Banana Nut Bread: Give It a Shot, You Won’t Regret It!

There’s something comforting about a slice of homemade banana nut bread, warm from the oven, with its moist texture and rich flavor. This recipe is simple to follow and delivers a delicious loaf that’s perfect for breakfast, snacks, or even dessert. The subtle sweetness of ripe bananas pairs wonderfully with the crunch of nuts, making it a treat that’s hard to resist. Give it a try – you’ll be glad you did!

Ingredients

• 1/2 cup butter
• 1 cup sugar
• 2 eggs, beaten
• 4 ripe bananas, mashed
• 1 1/2 cups all-purpose flour
• 1 teaspoon baking soda
• 1/2 teaspoon salt
• 1/2 teaspoon vanilla extract
• 1/2 cup nuts (walnuts or pecans)

Optional additions: chocolate chips, maraschino cherries

Instructions

1. Preheat Oven: Set your oven to 350°F (175°C).
2. Prepare Batter:
   • In a mixing bowl, cream together the butter and sugar until light and fluffy.
   • Beat in the eggs and then add the mashed bananas, mixing until well combined.
3. Combine Dry Ingredients: In a separate bowl, sift together the flour, baking soda, and salt.
4. Mix Together: Gradually add the dry ingredients to the banana mixture, stirring gently until just combined.
5. Add Flavor: Fold in the vanilla extract and nuts. For a touch of sweetness, consider adding chocolate chips or maraschino cherries.
6. Prepare the Pan: Grease and flour a standard loaf pan (or four mini loaf pans for smaller portions).
7. Bake: Pour the batter into the pan and bake for about 1 hour for a standard loaf, or 35–45 minutes for mini loaves. Check by inserting a toothpick into the center – it should come out clean when done.
8. Cool and Enjoy: Let the bread cool slightly before slicing. Serve warm, and enjoy the delicious flavors!

This banana nut bread is not only satisfying but also versatile – enjoy it plain, with a pat of butter, or even toasted for a slightly crispy texture. Happy baking!