Banana Bread with Walnuts Recipe
Highlighted under: Golden Cooking
Enjoy the delightful flavors of homemade Banana Bread with Walnuts. This moist and flavorful bread is perfect for breakfast or as a snack.
This Banana Bread with Walnuts is a family favorite, passed down through generations. With its rich banana flavor and crunchy walnuts, it’s sure to become a staple in your home.
Why You Will Love This Recipe
- Rich banana flavor complemented by crunchy walnuts
- Moist and tender crumb that melts in your mouth
- Perfect for breakfast, snacks, or dessert
The Perfect Blend of Flavors
Banana bread is a timeless classic that combines the sweet, rich flavor of ripe bananas with the crunchy texture of walnuts. This delightful combination not only pleases the palate but also provides a wonderful contrast in texture, making each bite an enjoyable experience. The natural sweetness of the bananas means you can use less sugar, allowing the fruit's flavor to shine through.
In this recipe, we emphasize the importance of using ripe bananas. The browner the bananas, the more intense their flavor will be. As they ripen, their starches convert to sugars, resulting in a naturally sweet and moist bread. This is the secret to achieving that perfect, melt-in-your-mouth crumb that everyone loves.
Versatile and Easy to Make
One of the best things about this banana bread recipe is its versatility. You can enjoy it for breakfast, as an afternoon snack, or even as a light dessert. It pairs wonderfully with a hot cup of coffee or tea, making it a delightful treat any time of day. Plus, it's a fantastic way to use up overripe bananas that might otherwise go to waste.
Making banana bread is also a straightforward process that doesn’t require any advanced baking skills. With just a few simple ingredients and steps, you can whip up a delicious loaf in no time. It’s a great recipe for beginners and seasoned bakers alike, ensuring that anyone can create this beloved loaf.
Storage and Serving Suggestions
Once your banana bread has cooled, consider how you want to store it. It can be kept at room temperature for a few days, but for longer storage, wrap it tightly in plastic wrap and place it in the fridge. Banana bread also freezes beautifully—just slice it beforehand so you can grab a piece whenever the craving strikes.
For serving, you can enjoy banana bread plain, or elevate it with a spread of butter or cream cheese. Adding a drizzle of honey or a sprinkle of cinnamon can also enhance its flavor. Don’t hesitate to experiment with mix-ins like chocolate chips or dried fruit for a unique twist!
Ingredients
For the Banana Bread
- 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
Mix all ingredients well for a delicious result!
Instructions
Preheat the Oven
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease a 4x8 inch loaf pan.
Mix Ingredients
In a mixing bowl, mash the ripe bananas with a fork. Stir in the melted butter. Mix in the baking soda and salt. Add the sugar, beaten egg, and vanilla extract. Mix well. Finally, add the flour and walnuts, and stir until just combined.
Bake the Bread
Pour the batter into the greased loaf pan. Bake for 60 minutes or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.
Cool and Serve
Let the bread cool in the pan for about 10 minutes before transferring it to a wire rack to cool completely. Slice and serve.
Enjoy your homemade banana bread!
Pro Tips
- For extra flavor, add a teaspoon of cinnamon or nutmeg to the batter.
Nutritional Benefits
Banana bread is not only delicious but also packed with nutritional benefits. Bananas are a great source of potassium, which is essential for heart health and maintaining proper muscle function. They also provide dietary fiber, aiding in digestion and promoting a feeling of fullness.
Walnuts add another layer of nutrition to this recipe. They are rich in omega-3 fatty acids, which are known for their anti-inflammatory properties and benefits for brain health. Incorporating nuts into your diet can also support heart health, making this banana bread a wholesome choice.
Customizing Your Banana Bread
Don’t be afraid to customize your banana bread! This recipe serves as a fantastic base for various flavor additions. If you're a fan of chocolate, consider folding in some chocolate chips for a decadent touch. For a spicier flavor profile, a teaspoon of cinnamon or nutmeg can add warmth and depth.
You might also experiment with different nuts or seeds, such as pecans or pumpkin seeds, for added crunch and flavor. The beauty of banana bread lies in its flexibility—feel free to make it your own!
Perfect Pairings
Pair your freshly baked banana bread with a variety of accompaniments for an enhanced experience. A dollop of whipped cream or a scoop of vanilla ice cream transforms it into a delightful dessert. Alternatively, for a breakfast option, serve it alongside Greek yogurt topped with fresh fruit.
If you're hosting a brunch, banana bread can be a standout centerpiece. Present it on a beautiful platter with an assortment of jams and spreads, allowing guests to create their own delicious combinations. The possibilities are endless!
Questions About Recipes
→ Can I use frozen bananas for this recipe?
Yes, thaw the frozen bananas and drain any excess liquid before mashing.
→ How should I store leftover banana bread?
Store it in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days, or refrigerate for longer freshness.
→ Can I add chocolate chips to the banana bread?
Absolutely! Chocolate chips make a delicious addition to this recipe.
→ What can I use instead of walnuts?
You can use pecans or omit the nuts entirely if you prefer.
Banana Bread with Walnuts Recipe
Enjoy the delightful flavors of homemade Banana Bread with Walnuts. This moist and flavorful bread is perfect for breakfast or as a snack.
What You'll Need
For the Banana Bread
- 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). Grease a 4x8 inch loaf pan.
In a mixing bowl, mash the ripe bananas with a fork. Stir in the melted butter. Mix in the baking soda and salt. Add the sugar, beaten egg, and vanilla extract. Mix well. Finally, add the flour and walnuts, and stir until just combined.
Pour the batter into the greased loaf pan. Bake for 60 minutes or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.
Let the bread cool in the pan for about 10 minutes before transferring it to a wire rack to cool completely. Slice and serve.
Extra Tips
- For extra flavor, add a teaspoon of cinnamon or nutmeg to the batter.
Nutritional Breakdown (Per Serving)
- Calories: 200 kcal
- Total Fat: 9g
- Saturated Fat: 3g
- Cholesterol: 30mg
- Sodium: 150mg
- Total Carbohydrates: 30g
- Dietary Fiber: 1g
- Sugars: 12g
- Protein: 3g