Get ready to transform your kitchen into a heavenly aroma haven with Pat's legendary Banana Nut Bread! This isn't just another banana bread recipe - it's a slice of comfort that will make your taste buds dance and your family beg for seconds. Imagine pulling a perfectly golden, moist loaf out of the oven, filled with rich banana flavor and crunchy walnuts that promise a delightful texture in every bite. Whether you're a baking novice or a seasoned pro, this recipe is your ticket to becoming the neighborhood's most celebrated home baker!
Prep Time: 15 mins
Cook Time: 60 mins
Total Time: 75 mins
Cuisine: American
Serves: 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 chopped walnuts
Instructions
- Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease a 9x5 inch loaf pan with butter or cooking spray, ensuring complete coverage to prevent sticking.
- In a large mixing bowl, mash the ripe bananas thoroughly with a fork until they reach a smooth, creamy consistency with minimal lumps.
- Pour the melted butter into the mashed bananas and mix well, ensuring the butter is evenly incorporated.
- Stir in the baking soda and pinch of salt, mixing until fully combined.
- Add the sugar and mix thoroughly, creating a smooth banana-sugar mixture.
- Beat the egg in a separate small bowl, then add to the banana mixture along with the vanilla extract. Stir until all ingredients are well blended.
- Gently fold in the chopped walnuts, distributing them evenly throughout the batter.
- Pour the batter into the prepared loaf pan, using a spatula to spread it evenly and smooth the top.
- Place the pan in the preheated oven and bake for 50-60 minutes. To check doneness, insert a toothpick into the center of the bread - it should come out clean or with just a few moist crumbs.
- Remove from oven and let the bread cool in the pan for 10 minutes before transferring to a wire rack to cool completely.
- Once cooled, slice and serve. The bread can be stored at room temperature in an airtight container for up to 3-4 days.
Tips
- Choose Overripe Bananas: The darker and spottier the bananas, the sweeter and more flavorful your bread will be. Don't toss those brown bananas - they're baking gold!
- Room Temperature Ingredients: Ensure your egg and butter are at room temperature for smoother mixing and better incorporation.
- Don't Overmix: Stir just until ingredients are combined to keep the bread tender and prevent a tough texture.
- Nut Options: While walnuts are classic, feel free to substitute with pecans or almonds for a personal twist.
- Check for Doneness: A toothpick should come out clean or with just a few moist crumbs. Avoid overbaking, which can dry out the bread.
- Cool Completely: Let the bread cool entirely before slicing to help it set and prevent crumbling.
- Storage Hack: Wrap tightly in plastic wrap or store in an airtight container to maintain moisture for 3-4 days.
Nutrition Facts
Calories: 250kcal
Carbohydrates: 30g
Protein: 4g
Fat: 14g
Saturated Fat: 4g
Cholesterol: 25mg
