Banana Bread with Walnuts Recipe
Highlighted under: Baking & Desserts
Enjoy this delightful Banana Bread with Walnuts, a perfect blend of sweet bananas and crunchy walnuts in a moist loaf.
This Banana Bread with Walnuts is a family favorite, passed down through generations. The combination of ripe bananas and crunchy walnuts creates a delicious treat that is perfect for breakfast or as a snack.
Why You Will Love This Recipe
- Moist and fluffy texture that melts in your mouth
- Delicious aroma that fills your kitchen while baking
- Packed with nutrients from bananas and walnuts
The Perfect Snack for Any Time
Banana bread is not only a delicious treat but also a versatile snack that can be enjoyed at any time of the day. Whether you have it for breakfast, as a mid-afternoon pick-me-up, or as a comforting dessert, this Banana Bread with Walnuts fits the bill perfectly. The natural sweetness of the bananas and the crunch of the walnuts create a delightful contrast that makes each bite satisfying.
Additionally, this recipe is a fantastic way to use up overripe bananas that might otherwise go to waste. Instead of tossing them in the trash, simply mash them up and incorporate them into this scrumptious loaf. It’s a great example of how you can turn simple ingredients into a beloved family favorite.
Tips for the Best Banana Bread
To achieve the best results with this Banana Bread with Walnuts, it’s important to use very ripe bananas. The darker and more speckled the bananas are, the sweeter and more flavorful your bread will be. Overripe bananas are not only easier to mash but also provide the moisture needed for a soft loaf.
Another key tip is to avoid overmixing the batter once you add the flour. Gently folding the ingredients together ensures your banana bread remains fluffy and tender. Overmixing can lead to a dense texture that is less enjoyable. Stick to folding until you see no dry flour for the best outcome.
Storing and Freezing Banana Bread
Once your Banana Bread with Walnuts has cooled, proper storage is essential to keep it fresh. Wrap it tightly in plastic wrap or store it in an airtight container at room temperature. It can last for about 3-4 days, making it an excellent option for preparing in advance and enjoying throughout the week.
If you want to preserve your banana bread for a longer period, consider freezing it. Slice the bread and wrap individual pieces in plastic wrap, then place them in a freezer bag. This way, you can pull out a slice whenever the craving strikes. Thawing is easy; just leave it at room temperature for a few hours or warm it up in the microwave for a few seconds.
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 the ingredients well for the best flavor and consistency.
Instructions
Preheat the Oven
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
Mix Ingredients
In a large mixing bowl, combine the mashed bananas with the melted butter. Mix in the baking soda and salt.
Add Sugar and Egg
Stir in the sugar, beaten egg, and vanilla extract until smooth.
Incorporate Flour and Walnuts
Gently fold in the flour and chopped walnuts until just combined.
Bake the Bread
Pour the batter into a greased loaf pan and bake for 60 minutes, or until a toothpick comes out clean.
Cool and Serve
Allow the bread to cool in the pan for 10 minutes before transferring it to a wire rack to cool completely.
Slice and serve the banana bread, enjoying it warm or at room temperature.
Serving Suggestions
This Banana Bread with Walnuts can be enjoyed on its own, but there are plenty of delicious ways to elevate your experience. Consider spreading a little butter or cream cheese on a warm slice for added richness. A drizzle of honey or maple syrup can also enhance the natural sweetness of the bread, making it an indulgent treat.
For a delightful breakfast, pair your banana bread with a side of fresh fruit and a cup of coffee or tea. The combination of flavors will leave you feeling satisfied and ready to take on the day.
Health Benefits of Bananas and Walnuts
Bananas are packed with essential nutrients, including vitamin C, vitamin B6, and potassium. They provide a quick energy boost and are known to support heart health and digestion. Incorporating bananas into your diet can also help maintain healthy blood pressure levels.
Walnuts are a powerhouse of nutrition as well. They are rich in omega-3 fatty acids, antioxidants, and protein, making them an excellent addition to this banana bread recipe. Including walnuts can enhance brain health and provide anti-inflammatory benefits, making this tasty treat not just delicious but also nutritious.
Questions About Recipes
→ Can I use frozen bananas?
Yes, you can use thawed frozen bananas for this recipe.
→ How do I store leftover banana bread?
Wrap the banana bread in plastic wrap and store it at room temperature for up to 3 days, or refrigerate for up to a week.
→ Can I substitute walnuts with other nuts?
Absolutely! You can use pecans or almonds as a substitute for walnuts.
→ Is this recipe suitable for freezing?
Yes, you can freeze the banana bread for up to 3 months. Just make sure to wrap it tightly.
Banana Bread with Walnuts Recipe
Enjoy this delightful Banana Bread with Walnuts, a perfect blend of sweet bananas and crunchy walnuts in a moist loaf.
Created by: Amber Walsh
Recipe Type: Baking & Desserts
Skill Level: Easy
Final Quantity: 1 loaf
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).
In a large mixing bowl, combine the mashed bananas with the melted butter. Mix in the baking soda and salt.
Stir in the sugar, beaten egg, and vanilla extract until smooth.
Gently fold in the flour and chopped walnuts until just combined.
Pour the batter into a greased loaf pan and bake for 60 minutes, or until a toothpick comes out clean.
Allow the bread to cool in the pan for 10 minutes before transferring it to a wire rack to cool completely.
Nutritional Breakdown (Per Serving)
- Calories: 380 kcal
- Total Fat: 26g
- Saturated Fat: 5g
- Cholesterol: 35mg
- Sodium: 110mg
- Total Carbohydrates: 32g
- Dietary Fiber: 3g
- Sugars: 18g
- Protein: 6g