Description
This old-fashioned banana nut bread is a moist, buttery, and nutty classic that’s easy to make and packed with rich banana flavor. Perfect for breakfast, a snack, or a comforting treat, this foolproof recipe ensures a soft, flavorful loaf every time. With simple ingredients and a step-by-step guide, you’ll bake the most delicious banana nut bread that tastes just like grandma’s!
Ingredients
Scale
- 3 large overripe bananas, mashed
- ½ cup (1 stick) unsalted butter, melted
- ¾ cup granulated sugar (or substitute brown sugar for extra moisture)
- 2 large eggs, room temperature
- 1 tsp vanilla extract
- ¼ cup buttermilk (or Greek yogurt for extra moisture)
Dry Ingredients:
- 2 cups all-purpose flour
- 1 tsp baking soda
- ½ tsp baking powder
- ½ tsp salt
- 1 tsp cinnamon (optional, but adds warmth)
Add-Ins:
- ¾ cup chopped walnuts or pecans (toasted for extra flavor)
- ½ cup chocolate chips (optional, for a sweet twist)
Instructions
Step 1: Prep Your Ingredients
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease a 9×5-inch loaf pan or line it with parchment paper.
- In a medium bowl, mash the bananas until smooth.
Step 2: Mix the Wet Ingredients
- In a large mixing bowl, whisk together the melted butter and sugar.
- Add eggs, one at a time, beating well after each addition. Stir in the vanilla extract and buttermilk.
- Mix in the mashed bananas until fully incorporated.
Step 3: Combine Dry Ingredients
- In a separate bowl, whisk together the flour, baking soda, baking powder, salt, and cinnamon.
Step 4: Mix the Batter
- Gradually fold the dry ingredients into the wet ingredients, mixing gently until just combined. Do not overmix!
- Fold in the chopped nuts (and chocolate chips, if using).
Step 5: Bake the Banana Nut Bread
- Pour the batter into the prepared loaf pan and smooth the top.
- Bake for 55-65 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean.
- Let the bread cool in the pan for 10 minutes, then transfer to a wire rack to cool completely.
Notes
- For extra moisture, replace half of the butter with unsweetened applesauce.
- To ripen bananas quickly, place them in a 300°F (150°C) oven for 15 minutes.
- Store leftovers in an airtight container at room temperature for 4 days or freeze for up to 3 months.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 55-65 minutes
- Category: Breakfast
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American