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; 1/2 cup sugar; 1 large egg, beaten; 1 teaspoon vanilla extract; 1 teaspoon baking soda; Pinch of salt; 1 cup all-purpose flour; 1/2 cup chopped pecans

Highlighted under: Favorite Baking Recipes

I absolutely love baking banana bread, and this recipe with pecans has become my all-time favorite. The combination of overripe bananas and crunchy pecans creates a delightful treat that’s perfect for breakfast or an afternoon snack. What makes this recipe special is the addition of a hint of cinnamon, which complements the natural sweetness of the bananas beautifully. It’s simple to make, and the smell of it baking will wrap your kitchen in warmth and comfort. You’ll want to make this over and over again!

Created by

Lavinia Moore

Last updated on 2026-01-06T11:25:34.512Z

When I first experimented with adding pecans to my traditional banana bread, it felt like a game-changer. The crunchy texture perfectly contrasts the moist bananas, creating a treat that's hard to resist. I noticed that lightly toasting the pecans before adding them enhances their flavor, making the bread even more delectable. Trust me, it’s worth that extra step!

Every time I bake this banana bread, I’m reminded of cozy mornings spent sharing slices with my family. It’s a recipe that not only satisfies our sweet tooth but also brings us together. The ease of preparation and the comforting aroma wafting through the house make it a beloved ritual in our home.

Why You'll Love This Recipe
Moist and flavorful with perfectly ripe bananas
Crunchy pecans add a delightful texture
Easy to make and perfect for any occasion

Perfecting the Banana Mash

The key to achieving the best banana bread texture starts with your bananas. Use overripe bananas with plenty of brown spots, as they are sweeter and yield a more moist bread. Aim for three medium-sized bananas, mashing them thoroughly until they resemble a smooth purée. This not only ensures better integration into the batter but also contributes to the overall moistness of the loaf. If you're short on time, you can microwave the unpeeled bananas for 30 seconds to soften them, making mashing easier.

When mashing, take care to avoid leaving any large chunks, as these can lead to uneven baking and impact the bread's texture. A fork works well, but if you're looking for a more uniform blend, a potato masher or even a food processor can do the trick. Remember to mix right after you mash so that the bananas integrate seamlessly with the wet ingredients, creating a luscious base for your banana bread.

The Role of Pecans and Cinnamon

In this recipe, the pecans not only provide a satisfying crunch but also contribute healthy fats and protein, elevating the nutritional profile of your banana bread. If you find yourself short on pecans, walnuts can serve as a suitable substitute, offering a similar crunchy texture and nutty flavor. Make sure to toast the nuts before adding them to the batter for an extra depth of flavor. A quick toast in a dry skillet over medium heat for about 4-5 minutes will enhance their nuttiness significantly.

Cinnamon plays a crucial role in this recipe as well, lending warmth and spice that beautifully enhances the natural sweetness of the bananas. Feel free to adjust the cinnamon according to your preference or even experiment with adding nutmeg for a different flavor profile. Just keep in mind that a little goes a long way—start with half a teaspoon if you're unsure.

Ingredients

Gather these ingredients to make your delicious banana bread!

Ingredients

3 ripe bananas, mashed
1/3 cup melted butter
1/2 cup sugar
1 large egg, beaten
1 teaspoon vanilla extract
1 teaspoon baking soda
Pinch of salt
1 cup all-purpose flour
1/2 cup chopped pecans

Make sure to have everything ready before you start mixing!

Instructions

Follow these steps to bake the perfect banana bread!

Preheat the Oven

Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and grease a 9x5 inch loaf pan.

Mix Wet Ingredients

In a mixing bowl, mash the ripe bananas with a fork. Stir in the melted butter, sugar, beaten egg, and vanilla extract until well combined.

Combine Dry Ingredients

In a separate bowl, whisk together the baking soda, salt, and all-purpose flour.

Combine Mixtures

Gradually add the dry ingredients to the banana mixture, stirring gently until just combined. Be careful not to over-mix.

Add Pecans

Fold in the chopped pecans.

Bake

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

Enjoy your homemade banana bread with pecans!

Pro Tips

For an extra hint of flavor, try adding a teaspoon of cinnamon to the batter or using brown sugar instead of white sugar.

Storage Tips

To keep your banana bread fresh, wrap it tightly in plastic wrap or foil and store it at room temperature for up to three days. This will help maintain its moisture and soft texture. For longer storage, consider freezing individual slices. Place cooled slices in an airtight container or freezer bag, separating them with parchment paper to prevent sticking. They can be kept in the freezer for up to three months.

When you're ready to enjoy a slice, simply remove it from the freezer and let it thaw at room temperature for about 30 minutes or heat it in the microwave for 15-20 seconds for that freshly-baked taste. You can also toast the slices for a warm, crispy outside while keeping the inside deliciously soft.

Serving Suggestions

This banana bread is delightful on its own but can be elevated further with a few simple toppings. A smear of cream cheese or butter adds richness, while a drizzle of honey or maple syrup can enhance its sweetness. For a special brunch treat, serve warm slices alongside a fried egg or a yogurt parfait to balance flavors and textures.

If you're feeling creative, consider turning this banana bread into a dessert. Top slices with a scoop of vanilla ice cream and a sprinkle of cinnamon for a comforting treat. You might even try serving it as a French toast by dipping slices in an egg mixture and pan-frying them until golden brown, creating a new, indulgent breakfast experience.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use frozen bananas?

Yes, frozen bananas work wonderfully! Just thaw them completely before mashing.

→ How do I store the banana bread?

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

→ Can I add other nuts or fruits?

Absolutely! You can substitute pecans with walnuts or even add chocolate chips for a delicious twist.

→ Is this recipe suitable for vegan diets?

You can make this banana bread vegan by substituting the egg with a flax egg and using plant-based butter.