If you’re on the hunt for the ultimate comfort food, look no further than Aunt Ginny's Banana Nut Bread! This delightful recipe transforms overripe bananas into a moist, flavorful loaf that’s perfect for breakfast, snack time, or even dessert. With its rich buttery flavor and the satisfying crunch of walnuts or pecans, each slice is a warm hug for your taste buds. Ready to impress your family and friends with a homemade treat that will have them begging for seconds? Dive into this easy-to-follow recipe and discover the secret to baking the perfect banana nut bread!
Prep Time: 15 mins
Cook Time: 60 mins
Total Time: 1 hrs 15 mins
Cuisine: American
Serves: 1 loaf
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 cup all-purpose flour
- 1/2 cup chopped walnuts or pecans
Instructions
- Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease a 9x5 inch loaf pan with butter or non-stick cooking spray, ensuring complete coverage to prevent sticking.
- In a large mixing bowl, mash the ripe bananas with a fork until they reach a smooth, creamy consistency. The bananas should be very soft and easily breakable.
- Pour the melted butter into the mashed bananas and mix thoroughly until well combined. The mixture should look glossy and uniform.
- Add the baking soda and salt to the banana-butter mixture, stirring to distribute evenly throughout the wet ingredients.
- Mix in the sugar, beaten egg, and vanilla extract. Whisk until all ingredients are fully incorporated and the mixture looks smooth and slightly frothy.
- Gradually fold in the all-purpose flour, stirring gently until just combined. Be careful not to overmix, as this can make the bread tough.
- Gently fold in the chopped walnuts or pecans, distributing them evenly throughout the batter.
- Pour the batter into the prepared loaf pan, using a spatula to spread it evenly and smooth the top.
- Place the pan in the preheated oven and bake for 50-60 minutes. Check for doneness by inserting a toothpick into the center - it should come out clean with just a few moist crumbs.
- Remove from the oven and let the banana nut bread cool in the pan for 10 minutes, then carefully turn out onto a wire rack to cool completely.
- Once cooled, slice and serve. The bread can be stored at room temperature in an airtight container for up to 3-4 days.
Tips
- Choose the Right Bananas: The riper the bananas, the better! Look for bananas with plenty of brown spots, as they will provide the sweetest flavor and best texture for your bread.
- Don’t Overmix: When adding the flour, mix just until combined. Overmixing can lead to a dense loaf, so be gentle to keep it light and airy.
- Add Extra Flavor: Consider adding a pinch of cinnamon or nutmeg for a warm spice note, or even a handful of chocolate chips for a decadent twist!
- Check for Doneness: Ovens can vary, so start checking your bread at the 50-minute mark. A toothpick inserted into the center should come out clean or with a few moist crumbs.
- Storage Tips: To keep your banana nut bread fresh, store it in an airtight container at room temperature. It also freezes well, so you can enjoy it later—just slice it first for easy thawing!
Nutrition Facts
Calories: 250kcal
Carbohydrates: 35g
Protein: 4g
Fat: 12g
Saturated Fat: 5g
Cholesterol: 35mg
