The Ultimate Nutty Banana Bread: A Timeless Recipe with a Crunchy Twist
Banana bread has secured its place in the heart of home baking due to its moist texture, natural sweetness, and the cozy aroma that beckons everyone to the kitchen. This classic treat isn't just a delicious way to start your day; it's also a smart and tasty solution for giving overripe bananas a second chance.
Our ultimate nutty banana bread recipe elevates the traditional with the addition of crunchy nuts, adding texture and rich flavour to every bite.
Alongside step-by-step instructions, we offer nutritional insights and adaptable options for various dietary preferences, ensuring everyone can enjoy this beloved bake.
Ingredients
- Overripe bananas: 3 large (about 1.5 cups mashed) – A great source of dietary fibre, vitamin C, vitamin B6, and potassium.
- All-purpose flour: 2 cups – For structure; use almond or oat flour for a gluten-free alternative.
- Baking soda: 1 teaspoon – Acts as a leavening agent.
- Salt: 1/4 teaspoon – Balances sweetness.
- Unsalted butter: 1/2 cup (melted) – For moisture; use coconut oil or plant-based butter for vegan versions.
- Granulated sugar: 3/4 cup – Adds sweetness; can be substituted with maple syrup for a less refined option.
- Eggs: 2 large – For moisture and structure; replace with flax eggs for a vegan variant.
- Vanilla extract: 1 teaspoon – Enhances flavor.
- Walnuts or pecans: 1/2 cup (chopped) – Introduces a delightful crunch and a boost of healthy fats, fiber, and protein.
Instructions
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and grease a 9x5 inch loaf pan.
- Mash the bananas until smooth using a fork or potato masher. Set aside.
- Combine the flour, baking soda, and salt in a medium bowl.
- In a large bowl, blend the melted butter with the sugar until well mixed. Incorporate the eggs and vanilla extract, blending thoroughly after each addition.
- Stir in the mashed bananas with the wet ingredients until smoothly combined.
- Slowly mix in the dry ingredients to the wet, stirring until just combined to avoid overmixing.
- Gently fold in the chopped nuts, ensuring they're evenly distributed throughout the batter.
- Transfer the batter to the prepared loaf pan, leveling the top with a spatula.
- Bake for 60-65 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean.
- Cool the bread in the pan for 10 minutes, then move it to a wire rack to cool completely.
Nutritional Information (per slice, approx. 12 slices)
- Calories: 230
- Protein: 4g
- Fat: 10g (Saturated: 5g)
- Carbohydrates: 35g (Fiber: 2g, Sugars: 18g)
- Sodium: 210mg
Diet-Specific Alternatives
- Gluten-Free: Swap all-purpose flour with almond or oat flour.
- Vegan: Opt for plant-based butter and flax eggs in place of dairy butter and eggs.
- Lower Sugar: Reduce the amount of granulated sugar or use maple syrup for a natural sweetness.
Adding nuts to banana bread not only introduces an additional layer of texture and flavor but also enriches the bread with nutritional benefits, making each slice a perfect blend of comfort and health. Whether serving it for breakfast, as a snack, or dessert, this nutty banana bread is sure to bring smiles and warmth to any moment. Enjoy the process of baking this upgraded classic, and relish in the joy it brings to your table. Happy baking!
