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 pecans, chopped

Highlighted under: Golden Meals

I absolutely love baking Banana Bread with Pecans! The rich banana flavor combined with the crunch of toasted pecans creates a delightful treat that’s perfect for breakfast or as a snack. Every time I make this recipe, my kitchen fills with the comforting aroma of baking bananas, which instantly brings back fond memories of family gatherings. It’s so easy to whip up and makes for an excellent way to use overripe bananas. I can’t wait for you to try it out and enjoy this comforting classic!

Created by

Delaney Brooks

Last updated on 2026-01-05T23:05:35.302Z

In my journey of baking, I’ve come to realize that the secret to the best Banana Bread lies in the bananas themselves. Overripe bananas yield a much sweeter and more flavorful bread. I remember my first attempt—using only slightly ripe bananas—and I was disappointed with the taste. Now I always wait until the peels are speckled brown for maximum sweetness.

Another vital tip I’ve learned is to toast the pecans before adding them. It enhances their flavor remarkably and adds a wonderful crunch to the texture. The combination of these small details creates a comforting loaf that everyone in the family loves!

        Why You'll Love This Recipe
        Deliciously moist and flavorful banana bread
Rich texture with the crunch of toasted pecans
Perfect for breakfast, snacks, or desserts

      

Understanding the Ingredients

The key to a successful banana bread lies in the ripeness of the bananas. For this recipe, opt for bananas that are overly ripe, as their natural sweetness and moisture will greatly enhance the flavor and texture of your bread. The mashed bananas should be smooth but not entirely pureed, allowing for small chunks for added texture. Also, ensure that your butter is melted, as this contributes to the moist crumb that makes this bread irresistible.

Pecans bring a delightful crunch to the mix, but to maximize their flavor, toast them lightly in a dry pan over medium heat for about 5-7 minutes before adding them to the batter. This step caramelizes the natural oils and enhances the nutty flavor profile. If you prefer, you can easily substitute pecans with walnuts or even chocolate chips for a different twist, though I recommend sticking with nuts for that classic texture contrast.

Baking Tips for Success

When mixing your ingredients, it's crucial to avoid overmixing once you add the flour. Overmixing can lead to a dense and gummy bread due to the development of gluten. Instead, gently fold the flour into the batter until just incorporated; small lumps are perfectly fine. This technique ensures a tender crumb while still maintaining structure achieved through the leavening action of baking soda. Keep an eye on the batter as you gently mix - it should come together easily without any dry flour patches.

During baking, check for doneness by inserting a toothpick into the center of the loaf. It should come out clean or with a few moist crumbs when it’s perfectly baked. If the top starts to brown too quickly, lightly tent the loaf with aluminum foil after about 40 minutes to prevent burning while it cooks through. Trust your nose—the aroma of bananas and pecans wafting through your kitchen is a good indicator that your bread is nearly done.

Ingredients

Gather these ingredients to create your delicious Banana Bread with Pecans!

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 pecans, chopped

Make sure to measure your ingredients accurately for the best results.

Instructions

Follow these simple steps to bake your Banana Bread with Pecans!

Preheat the oven

Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease a loaf pan with butter or non-stick spray.

Mix wet ingredients

In a bowl, mix the mashed bananas with the melted butter. Stir in the baking soda and salt.

Add sugars and egg

Then mix in the sugar, beaten egg, and vanilla extract until combined.

Combine with dry ingredients

Mix in the flour just until incorporated. Be careful not to overmix.

Fold in pecans

Gently fold in the chopped pecans, distributing them throughout the batter.

Bake the bread

Pour the batter into the prepared loaf pan and smooth the top. Bake for about 60 minutes, or until a toothpick comes out clean.

Cool and Enjoy

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

Slice and serve your banana bread warm or at room temperature.

Pro Tips

For an extra layer of flavor, consider adding a pinch of cinnamon to the batter or substituting half of the flour with whole wheat flour for a healthier twist.

Storage and Make-Ahead Tips

Banana bread can be stored at room temperature for up to 3 days; cover it with plastic wrap or store it in an airtight container to keep it fresh. For longer storage, wrap the cooled banana bread tightly in plastic wrap and then foil, placing it in the freezer where it can last for up to 3 months. When you're ready to enjoy, simply thaw at room temperature, or pop it in the microwave for a few seconds to warm it up, enhancing its soft texture.

If you want to enjoy this banana bread later, you can make the batter ahead of time and store it in the refrigerator for up to 24 hours. Just ensure that you’re bringing it back to room temperature before baking, as cold batter can yield uneven baking. This makes it an excellent option for prep-ahead breakfasts or to have on hand for surprise guests!

Serving Suggestions

This banana bread is delicious on its own, but if you're looking to elevate the experience, consider serving it with a spread of butter or a drizzle of honey for extra sweetness. A dollop of cream cheese or a sprinkle of cinnamon on top can also add a creamy and aromatic layer that complements the flavors beautifully. Pair it with a warm cup of coffee or tea for a perfect morning or afternoon treat.

For a delightful dessert twist, try turning slices of banana bread into decadent French toast! Just dip slices in a mixture of beaten eggs and milk, then cook on a hot griddle until golden. Serve with maple syrup and fresh fruit for a fantastic brunch dish that’s sure to impress. This technique takes your beloved banana bread to new, delicious heights without much effort!

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use frozen bananas?

Yes, frozen bananas work great! Just thaw them and drain any excess liquid before using.

→ How do I know when the banana bread is done?

Insert a toothpick into the center of the bread. If it comes out clean or with a few crumbs, the bread is ready.

→ Can I substitute the pecans with another nut?

Absolutely! Walnuts or almonds can be substituted based on your preference.

→ How should I store the banana bread?

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