Banana Nut Bread

The aroma of freshly baked Banana Nut Bread wafting through the house is one of life’s simple pleasures. I remember the first time I tried my hand at this delightful bread; it was a rainy afternoon, and the skies were gray. I had a few overripe bananas sitting on the counter, their spots a clear indication that they were ready for transformation. With a little creativity and a handful of pantry staples, I whipped up a batch that not only filled my kitchen with a comforting scent but also brought joy to my family as we gathered around the table to share a slice together. Each bite was moist and packed with the rich flavor of pecans and cinnamon, reminding me that some of the best moments are spent enjoying homemade treats with loved ones.

This recipe stands out not only for its simple ingredients but also for its versatility. You can enjoy Banana Nut Bread for breakfast alongside your morning coffee or as a sweet snack throughout the day. What makes it even more special is how it can be easily customized; from adding chocolate chips to swapping in different nuts, the possibilities are endless! I invite you to dive into the world of baking and discover the warmth that comes from a homemade loaf of Banana Nut Bread. It’s more than just a recipe; it’s an experience that can turn any ordinary day into something memorable.

What Goes Into Banana Nut Bread

When it comes to baking Banana Nut Bread, the ingredients are simple yet essential to achieving that perfect loaf. Each ingredient plays a vital role in creating the rich flavors and delightful texture. For example, the granulated sugar not only sweetens the bread but also contributes to its moistness, while the almond flour gives it a tender crumb. Let’s explore the key players in this delightful recipe!

• ¾ cup (150g) granulated sugar: This sweetener is crucial for balancing the flavors and ensuring the bread is moist.
• ½ cup (118ml) vegetable oil: Adds moisture and richness, preventing the bread from being dry.
• ¼ teaspoon salt: Enhances the flavors of the other ingredients.
• 2 overripe bananas: The star ingredient, providing natural sweetness and moisture.
• 2 large eggs: Helps bind the ingredients together, adding structure.
• 7 tablespoons milk: Contributes to the batter’s consistency and moisture.
• 1 teaspoon vinegar: Balances the flavors and reacts with the baking soda for leavening.
• 1 teaspoon baking soda: This leavening agent ensures the bread rises properly.
• 1 ½ teaspoons cinnamon: Adds warmth and spice, elevating the flavor profile.
• 2 cups (248g) all-purpose flour: The base of the bread, providing structure.
• 1 cup chopped pecans: Adds texture and a delightful crunch.
• 1 ¾ cups (198g) powdered sugar: Used for frosting, adding sweetness and a smooth finish.
• ¼ teaspoon salt: Again, to enhance the sweet flavors.
• 1 ½ teaspoons cinnamon: For the frosting, complementing the bread beautifully.
• 1 ½ teaspoons vanilla: Adds a lovely aroma and flavor to the frosting.
• 2 tablespoons milk: Used for adjusting frosting consistency.
• ¾ cup toasted chopped pecans: For topping, bringing a nutty crunch to each slice.

Making Banana Nut Bread

Now that we’ve prepped our ingredients, let’s dive into the fun part—making the Banana Nut Bread! This process is not only easy but also incredibly rewarding. Follow these steps for a delicious loaf that will make your kitchen smell heavenly.

1. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). This step is essential for ensuring your bread bakes evenly.
2. Grease an 8×4 or 9×5-inch loaf pan with shortening or butter and coat it with sugar. This will help the bread release easily after baking, giving it a lovely crust.
3. In a large bowl, mash the overripe bananas using a fork or potato masher until smooth. The more mashed they are, the more they will blend into the batter.
4. Add in the vegetable oil, granulated sugar, eggs, baking soda, cinnamon, and salt. Stir until the mixture is well combined and creamy.
5. Next, incorporate the all-purpose flour, milk, vanilla, and vinegar. Mix until just combined; be careful not to overmix, or your bread may turn out tough.
6. Gently fold in the chopped pecans until they are evenly distributed throughout the batter.
7. Pour the batter into your prepared pan, smoothing the top with a spatula. This step ensures even baking.
8. Bake in your preheated oven for about 45 to 60 minutes. Check for doneness by inserting a toothpick into the center; it should come out clean.
9. Once baked, allow the bread to cool in the pan for about 10 minutes before transferring it to a wire rack. Let it cool completely.
10. In the meantime, prepare the frosting by whisking together the powdered sugar, cinnamon, and salt. Gradually whisk in the vanilla and milk until you reach the desired consistency.
11. Once the bread is cool, frost the top with the mixture and sprinkle with toasted chopped pecans for added crunch.
12. Finally, store any leftover bread in an airtight container for up to 3 days or slice and freeze for up to 1 month.

Ways to Customize

Customizing your Banana Nut Bread is part of the fun! Here are some tips on how to make this recipe your own.

• Add Chocolate Chips: For a sweeter twist, fold in chocolate chips alongside the nuts.
• Nut Variations: Experiment with different types of nuts like walnuts or even hazelnuts for a unique flavor.
• Spice It Up: Add a pinch of nutmeg or ginger for a spiced variation of Banana Nut Bread.
• Frosting Options: Instead of traditional frosting, try a cream cheese frosting for a richer taste.
• Banana Variations: Incorporate other fruits like applesauce or peaches for additional moisture and flavor.
• Serving Suggestions: Serve warm with a spread of butter or even a drizzle of honey for an extra touch.
• Freezing Tips: Slice your Banana Nut Bread before freezing, making it easy to grab a piece whenever you need a quick treat.

