Banana Walnut Bread is a classic, moist, and flavorful loaf that combines the sweetness of ripe bananas with the nutty crunch of walnuts. Perfect for breakfast, dessert, or a snack, this recipe is simple to prepare and always a crowd-pleaser.
Preparation Time: 15 minutes
Baking Time: 50-60 minutes
Total Time: 1 hour 15 minutes
Ingredients
- Bananas: 1 cup mashed ripe bananas (300 g)
- Sugar: ½ cup (100 g)
- Salt: ¼ teaspoon
- Eggs: 2 medium
- Milk: ⅓ cup (95 g)
- All-Purpose Flour: 1¾ cups (230 g)
- Baking Powder: 2 teaspoons
- Walnuts: ¾ cup chopped (100 g)
Directions
- Preheat the Oven:
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease and lightly flour a 9×5-inch loaf pan or line it with parchment paper.
- Prepare the Wet Ingredients:
- In a large bowl, mash the ripe bananas until smooth.
- Add the sugar, salt, eggs, and milk. Mix well until fully combined.
- Combine the Dry Ingredients:
- In a separate bowl, sift together the flour and baking powder.
- Mix the Batter:
- Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet mixture, stirring gently until just combined. Avoid overmixing to keep the bread tender.
- Fold in the chopped walnuts.
- Bake the Bread:
- Pour the batter into the prepared loaf pan.
- Bake in the preheated oven for 50-60 minutes or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.
- Cool and Serve:
- Let the banana walnut bread cool in the pan for 10 minutes before transferring it to a wire rack to cool completely. Slice and serve.
Serving Suggestions
- Enjoy with a pat of butter or cream cheese for a decadent treat.
- Pair with a cup of coffee or tea for a cozy breakfast.
- Serve as a dessert with a drizzle of caramel or chocolate sauce.
Cooking Tips
- For added flavor, toast the walnuts before folding them into the batter.
- If your bananas aren’t ripe, place them in a 300°F (150°C) oven for 15-20 minutes to soften and sweeten.
- Add a handful of chocolate chips or dried fruits for a twist.
Nutritional Benefits
- Bananas: High in potassium and natural sweetness.
- Walnuts: Packed with omega-3 fatty acids and antioxidants.
- Eggs: A great source of protein and essential vitamins.
Dietary Information
- Vegetarian: Yes
- Dairy-Free Option: Substitute milk with almond or oat milk.
Nutritional Facts (Per Slice, Approximate):
- Calories: 210
- Protein: 5 g
- Carbohydrates: 30 g
- Fats: 8 g
- Fiber: 2 g
Storage
- Room Temperature: Store in an airtight container for up to 2 days.
- Refrigeration: Keeps well in the refrigerator for up to 5 days.
- Freezing: Wrap slices individually and freeze for up to 3 months. Thaw and warm before serving.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- It’s moist, sweet, and nutty—a delightful combination of flavors and textures.
- Quick and easy to prepare with everyday ingredients.
- Perfect for breakfast, snacks, or gifting.
- Freezer-friendly for convenient, make-ahead treats.
Conclusion
Banana Walnut Bread is a timeless recipe that transforms overripe bananas into a delicious, hearty loaf. The crunch of walnuts combined with the natural sweetness of bananas makes every bite irresistible. Whether served warm or chilled, it’s a treat you’ll want to make again and again!
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
- Can I use frozen bananas?
Yes, thaw frozen bananas before mashing, and use the liquid for added flavor. - Can I make this gluten-free?
Substitute all-purpose flour with a gluten-free flour blend for baking. - What can I use instead of walnuts?
Try pecans, almonds, or chocolate chips as alternatives. - Can I reduce the sugar?
Yes, reduce sugar to ⅓ cup or substitute with honey or maple syrup. - Can I use whole wheat flour?
Yes, replace half the all-purpose flour with whole wheat flour for a denser texture. - How do I prevent the bread from sticking to the pan?
Grease the pan well or line it with parchment paper for easy removal. - Can I make muffins instead of a loaf?
Yes, divide the batter into a muffin tin and bake for 18-20 minutes. - How can I tell when the bread is done?
Insert a toothpick into the center; if it comes out clean, the bread is ready. - What milk alternatives can I use?
Use almond, soy, or coconut milk as substitutes for regular milk. - Can I add spices to the batter?
Yes, cinnamon, nutmeg, or vanilla extract are great additions for extra flavor.