Banana Bread with Pecans Recipe

Name: Banana Bread with Pecans Recipe
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 50 min
Total time: 1 h 5 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 Recipe is a delightful twist on a classic favorite, bringing together the sweetness of ripe bananas and the rich crunch of pecans.

Created by

Rebecca Mills

Last updated on 2025-12-30T00:13:10.457Z

This banana bread is a beloved family recipe that has been passed down for generations. The addition of pecans not only adds a delightful crunch but also enhances the overall flavor, making each slice a perfect treat for breakfast or a snack.

        Why You'll Love This Recipe
        Moist and flavorful with every bite
Crunchy pecans add texture and richness
Perfect for breakfast, snacks, or dessert

      

The Perfect Banana Bread Experience

Banana bread is a beloved classic that resonates with many home bakers. Its comforting aroma wafting through the kitchen evokes memories of family gatherings and cozy mornings. This Banana Bread with Pecans Recipe elevates the traditional version by introducing crunchy pecans, adding a delightful texture that complements the soft, moist banana base. Whether served warm or at room temperature, this bread is sure to please everyone.

One of the best aspects of this recipe is its simplicity. Made with just a handful of ingredients, it’s a fantastic option for both novice bakers and seasoned pros. The process is straightforward, allowing you to create a delicious loaf with minimal effort, making it an ideal choice for unexpected guests or a quick afternoon treat.

Health Benefits of Bananas and Pecans

Bananas are not just delicious; they are also packed with nutrients. Rich in potassium, vitamin C, and dietary fiber, bananas contribute to heart health, aid digestion, and provide a quick energy boost. Incorporating ripe bananas into your baking not only enhances the flavor but also offers a healthier alternative to refined sugars and fats.

Pecans, on the other hand, add more than just crunch to your banana bread. These nuts are a great source of healthy fats, protein, and antioxidants. Including pecans in your diet can help improve cholesterol levels and promote overall heart health. Together, bananas and pecans create a nutritious treat that doesn’t compromise on taste.

Tips for Perfect Banana Bread

To achieve the best results with your banana bread, make sure to use very ripe bananas. The browner the bananas, the sweeter and more flavorful your bread will be. If you have bananas that are not quite ripe enough, you can speed up the ripening process by placing them in a paper bag at room temperature for a couple of days.

Another key tip is to avoid overmixing the batter once the flour is added. Overmixing can lead to dense and tough bread. Mix just until the dry ingredients are incorporated, and you’ll enjoy a light and fluffy loaf. Additionally, if you prefer a stronger pecan flavor, try toasting the nuts lightly before folding them into the batter for an extra layer of depth.

Ingredients

Ingredients for 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 4x8 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.

Add Sugar and Egg

Mix in the sugar, beaten egg, and vanilla extract until well combined.

Combine Dry Ingredients

Sprinkle the baking soda and salt over the mixture, then mix in the flour until just incorporated.

Fold in Pecans

Gently fold in the chopped pecans, being careful not to overmix.

Bake the Bread

Pour the batter into the prepared loaf pan and bake for 50-60 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.

Cool and Serve

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

Serving Suggestions

This Banana Bread with Pecans is incredibly versatile and can be enjoyed at various times throughout the day. For breakfast, serve a warm slice with a pat of butter or a smear of cream cheese. It pairs beautifully with a cup of coffee or tea, making for a perfect start to your day.

As a snack, you can slice the banana bread into smaller pieces for an easy grab-and-go option. It’s a great addition to lunchboxes for both kids and adults. For dessert, consider topping it with a scoop of vanilla ice cream or a drizzle of chocolate sauce for an indulgent treat.

Storage Tips

To keep your banana bread fresh, store it in an airtight container at room temperature for up to four days. If you want to extend its shelf life, you can refrigerate it, but be aware that refrigeration may alter the texture slightly.

For longer storage, consider freezing your banana bread. Wrap it tightly in plastic wrap or aluminum foil, then place it in a freezer bag. It can be frozen for up to three months. When you’re ready to enjoy it, simply thaw it at room temperature or warm it in the oven for a few minutes for that freshly-baked taste.

Variations and Additions

Feel free to get creative with your banana bread! You can add chocolate chips for a sweeter twist or swap out some of the all-purpose flour for whole wheat flour for added nutrition. Spices like cinnamon or nutmeg can also be incorporated for a warm, aromatic flavor profile.

If you want to increase the nutritional value, consider adding in some flax seeds or chia seeds, which can provide a boost of omega-3 fatty acids. You can also experiment with different nuts, such as walnuts or almonds, to give your banana bread a unique flair.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use other nuts instead of pecans?

Yes, walnuts or almonds would work great as alternatives.

→ How do I store leftover banana bread?

Wrap it in plastic wrap or aluminum foil and store it at room temperature for up to 3 days, or refrigerate for longer freshness.

→ Can I freeze banana bread?

Absolutely! Wrap it tightly and freeze for up to 3 months. Thaw at room temperature when ready to eat.

→ What can I add to enhance the flavor?

Consider adding chocolate chips, cinnamon, or dried fruit for added flavor.