Banana Walnut Bread – Moist, Sweet, and Full of Crunch

When I have ripe bananas sitting on the counter, this is the recipe I turn to without hesitation.

This Banana Walnut Bread is everything I want in a quick bread—ultra moist, packed with banana flavor, and studded with crunchy walnuts (or melty chocolate chips if I’m feeling indulgent).

It’s the kind of loaf that disappears within a day at my house!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Moist and rich – Ripe bananas and butter make it melt-in-your-mouth good.

Easy and foolproof – No mixer, just a bowl and a spoon.

Perfect crunch – Walnuts give every slice a satisfying bite.

Customizable – Add chocolate chips or go all banana.

Crowd favorite – Makes 10 thick, bakery-style slices.

What You’ll Need (Ingredient Highlights)

Ripe bananas – The darker and softer, the better the flavor.

Butter – Melted for ease and richness.

Sugar – Adds the right amount of sweetness.

Egg – Helps bind and add structure.

Vanilla – Boosts the cozy aroma.

Baking soda & baking powder – For lift and a soft crumb.

Cinnamon – Adds subtle warmth.

Salt – Balances sweetness and enhances flavor.

Flour – All-purpose flour keeps it classic and soft.

Walnuts or chocolate chips – Adds texture and fun to every bite.

Pro Tips Before You Start

Use super ripe bananas – They bring more moisture and sweetness.

Don’t overmix – Stir just until the flour disappears for a tender loaf.

Grease your pan well – Or use parchment paper for easy removal.

Customize the mix-ins – Walnuts, chocolate chips, or both!

Check early – Every oven bakes differently, so start testing at 50 minutes.

How to Make Banana Walnut Bread

Step 1: Prep the Oven and Pan

Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C).

Grease and flour an 8.5×4.5-inch loaf pan or spray it with baking spray.

Step 2: Mix the Wet Ingredients

In a large bowl, mash the bananas and stir in the melted butter.

Add the sugar, beaten egg, and vanilla extract.

Mix well using a wooden spoon or spatula.

Step 3: Add Spices and Leavening

Sprinkle the baking soda, baking powder, cinnamon, and salt over the banana mixture.

Stir until just combined.

Step 4: Fold in Dry Ingredients and Mix-Ins

Add the flour and chopped walnuts (or chocolate chips).

Stir gently until no streaks of flour remain. Don’t overmix.

Step 5: Bake

Pour the batter into the prepared loaf pan.

Top with extra walnuts or chocolate chips if desired.

Bake for 50–60 minutes, or until a knife inserted into the center comes out clean.

Step 6: Cool and Slice

Let the bread cool in the pan for 10 minutes, then remove and transfer to a wire rack.

Cool completely before slicing into thick, generous pieces.

What to Serve It With

A hot cup of coffee or chai latte.

Greek yogurt and honey on the side.

Toasted with a pat of salted butter.

With scrambled eggs for a hearty breakfast plate.

A scoop of vanilla ice cream for dessert vibes.

Variations / Substitutions

Use chocolate chips instead of walnuts—or both!

Try pecans, hazelnuts, or chopped almonds for variety.

Swap butter with coconut oil for a dairy-free option.

Add shredded coconut or a swirl of peanut butter.

Use whole wheat flour for a more rustic texture.

Storage & Leftovers

Room temperature – Wrap tightly and keep for up to 3 days.

Refrigerator – Store in an airtight container for up to 1 week.

Freeze – Slice and wrap individual portions; freeze up to 2 months.

Reheat – Toast slices or microwave for 15–20 seconds.

Use leftovers – Make banana bread French toast or crumble over yogurt.

FAQs

Can I make this without nuts?
Absolutely! Just leave them out or substitute with chocolate chips.

Can I use frozen bananas?
Yes, thaw and drain any extra liquid before mashing.

Why did my loaf sink in the middle?
It may be underbaked or overmixed. Be sure to test with a knife or toothpick.

Can I bake this in a different pan?
Yes, try a muffin tin or mini loaf pans—just reduce bake time accordingly.

Can I reduce the sugar?
Yes, especially if your bananas are very ripe. Try ½ cup instead of ¾.

How do I know it’s done?
A knife or toothpick inserted in the center should come out clean or with dry crumbs.

Can I make this gluten-free?
Yes, use a 1:1 gluten-free flour blend with xanthan gum.

Final Thoughts

This Banana Walnut Bread is pure comfort in every slice.

It’s tender, flavorful, and just the right balance of sweet and nutty.

Whether you’re enjoying it fresh from the oven or toasted the next morning, it’s a little taste of home—made simple and delicious.