Best Banana Bread Recipe with Toasted Walnuts and Raisins

Best Banana Bread Recipe with Toasted Walnuts and Raisins

Table of Contents

Ingredients:

    • 3 ripe bananas, mashed with a fork
    • ½ cup butter (1 stick) at room temperature
    • 3/4 cup white sugar (or 1 scant cup of honey)
    • 2 eggs, room temperature
    • 1 ½ cups all-purpose flour
    • 1 tsp baking soda
    • ½ tsp salt
    • ½ tsp real vanilla extract
  • 1 cup walnuts, toasted and coarsely chopped
  • ½ cup raisins

Instructions:

  1. Preheat the Oven:
      • Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).

     

    • Grease a 9×5 inch loaf pan with butter or cooking spray.
  2. Prepare the Bananas:
      • In a bowl, mash the ripe bananas with a fork until smooth. Set aside.

     

  3. Mix the Wet Ingredients:
      • In a large mixing bowl, cream the butter and sugar (or honey) together until light and fluffy.
      • Add the eggs one at a time, beating well after each addition.

     

    • Stir in the mashed bananas and vanilla extract until well combined.
  4. Combine Dry Ingredients:
      • In a separate bowl, whisk together the flour, baking soda, and salt.

     

  5. Mix Together:
      • Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet ingredients, mixing until just combined.
      • Fold in the toasted walnuts and raisins.

     

  6. Bake:
      • Pour the batter into the prepared loaf pan and smooth the top.
      • Bake in the preheated oven for 60-70 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.

     

  7. Cool:
      • Remove from the oven and let the banana bread cool in the pan for about 10 minutes.
      • Transfer the bread to a wire rack to cool completely before slicing.

     

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Serving Suggestions:

    • Enjoy warm with a pat of butter.
    • Serve with a side of fresh fruit or a dollop of yogurt for breakfast.
  • Pair with a cup of coffee or tea for an afternoon snack.

Cooking Tips:

    • Use ripe bananas with brown spots for the best flavor and sweetness.
    • To toast walnuts, spread them on a baking sheet and bake at 350°F (175°C) for about 8-10 minutes, stirring occasionally.
  • Ensure the eggs and butter are at room temperature for easier mixing and a better texture.

Nutritional Benefits:

    • Bananas: Provide potassium, fiber, and natural sweetness.
    • Walnuts: Rich in omega-3 fatty acids, protein, and antioxidants.
  • Raisins: Add natural sweetness and are a good source of iron.

Dietary Information:

    • Contains: Dairy, eggs, and nuts.
    • Gluten-Free Option: Can be made gluten-free by substituting all-purpose flour with a gluten-free flour blend.

Storage:

  • Store any leftover banana bread in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days.
  • For longer storage, wrap the bread tightly in plastic wrap and freeze for up to 3 months. Thaw at room temperature before serving.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe:

    • Easy to make with simple ingredients.
  • Perfectly moist and flavorful with the addition of walnuts and raisins.
  • A versatile recipe that can be enjoyed for breakfast, as a snack, or even dessert.
  • The comforting taste of homemade banana bread that everyone loves.

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