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: Modern Baking Favorites

This Banana Bread with Pecans is a delightful twist on a classic recipe, combining the sweetness of ripe bananas with the crunch of toasted pecans.

Created by

Esme Caldwell

Last updated on 2026-01-03T00:21:34.499Z

This Banana Bread with Pecans is not just a delicious way to use up ripe bananas, but it also adds a wonderful texture and flavor with the addition of crunchy pecans. Perfect for breakfast or a snack!

        Why You Will Love This Recipe
        The perfect balance of sweet and nutty flavors
Moist and tender texture that's hard to resist
Quick and easy to make, perfect for any occasion

      

Perfect for Any Occasion

Banana bread is a versatile treat that can be enjoyed at any time of day. Whether you're looking for a quick breakfast, a satisfying snack, or a delightful dessert, this Banana Bread with Pecans fits the bill perfectly. Serve it warm with a pat of butter or enjoy it plain; either way, it’s sure to please everyone.

This recipe is also an excellent choice for gatherings and special occasions. Its inviting aroma fills the kitchen and creates a warm atmosphere, making it a wonderful addition to brunches, potlucks, or even dessert tables. Plus, who doesn’t love a homemade treat that’s easy to share?

Health Benefits of Bananas and Pecans

Bananas are not just delicious; they are also packed with nutrients. They are a great source of potassium, vitamin C, and dietary fiber, making them a healthy addition to your diet. Their natural sweetness allows you to use less sugar in your recipes, which is a bonus for health-conscious bakers.

Pecans, on the other hand, are rich in healthy fats and antioxidants. They provide a satisfying crunch that enhances the texture of the banana bread while also adding heart-healthy benefits. Together, these ingredients create a delicious dessert that doesn’t compromise on nutrition.

Tips for the Best Banana Bread

For the best results, use very ripe bananas, as they are sweeter and more flavorful. The browner the bananas, the better! If you have bananas that are ripening too slowly, you can speed up the process by placing them in a brown paper bag, which traps the ethylene gas and encourages ripening.

Another tip is to toast the pecans before adding them to the batter. This enhances their flavor and adds an extra layer of richness to the bread. Just be sure to let them cool before mixing them in to ensure a perfectly baked loaf.

Ingredients

For the Banana Bread

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

Mix well until combined.

Instructions

Preheat the Oven

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

Mix Ingredients

In a mixing bowl, mash the ripe bananas with a fork until smooth. Stir the melted butter into the mashed bananas.

Add Remaining Ingredients

Mix in the baking soda and salt. Add the sugar, beaten egg, and vanilla extract. Stir in the flour until just incorporated, then fold in the chopped pecans.

Bake the Bread

Pour the batter into the greased loaf pan and bake for 60 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into 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 homemade banana bread with pecans!

Storing Your Banana Bread

To keep your banana bread fresh, store it in an airtight container at room temperature. It can last for about 3 to 4 days. If you want to extend its shelf life, consider freezing it. Wrap the loaf tightly in plastic wrap and then in aluminum foil before placing it in the freezer. It can be frozen for up to 3 months.

When you're ready to enjoy it again, simply thaw it at room temperature. You can also reheat slices in the microwave for a warm, comforting treat. Just a few seconds will bring back the freshly baked goodness!

Variations to Try

Feel free to experiment with this recipe! Add chocolate chips for a decadent twist or swap out the pecans for walnuts if you prefer. You can also incorporate spices like cinnamon or nutmeg to enhance the flavor profile further.

For a healthier version, consider substituting half of the all-purpose flour with whole wheat flour. This will add extra fiber and nutrients without sacrificing taste. You can also reduce the sugar slightly if you prefer a less sweet bread.

Serving Suggestions

Serve your banana bread warm with a dollop of whipped cream or a scoop of vanilla ice cream for an indulgent dessert. A drizzle of honey or maple syrup can also elevate the flavor, making it a delightful treat for any sweet tooth.

Pair it with a cup of coffee or tea for a perfect afternoon snack. The warm, rich flavors of banana bread complement a variety of beverages, making it an ideal choice for a cozy gathering with friends or family.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use frozen bananas?

Yes, just make sure to thaw and drain any excess liquid before mashing.

→ How do I store leftover banana bread?

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

→ Can I substitute other nuts?

Absolutely! Walnuts or almonds would work well in this recipe.

→ Is this banana bread gluten-free?

You can substitute the all-purpose flour with a gluten-free blend if desired.