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: Creative Baking Favorites

I absolutely love making this Banana Bread with Pecans. There’s something incredibly comforting about the rich aroma that fills my kitchen as it bakes. With every slice, the warm, nutty flavors and the sweetness of ripe bananas create a perfect harmony. The added crunch from the pecans elevates the texture, making each bite divine. This recipe is not only easy to follow but also a fantastic way to use up those overripe bananas sitting on the counter, ensuring nothing goes to waste.

Created by

Cassandra Reed

Last updated on 2026-01-06T15:50:35.398Z

When I first started making banana bread, I knew I wanted to add a unique twist. I experimented with different nuts, but the pecans became an instant favorite for their rich flavor and crunch. I learned that to get the best texture, I should lightly toast the pecans before adding them to the batter. This little step enhances their flavor and adds an extra layer of warmth to the bread.

Over time, I've perfected this recipe, adjusting the amount of sugar and spices to create a balance that really showcases the bananas. I like to use very ripe bananas for maximum sweetness, and if I have a few extra, I toss them in the freezer for future baking. The result is a moist and flavorful bread that always disappears quickly!

        Why You'll Love This Recipe
        Rich banana flavor complemented by crunchy pecans
Simple ingredients make it a breeze to whip up
Perfect for breakfast, snacks, or dessert

      

Mastering the Art of Banana Bread

The secret to an irresistible banana bread lies in the use of overripe bananas. The more speckled and brown the bananas, the sweeter and richer your bread will turn out. Aim for bananas that are nearly black with spots; they’ll mash easily and blend seamlessly into the batter, ensuring moisture and flavor. This is also a great way to utilize your leftover bananas instead of throwing them away.

Another critical component is the melting of the butter. Melting the butter before mixing it with the bananas allows for better incorporation of fat, resulting in a moist crumb. When you combine it with the bananas, the warmth will help to meld the flavors beautifully. Take care not to cool down the butter too much before mixing, or it might start to solidify again.

Pecans: The Crunch Factor

Pecans not only add a delightful crunch to your banana bread but also enhance its flavor profile. Their rich, buttery essence complements the sweetness of the bananas perfectly. It’s worth toasting your chopped pecans lightly in a skillet for a few minutes before adding them to the batter. This process releases their natural oils and spices up their flavor, creating an even more flavorful final product.

If you're looking for a substitution for pecans, walnuts or almonds can work well, too. However, keep in mind that walnuts have a slightly stronger taste. If you prefer a nut-free version, you could replace the nuts with chocolate chips or dried fruit, which would add a different, yet equally enjoyable, texture.

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 to measure your ingredients accurately for the best results!

Instructions

Preheat the Oven

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

Mix the Wet Ingredients

In a mixing bowl, mash the ripe bananas with a fork. Stir in the melted butter until well combined. Add the baking soda and salt, mixing in well.

Add Sugar and Egg

Stir in the sugar, beaten egg, and vanilla extract until everything is fully blended.

Incorporate Dry Ingredients

Gradually mix in the all-purpose flour, stirring until just combined. Be careful not to overmix.

Add Pecans

Fold in the chopped pecans gently to incorporate.

Bake the Bread

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

Cool and Slice

Once baked, let the bread cool in the pan for about 10 minutes before transferring it to a wire rack to cool completely. Slice and enjoy!

Enjoy your banana bread warm, or store it in an airtight container for later!

Pro Tips

For added flavor, consider adding a pinch of cinnamon to the batter or using brown sugar instead of white sugar for a deeper taste.

Storage Tips

To store your banana bread effectively, wait until it has completely cooled down. Wrap it tightly in plastic wrap or aluminum foil to keep it moist and fresh. The bread can be stored at room temperature for up to 2-3 days. If you’d like to prolong its shelf life, consider freezing it. Slice the bread first and separate each slice with parchment paper before placing them in a freezer-safe bag. It can be frozen for up to three months.

When you're ready to enjoy the frozen banana bread, simply thaw it in the refrigerator overnight, or pop slices in the microwave for about 15-20 seconds. This gently revives the moist texture while preventing it from drying out.

Serving Suggestions

Banana bread can be enjoyed in many ways. For breakfast, serve it warm with a pat of butter, or spread some cream cheese for an extra layer of flavor. It also makes a great base for a quick snack; pair a slice with peanut butter or a sprinkle of cinnamon sugar for a tasty treat. You can even elevate it to dessert status by topping a warm slice with a scoop of vanilla ice cream.

If you're feeling adventurous, consider transforming your banana bread into a delicious French toast. Simply slice your banana bread and dip the slices in a cinnamon egg wash before pan-frying them until golden brown. This method adds a delightful twist to your typical breakfast and highlights the flavors of the banana and pecans beautifully.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use frozen bananas?

Absolutely! Just make sure to thaw and drain any excess moisture before mashing.

→ How do I store banana bread?

Store it in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days, or refrigerate for longer freshness.

→ Can I substitute the pecans?

Yes, you can use other nuts like walnuts or even chocolate chips if you prefer.

→ What's the best way to tell if it's done baking?

Insert a toothpick into the center; if it comes out clean or with a few crumbs, the bread is done.