The Ultimate Banana Bread Recipe (With a Twist!)
This moist and flavorful banana bread is made with ripe bananas, warm spices, and topped with a crunchy, sweet caramelized nut topping. Perfect for breakfast, snacking, or dessert!
Ingredients
- 3 ripe bananas mashed
- 1/2 cup 1 stick unsalted butter, melted
- 3/4 cup brown sugar
- 2 large eggs
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1 1/2 cups all-purpose flour
- 1 teaspoon baking soda
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 teaspoon ground cinnamon optional
- For the Caramelized Nut Crunch:
- 1/2 cup chopped pecans or walnuts
- 2 tablespoons granulated sugar
- 1 tablespoon unsalted butter
- Pinch of sea salt
Instructions
- Step 1: Prepare the Caramelized Nuts
- In a small skillet over medium heat, melt the butter.
- Add the sugar and stir continuously until it begins to dissolve.
- Toss in the chopped nuts and cook for 2–3 minutes until they become golden and slightly crispy.
- Sprinkle with a pinch of sea salt, then transfer them to a plate lined with parchment paper to cool.
- Step 2: Mix the Wet Ingredients
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease a 9x5-inch loaf pan with butter or non-stick spray.
- In a large mixing bowl, mash the bananas until smooth.
- Add the melted butter, brown sugar, eggs, and vanilla extract. Whisk until fully combined.
- Step 3: Combine the Dry Ingredients
- In a separate bowl, whisk together the flour, baking soda, salt, and cinnamon.
- Gradually fold the dry ingredients into the wet mixture using a spatula, being careful not to overmix.
- Step 4: Incorporate the Caramelized Nuts
- Gently fold in half of the caramelized nuts, reserving the other half for topping.
- Pour the batter into the prepared loaf pan and spread it evenly.
- Sprinkle the remaining caramelized nuts on top for a crunchy, golden crust.
- Step 5: Bake and Enjoy
- Place the loaf pan in the preheated oven and bake for 50–60 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean.
- Allow the banana bread to cool in the pan for 10 minutes before transferring it to a wire rack.
- Slice and serve warm or at room temperature.