How to Enjoy Banana Nut Bread

Serving Banana Nut Bread can be as delightful as baking it! Here are some creative ways to enjoy this moist loaf:

• Breakfast Delight: Serve a warm slice for breakfast alongside your favorite coffee or tea.
• Afternoon Snack: Pair it with a cup of tea or a glass of milk for a comforting afternoon treat.
• Brunch Addition: Make it a star at your brunch table, serving with whipped cream and fresh fruits.
• Holiday Treat: This bread makes a fantastic gift during the holidays, wrapped in decorative foil.
• Storage Tip: Keep leftover bread in an airtight container at room temperature for up to three days.
• Freezing Option: Freeze slices individually so you can enjoy them any time without thawing the entire loaf.
• Seasonal Pairing: Top with seasonal fruits, such as strawberries or peaches, for a fresh touch.

FAQ

Conclusion

Making Banana Nut Bread is a delightful experience that fills your home with warmth and sweet aromas. This recipe is perfect for any occasion, whether you’re treating yourself or sharing with loved ones. I encourage you to try making this easy bread today; I promise it will become a cherished favorite in your baking repertoire!

Banana Nut Bread

The ultimate comfort food, Banana Nut Bread is moist, sweet, and bursting with flavor. Perfect for breakfast or as a delicious snack, this easy recipe will satisfy your cravings. Make it today for a delightful homemade treat!

Print Recipe Pin Recipe

Prep Time 30 minutes mins

Cook Time 1 hour hr

Total Time 1 hour hr 30 minutes mins

Servings: 10 servings

Course: Desserts

Cuisine: American

Calories: 180

Ingredients Equipment Method Notes

Ingredients

  

• ¾ cup granulated sugar
• ½ cup vegetable oil
• ¼ teaspoon salt
• 2 overripe bananas
• 2 large eggs
• 7 tablespoons milk see note
• 1 teaspoon vinegar
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
• 1 teaspoon baking soda
• 1 ½ teaspoons cinnamon
• 2 cups all-purpose flour
• 1 cup chopped pecans
• 1 ¾ cups powdered sugar
• ¼ teaspoon salt
• 1 ½ teaspoons cinnamon
• 1 ½ teaspoons vanilla
• 2 tablespoons milk nondairy milk, or heavy whipping cream
• ¾ cup toasted chopped pecans

Equipment

• Oven
• Wooden Spoon
• Whisk
• Baking Sheet
• Chef's Knife
• Frying Pan

Method

 

1. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). This step is essential for ensuring your bread bakes evenly.
2. Grease an 84 or 95-inch loaf pan with shortening or butter and coat it with sugar. This will help the bread release easily after baking, giving it a lovely crust.
3. In a large bowl, mash the overripe bananas using a fork or potato masher until smooth. The more mashed they are, the more they will blend into the batter.
4. Add in the vegetable oil, granulated sugar, eggs, baking soda, cinnamon, and salt. Stir until the mixture is well combined and creamy.
5. Next, incorporate the all-purpose flour, milk, vanilla, and vinegar. Mix until just combined; be careful not to overmix, or your bread may turn out tough.
6. Gently fold in the chopped pecans until they are evenly distributed throughout the batter.
7. Pour the batter into your prepared pan, smoothing the top with a spatula. This step ensures even baking.
8. Bake in your preheated oven for about 45 to 60 minutes. Check for doneness by inserting a toothpick into the center; it should come out clean.
9. Once baked, allow the bread to cool in the pan for about 10 minutes before transferring it to a wire rack. Let it cool completely.
10. In the meantime, prepare the frosting by whisking together the powdered sugar, cinnamon, and salt. Gradually whisk in the vanilla and milk until you reach the desired consistency.
11. Once the bread is cool, frost the top with the mixture and sprinkle with toasted chopped pecans for added crunch.
12. Finally, store any leftover bread in an airtight container for up to 3 days or slice and freeze for up to 1 month.

Notes

• Tip 1: If you use buttermilk, skip the vinegar.
• Tip 2: If you use cow’s milk, you can use nonfat, 2% or whole. Add 1 teaspoon vinegar to the milk and let it sit 5 minutes, while you mix the other ingredients.
• Tip 3: If you use non-dairy milk (i.e. soy, almond, cashew, oat), just add 1 teaspoon vinegar to the mixture when you’re mixing.
• Tip 4: Swap ½ cup unsalted butter for the oil for a rich buttery taste.
• Tip 5: Make walnut banana bread with chopped walnuts or banana pecan bread with chopped pecans!

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Meet Violet Lane

The Creative Spark I see the kitchen as my art studio. I love experimenting with colors and textures, and I’m usually the one asking, “What if we added this?” I encourage the team to take risks and try new flavor combinations. I love the energy of cooking with six other people it’s chaotic, colorful, and inspiring. I’m hands-on with the cooking and styling, always trying to make our plates look as artistic as they taste.