Best Banana Bread Recipe with Toasted Walnuts and Raisins

Ingredients:

• • • • 3 ripe bananas, mashed with a fork
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    • ½ cup butter (1 stick) at room temperature

 

• • • 3/4 cup white sugar (or 1 scant cup of honey)
    • 2 eggs, room temperature
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  • 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. 1. Preheat the Oven:
      • • • Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).

       

      • Grease a 9×5 inch loaf pan with butter or cooking spray.

1. 1. Prepare the Bananas:
      • • In a bowl, mash the ripe bananas with a fork until smooth. Set aside.

       

   2. 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.

   3. Combine Dry Ingredients:
      • • • In a separate bowl, whisk together the flour, baking soda, and salt.

       

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

       
   5. 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.

       

1. 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.

    

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.
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• • 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.