Easy Banana Nut Bread

If you’ve ever had bananas sitting on the counter a little too long, this Easy Banana Nut Bread recipe is the sweet, simple solution you need. Moist, tender, and packed with flavor, this banana bread comes together with basic pantry staples and a handful of chopped walnuts for the perfect crunch. It’s a cozy classic that makes mornings better and snack time a little more special.

Here’s a fun fact: banana bread rose to popularity in the 1930s during the Great Depression as a way to reduce food waste. Over time, it’s become a beloved comfort food. If you enjoyed our Cinnamon Swirl Quick Bread, you’re going to fall in love with this nostalgic loaf. Ready to bake up some love in loaf form? Let’s get started!

What is Easy Banana Nut Bread?

Banana Nut Bread is a sweet, dense loaf made from mashed ripe bananas and chopped nuts, usually walnuts. It’s soft, moist, and filled with warm, comforting flavors. But why the name banana nut bread? Well, the nuts add that irresistible crunch that contrasts beautifully with the soft banana-rich crumb.

Is it breakfast? Dessert? A snack? Honestly, it’s whatever you want it to be. Some even say, “the way to someone’s heart is through banana bread,” and after one bite, you’ll see why. This recipe is the kind of crowd-pleaser that disappears as fast as you can slice it.

So grab those overripe bananas and let’s make magic!

Why You’ll Love This Banana Nut Bread Recipe

Moist and Flavorful Texture: Thanks to the ripe bananas and just the right amount of oil, every bite is tender, soft, and full of rich banana flavor. The walnuts add just enough crunch to keep things interesting.

Economical and Easy: This is a budget-friendly recipe that uses simple, everyday ingredients. And it makes two loaves, so you can enjoy one now and freeze the other for later!

Customizable Add-Ins: Love chocolate chips? Prefer pecans? Want a swirl of cinnamon sugar? You can easily tweak this recipe to match your taste.

If you liked our Easy Zucchini Bread, this banana version will become your new go-to. Give it a try and enjoy a slice of homemade comfort.

How to Make Easy Banana Nut Bread

Quick Overview

You only need about 15 minutes of prep and a handful of ingredients to get this delicious banana bread in the oven. It’s perfect for meal prep, weekend baking, or turning those ripe bananas into something amazing.

Ingredients

• 2 cups all-purpose flour
• 1½ tsp baking soda
• Pinch of salt
• 1 cup granulated sugar
• ½ cup vegetable oil
• ½ tsp cinnamon (optional)
• 2 large eggs
• 1 tsp vanilla extract
• 4 medium ripe bananas, mashed (about 1⅓ cups)
• 1 cup coarsely chopped walnuts

Step-by-Step

1. Preheat oven: Set your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease two 8×4-inch loaf pans and set them aside.
2. Mix dry ingredients: In a medium bowl, whisk together the flour, baking soda, and salt.
3. Prepare wet mixture: In a large bowl, whisk together sugar, oil, eggs, cinnamon (if using), and vanilla extract until smooth.
4. Add bananas: Stir in the mashed bananas until just combined.
5. Combine: Gradually mix the dry ingredients into the wet mixture until fully incorporated.
6. Fold in nuts: Gently fold in the chopped walnuts using a rubber spatula.
7. Bake: Divide the batter evenly between the two loaf pans. Bake for 35 to 45 minutes, or until a thin knife inserted in the center comes out clean.
8. Cool: Let the loaves cool in the pans for 10 minutes before transferring to a wire rack to cool completely.

What to Serve Banana Nut Bread With

This bread is delicious on its own, but even better with a pat of butter, a drizzle of honey, or a smear of cream cheese. Pair it with a cup of coffee or tea for the perfect breakfast or mid-afternoon snack. For a brunch spread, serve alongside fresh fruit, yogurt, or scrambled eggs.

Top Tips for Perfecting Banana Bread

• Use very ripe bananas: The riper, the better. Look for bananas with lots of brown spots.
• Don’t overmix: Overmixing the batter can lead to dense or tough bread. Mix just until the ingredients are combined.
• Check early: Start checking for doneness at 35 minutes. Cover loosely with foil if the tops brown too fast.
• Make it your own: Add chocolate chips, dried cranberries, or a cinnamon swirl for variety.

Storing and Reheating Tips

Store cooled banana bread in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days. For longer storage, wrap tightly and refrigerate for up to 1 week.

To freeze, wrap individual slices or whole loaves in plastic wrap and aluminum foil. Freeze for up to 3 months. Thaw at room temperature or microwave individual slices for 20-30 seconds.

FAQs

Can I make this gluten-free? Yes, just substitute a 1:1 gluten-free flour blend.

 I use less sugar? You can reduce the sugar by up to 1/4 cup without affecting texture too much.

Can I use other nuts? Absolutely! Pecans or almonds are great substitutes for walnuts.

Conclusion

This Easy Banana Nut Bread is a timeless favorite that never goes out of style. With its moist texture, nutty crunch, and sweet banana flavor, it’s perfect for sharing, gifting, or just enjoying all to yourself. So next time you have overripe bananas, you know what to do—bake up a batch of this irresistible classic.