Classic Banana Bread With Walnuts

Name: Classic Banana Bread With Walnuts
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 1 h
Total time: 1 h 15 min
Yield: 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 walnuts, chopped

Highlighted under: Comfort Classics Reimagined

I absolutely love baking, and nothing brings me more joy than a warm loaf of Classic Banana Bread with Walnuts fresh from the oven. The combination of ripe bananas and crunchy walnuts creates a perfect blend of flavor and texture. This recipe is not only quick and easy to prepare, but it also makes for a delightful treat that can be enjoyed at any time of the day. I often whip this up when I have a few overripe bananas lounging on my counter, turning potential waste into a delicious, comforting snack.

Created by

Marley Quinn

Last updated on 2026-02-08T01:24:36.448Z

When I first baked this Classic Banana Bread, I wasn't sure how it would turn out, but the moment I pulled it from the oven, the rich aroma filled my kitchen, and I knew I had created something special. The warmth of the bananas blended beautifully with the added walnuts, giving it an irresistible crunch that's both satisfying and delicious.

One tip I learned over the years is to use bananas that are really ripe, almost too ripe to eat. This not only enhances the sweetness but also makes the bread incredibly moist. Adding a sprinkle of cinnamon elevates the flavor profile, making each bite an experience!

You Will Love This Recipe Because
Ripe bananas bring natural sweetness, requiring less sugar.
Crunchy walnuts add a delightful texture and nutty flavor.
Easy preparation means you can enjoy freshly baked bread in no time.

The Role of Ripe Bananas

Ripe bananas are key to achieving the perfect sweetness in this classic banana bread. The more brown spots they have, the sweeter and more flavorful they become. This natural sweetness reduces the need for added sugar, allowing the banana flavor to shine through. When selecting your bananas, aim for those that are fully ripe, soft to the touch, and slightly overripe; they will yield a moister loaf.

Mash the bananas until smooth for uniform distribution in the batter. If you prefer a bit of texture, leave small lumps. The ripeness of your bananas also affects the moisture content of the bread, so it's important to use them correctly. Under-ripe bananas can lead to a drier loaf, while overripe bananas can result in an overly moist one, so finding the right balance is essential.

Importance of Mixing Technique

When you mix the ingredients for banana bread, it's crucial to avoid overmixing the batter. Once you add the flour, stir until just combined. Overmixing can develop gluten in the flour, leading to a tough and chewy texture rather than a light and fluffy loaf. This is especially important in quick breads like this banana bread, where we want a tender crumb and soft bite.

After folding in the walnuts, take a moment to ensure there are no dry flour pockets left in the batter. You want to achieve a homogeneous mixture without losing the air incorporated into the batter from the mixing process, which is what keeps the loaf soft and airy. A gentle hand with the spatula can make all the difference here.

Ingredients

Gather these simple ingredients to make your banana bread:

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 walnuts, chopped

Now that you have your ingredients ready, let’s bake!

Instructions

Follow these steps to create your perfect banana bread:

Preheat and Mix

Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). In a mixing bowl, mash the ripe bananas with a fork until smooth. Stir in the melted butter. Mix in the baking soda and salt, then add the sugar, beaten egg, and vanilla extract.

Combine Ingredients

Slowly incorporate the flour into the banana mixture until just combined. Do not overmix! Once combined, fold in the chopped walnuts.

Bake

Pour the batter into a greased loaf pan and bake in the preheated oven for about 60 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.

Cool and Enjoy

Remove the banana bread from the oven and let it cool in the pan for about 10 minutes before transferring it to a wire rack. Slice once cooled and enjoy your homemade classic banana bread!

Your delicious banana bread is now ready to bring joy to your table!

Pro Tips

For an extra touch, try adding dark chocolate chips or dried fruits to the batter. Keep the bread stored in an airtight container to maintain freshness for days.

Storing and Freezing Banana Bread

Storing your banana bread properly can significantly extend its shelf life. Once completely cooled, wrap the loaf in plastic wrap or aluminum foil to keep it fresh. At room temperature, it will stay good for about 3 days. For longer storage, consider refrigerating it, which can prolong its life up to a week, but be aware that the texture may change slightly.

If you want to make-ahead or store banana bread for an extended period, freezing is your best bet. Slice the loaf and wrap individual pieces tightly in plastic wrap and then in aluminum foil. The banana bread can be frozen for up to 3 months. When ready to enjoy, simply thaw at room temperature or reheat in a toaster oven for a few minutes until warmed through and delicious.

Serving Suggestions and Variations

Banana bread pairs wonderfully with a variety of toppings and accompaniments. Try spreading a little butter for a savory touch, or add a dollop of cream cheese for a rich contrast to the sweetness. Fresh fruit or a sprinkle of cinnamon on top can enhance the flavor profile even more, making it a versatile option for breakfast or dessert.

For a fun twist, consider experimenting with mix-ins like chocolate chips or dried fruit such as cranberries. You can also adjust the nuts based on your preference; pecans or hazelnuts can be delightful substitutes for walnuts. The base of this banana bread recipe is forgiving, so feel free to get creative while maintaining the proportions for liquid and dry ingredients.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I freeze banana bread?

Yes! Banana bread freezes well. Wrap it tightly in plastic wrap or aluminum foil and store it in the freezer for up to 3 months.

→ How can I tell when my banana bread is done?

Insert a toothpick or a knife into the center of the loaf; if it comes out clean or with a few crumbs, it's ready. If it comes out wet, give it a few more minutes.

→ Is it necessary to add walnuts?

No, you can omit walnuts if you prefer a nut-free version. You can also substitute them with chocolate chips or other nuts.

→ Can I use whole wheat flour instead?

Absolutely! Whole wheat flour will give a nuttier flavor and a denser texture. You may need to adjust the liquid slightly.