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; 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: Home Baked Bliss

I love making Classic Banana Bread with Walnuts because it’s the perfect way to use overripe bananas. The aroma that fills my kitchen as it bakes is simply irresistible! This recipe is not only simple and straightforward, but it's also incredibly forgiving, allowing you to adjust ingredients to suit your taste. I often find myself sneaking a slice right from the pan, enjoying the delightful combination of soft bread and crunchy walnuts. It’s the ultimate comfort food that brings back sweet memories with every bite.

Created by

Veronica Miles

Last updated on 2026-02-07T23:45:36.463Z

When I first tried my hand at making banana bread, I was surprised at how forgiving the process was. I had a pile of overripe bananas on hand and decided to experiment. As the bread baked, I could almost taste the warm, sweet, and nutty flavor before it even finished. The added crunch of walnuts takes it to the next level, making every bite a delicious adventure.

One key tip I discovered is to ensure your bananas are as ripe as possible. The natural sugars from overripe bananas make the bread moist and flavorful. Also, don't be afraid to customize with ingredients like chocolate chips or spices for a unique twist on this classic recipe!

Why You'll Love This Recipe
Moist and flavorful thanks to ripe bananas
Crunchy walnut pieces add fantastic texture
A lovely aroma that fills your home while baking

Perfecting Your Banana Bread

The key to a moist and delicious banana bread lies in the ripeness of the bananas. The sweeter and more speckled the bananas are, the more flavor they will impart to the bread. I often use bananas that are turned completely brown; they create a deeper taste and richer moisture. If you're short on time, you can also speed up the ripening process by putting unripe bananas in a brown paper bag for a day or two.

Another tip for achieving the ideal texture is to avoid overmixing the batter once you add flour. Mixing just until you see no dry flour bits helps create a tender crumb. After all, this bread should be soft and slightly dense, not heavy or gummy. Don't fret if there are a few lumps; they’re perfectly fine and will bake away during cooking!

Walnut Variations and Substitutions

While walnuts offer a fantastic crunch and nutty flavor, you can experiment with substitutions if you're not a fan. Pecans or hazelnuts can be used interchangeably, giving the bread a different but equally delightful texture. For a nut-free version, consider adding chocolate chips or dried fruit instead. Both will contribute a burst of flavor and sweetness without compromising the integrity of the bread.

If you're looking to make a healthier banana bread, consider replacing some of the sugar with honey or maple syrup. These alternatives not only reduce refined sugars but also add a unique flavor profile. You could also try substituting half of the all-purpose flour with whole wheat flour for added nutrition, just be sure to adjust the moisture slightly, since whole wheat flour absorbs more liquid.

Ingredients

Gather the following ingredients to make your Classic Banana Bread with Walnuts.

Banana Bread Ingredients

3 ripe bananas
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

Mix these ingredients with care to create your masterpiece!

Instructions

Follow these simple steps to bake your banana bread.

Prepare the Oven and Bananas

Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). In a mixing bowl, mash the ripe bananas with a fork until smooth.

Mix the Wet Ingredients

Stir the melted butter into the mashed bananas. Add the baking soda and salt, then mix in the sugar, beaten egg, and vanilla.

Combine Ingredients

Mix in the flour until just incorporated. Fold in the chopped walnuts gently.

Bake the Bread

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

Cool and Enjoy

Let the bread cool in the pan for 10 minutes before transferring to a wire rack to cool completely. Slice and enjoy!

Now you can savor your delicious creation!

Pro Tips

For added flavor, consider mixing in chocolate chips or a pinch of cinnamon before baking. Store any leftovers in an airtight container to keep it fresh.

Storage Tips

To keep your banana bread fresh, wrap it tightly in plastic wrap or aluminum foil. It can last up to 4 days at room temperature. If you want to enjoy it longer, consider freezing the loaf. Slice the bread before freezing; this way, you can take out just what you need without defrosting the entire batch. Just remember to store it in an airtight container to prevent freezer burn.

When thawing, allow your banana bread to come to room temperature for about an hour. You can also pop a slice in the microwave for about 15-20 seconds if you’re craving a quick treat. If you prefer a warm slice with melty butter or a spread, this method works beautifully.

Serving Suggestions

Banana bread makes for a perfect breakfast, but it’s also excellent as a snack or a dessert. I love to serve it with a dollop of Greek yogurt and a drizzle of honey to enhance the flavors further. For a bit of indulgence, pair it with cream cheese icing or a scoop of vanilla ice cream for a delightful afternoon treat.

For a festive touch, consider toasting slices and topping them with fresh strawberries or blueberries and a sprinkle of powdered sugar. This elevates the humble banana bread to a whole new level, making it suitable for brunch gatherings or family celebrations.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use frozen bananas?

Yes, thawed frozen bananas work great and can add extra moisture to the bread.

→ How can I store leftover banana bread?

Wrap it in plastic wrap or keep it in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days.

→ Can I substitute walnuts with other nuts?

Absolutely! Pecans or hazelnuts can be used in place of walnuts for a different flavor.

→ Is it possible to make this recipe vegan?

Yes, you can substitute the egg with a flax egg or applesauce and use a vegan butter alternative.