Banana Bread with Walnuts Recipe
Highlighted under: Baking & Desserts
This Banana Bread with Walnuts recipe combines the natural sweetness of ripe bananas with the crunchiness of walnuts, resulting in a moist and flavorful loaf that's perfect for breakfast or a snack.
Banana bread is a classic comfort food that has been loved by many for generations. This recipe adds a delightful crunch with walnuts, making it even more enjoyable. Perfect for using up overripe bananas, this bread is a great way to reduce waste while treating yourself and your family.
Why You'll Love This Recipe
- Moist texture that melts in your mouth
- Rich banana flavor complemented by crunchy walnuts
- Perfect for breakfast, snacks, or dessert
The Perfect Use for Overripe Bananas
If you find yourself with a bunch of overripe bananas, don't toss them out! Instead, turn them into a delicious banana bread that your family will love. Overripe bananas are naturally sweeter and provide a moist texture that is essential for a perfect loaf. The darker the banana peel, the better the flavor will be in your banana bread. This recipe not only prevents waste but also gives you a tasty treat that can be enjoyed any time of the day.
Banana bread is incredibly versatile and can be enjoyed plain or with various additions like nuts, chocolate chips, or dried fruits. The beauty of this recipe lies in its simplicity and adaptability. Feel free to experiment with your favorite mix-ins to create a banana bread that's uniquely yours. Whether you prefer a nutty crunch from walnuts or a sweet surprise from chocolate, this recipe is a foundation for creativity in your baking.
Health Benefits of Bananas and Walnuts
Bananas are a powerhouse of nutrition, rich in potassium, vitamin C, and dietary fiber. This makes them an excellent choice for maintaining heart health and promoting digestive health. The natural sugars in bananas offer a quick energy boost, making banana bread a great snack option for busy mornings or afternoon pick-me-ups. Incorporating bananas into your diet can contribute to overall wellness, which is just another reason to love this banana bread recipe.
Walnuts, on the other hand, are packed with healthy fats, protein, and antioxidants. They are known to support brain health and improve heart function. By adding walnuts to this banana bread, you're not just enhancing the flavor and texture; you're also boosting the nutritional profile of your snack. The combination of bananas and walnuts makes this recipe a guilt-free indulgence that satisfies your sweet tooth while nourishing your body.
Tips for the Best Banana Bread
Ingredients
Gather the following ingredients to make your delicious banana bread with walnuts:
Ingredients
- 3 ripe bananas, mashed
- 1/3 cup melted butter
- 1 teaspoon baking soda
- Pinch of salt
- 3/4 cup sugar
- 1 large egg, beaten
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1 1/2 cups all-purpose flour
- 1/2 cup walnuts, chopped
Make sure to have all your ingredients ready before you start mixing!
Instructions
Follow these simple steps to create your banana bread:
Preheat the Oven
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and grease a 9x5 inch loaf pan.
Mix Wet Ingredients
In a mixing bowl, combine the mashed bananas and melted butter. Mix well.
Add Sugar and Egg
Stir in the sugar, beaten egg, and vanilla extract until well combined.
Combine Dry Ingredients
In another bowl, mix together the flour, baking soda, and salt.
Combine Mixtures
Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet mixture, stirring until just combined. Do not overmix.
Add Walnuts
Fold in the chopped walnuts gently into the batter.
Bake
Pour the batter into the prepared loaf pan and bake for 60 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean.
Cool and Serve
Remove from the oven and let it cool in the pan for about 10 minutes before transferring to a wire rack to cool completely.
Once cooled, slice the banana bread and enjoy it plain or with your favorite spread!
Storage and Reheating
Once your banana bread has cooled completely, it can be stored in an airtight container at room temperature for up to three days. If you want to keep it fresh for longer, consider wrapping it in plastic wrap and refrigerating it. Banana bread can last up to a week in the fridge, making it a great option for meal prep or for keeping snacks on hand.
For longer storage, you can freeze your banana bread. Simply slice it into pieces and wrap each slice in plastic wrap, then place them in a freezer-safe bag. This allows you to enjoy a slice whenever you're craving something sweet without having to bake a whole new loaf. When ready to enjoy, simply thaw at room temperature or pop a slice in the microwave for a few seconds to warm it up.
Serving Suggestions
Banana bread is delicious on its own, but you can elevate your serving game by adding various toppings. A spread of creamy butter or a drizzle of honey can enhance the flavor beautifully. For a more decadent treat, consider serving it with a dollop of whipped cream or a scoop of vanilla ice cream—perfect for dessert lovers.
If you're looking for a healthier option, try topping banana bread with Greek yogurt and fresh fruit for a balanced breakfast. The yogurt adds protein and creaminess, while the fruit provides additional vitamins and a burst of flavor. No matter how you choose to serve it, this banana bread with walnuts is sure to be a hit!
Questions About Recipes
→ Can I freeze banana bread?
Yes, banana bread freezes well. Wrap it tightly in plastic wrap and then in aluminum foil before freezing.
→ How do I know when my banana bread is done?
Insert a toothpick into the center of the bread; if it comes out clean, the bread is done.
→ Can I substitute the walnuts?
Absolutely! You can use pecans, almonds, or even omit nuts altogether if you prefer.
→ How ripe should my bananas be?
The riper, the better! Look for bananas with brown spots for maximum sweetness.
Banana Bread with Walnuts Recipe
This Banana Bread with Walnuts recipe combines the natural sweetness of ripe bananas with the crunchiness of walnuts, resulting in a moist and flavorful loaf that's perfect for breakfast or a snack.
Created by: Brielle Thompson
Recipe Type: Baking & Desserts
Skill Level: Easy
Final Quantity: 1 loaf
What You'll Need
Ingredients
- 3 ripe bananas, mashed
- 1/3 cup melted butter
- 1 teaspoon baking soda
- Pinch of salt
- 3/4 cup sugar
- 1 large egg, beaten
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1 1/2 cups all-purpose flour
- 1/2 cup walnuts, chopped
How-To Steps
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and grease a 9x5 inch loaf pan.
In a mixing bowl, combine the mashed bananas and melted butter. Mix well.
Stir in the sugar, beaten egg, and vanilla extract until well combined.
In another bowl, mix together the flour, baking soda, and salt.
Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet mixture, stirring until just combined. Do not overmix.
Fold in the chopped walnuts gently into the batter.
Pour the batter into the prepared loaf pan and bake for 60 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean.
Remove from the oven and let it cool in the pan for about 10 minutes before transferring to a wire rack to cool completely.
Nutritional Breakdown (Per Serving)
- Calories: 250 kcal
- Total Fat: 10g
- Saturated Fat: 2g
- Cholesterol: 30mg
- Sodium: 180mg
- Total Carbohydrates: 38g
- Dietary Fiber: 2g
- Sugars: 16g
- Protein: 4g