Nothing beats the comforting aroma of freshly baked bread wafting through your home on a lazy weekend morning. If you’re looking for a delightful treat that perfectly marries the sweetness of bananas with the crunch of nuts, then this Banana Nut Loaf recipe is just what you need. This classic recipe is a crowd-pleaser and is sure to become a staple in your baking repertoire.
Banana Nut Loaf
Ingredients:
– 2 cups all-purpose flour
– 1 teaspoon baking soda
– 1/2 teaspoon salt
– 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened
– 1 cup granulated sugar
– 2 large eggs
– 4 ripe bananas, mashed
– 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
– 1/2 cup chopped walnuts or pecans
Instructions:
1. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and grease a 9×5-inch loaf pan with butter or cooking spray. Set aside.
2. In a medium bowl, whisk together the flour, baking soda, and salt. Set aside.
3. In a separate large bowl, cream the softened butter and sugar together until light and fluffy.
4. Beat in the eggs, one at a time, until well combined.
5. Stir in the mashed bananas and vanilla extract until the mixture is smooth.
6. Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet ingredients, mixing until just combined. Be careful not to overmix.
7. Gently fold in the chopped nuts until evenly distributed throughout the batter.
8. Pour the batter into the prepared loaf pan and smooth the top with a spatula.
9. Bake in the preheated oven for 60-65 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.
10. Allow the Banana Nut Loaf to cool in the pan for 10-15 minutes before transferring it to a wire rack to cool completely.
This Banana Nut Loaf is best enjoyed slightly warm with a pat of butter or a drizzle of honey. The combination of ripe bananas and crunchy nuts creates a moist and flavorful bread that will have your family and friends coming back for seconds. Feel free to customize the recipe by adding chocolate chips, dried fruit, or a sprinkle of cinnamon for a delicious twist.
Baking this Banana Nut Loaf is a wonderful way to spend a cozy afternoon in the kitchen, and the results are well worth the effort. Whether you’re hosting a brunch or simply treating yourself to a homemade treat, this recipe is a surefire way to delight your taste buds and fill your home with the irresistible scent of freshly baked goodness. So, roll up your sleeves, preheat your oven, and get ready to bake up a loaf of pure comfort and joy.
