Banana Bread with Pecans Recipe

Name: Banana Bread with Pecans Recipe
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 1 h
Total time: 1 h 15 min
Yield: 1 loaf
Ingredients: 3 overripe bananas, mashed; 1/3 cup melted butter; 1 teaspoon vanilla extract; 1 teaspoon baking soda; Pinch of salt; 3/4 cup sugar; 1 large egg, beaten; 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon; 1 cup all-purpose flour; 1/2 cup pecans, chopped

Highlighted under: Modern Inspiration

I love baking this Banana Bread with Pecans when I have a few overripe bananas sitting on my counter. It's the perfect way to transform them into a sweet, moist treat that everyone will enjoy. The addition of crunchy pecans adds a delightful texture, elevating the classic banana bread experience. Plus, the simple ingredients and easy steps make it a breeze to whip up on a lazy afternoon or for a quick breakfast. Trust me, this recipe will quickly become a favorite in your kitchen!

Created by

Olwen Bradford

Last updated on 2026-01-05T19:21:34.682Z

When I first tried making banana bread, I was amazed at how simple it was to create such a warm, comforting treat. Actually, I stumbled upon this recipe after finding a stash of overripe bananas that had been neglected on my kitchen counter. It felt rewarding to give them a new life! Not only does it fill the air with an inviting aroma, but every slice delivers a burst of flavor.

One tip I discovered is to lightly toast the pecans before mixing them in. This enhances their flavor, adding a toasted richness that complements the bananas beautifully. It’s these little details that can turn a good recipe into a great one. Enjoy each bite!

Why You'll Love This Recipe
Moist texture enriched by ripe bananas
Crunchy pecans for delightful flavor
Perfectly sweet, making it great for breakfast or dessert

Understanding Your Ingredients

The star ingredient in this banana bread is, of course, the overripe bananas. Using bananas that have dark spots is crucial; they contribute natural sweetness and moisture to the bread. The riper the bananas, the more distinct the banana flavor will be, making your bread incredibly rich. If you’re short on time, don’t worry—whether you refrigerate them or use the oven to hasten the ripening process, either will work. Just remember, the browner the peel, the better the taste!

Pecans play a vital role in providing a crunchy contrast to the smoothness of the banana bread. If you prefer a different nut or have an allergy, walnuts are a perfect substitute, as they lend a similar texture. To enhance the flavor of the pecans, consider toasting them lightly before incorporating them into the batter. This simple step will bring out their nuttiness and can elevate the overall taste of your banana bread.

Baking Techniques for Perfection

When mixing your ingredients, it's important to avoid over-mixing; stop as soon as the flour is incorporated to prevent a tough texture. You want your banana bread to be moist and tender, not dense. The batter should be somewhat lumpy, as this helps achieve that perfect banana bread texture. Using a rubber spatula or wooden spoon can help you gently fold in the flour and nuts without overworking the batter.

Monitoring the baking time is critical. Oven temperatures can vary, so start checking your bread at the 50-minute mark. You’ll know it’s done when the top is golden brown and a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean. If you find that the edges are browning too quickly, cover the loaf with aluminum foil for the remaining bake time to avoid burning while the center finishes cooking.

Ingredients

Gather these simple ingredients to create your delicious banana bread!

Ingredients

3 overripe bananas, mashed
1/3 cup melted butter
1 teaspoon vanilla extract
1 teaspoon baking soda
Pinch of salt
3/4 cup sugar
1 large egg, beaten
1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
1 cup all-purpose flour
1/2 cup pecans, chopped

Once you have everything measured out, you're ready to start baking!

Instructions

Follow these straightforward steps to bake your banana bread perfectly!

Preheat the oven

Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and grease a loaf pan.

Mix the butter and bananas

In a large bowl, mix the melted butter with the mashed bananas until well combined.

Add the rest of the ingredients

Stir in the sugar, beaten egg, and vanilla extract. Mix in the baking soda and salt. Add the flour, then fold in the chopped pecans.

Bake the loaf

Pour the batter into the prepared loaf pan and bake for 60 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean.

Cool and enjoy

Allow the bread to cool in the pan for 10 minutes before transferring it to a wire rack. Slice and enjoy your delicious banana bread!

Now that you've made your banana bread, don’t forget to savor every slice!

Pro Tips

For added flavor, consider incorporating a sprinkle of nutmeg or using chocolate chips along with pecans. If your bananas aren't very ripe, you can quickly ripen them in a warm oven for a few minutes!

Storing and Freezing

To preserve the freshness of your banana bread, store it in an airtight container at room temperature for up to three days. If you want to keep it longer, consider freezing it. Wrap the loaf tightly in plastic wrap and place it in a freezer bag. It can last up to three months in the freezer. For easy serving later, slice the bread before freezing so you can grab individual pieces as needed.

When you're ready to enjoy the frozen banana bread, simply thaw it in the refrigerator overnight or leave it at room temperature for a few hours. If you prefer a warm slice, you can reheat it in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 10 minutes, or in the microwave for 20-30 seconds until warmed through.

Serving Suggestions and Variations

This banana bread is delicious on its own, but you can elevate it further with some simple serving ideas. Try spreading a thin layer of cream cheese or even almond butter for an extra flavor boost. Serve it warm with a drizzle of honey or maple syrup on top, making it an excellent addition to your breakfast table or brunch gatherings.

For a fun variation, consider adding other mix-ins like chocolate chips or dried fruit for additional flavors. If you're feeling adventurous, a bit of grated orange zest can brighten the profile of your bread. Just remember to adjust the amount of sugar depending on your add-ins to maintain that perfectly sweet balance.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I freeze banana bread?

Yes, banana bread freezes well. Wrap it tightly in plastic wrap or foil and store it in an airtight container for up to 3 months.

→ How can I make it healthier?

You can use whole wheat flour instead of all-purpose flour and reduce the sugar. Adding oats can also enhance the nutritional value.

→ What can I substitute for pecans?

You can use walnuts, almonds, or even a mix of nuts for different flavors.

→ Why is my banana bread dense?

Dense banana bread might be a result of overmixing the batter or using too much flour. Be sure to measure your ingredients accurately and mix gently.