Name: The BEST Banana Nut Bread
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 70 min
Total time: 85 min
Ingredients: 1/4 cup salted butter (softened); 1/4 cup canola oil; 1 cup granulated sugar; 2 very ripe bananas (mashed); 2 large eggs (at room temperature); 1 teaspoon pure vanilla extract; 1 1/2 cups all-purpose flour; 1 teaspoon baking powder; 1/2 teaspoon salt; 1/4 cup buttermilk; 3/4 cup walnuts (chopped)

There’s something undeniably comforting about a warm slice of freshly baked banana nut bread. It’s the kind of treat that envelops you in warmth, whether you’re enjoying it for breakfast, an afternoon snack, or even dessert. With its tender crumb and the delightful crunch of walnuts, this is truly The BEST Banana Nut Bread you’ll ever make. Let’s dive into the details of perfecting this beloved classic.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

This banana nut bread stands out for several reasons:

– **Moist and Flavorful**: The combination of bananas and buttermilk ensures a moist loaf that’s bursting with flavor.
– **Quick and Easy**: You can whip this up in no time, making it perfect for busy mornings or last-minute gatherings.
– **Versatile**: Enjoy it plain, or add in your favorite mix-ins like chocolate chips or dried fruits.
– **Nutritious**: Packed with ripe bananas and walnuts, this bread offers a good dose of nutrients while still satisfying your sweet tooth.

Ingredient Notes

To craft The BEST Banana Nut Bread, you’ll need the following ingredients:

1/4 cup salted butter, softened: Adds richness and flavor.
1/4 cup canola oil: Keeps the bread moist and tender.
1 cup granulated sugar: Sweetens the bread perfectly.
2 whole very ripe bananas, mashed: The star ingredient that imparts flavor and moisture.
2 large eggs, at room temperature: Binds the ingredients and adds to the structure.
1 teaspoon pure vanilla extract: Enhances the overall flavor.
1 1/2 cups all-purpose flour: The base of your bread.
1 teaspoon baking powder: Helps the bread rise.
1/2 teaspoon salt: Balances the sweetness.
1/4 cup buttermilk: Adds moisture and a slight tang.
3/4 cup walnuts, chopped: Provides a delightful crunch.

Prep & Cook Tools

Before you get started, gather these essential tools:

Mixing bowls: For combining wet and dry ingredients.
Whisk: To mix ingredients until smooth.
Rubber spatula: For folding in the nuts and scraping the bowl.
Loaf pan: A standard 9×5 inch pan works best for this recipe.
Oven: Preheat your oven to ensure even baking.

Cooking The BEST Banana Nut Bread: The Process

Now, let’s walk through the steps to create The BEST Banana Nut Bread:

Step 1: Preheat the Oven

Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). This ensures that your bread bakes evenly.

Step 2: Prepare the Loaf Pan

Grease your loaf pan with a bit of butter or cooking spray. You can also line it with parchment paper for easier removal.

Step 3: Mix Wet Ingredients

In a large mixing bowl, combine the softened butter and canola oil. Add in the granulated sugar and whisk until light and fluffy. Next, stir in the mashed bananas, eggs, and vanilla extract until well incorporated.

Step 4: Combine Dry Ingredients

In another bowl, whisk together the all-purpose flour, baking powder, and salt. This helps to evenly distribute the leavening agents throughout the flour.

Step 5: Mix Dry and Wet Ingredients

Gradually add the dry mixture to the wet ingredients, alternating with the buttermilk. Start and end with the dry ingredients to ensure everything combines seamlessly. Be careful not to over-mix; stop once you see no flour streaks.

Step 6: Fold in the Walnuts

Gently fold in the chopped walnuts with a rubber spatula. This step adds the perfect crunch to your banana nut bread.

Step 7: Pour and Bake

Pour the batter into the prepared loaf pan and smooth the top. Bake for 60-70 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean.

Step 8: Cool and Enjoy

Once baked, remove the loaf from the oven and let it cool in the pan for about 10 minutes. Then transfer it to a wire rack to cool completely before slicing. Enjoy your delicious banana nut bread warm or at room temperature!

Nutrition-Minded Tweaks

If you’re looking to make The BEST Banana Nut Bread a bit healthier, consider these options:

Swap out half of the all-purpose flour for whole wheat flour for added fiber.
Use coconut oil instead of canola oil for a different flavor profile.
Reduce the sugar by 1/4 cup for a less sweet bread.
Incorporate some flaxseed or chia seeds for an omega-3 boost.

Slip-Ups to Skip

When making The BEST Banana Nut Bread, avoid these common mistakes:

Using under-ripe bananas: Ensure your bananas are very ripe for maximum sweetness and moisture.
Overmixing the batter: This can lead to a dense loaf. Mix just until combined.
Not checking for doneness: Ovens vary, so start checking your bread at the 55-minute mark.
Skipping the cooling time: It’s tempting to slice right away, but letting it cool helps set the texture.

Storage Pro Tips

To keep your banana nut bread fresh and delicious, follow these storage tips:

Wrap the cooled loaf tightly in plastic wrap or aluminum foil.
Store at room temperature for up to 3 days, or refrigerate for up to a week.
For longer storage, consider freezing slices. Just wrap them individually in plastic wrap and place them in a freezer-safe bag.
When ready to eat, simply thaw at room temperature or pop in the microwave for a few seconds.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I use frozen bananas for this recipe?

Absolutely! Just make sure to thaw them and drain any excess moisture before mashing.

Can I substitute the walnuts with another nut?

Yes! Pecans or hazelnuts work beautifully in this recipe as well.

What if I don’t have buttermilk?

You can easily make a substitute by mixing 1 tablespoon of vinegar or lemon juice with enough milk to make 1/4 cup. Let it sit for 5 minutes before using.

How can I tell when my banana nut bread is done baking?

Insert a toothpick into the center; if it comes out clean or with a few moist crumbs, your bread is ready. If it’s wet with batter, give it a few more minutes.

Healthy-ish Favorites

If you enjoyed The BEST Banana Nut Bread, you might also love these healthy-ish alternatives:

Ready, Set, Cook

Now that you have all the tips and tricks for making The BEST Banana Nut Bread, it’s time to get baking! Gather your ingredients, preheat your oven, and enjoy the delightful aroma that fills your kitchen as this delicious bread bakes. Whether for yourself or to share with loved ones, this recipe is sure to become a favorite. Happy baking!