy removal.

Step 2: Prepare the Bananas & Nuts

• Peel 3 to 4 ripe bananas and mash them in a bowl using a fork or potato masher until smooth but slightly chunky.

• Chop 1/2 to 1 cup of walnuts or pecans into small pieces and set aside. If you prefer a more intense nutty flavor, lightly toast them in a dry pan for a few minutes before using.

Step 3: Mix the Dry Ingredients

• In a medium bowl, whisk together:

  • 2 cups all-purpose flour

  • 1 teaspoon baking soda

  • 1/2 teaspoon salt

  • (Optional: 1/2 teaspoon cinnamon for extra warmth and flavor)

• Set aside this dry mixture for later.

Step 4: Cream the Butter & Sugar

• In a large mixing bowl, beat 1/2 cup softened butter and 1 cup granulated sugar together using an electric mixer or hand whisk.

• Mix until the texture is light and fluffy, which takes about 2-3 minutes. This step helps incorporate air into the batter, making the bread soft.

Step 5: Add the Eggs & Vanilla

• Crack in 2 large eggs, one at a time, and beat well after each addition.

• Add 1 teaspoon vanilla extract and mix until combined.

Step 6: Incorporate the Mashed Bananas & Buttermilk

• Stir in the mashed bananas and 1/3 cup buttermilk until fully combined. The mixture may look slightly curdled—this is normal.

Step 7: Combine Wet & Dry Ingredients

• Gradually add the dry ingredient mixture into the wet mixture, stirring gently with a spatula or wooden spoon.

• Mix just until combined—do not overmix, as this can make the bread dense instead of fluffy.

Step 8: Fold in the Nuts

• Gently fold in the chopped nuts, making sure they are evenly distributed throughout the batter.

Step 9: Pour & Spread the Batter

• Pour the batter into the greased loaf pan, spreading it evenly with a spatula.

• If desired, sprinkle some extra chopped nuts on top for a decorative crunch.

Step 10: Bake the Bread

• Place the loaf pan in the preheated oven and bake for 50-60 minutes or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean.

• If the top starts browning too quickly, loosely cover it with aluminum foil for the last 15 minutes of baking.

Step 11: Cool the Bread

• Remove the loaf from the oven and let it cool in the pan for 10 minutes.

• Transfer it to a wire rack to cool completely before slicing—this helps set the texture and prevents crumbling.

Step 12: Serve & Enjoy!

• Slice and serve warm or at room temperature.

• Enjoy with butter, honey, or even a spread of cream cheese for extra flavor!

Tips for the Best Betty Crocker’s Banana Nut Bread

1. Choose the Right Bananas

• Use overripe bananas with dark spots or even fully black skins—these are naturally sweeter and mash more easily, giving the bread a rich flavor.

• If your bananas aren’t ripe enough, bake them at 300°F (150°C) for 10-15 minutes to soften and enhance their sweetness.

2. Don’t Overmix the Batter

• When combining the dry and wet ingredients, stir just until incorporated. Overmixing can lead to dense and tough bread instead of soft and moist.

3. Enhance Moisture & Flavor

• Add 1/4 cup sour cream or Greek yogurt for an extra moist texture.

• Swap white sugar with brown sugar for a deeper, caramelized taste.

4. Perfecting the Nuts

• Lightly toast the walnuts or pecans before adding them to the batter. This enhances their flavor and adds a slight crunch.

• If you want a nut-free version, you can replace nuts with chocolate chips, raisins, or shredded coconut.

5. Get a Golden, Crisp Top

• For a bakery-style crust, sprinkle a little turbinado sugar (raw sugar) or cinnamon sugar on top before baking.

6. Check for Doneness the Right Way

• Insert a toothpick into the center—if it comes out clean or with a few moist crumbs, the bread is ready.

• If the top browns too quickly, loosely cover it with aluminum foil for the last 15 minutes of baking.

7. Easy Storage for Longer Freshness

• Room Temperature: Wrap in plastic or store in an airtight container for up to 3 days.

• Refrigerator: Keeps fresh for up to a week—just warm a slice before serving!

• Freezing: Slice and wrap individually in plastic wrap, then place in a freezer-safe bag. Store for up to 3 months—just thaw and enjoy!

8. Make It Your Own!

• Add a sprinkle of cinnamon or nutmeg for a spiced version.

• Fold in chocolate chips, dried cranberries, or shredded coconut for extra texture.

• Turn this recipe into muffins—bake in a muffin tin at 350°F (175°C) for 18-22 minutes.

Conclusion

Betty Crocker’s Recipe For Banana Nut Bread is a simple yet incredibly delicious treat that brings comfort and nostalgia with every bite. Its perfectly moist texture, rich banana flavor, and crunchy nuts make it a timeless favorite for any occasion. Whether you’re baking for breakfast, a snack, or a special gathering, this classic recipe is easy to follow and always delivers amazing results. Give it a try and experience the homemade goodness for yourself! We’d love to hear how it turned out—share your baking experience and any creative twists you added in the comments or with friends and family.