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

Highlighted under: Baking & Desserts

This Banana Bread with Pecans is a delightful treat that combines the sweetness of ripe bananas with the crunch of toasted pecans. Perfect for breakfast or as a snack!

Created by

Rebecca Mills

Last updated on 2025-12-30T00:10:16.275Z

This recipe for Banana Bread with Pecans is a family favorite, passed down for generations. The combination of sweet bananas and crunchy nuts creates a comforting flavor that's hard to resist.

        Why You'll Love This Recipe
        Moist and flavorful with a perfect crumb
Toasty pecans add a delightful crunch
Easy to make and perfect for using overripe bananas

      

The Magic of Ripe Bananas

Ripe bananas are the star of this banana bread recipe, contributing not only sweetness but also moisture. As bananas ripen, their starches break down into sugars, intensifying their flavor and making them ideal for baking. For the best results, choose bananas that are heavily speckled or even completely brown. This ensures maximum sweetness and a soft texture in your banana bread.

Incorporating ripe bananas also means you can enjoy a healthier dessert. They are rich in potassium, vitamin C, and dietary fiber. By using bananas that might otherwise go to waste, you're not only reducing food waste but also infusing your bread with natural goodness.

Pecans: A Crunchy Delight

Toasted pecans add a delightful crunch that perfectly complements the soft, moist banana bread. Their nutty flavor enhances the overall taste profile, making each bite a wonderful experience. Toasting the pecans before adding them to the batter amplifies their flavor, creating a richer, more aromatic bread.

Pecans are also a nutritional powerhouse, packed with healthy fats, protein, and antioxidants. Including them in your banana bread not only enhances the texture but also boosts its health benefits, making your treat a little more guilt-free.

Perfect for Any Occasion

This banana bread with pecans is incredibly versatile, making it perfect for any occasion. Whether it's a relaxing Sunday breakfast, a quick snack during the week, or a delightful addition to a potluck, it fits right in. You can enjoy it plain, or spread a little butter or cream cheese on top for an extra treat.

It's also an excellent recipe for sharing. Wrap slices of banana bread in parchment paper, and they make a thoughtful gift for friends or family. The delightful aroma and homemade touch are sure to brighten anyone's day.

Ingredients

For the Banana Bread

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

Instructions

Preheat the Oven

Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and grease a 9x5 inch loaf pan.

Mix the Wet Ingredients

In a mixing bowl, mash the ripe bananas with a fork until smooth. Stir in the melted butter.

Combine Ingredients

Mix in the baking soda and salt. Stir in the sugar, beaten egg, and vanilla extract. Finally, mix in the flour and chopped pecans until just combined.

Bake

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

Cool and Serve

Let the bread cool in the pan for about 10 minutes, then transfer to a wire rack to cool completely before slicing.

Storage Tips

To keep your banana bread fresh, store it in an airtight container at room temperature for up to three days. If you want to extend its shelf life, consider refrigerating it, which can keep it good for up to a week. However, refrigeration may alter the texture slightly, making it denser.

For longer storage, banana bread freezes beautifully. Wrap it tightly in plastic wrap and then in aluminum foil before placing it in the freezer. When you're ready to enjoy it, simply thaw at room temperature or warm it in the oven for a few minutes to restore its delightful texture.

Variations to Try

Feel free to customize this banana bread recipe to suit your taste. For a chocolate twist, add a cup of chocolate chips to the batter. If you're a fan of spices, consider incorporating a teaspoon of cinnamon or nutmeg for a warm, inviting flavor.

You can also experiment with different nuts, such as walnuts or almonds, or even add dried fruits like raisins or cranberries for a fruity burst. The possibilities are endless, allowing you to create a banana bread that's uniquely yours.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use frozen bananas?

Yes, thaw and drain any excess liquid before mashing.

→ How can I store leftover banana bread?

Store in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days or refrigerate for up to a week.

→ Can I substitute the pecans?

Absolutely! You can use walnuts or omit nuts entirely if preferred.

→ Can I make this recipe gluten-free?

Yes, substitute all-purpose flour with a gluten-free flour blend.