There’s something incredibly comforting about the smell of freshly baked banana nut bread wafting through the house, isn’t there? It takes me back to my childhood, where my Nana would whip up her famous loaf, filling our home with warmth and sweetness. Today, I’m excited to share with you Nana’s secret banana nut bread recipe that is not only moist and easy to make but also packed with delicious walnuts. Perfect for quick family dinners or as a delightful treat with your afternoon coffee, this recipe is sure to become a staple in your kitchen!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

It’s incredibly moist and fluffy, thanks to the ripe bananas.
Simple ingredients that you probably already have in your pantry.
Perfect for breakfast, snacks, or even dessert!
Quick to prepare, making it ideal for busy weeknight dinner ideas.
Can be easily customized with your favorite nuts or chocolate chips.

Ingredients

To make Nana’s secret banana nut bread, you’ll need the following ingredients:

3 ripe bananas, mashed
2 large eggs
1 cup granulated sugar
½ cup unsalted butter, melted
1 cup milk
1 teaspoon vanilla extract
2 cups all-purpose flour
1 teaspoon baking soda
½ teaspoon salt
½ cup chopped walnuts

Full ingredient list with measurements is provided in the printable recipe card below.

How to Make the Recipe

Now, let’s dive into the steps to create this delightful loaf:

Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease and flour a 9×5 inch loaf pan. This prevents sticking and ensures easy removal.
In a large bowl, mash the bananas thoroughly. Add the eggs, sugar, melted butter, milk, and vanilla extract. Whisk until well combined. Make sure there are no lumps of butter remaining.
In a separate bowl, whisk together the flour, baking soda, and salt. This ensures even distribution of leavening agents.
Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet ingredients, mixing until just combined. Be careful not to overmix; a few lumps are okay.
Gently fold in the chopped walnuts. Pour the batter into the prepared loaf pan and spread evenly.
Bake for 50-60 minutes, or until a wooden skewer inserted into the center comes out clean. Start checking around the 50-minute mark to avoid overbaking.
Let the bread cool in the pan for 10 minutes before transferring it to a wire rack to cool completely. This prevents the bread from becoming soggy.

Pro Tips for Making the Recipe

Here are some of my favorite tips to ensure your banana nut bread turns out perfectly every time:

Use very ripe bananas for the best flavor and moisture. The more brown spots, the better!
Don’t overmix the batter; it’s okay to have a few lumps. Overmixing can lead to a dense loaf.
If you want to add a twist, try incorporating chocolate chips or swapping out walnuts for pecans.
For a fun variation, check out my Banana Bread No Cinnamon recipe!

How to Serve

This banana nut bread is delicious on its own, but here are some serving suggestions to elevate your experience:

Spread a little butter or cream cheese on a warm slice for a decadent treat.
Pair it with a cup of coffee or tea for a cozy afternoon snack.
Serve it as a delightful dessert with a scoop of vanilla ice cream.
For a fun twist, try it with a drizzle of honey or maple syrup.

Make Ahead and Storage

This banana nut bread is perfect for making ahead of time! Here’s how to store it:

Once cooled, wrap the bread tightly in plastic wrap or aluminum foil to keep it fresh.
Store it at room temperature for up to 3 days, or in the refrigerator for up to a week.
If you want to keep it longer, slice the bread and freeze it in an airtight container for up to 3 months. Just thaw slices as needed!

So there you have it! Nana’s secret banana nut bread recipe is not just a treat; it’s a slice of nostalgia that brings joy to every bite. Whether you’re looking for a quick family dinner idea or a sweet addition to your weekend brunch, this moist and easy banana nut bread is sure to impress. Happy baking!