Welcome to the delightful world of baking with "Grandma's Banana Nut Bread"! This timeless recipe is a warm hug in loaf form, bursting with the rich flavors of ripe bananas and crunchy walnuts. Imagine the irresistible aroma wafting through your kitchen as this golden-brown treat bakes to perfection. Whether you're looking for a cozy breakfast option, a sweet snack, or a nostalgic dessert that takes you back to simpler times, this banana nut bread is sure to become a family favorite. Ready to impress your loved ones and fill your home with warmth? Let’s dive into this simple yet scrumptious recipe that will have everyone asking for seconds!
Prep Time: 15 mins
Cook Time: 60 mins
Total Time: 75 mins
Cuisine: American
Serves: 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 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. The bananas should be very soft and easily spreadable.
- Add the melted butter to the mashed bananas and mix well, creating a smooth liquid base for the bread.
- Stir in the baking soda and pinch of salt, mixing until fully incorporated into the banana-butter mixture.
- Add the sugar and mix thoroughly, ensuring it's evenly distributed throughout the batter.
- Incorporate the beaten egg and vanilla extract, stirring until the mixture is completely smooth and 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 for doneness, insert a toothpick into the center of the bread - it should come out clean or with just a few moist crumbs.
- Remove the bread from the oven and let it cool in the pan for 10 minutes.
- Carefully remove the bread from the pan and transfer to a wire rack to cool completely before slicing.
- Once cooled, slice and serve. The bread can be stored in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days, or refrigerated for up to a week.
Tips
- Choose the Right Bananas: For the best flavor and texture, use overripe bananas with plenty of brown spots. They should be soft enough to mash easily, ensuring a moist bread.
- Don’t Overmix: When combining the wet and dry ingredients, mix just until everything is incorporated. Overmixing can result in a dense loaf instead of a light and fluffy one.
- Add Extra Flavor: Feel free to customize your banana nut bread! Consider adding a sprinkle of cinnamon or nutmeg for warmth, or toss in some chocolate chips for a sweet twist.
- Check for Doneness: Ovens can vary, so start checking your bread a few minutes before the 50-minute mark. A toothpick inserted in the center should come out clean or with just a few moist crumbs.
- Cool Properly: Allow the bread to cool in the pan for 10 minutes before transferring it to a wire rack. This helps maintain its shape and prevents it from becoming soggy.
- Storage Tips: To keep your banana nut bread fresh, store it in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days or refrigerate it for up to a week. It also freezes well—just wrap it tightly in plastic wrap and foil!
Nutrition Facts
Calories: 280kcal
Carbohydrates: 35g
Protein: 5g
Fat: 16g
Saturated Fat: 5g
Cholesterol: 35mg
