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: Delightful Bakes

This Banana Bread with Pecans Recipe is a delightful twist on the classic favorite, featuring the rich flavor of ripe bananas combined with crunchy pecans.

Created by

Rowena Clarke

Last updated on 2026-01-02T03:34:08.206Z

Banana bread is a beloved comfort food that brings back memories of home baking. This version incorporates pecans for added texture and flavor, making it even more delicious!

Why You Will Love This Recipe
Moist and flavorful banana bread with a nutty crunch
Perfectly sweetened for an indulgent treat
Easy to make and great for using overripe bananas

The Benefits of Using Ripe Bananas

Using ripe bananas is key to achieving the best flavor and texture in your banana bread. As bananas ripen, their starches convert to sugars, enhancing the natural sweetness of the bread without the need for excessive added sugar. This not only makes for a more delicious loaf but also allows you to reduce the overall sugar content, making your treat a bit healthier.

Ripe bananas also contribute to the moistness of your banana bread. Their natural moisture content helps to keep the bread tender, preventing it from becoming dry. When you choose bananas that are good and spotty, you’re ensuring that each slice will be soft and flavorful, making it an irresistible snack any time of the day.

Perfect Pairings for Banana Bread

Banana bread is incredibly versatile, and it pairs beautifully with a variety of accompaniments. For a comforting breakfast, enjoy a warm slice with a pat of butter and a drizzle of honey. The richness of the butter complements the banana flavor, while the honey adds a touch of sweetness that elevates your morning routine.

For an afternoon snack, consider serving your banana bread with a dollop of Greek yogurt or a smear of cream cheese. These additions provide a creamy contrast to the nutty crunch of pecans and the soft texture of the bread, making for a delightful treat that is both satisfying and nourishing.

Ingredients

Gather your ingredients before starting for a smooth baking experience.

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

Make sure all ingredients are at room temperature for best results.

Instructions

Follow these steps for a perfect banana bread.

Preheat the Oven

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

Mix Wet Ingredients

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

Add Sugar, Egg, and Vanilla

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

Incorporate Flour and Pecans

Gently fold in the flour and chopped pecans until just combined. Do not overmix.

Bake the Bread

Pour the batter into the prepared loaf pan and bake for 60 minutes or until a toothpick inserted in 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.

Enjoy your freshly baked banana bread with a cup of coffee or tea!

Pro Tips

For extra flavor, consider adding a pinch of cinnamon or a handful of chocolate chips to the batter.

Storage Tips

To keep your banana bread fresh, store it in an airtight container at room temperature. It should remain soft and delicious for up to four days. If you find that you won’t finish it in that time, consider freezing individual slices. Wrap each slice tightly in plastic wrap and then place them in a zip-top bag. You can easily thaw them as needed, allowing you to enjoy your banana bread over an extended period.

If you decide to freeze the entire loaf, ensure it cools completely before wrapping it tightly in plastic wrap and aluminum foil. This extra layer protects against freezer burn and preserves the taste and texture of your banana bread, making it just as delightful when you defrost it.

Variations to Try

While this banana bread recipe is delicious as is, feel free to experiment with different add-ins to suit your taste. Consider adding chocolate chips for a sweet twist, or dried fruits like cranberries or apricots for an extra chewy texture. You can also substitute the pecans for walnuts or almonds if you’re looking for a different nutty flavor.

For a spicier version, mix in a teaspoon of cinnamon or nutmeg to the dry ingredients. These spices complement the sweetness of the bananas beautifully, giving your bread an aromatic depth that is perfect for cozy gatherings or holiday celebrations.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use frozen bananas for this recipe?

Yes, thaw the bananas and drain excess liquid before mashing.

→ How should 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 with another nut?

Absolutely! Walnuts or almonds would work well as substitutes.

→ Is it possible to make this recipe vegan?

Yes, you can substitute the egg with flaxseed meal or applesauce and use a vegan butter alternative.