This moist and delicious Banana Nut Bread is perfect for using up overripe bananas. The soft texture, combined with crunchy nuts, creates a comforting treat that's perfect for breakfast or an afternoon snack. It’s easy to make, and the aroma that fills your kitchen while it bakes is heavenly. With just a few simple ingredients, you can create this classic homemade bread that’s always a crowd-pleaser!
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease a 9x5-inch loaf pan.
In a large bowl, mash the bananas with a fork until smooth.
Add the melted butter into the mashed bananas and stir to combine.
Mix in the sugar, beaten egg, and vanilla extract.
Sprinkle the baking soda and salt over the mixture and stir it in.
Slowly fold in the flour until just combined (do not overmix).
Gently fold in the chopped walnuts, if using.
Pour the batter into the prepared loaf pan and smooth the top.
Bake in the preheated oven for 60 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.
Let the banana bread cool in the pan for 10 minutes before transferring it to a wire rack to cool completely.
Use very ripe bananas with brown spots for the sweetest flavor and moist texture. Add a pinch of cinnamon or nutmeg to the batter for a spiced twist. If you prefer, you can substitute the walnuts with other nuts like pecans or leave them out entirely. For added texture, you can stir in 1/4 cup of chocolate chips or dried fruit. Let the bread rest for a day—it often tastes better after sitting overnight!