This Yummy Banana Walnut Bread recipe combines ripe bananas and crunchy walnuts for a moist, flavorful loaf that's perfect for breakfast, snacks, or a sweet treat. The bananas provide natural sweetness and moisture, while the walnuts add a rich, nutty flavor and texture.
Loaf Pan (9x5-inch) A standard loaf pan is essential for shaping and baking the Banana Walnut Bread.
Mixing Bowls (2 medium-sized) One for mixing the wet ingredients and one for combining the dry ingredients.
Measuring cups and spoons For accurately measuring the flour, sugar, baking soda, and other ingredients.
Electric mixer or whisk An electric mixer is helpful for creaming the butter and sugar together, but you can also use a whisk or hand mixer.
Fork or Potato Masher For mashing the ripe bananas until smooth or slightly lumpy.
Ingredients
2cupsRipe Bananas
2cupsAll-Purpose Flour
1teaspoonBaking Soda
1/2teaspoonSalt
Instructions
Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C) and grease a 9x5-inch loaf pan.
Mash the ripe bananas in a bowl, then cream together butter and sugar in a separate bowl.
Add egg and vanilla to the butter mixture, then mix in the mashed bananas.
Stir in flour, baking soda, and salt, then fold in walnuts.
Pour batter into the pan, bake for 55-65 minutes, and cool before slicing.
Notes
Banana Ripeness: The riper the bananas, the better! Overripe bananas with brown spots are sweeter and give the bread a moist texture. Avoid using bananas that are still firm or green for best results.
Walnut Size: Chop the walnuts into small pieces to ensure they are evenly distributed throughout the batter. If you prefer a chunkier texture, leave them in larger pieces.
Don’t Overmix: When combining the wet and dry ingredients, stir gently until just combined. Overmixing can lead to a dense loaf.
Baking Time: Every oven is different, so start checking your bread around the 55-minute mark. If the top is getting too brown but the bread is still underbaked, cover it with foil and continue baking until done.
Cool Before Slicing: Let the bread cool in the pan for about 10-15 minutes before transferring it to a wire rack to cool completely. This helps the loaf firm up and makes it easier to slice.
Storage: Store Banana Walnut Bread in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days. For longer storage, wrap it tightly in plastic wrap and freeze for up to 3 months. Thaw before serving.
Flavor Variations: For a fun twist, consider adding cinnamon, nutmeg, or chocolate chips to the batter for extra flavor.