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: Baking & Desserts

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

Created by

Summer Blake

Last updated on 2026-01-02T01:04:14.019Z

This recipe for Banana Bread with Pecans is perfect for using up those overripe bananas on your countertop. The addition of pecans adds a delightful crunch and nutty flavor, elevating this classic bread to new heights.

        Why You'll Love This Recipe
        Moist and flavorful with perfectly ripe bananas
Crunchy pecans add a delightful texture
Simple ingredients make it easy to whip up anytime

      

The Perfect Banana Bread

Banana bread is a beloved classic that brings comfort to many. Its rich, moist texture and sweet aroma transform your kitchen into a warm and inviting space. The combination of ripe bananas and crunchy pecans in this recipe adds depth to the traditional flavor, making it a delightful treat for breakfast or a snack. Whether served plain or with a spread of butter, this banana bread is sure to please everyone in the family.

What makes this banana bread stand out is the use of perfectly ripe bananas. The riper the bananas, the more natural sweetness they bring to the bread. This recipe encourages you to use bananas that are speckled with brown spots, as they are at their sweetest and provide that ideal moisture content. With just a few simple steps, you can create a loaf that rivals your favorite bakery.

Making It Your Own

One of the best things about banana bread is its versatility. While this recipe calls for pecans, you can easily substitute them with walnuts or even chocolate chips if you're in the mood for something sweeter. Additionally, spices like cinnamon or nutmeg can be added to enhance the flavor profile, giving it a cozy, autumnal vibe. Don't hesitate to get creative and make this recipe your own.

For those looking to make this banana bread a bit healthier, consider using whole wheat flour instead of all-purpose flour. This simple swap adds fiber and nutrients without sacrificing taste. You can also reduce the sugar slightly, as the ripe bananas already contribute significant sweetness. With a few adjustments, this recipe can fit a variety of dietary preferences.

Ingredients

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 your bananas are very ripe for the best flavor!

Instructions

Preheat the Oven

Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and grease a 4x8 inch loaf pan.

Mix Ingredients

In a mixing bowl, mash the ripe bananas with a fork until smooth. Stir in the melted butter, then mix in the baking soda and salt.

Add Sugar and Egg

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

Combine Flour and Pecans

Add the flour and chopped pecans, stirring until just combined. Do not overmix.

Bake

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

Cool and Serve

Let the banana bread cool in the pan for about 10 minutes before transferring it to a wire rack to cool completely.

Enjoy your homemade banana bread with a slice of butter!

Storing Your Banana Bread

Once your banana bread is completely cool, you can store it in an airtight container at room temperature for up to three days. If you want to keep it fresh longer, consider refrigerating it, where it can last for about a week. For even longer storage, banana bread freezes beautifully. Simply wrap it tightly in plastic wrap or aluminum foil and place it in a freezer-safe bag. It can be frozen for up to three months.

To enjoy your frozen banana bread, simply thaw it at room temperature for a few hours or overnight in the refrigerator. You can also slice it and toast it directly from the freezer for a warm, satisfying snack. The key is to keep it well-wrapped to prevent freezer burn and maintain its delicious flavor.

Serving Suggestions

Banana bread is delightful on its own, but you can elevate your serving experience with a few simple additions. A smear of cream cheese or butter can complement the sweetness of the bread perfectly. For an extra touch, consider drizzling honey or maple syrup over your slice. Adding fresh fruit, like slices of strawberries or a handful of blueberries, can bring a refreshing contrast to the rich flavors of the bread.

For a fun twist, try serving banana bread as part of a breakfast spread alongside yogurt and granola. This combination offers a balance of flavors and textures, making for a satisfying meal that keeps you energized throughout the morning. Whether enjoyed as a snack or a dessert, banana bread with pecans is versatile enough to fit any occasion.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use frozen bananas?

Yes, thaw the bananas before mashing them. They should be very ripe for the best flavor.

→ How do I store leftover banana bread?

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

→ Can I add chocolate chips to the recipe?

Absolutely! Adding chocolate chips can enhance the flavor. Just fold in 1/2 cup of chocolate chips with the flour.

→ Is it possible to make this recipe vegan?

Yes, you can replace the egg with flaxseed meal mixed with water or a commercial egg substitute.