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: 8 servings
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 1/2 cups all-purpose flour; 1 cup walnuts, chopped

Highlighted under: Comfort Classics Reimagined

I absolutely love baking banana bread, especially when it’s laden with crunchy walnuts. There's something so comforting about the aroma that fills my kitchen as it bakes, making the wait totally worth it. This recipe has been my go-to for years, and it never fails to impress family and friends. The combination of ripe bananas and toasted walnuts makes for a moist and flavorful bread that is perfect for breakfast, snacks, or a delightful dessert. You’ll find that it’s simple yet incredibly satisfying to create.

Created by

Marley Quinn

Last updated on 2026-02-08T01:29:36.516Z

When I decided to experiment with my classic banana bread recipe, I knew it needed an upgrade, and that’s when I stumbled upon the idea of adding walnuts. The nutty crunch complements the sweet, moist banana perfectly. I also noticed that adding slightly overripe bananas made the flavor richer and helped with the perfect texture.

Every time I bake this bread, I try to sneak in a few extra walnuts and sometimes even a sprinkle of cinnamon for an aromatic twist. The result is always outstanding, and I can never resist a warm slice right out of the oven!

Why You'll Love This Recipe
Rich banana flavor paired with crunchy walnuts
Moist texture that’s perfect for any time of day
Quick and easy to make, perfect for beginners

Baking Techniques for Perfect Banana Bread

To achieve the best banana bread, it's crucial to use overripe bananas. The browner they are, the more natural sweetness and moisture they will bring to the bread. A great visual cue is when their skin has turned black or dark brown. If you only have yellow bananas, you can speed up the ripening process by placing them in a brown paper bag overnight.

Another key technique is to avoid overmixing the batter after adding the flour. Overmixing can develop the gluten too much, resulting in a dense loaf. Mix just until you see no dry flour, and don’t worry if some lumps remain—you want that tender, moist crumb that banana bread is famous for.

Ingredient Insights and Substitutions

Walnuts add a delightful crunch and a nutty flavor that complements the sweetness of the bananas. However, if you have nut allergies or prefer a different flavor, you can substitute walnuts with chocolate chips, pecans, or even dried fruits like cranberries for a unique twist.

The sugar in this recipe can also be adjusted according to your tastes. You could use brown sugar instead of granulated sugar to introduce a hint of caramel flavor, or use a sugar substitute such as coconut sugar or stevia for a lower-calorie option. Just remember that sometimes, these alternatives might change the texture slightly.

Ingredients

Gather your ingredients before you start for a smooth baking experience!

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 1/2 cups all-purpose flour
1 cup walnuts, chopped

Mix well and prepare to bake!

Instructions

Follow these steps for a perfect banana bread every time!

Mix the Wet Ingredients

In a mixing bowl, combine the melted butter and mashed bananas. Stir in the baking soda and salt. Mix well before adding the sugar, beaten egg, and vanilla extract until smooth.

Incorporate the Dry Ingredients

Gently fold in the flour until just combined. Be careful not to overmix as this can result in a tougher bread. Add the chopped walnuts and fold them in lightly.

Bake the Bread

Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Pour the batter into a greased loaf pan and bake for about 60 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean. Let it cool slightly before slicing.

Enjoy your freshly baked banana bread with a cup of tea or coffee!

Pro Tips

For extra moisture, you can substitute half of the butter with applesauce. Enjoy it warm with a spread of butter for a delicious treat!

Storage and Make-Ahead Tips

One of the great things about banana bread is its ability to stay fresh. After baking, you can store your loaf at room temperature in an airtight container for up to three days. For longer storage, wrap it tightly in plastic wrap and freeze it for up to three months. To revive the bread, simply thaw it at room temperature or warm individual slices in the microwave for about 15-20 seconds.

If you're planning on making this bread ahead of time, you can also prepare the batter a day in advance. Just store it in the refrigerator before baking. However, keep in mind that the leavening power from the baking soda will diminish slightly, so it's best to bake it as soon as you mix the wet and dry ingredients together.

Serving Suggestions

Classic banana bread is delicious on its own, but there are various ways to elevate it. Try pairing slices with a dollop of cream cheese or butter for added richness. A sprinkle of cinnamon or a drizzle of honey can also enhance the flavor profiles beautifully.

For a breakfast treat, serve banana bread with Greek yogurt and fresh fruits, such as strawberries or blueberries. This adds a nice balance of protein and freshness, making it a great way to start your day.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use frozen bananas for this recipe?

Yes, thaw the frozen bananas completely and drain any excess liquid before mashing.

→ How should I store the banana bread?

Store it in an airtight container at room temperature for up to three days or in the refrigerator for about a week.

→ Can I add other nuts or chocolate chips?

Absolutely! Feel free to substitute walnuts with pecans or add chocolate chips for a sweeter version.

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

Insert a toothpick into the center; if it comes out clean or with a few crumbs, it's ready!